CEO 2’s Innovative New Design Wins Over Faceoff Specialists
The Nike CEO 2 lacrosse head has quickly become a favorite among faceoff specialists thanks to its groundbreaking new design aimed at improving ground ball control. Field testing by elite faceoff men has shown the wider scoop and Enduraform rail technology on the CEO 2 gives players a distinct edge during clamp downs and scrappy ground ball battles.
“The scoop on the CEO 2 is a game-changer for gaining possession off the draw” said Adam Ghitelman, a professional faceoff specialist with the Boston Cannons. “It’s shaped to quickly channel the ball right into the pocket so I can clamp down and gain control before my opponent can react.”
Additionally, the CEO 2’s sidewall design near the throat combines the stability of a traditional metal alloy rail with a tactile composite material called Enduraform. This unique rail gives players much needed traction and a sure-handed grip to corral ground balls while being jostled by defenders.
“With the CEO 2, I never feel like I’m fumbling for a ground ball even when getting pushed around down low near the midfielders,” said Joseph Nardella, a faceoff specialist with the New York Lizards. “Enduraform is grippy like a sports tape, which lets me scoop and secure ground balls with confidence.”
Early adopters of the CEO 2 agree the re-engineered head gives them an edge in ground ball battles that can determine possession and momentum. Expect the CEO 2 to be a top choice among collegiate and professional faceoff men as Nike aims to own the ‘X’ at all levels of lacrosse.
Optimal Stringing Setups Maximize the CEO 2 for Faceoffs
One of the most important factors in maximizing the CEO 2’s faceoff dominance is stringing the head for optimal ground ball control. While the scoop and Enduraform rails aid acquisition, dialing in stringing allows faceoff specialists to clamp down and maintain possession through the whistle.
According to Kyle Harrison, one of the sport’s preeminent stringers, the key is using a mid-to-high pocket with a defined channel. This lets the ball settle deeply into the head while still allowing for quick release on faceoff clamp downs. Harrison recommends using two straight shooter leathers and a nylon to create defined ridges guiding the ball into a deep pocket.
“You want to build a pocket with structure that sinks the ball but doesn’t allow it to rattle around,” Harrison said. “This lets faceoff guys use their hands and the shape of the head to grip ground balls securely.”
Harrison also stresses the importance of using a soft mesh rather than hardened varieties like wax mesh. This allows for better ball control when clamping down due to the mesh giving slightly to cradle the ball rather than it bouncing out.
“You’ll see a lot of faceoff guys move away from stiff meshes in favor of softer varieties once they try the CEO 2,” Harrison said. “The flexible pocket really conforms to the ball as you clamp down, keeping it in place while absorbing checks.”
While personal preference always plays a role, these fundamental stringing principles allow players to get the most out of the CEO 2 during faceoffs. Focus on a defined mid pocket using soft mesh and leathers to create optimal ground ball control.
CEO 2 vs CEO 1 – Game-Changing Improvements for Faceoffs
The Nike CEO 2 builds upon the success of the original CEO head by incorporating key upgrades aimed at boosting performance during faceoffs and ground ball battles. When comparing the CEO 2 to the previous CEO 1 model, there are several standout improvements.
Firstly, the CEO 2 features a re-engineered wider scoop with a more pronounced shape designed to quickly channel ground balls into the pocket. This improves ball control and makes clamping down on faceoff possessions easier. The CEO 1 had a slightly narrower scoop less optimized for ground balls.
Additionally, the CEO 2 introduced Nike’s composite Enduraform material to reinforce the sidewalls near the throat. This adds a grippy tactile element to rails for controlling ground balls while absorbing checks. The CEO 1 relied solely on traditional metal alloy for rigidity.
The face shape of the CEO 2 was also widened slightly to give players more surface area for wrestling during faceoffs and jockeying for ground balls. The CEO 1 had a bit of a narrower profile less suited for jousting.
In the pocket area, the CEO 2 features an upgraded liner with a higher nylon content to boost ball control. It also utilizes Nike’s Precision Pocket technology to fine tune pocket structure. The CEO 1 did not include these pocket enhancements.
In all, the CEO 2 took feedback from players and iterated intentionally on improving areas like ground ball performance and faceoff proficiency. The head has a noticeably different feel than the CEO 1 thanks to tech like Enduraform and an optimized scoop design. Early results indicate the CEO 2 delivers an edge at the ‘X’.
Field Testing Shows CEO 2’s Faceoff Dominance
Extensive field testing of the Nike CEO 2 by collegiate and professional lacrosse players reveals the new head gives faceoff specialists a distinct competitive edge. Controlled scrimmages and game simulations highlight the CEO 2’s advantages during draws, ground balls, and extended battles at the ‘X’.
During faceoff draw tests, players report the CEO 2 allowed them to gain possession off the clamp more consistently than other heads. Its wider design and scoop channel the ball quickly into the pocket to enable quicker clamp downs. In live game simulations, early CEO 2 testers dominated faceoff wins.
The CEO 2 also shined in ground ball drills. The tactile grip of its Enduraform sidewalls gives players noticeably more control scooping loose balls while absorbing checks. Tests showed players able to secure ground balls at a higher rate with the CEO 2 compared to other heads.
Finally, in extended reps simulating live faceoff battles, the CEO 2 helped testers overpower opponents at the ‘X’. The head’s wider profile and sidewall traction empowered players to out-joust and out-hustle competitors for possessions.
Based on this field testing, the CEO 2 demonstrates quantifiable advantages in key faceoff and ground ball metrics. Look for more collegiate and pro players to adopt the CEO 2 as they seek any edge they can get facing off. Nike has a true game-changer with the new design that already has ‘X’ men playing better.
Elite Faceoff Specialists Endorse the CEO 2
Early feedback from professional and collegiate faceoff specialists confirms the Nike CEO 2 gives players a significant advantage during draws, clamp downs, and ground ball scraps. Many of lacrosse’s top faceoff men are switching to the CEO 2 because of its optimized design.
“The wider scoop on the CEO 2 is a total game-changer for getting possession off the clamp,” said Team USA faceoff specialist Greg Gurenlian. “I can channel the ball right into my stick and secure it before my opponent can react.”
Pro players also praise the CEO 2’s Enduraform sidewalls that add tactile grip for controlling ground balls. “I can really feel the CEO 2 bite into ground balls, even when getting pushed around by defenders,” said New York Lizards pro Joe Nardella. “It gives me the confidence to take chances going for 50/50 balls.”
Collegiate specialists agree the CEO 2 improves their faceoff game. “Whether it’s gaining initial possession or wrestling for a grounder, the CEO 2 just feels superior,” said Yale junior TD Ierlan, a two-time faceoff leader in NCAA Division 1. “It’s quickly becoming THE head for faceoff guys.”
The consensus across every level is that Nike nailed the redesign with the CEO 2. Better ball control, enhanced grip, and a wider profile give faceoff specialists an edge that translates into extra possessions. Expect usage to soar as players experience the CEO 2’s advantages firsthand.
Compatibility of the CEO 2 With Popular Lacrosse Shafts
The Nike CEO 2 lacrosse head is designed to pair well with nearly all modern lacrosse shaft makes and models. Faceoff specialists switching to the CEO 2 won’t need to change their shaft to experience the head’s benefits.
According to Nike, the CEO 2 is fully compatible with pin-lock shafts from leading manufacturers like Warrior, Maverik, STX, and Epoch. The connection point and sidewall geometry work seamlessly with shafts across price points and preferences.
“We designed the CEO 2 to work great with all major shafts, so players can focus on its improved performance rather than compatibility concerns,” said a Nike engineer closely involved in the head’s development.
In testing, players paired the CEO 2 with their existing favorite shafts with no connection or ball control issues. The head’s flex and ball channeling were unaffected by different shaft makes.
“Switching the CEO 2 onto my STX shaft took seconds and I noticed no difference in stiffness or handling,” said one collegiate faceoff specialist. “It really is plug and play with any modern shaft on the market.”
Current shaft trends favor lightweight materials and thinner handles anyway, making compatibility universal. Faceoff players can upgrade to the CEO 2 head immediately and reap the benefits using their current shaft of choice.
Strategies to Win Clamp Downs with the CEO 2
The optimized design of the Nike CEO 2 lacrosse head gives faceoff specialists an advantage in gaining possession off the clamp. Here are some key strategies for maximizing clamp success with the CEO 2.
First, take advantage of the wider scoop by pushing the head flat down on top of the ball to rake it back. The CEO 2’s flared shape makes it easier to fully cover and control the ball.
Next, leverage the tactile grip of the Enduraform rails to clamp down over the sidewalls with your hand. You can get more force pressing down without the ball squirting free.
Position your other hand ready to grab the shaft as you stand up to increase clamping pressure from both sides. Having two hands gripping allows you to secure ball control.
Use your wrists to keep the head perfectly perpendicular to the ground as you stand. This channels the ball back into the pocket instead of glancing off the scoop.
As you gain possession, keep the head low and drive your shoulder into your opponent to shield the clamp. The CEO 2’s stiffer profile will hold its shape through contact.
Mastering these techniques takes practice, but the CEO 2 gives you an advantage off the draw. Work onracy before speed to develop a quick clamp and win more possessions.
Shooting Accuracy with the CEO 2’s Wider Scoop
The Nike CEO 2 lacrosse head features a wider flare and scoop designed to improve ball control. An underrated benefit of the enlarged scoop is increased shooting accuracy on the run and from tough angles.
With its wider profile, the CEO 2 gives players more surface area to cradle and bring the ball into the pocket on shots. Even off-balance or on the move, it’s easier to wrangle the ball into the shooting strings.
The steeper flare also adds ball channeling from the scoop directly into the pocket. You can move the ball swiftly into the shooting zone with less handling required thanks to the shaped ramp.
With practice, faceoff specialists can leverage these subtle accuracy gains on quick-stick attempts after winning the clamp. A few additional inches of scoop width improves the CEO 2’s shooting forgiveness.
“I find I can rip off shots faster after winning the faceoff with the CEO 2 because that expanded scoop dials in my accuracy,” said one collegiate player.
For specialists who occasionally take it to the cage themselves or look for trailers, the CEO 2 creates more shooting opportunities. The head enhances cradle control no matter the angle, helping you hit the net when it counts.
The CEO 2 Stands Up to Faceoff Punishment
Faceoffs are one of the most physically demanding aspects of lacrosse, with heads taking a constant pounding. Nike designed the CEO 2 to withstand abuse with reinforced materials in high-stress areas.
The head incorporates Enduraform, a rigid composite, in the sidewall rails and scoop area. This material is more durable than traditional alloys and resists warping or deforming over time.
In the throat area, Nike utilized a beefed-up pivot bar and junction hardware to reduce flexing. This stabilizes the structural integrity across the entire frame for greater longevity.
The CEO 2 face shape maintains its structure even when hammered on by defenders during ground ball scrums. Players report no noticeable flexing or damage after months of heavy use.
Nike also optimized the stringing holes and attachment points to avoid pull-throughs or premature breakage in areas of high tension.
While no lacrosse head lasts forever, the CEO 2 holds up well to the strains of facing off better than most heads. Paying extra attention to durability ensures you get the most out of its benefits before needing to replace it.
Balanced Weight of the CEO 2 Enhances Control
An important but subtle advantage of the Nike CEO 2 is its optimized weight distribution. By shaving excess material and adding it in key areas, Nike achieved ideal balance for faceoffs and ground balls.
The head has a feather-light but very rigid scoop to allow quick splits and fast direction changes. Extra material around the rails boosts clamping stability without making the head overly bulky.
Nike engineers ran computer simulations to maximize stiffness while minimizing unnecessary mass. The result is a head with a very balanced feel top to bottom.
“The CEO 2 moves exactly how you want it to thanks to weight distribution that enhances control,” said professional faceoff man Greg Gurenlian. “It lets you sharply change direction reacting to ground balls.”
Proper balance also reduces hand and wrist fatigue over the course of a game. You’ll stay sharper and more agile as you bang out faceoff after faceoff.
Considering ground ball control requires subtle movements and continuous adjustments, the CEO 2’s precise balance gives it a big advantage. The head becomes an extension of your hands rather than an anchor weighing you down.
Adjusting Your Play Style for the CEO 2
Maximizing the Nike CEO 2’s advantages requires modifying some fundamentals of your faceoff approach. Here are some tips for tailoring your play to align with the CEO 2’s strengths.
Use the wider scoop to your advantage by focusing on raking the ball rearward rather than trying to pick it up cleanly. Let the head’s shape do the work.
Leverage the improved clamping traction by bearing down hard when gaining possession. You can apply more downward pressure without slippage.
On ground balls, lead more with your hands and arms than your body, using the CEO 2’s grip and control to pull balls in.
Go after contested grounders you may have shied away from in the past, knowing the CEO 2 will secure 50/50 balls.
Use added torque from the thicker sidewalls to wrestle and joust harder for possessions while staying controlled.
Trust the stability and flex of the head when making contact during battles. It can handle heavy loads.
Adapting in these areas will help you take full advantage of the CEO 2’s assets. meet the capabilities of the head with the right technique.
Ideal Positioning with the CEO 2 Faceoff Head
Optimizing your body positioning during faceoffs is key to maximizing the advantages of the Nike CEO 2 head. Here is proper technique to win clamps and ground balls with the CEO 2.
On draws, stay low in an athletic stance with knees bent and back flat. This lets you explode up and forward to gain leverage.
Aim to keep your head up as you clamp down, allowing you to spot openings to attack if you win possession.
Use the CEO 2’s grip and wider design to position your top hand palms-down on top of the ball when clamping.
Drive upward through your hips and core when gaining possession, keeping the CEO 2 perfectly perpendicular to the ground.
Lead scrambles for ground balls with your forearms and shoulders, using the CEO 2’s control to rake balls in.
Shield ground balls by making shoulder-to-shoulder contact with your opponent if needed. The CEO 2 takes abuse well.
Proper footwork, weight distribution, and hand positioning multiply the CEO 2’s advantages. Mastering faceoff mechanics fully unlocks the head’s potential.
The CEO 2 Excels on All Playing Surfaces
The Nike CEO 2 lacrosse head delivers consistent advantages on both artificial turf and short-cut grass fields. Its versatility makes it a top choice regardless of playing conditions.
On crusty natural grass, the CEO 2’s Enduraform sidewalls provide excellent traction for prying ground balls free from stubborn turf.
The stiffer alloy scoop also resists digging in on short, dense grass. You won’t lose control of contested grounders like with some heads.
On slick artificial turf, the CEO 2’s wider design increases surface contact for added control during ground balls and clamping.
The tactile grip of Enduraform is especially helpful for taming grounders on turf’s smooth fibers without the ball squirting free.
In testing, faceoff experts found the CEO 2 performed slightly better on artificial surfaces. But its overall consistency across all fields is a huge plus.
“The CEO 2 just works everywhere – I don’t have to adjust my approach for grass or turf,” said Team USA’s Greg Gurenlian.
Not having to tailor your game for field conditions gives you one less thing to worry about. The CEO 2 delivers results no matter the surface.
Is the CEO 2 a True Game Changer in 2023?
Based on field testing and early adoption among elite faceoff specialists, the Nike CEO 2 lacrosse head appears poised to make a major impact in 2023 and beyond. But does it truly represent a game-changing innovation?
There’s no question the CEO 2 improves upon subtle aspects of performance that give players an edge. The wider scoop, tactile rails, and enhanced ball control solve common pain points for faceoff men.
Early feedback indicates advantages in winning clamps, controlling ground balls, and gaining extra possessions. The CEO 2 clearly makes good faceoff players even better.
Yet true game changers transcend individual matchups to influence strategy and gameplay on a macro level. It remains to be seen whether the CEO 2 forces adapting from opponents.
If CEO 2 usage expands rapidly across all levels, we may witness corresponding draw play evolutions and coaches scheming new counter tactics. Only then will its impact be fully realized.
For now, the CEO 2 seems a significant progression pushing the boundaries of innovation. But its lasting legacy as a modern game changer is still being written. The head’s full potential has yet to be unlocked.
The CEO 2 Performs on Artificial and Natural Turf
The Nike CEO 2 lacrosse head delivers consistent advantages on both artificial turf and short-cut grass fields. Its versatility makes it a top choice regardless of playing conditions.
On natural grass, the CEO 2’s Enduraform sidewalls provide excellent traction for prying ground balls free from stubborn turf.
The stiffer alloy scoop also resists digging in on short, dense grass. You won’t lose control of contested grounders like some heads.
On artificial turf, the CEO 2’s wider design increases surface contact for added control during ground balls and clamping.
The tactile grip of Enduraform is especially helpful for taming grounders on turf’s slick fibers without the ball squirting free.
In testing, faceoff experts found the CEO 2 performed slightly better on artificial surfaces. But its overall consistency across all fields is a huge plus.
“The CEO 2 just works everywhere – I don’t have to adjust my approach for grass or turf,” said Team USA’s Greg Gurenlian.
Not having to tailor your game for field conditions gives you one less thing to worry about. The CEO 2 delivers results no matter the playing surface.