What is a long pole in lacrosse and why is it crucial for defenders. How to choose the ideal length for your long pole. Which shaft material is best for your playing style. How to select the perfect lacrosse head for defensive dominance.

The Importance of Long Poles in Lacrosse Defense

In the world of lacrosse, the long pole is a defender’s most valuable asset. Measuring between 52 and 72 inches, these specialized sticks give defensemen a significant advantage over their offensive counterparts. But why exactly are long poles so crucial for defensive success?

Long poles, often referred to as “d-poles,” provide defenders with extended reach, allowing them to control more space on the field. This extra length translates into several key benefits:

• Enhanced poke checking range
• Improved leverage against dodging attackers
• Easier ground ball retrieval
• Greater interception capabilities
• Improved sliding and positioning

By mastering the use of a long pole, defenders can effectively disrupt passing lanes, harass attackers, and dominate ground ball situations. The extended reach allows them to cover more ground and exert greater control over the game’s defensive aspects.

Optimizing Long Pole Length for Peak Performance

Choosing the right length for your long pole is crucial for maximizing your defensive capabilities. While personal preference plays a role, several factors should guide your decision:

Height Considerations

Your height is a primary factor in determining the ideal pole length. Taller players may benefit from shorter poles around 60 inches for better maneuverability, while shorter players might opt for maximum length poles up to 72 inches to compensate for their height.

Defensive Role

Your specific defensive role also influences the optimal pole length. Lockdown defenders who focus on one-on-one matchups often prefer longer poles for maximum reach. In contrast, more dynamic defenders who frequently slide and provide support may find shorter poles in the 52-60 inch range more suitable.

Finding Your Sweet Spot

To determine your ideal long pole length, consider the following criteria:

• Comfortable poke checking while covering dodgers
• Efficient footwork around the crease
• Clean ground ball scooping in one motion
• Quick transition from defense to offense
• Effective handling and passing upfield

Experimenting with different pole lengths during off-season training can help you find the perfect balance between reach and control. Remember, the goal is to enhance your defensive capabilities without sacrificing mobility or ball handling skills.

Selecting the Right Shaft Material: Alloy vs. Composite

When it comes to long pole shafts, players must choose between alloy and composite materials. Each option offers distinct advantages and drawbacks that cater to different playing styles and preferences.

Alloy Shafts: Durability and Responsiveness

Alloy shafts, typically made from aluminum, scandium, or titanium alloys, are known for their durability and responsive feel. These shafts are ideal for aggressive defenders who subject their equipment to intense physical play. Key benefits of alloy shafts include:

• Excellent durability and resistance to impacts
• Responsive feel for precise checking and ball control
• Generally more affordable than composite options
• Consistent performance in various weather conditions

However, alloy shafts tend to be heavier than their composite counterparts, which may impact maneuverability and speed for some players.

Composite Shafts: Lightweight and Customizable

Composite shafts, made from materials like carbon fiber or fiberglass, offer a lightweight alternative with unique performance characteristics. These shafts are favored by players who prioritize speed and finesse in their defensive play. Advantages of composite shafts include:

• Significantly lighter weight for improved speed and agility
• Customizable flex patterns for personalized feel
• Excellent vibration dampening properties
• Often feature innovative grip technologies

The main drawbacks of composite shafts are their higher cost and potential for catastrophic failure under extreme stress.

Choosing the Ideal Lacrosse Head for Defensive Dominance

The lacrosse head is a critical component of your long pole setup, directly impacting your ability to check, scoop ground balls, and maintain possession. When selecting a defensive head, consider the following factors:

Head Shape and Design

Defensive heads typically feature a wider face shape compared to offensive heads. This design provides a larger surface area for checking and intercepting passes. Look for heads with:

• A wide face shape for improved ball stopping and checking
• Stiffer sidewalls for increased durability during physical play
• A flatter scoop design for easier ground ball pickups

Stiffness and Durability

Defensive heads should be able to withstand the rigors of aggressive checking and ground ball battles. Opt for heads made from high-impact materials that offer:

• Excellent stiffness to maintain shape during intense play
• Reinforced sidewalls to prevent warping and breakage
• Durable plastic compounds that can withstand repeated impacts

Stringing Options

The ability to customize your pocket is crucial for optimizing your defensive performance. Look for heads that offer:

• Multiple stringing holes for versatile pocket placement
• Compatibility with both traditional and mesh stringing styles
• Sidewall designs that allow for tight channel creation

Maximizing Ground Ball Dominance with Your Long Pole

Securing ground balls is a critical aspect of defensive play in lacrosse. Your long pole can give you a significant advantage in these situations when used correctly. Here are some tips to maximize your ground ball dominance:

Leverage Your Reach

Use the extended length of your long pole to reach ground balls before your opponents. Position your body between the ball and the opposing player, using your pole to scoop the ball while shielding it with your body.

Master the One-Handed Scoop

Practice scooping ground balls with one hand on your pole. This technique allows you to cover more ground and maintain your speed while picking up the ball. Keep your other hand free to protect yourself and fend off opponents.

Utilize the Box Technique

When approaching a ground ball, use the “box” technique by placing your feet, stick, and hands in a square formation around the ball. This approach gives you multiple options for securing possession and protecting the ball from opponents.

Developing Effective Checking Techniques with Your Long Pole

The extended reach of a long pole opens up a variety of checking options for defenders. Mastering these techniques can significantly enhance your defensive effectiveness:

The Poke Check

The poke check is a fundamental defensive move that takes advantage of your long pole’s reach. To execute an effective poke check:

1. Maintain a balanced defensive stance
2. Extend your arms, driving the butt end of your stick towards the opponent’s hands or stick
3. Aim to disrupt their grip or dislodge the ball
4. Quickly retract your stick to maintain defensive positioning

The Slap Check

The slap check is a more aggressive technique used to jar the ball loose or disrupt an opponent’s shot or pass. To perform a slap check:

1. Time your approach as the attacker cradles the ball
2. Swing your stick in a controlled, downward motion
3. Aim for the opponent’s stick just below their bottom hand
4. Follow through with the motion to maximize impact

The Lift Check

The lift check is an effective way to disrupt an opponent’s shot or pass attempt. To execute a lift check:

1. Position yourself close to the attacking player
2. As they prepare to shoot or pass, quickly lift your stick upwards
3. Target the bottom of their stick or their bottom hand
4. Use controlled force to disrupt their motion without drawing a penalty

Maintaining and Caring for Your Long Pole

Proper maintenance of your long pole is essential for ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. Follow these tips to keep your equipment in top condition:

Regular Cleaning

Clean your long pole after each use to remove dirt, grass, and sweat. Use warm water and mild soap to clean the shaft and head, paying special attention to the stringing. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely before storage.

Inspect for Damage

Regularly check your long pole for signs of wear or damage. Look for:

• Cracks or dents in the shaft
• Warping or breakage in the head
• Frayed or loose strings in the pocket

Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage and maintain optimal performance.

Proper Storage

Store your long pole in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid leaving it in extreme temperatures, such as in a hot car, which can cause warping or damage to both the shaft and head.

Restring as Needed

Regularly assess the condition of your pocket and restring as necessary. A well-maintained pocket ensures consistent performance and ball control. Consider having a backup head strung and ready to swap out if needed.

By following these maintenance practices, you can extend the life of your long pole and ensure it performs at its best when you need it most on the field.

What is a Long Pole in Lacrosse & Why Use It?

A long pole in lacrosse, also known as a “d-pole”, is a specialized stick used primarily by defensemen. Measuring 52-72 inches in length, long poles are significantly longer than the 30-40 inch short sticks used by other players. This extra length gives defenders a crucial reach advantage when poke checking, intercepting passes, and scooping up ground balls.

While a short stick suffices for most positions, long poles are a must-have for lockdown defenders. The extended shaft enables defensemen to control more space and out-leverage dodging attackers. Long poles are also vital when battling for possession, as their added length lets defenders snag ground balls before opposing players can reach them.

In short, long poles expand a defender’s checking range and boost ground ball retrieval. Elite defensemen rely on the extra control and leverage from their longer sticks to smother the opposition. While proper technique is still required, a long pole gives defenders the physical tools needed to dictate play defensively.

Key Benefits of Using a Long Pole on Defense

• Wider poke check range to disrupt sticks and passing lanes
• Added leverage to body-up and steer dodging attackers
• Easier ground ball scooping with the extended shaft length
• Greater intercepting range to knockdown outlet passes
• More control covering ground defensively in transition

The length advantage of long poles is undeniable. Elite defensemen who master their long stick give dodging players fits, whacking away sticks andilogies and metaphors harassing passing lanes. Ground balls become much easier to corral before they cross the restraining line. Positioning also improves with the ability to direct cutters and slide quicker relying on the pole’s extra inches.

While short sticks work fine at most positions, long poles are an absolute necessity for defenders. Their extended length completely changes the defensive game, letting defensemen control passing lanes, dominate ground balls, and out-leverage dodgers. For defensemen looking to play suffocating, tight defense, a long lacrosse stick is an invaluable asset.

Understanding Long Pole Lengths for Optimal Play

When selecting a long pole, one of the most important factors is length. Long poles typically range from 52-72 inches, with most high school and college players using poles in the 62-72 inch range. While personal preference comes into play, the optimal long pole length depends primarily on your height and defensive role.

For most defensemen, a pole measuring from 60-72 inches gives the ideal blend of checking range and control. Shorter players can benefit from max length sticks up to 72 inches to maximize their reach. Taller defenders may opt for shorter poles around 60 inches that provide better maneuverability in confined spaces.

Longer poles are also preferred for lockdown cover defenders that stick to their matchup. The extra length allows them to disrupt dodging midfielders with wider poke checks and knock away outlet passes. Shorter poles around 52-60 inches work well for dynamic defenders who slide and provide support frequently.

When determining your ideal long pole length, focus on choosing a length that enables you to:

• Poke check comfortably while covering dodgers
• Maintain solid footwork maneuvering around the crease
• Scoop ground balls cleanly in one motion
• Quickly transition from defense to offense
• Handle and pass efficiently upfield

It’s smart to test a couple different pole lengths during off-season training to find your personal sweet spot. The optimal long pole length empowers you to play shutdown defense while still being dynamic in transition.

Finding Your Ideal Long Pole Length

Most elite defenders use poles in the 62-72 inch range based on their height and defensive role. When testing different lengths, focus on choosing a pole that:

• Gives you optimal poking and checking range
• Allows quick footwork and tight crease coverage
• Enables smooth ground ball scooping in one motion
• Grants great outlet passing range downfield

Don’t sacrifice too much control and mobility just for extended reach. Find your ideal balance of length and maneuverability to take your defense to the next level.

Choosing The Ideal Long Pole Shaft Material (Alloy vs Composite)

When selecting a long pole shaft, players must decide between durable alloy shafts or lightweight composite shafts. Both materials have their own strengths and weaknesses to consider.

Alloy shafts are typically made from alloys of aluminum, scandium, or titanium. They stand up well to abuse and have a nice responsive feel. Alloy shafts are a great choice for aggressive defensive players who put their poles through rugged use. The main drawbacks are their heaviness and potential for denting.

Composite shafts are constructed using fibers like carbon fiber, dyneema, or fiberglass bonded together. Composite poles are extremely lightweight yet offer good stiffness and strength. This leads to quicker handling and faster play. Composites can be prone to chipping however, and lack some of the lively feel of alloy.

When deciding between alloy and composite long pole shafts, consider factors like:

• Your style of defensive play
• Weight preferences
• Shaft durability needs
• Desired shaft stiffness
• Budget constraints

Aggressive lockdown defenders tend to favor the durability and feel of alloy poles. Faster, more active defenders can benefit from the lightness and quickness of composites. Testing out both types of shafts can help determine your personal preference.

Finding the Right Balance of Durability and Handling

Alloy shafts offer rugged durability while composites provide featherlight handling. Consider your defensive approach and budget when choosing between the two.

• Alloy – Durable, dent-resistant, lively feel
• Composite – Extremely lightweight, susceptible to chipping, quick handling

The right long pole shaft material boils down to choosing great handling or maximum durability based on your needs as a defender.

Top Long Pole Shaft Brands Ranked (Maverik, Warrior, STX)

When buying a new long pole shaft, one’s choice often comes down to preference of brand. Maverik, Warrior, and STX stand out as three of the top lacrosse shaft manufacturers.

Maverik shafts offer a great blend of stiffness, durability, and affordable pricing. The Maverik Kinetik is a top-selling alloy shaft praised for its lively feel and dent-resistance. Maverik’s composite shafts like the Wonderboy provide elite lightweight performance perfect for active defenders.

Warrior shafts are known for their exceptional strength and stiffness. The Scandium Pro and CEO alloy shafts deliver rock-solid durability to stand up to constant defensive pressure. Warrior’s composite shafts emphasize stiffness over feather-lightness, making them ideal for aggressive players.

STX shafts are revered for their consistent quality and performance across both alloy and composite models. The STX Hammer forged alloy is an all-time best-selling shaft offering a perfect flex profile for defense. STX composite shafts like the Surgeon provide elite-level lightweight handling.

While personal preference rules, here is an overall brand ranking based on key factors:

1. STX – Great reputation for consistent quality and performance
2. Maverik – Good value, reliable alloy and composite shafts
3. Warrior – Very stiff, durable shafts ideal for rugged defenders

You can’t go wrong with any of these top brands. Determine the features you want most – lightweight, durability, stiffness – to choose your ideal long pole shaft.

Find Your Ideal Brand for Handling and Performance

Maverik, Warrior, and STX all produce top-notch long pole shafts loved by elite defensemen. Focus on your key priorities to select the brand that’s right for you.

Long Pole Heads Designed for Aggressive Defense

A long pole head optimized for defense has some key differences from offensive heads. When choosing a long pole head, defenders should look for heads offering superior ball retention, accurate checking, and ground ball control.

Wider head shapes improve ball security during ground balls and checks. A more rounded scoop helps contain loose balls. Stiff sidewalls increase head stability for potent poking. Strategic stringing holes enable customizable pocket styles ideal for different defensive needs.

Top long pole heads for defense include:

• Maverik Tank – Great stiffness and ball retention
• STX Hammer – Superior sidewall design for accurate checks
• Warrior Burn Pro – Lightweight yet very durable and rugged
• Nike Vandal – Unique scoop for securing ground balls

While all these heads excel for defense, the STX Hammer stands out as the top overall choice. Its EnduraForm technology creates an exceptionally stiff and durable head with great ball control. The Hammer’s design also directs poke checks and lifts with superior accuracy.

Stringing your long pole head for a mid to high pocket improves control when carrying upfield. A broader diamond pattern adds extra ball retention for one-handed cradling in traffic. Investing in a long pole head engineered for tenacious, smothering defense is a must.

Choose a Head Designed for Defensive Domination

Look for long pole heads with excellent stiffness, ball retention, and checking accuracy. Heads like the STX Hammer allow defenders to play relentlessly aggressive while maintaining control.

Game Ready Lacrosse Long Stick Heads for Elite Checking

Having a long pole head optimized and strung for defense makes executing textbook checks much simpler. A stiff, strategically strung head improves accuracy and power on pokes, lifts, and slaps.

For poke checking, a mid-high pocket with a wider diamond brace provides great ball retention when thrusting the head out. This lets you deliver potent one-hand pokes without losing control of the ball.

For lift checks, a head with stiff sidewalls like the Maverik Tank transfers energy directly into the check on contact. This creates explosive lift checks that clamp down on an opponent’s stick.

For slap checks, a slightly mid-low pocket gives you room to wind up for two-handed slaps. An end-opened channel helps the ball release fast and clean on the follow-through for maximum power.

Take time to string your long pole head for optimal poke check, lift check, and slap check performance. Dialing in pocket placement, shooters, and sidewall stiffness tailors your head’s checking capabilities. Investing in a checking-focused string job gives you the tools to deliver game-changing caused turnovers.

Unleash Your Checking Potential

An optimized long pole head and string job helps you execute precise, potent checks. Prioritize stiffness, pocket placement, and design to improve accuracy, retain possession, and maximize power on pokes, lifts, and slaps.

Shorter vs Longer Long Pole Lengths: Pros and Cons

Determining the ideal long pole length comes down to balancing checking range versus maneuverability. Shorter and longer poles both have their own pros and cons to weigh.

Shorter poles around 52-60 inches provide superior footwork, cutback ability, and passing vision in traffic. The shortened length allows for quicker stick moves and reactions. However, it reduces overall poking range and ground ball reach.

Longer poles in the 62-72 inch range maximize poking, intercepting, and ground ball range thanks to the extended shaft. This greater length can hamper mobility in confined spaces though. Switching hands and tight stick handling also become more difficult.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the trade-offs to consider:

• Quicker footwork and cutback reactions
• Better close-quarters stick skills
• More passing vision in traffic
• Less poke check and ground ball range

• Maximized poke check and intercept range
• Easier ground ball scooping
• Greater outlet passing reach
• Reduced mobility and stick skills in tight spaces

Finding your ideal pole length is all about balancing defensive range with retainable footwork and handling ability based on your style of play.

Choose Length Based on Your Defensive Needs

Let your specific role and playing style guide you in selecting a shorter or longer pole length. Seek out the ideal blend of defensive range versus mobility for you.

How to String a Long Pole Head for Maximum Control

Stringing a long pole head requires a customized approach to optimize ball control and retention for defensemen. Here are some key stringing tips to maximize possessions.

• Choose a mid to high pocket height. This gives stability when cradling and allows for one-hand pokes.
• Go with a wider diamond pattern. Adding extra sidewall shooters helps prevent drops on checks.
• Use a co-axial or modified co-axial channel. This retains ball control when passing and shooting.
• Incorporate an interlock or double interlock. The extra hold improves security during checks and ground balls.
• Focus on using soft mesh or heavy nylon strings. This absorbs checks better and provides enhanced hold.

During stringing, constantly check retention and release when cradling, passing, and shooting. The ideal long pole string job flows smoothly between handling and dislodging the ball.

On defense, stringing for control trumps whip and velocity. Follow the tips above to give your long pole head superior ball control. Test out pocket placements and shooting string angles until you dial in your ideal setup.

Prioritize Possession and Handling

String your long pole head to excel at retaining possession during stick checks, ground balls, and outlet passes. Optimize pocket placement, sidewall stiffness, and shooting strings to master handling at both ends of the field.

Developing Fundamental Long Pole Checking Skills

Mastering the fundamentals of checking with a long pole gives defenders the tools to dictate possession. Focus on honing proper technique for pokes, lifts, and slaps to sharpen your defense.

For poke checking, concentrate on short, quick jabs that target hands and sticks. Keep your top hand tight to the head and your bottom hand slid down the shaft to generate maximum thrust. Work on both one-handed and two-handed pokes.

For lift checks, leverage the pole’s length by getting your lead hand near the ball. Explode upward through the stick while stepping into the check. Keep your lead elbow anchored and rotate your bottom hand wrist to pry under the head.

For slap checks, rotate your top hand quickly while sweeping the shaft down through your target. Whip both hands powerfully while following through low for optimal contact.

Incorporate footwork drills like shuffle steps to improve your checking angles. Work on checks from multiple approaches like on the hands, over the shoulder, lift from below, etc.

Rep proper poking, lifting, and slapping technique constantly. As you improve, increase speed and power while maintaining accuracy. Mastering long pole checks gives you a huge defensive edge.

Develop Technical Checking Excellence

Hone fundamental poke, lift, and slap skills through repetitive stick work drills. Strive for superior footwork, accuracy, power, and hand speed with long pole checks.

Using a Long Stick to Your Advantage in Transition

A long pole gives defenders a major edge when triggering or defending against fast breaks. Take advantage of your extra length to excel in transition.

On cleared balls, use your long pole’s added reach to snag outlet passes more easily. You can also shield ground balls and clear with greater ease thanks to expanded stick protection.

In the open field, your extended poking range makes it simpler to disrupt dodgers and intercept errant passes. Staying a step off gives you more time to react.

On rides and checks, drive top hand pokes and lift checks from maximum distance to force turnovers. Your added inches increase takeaway chances and passing lane disruption.

On clears, cradle high while shoveling to shield ground balls. Keep the head up and use your body to fend off checks. Long sweeping pokes can swat away pursuers.

Leverage a long pole’s advantages anytime the pace quickens. Let your length boost ground ball scooping, unlock passing lanes, and allow takeaway checks from increased distance in transition.

Control Transition with Your Length

Use a long stick’s expanded range to scoop, shield, pass, poke, and lift more effectively when play speeds up. Let your pole work for you in transition.

Long Pole Positioning & Footwork Drills to Practice

• Keep your stick out in front with two hands. This allows you to play the man and the ball.
• Always stay between your man and the goal. Force them down the sideline or alley.
• Lead with your lacrosse stick when defending, not your body. Poke check first.
• Move your feet and don’t reach. Stay athletic in your stance.
• Communicate constantly. Let teammates know where the slide is coming from.

Mirror Drills

Box Drills

Angle Drills

Read React Drills

YOYO Drills

Close Out Drills

Stop and Go Drills

Chaos Drills

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Improving Your Checking Accuracy with a D Pole

• Keep your hands spread wide apart for maximum control
• Lead with the bottom hand during poke checks
• Aim for their hands first, not the stick. Knock the ball loose.
• Throw checks on angles – don’t reach straight out
• Channel your power from your legs to your hands
• Stay balanced and under control before, during, and after the check

Poke Check Ladder Drills

Checking Dummy Drills

Tire Check Drills

2 on 1 Drills

Check-a-thons

Agility Check Drills

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Slashing Safely While Playing Tough Defense

• Keep both hands spread wide on the shaft when winding up
• Aim all slashes above the waist and shoulders
• Follow through low and away from the body after impact
• Minimize windup distance for quicker, compact slashes
• Use core rotation to generate power, not just arms
• Stay balanced and athletic – don’t overcommit

Tire Slash Drills

Dummy Slash Drills

3 Slashes

Wall Ball Slash

Whistle Slash

Close Quarters Slashing

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Protecting Ground Balls and Outlet Passing with a Long Stick

• Get low and drive through the ball, don’t reach down
• Protect the ball with your body after clamping down
• Keep two hands on the shaft when contact is coming
• Look upfield as you scoop to see outlet options
• Step towards your target as you pass – don’t just flick it
• Put some heat on outlet passes – easy catches are easier drops

Gauntlet Drills

3 Pass Series

Ground Ball Boxes

Scramble Drills

Run It Down

Outlet Passing Ladder

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Becoming a Dominant Defender with Proper Long Pole Technique

• Stick out front, don’t let them operate behind your pole
• Choppy, athletic stance – no long lunges
• Force topside and lead with your feet, not hands
• Poke check first, lift check second. Swing for slash last resort
• Win the clamp war – box out ground balls
• Read hands and sticks, don’t bite on fakes

Mirror Stance Drills

Box Footwork Drills

READ Drills

Surprise Check Drills

GB Box Drills

Faceoff Technique Drills

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