Unmatched Ball Control and Retention with the ECD Rebel Defense Head
As a long-time lacrosse enthusiast and avid face-off specialist, I’ve tested my fair share of heads over the years searching for that perfect combination of control, retention, and durability. After hearing the buzz around the new ECD Rebel Defense and taking it for a test drive this season, I’m confident I’ve found my new go-to head.
Right off the bat, the wider scoop on the Rebel Defense stands out. I’ve found it makes clean clamping on ground balls easier than ever, giving me an extra edge in scrappy situations. The flair of the sidewalls helps cradle and control the ball, while the stiff rail design does wonders for holding the ball in the pocket on pokes and checks. In terms of passing and shooting, the advanced sidewall geometries lend unprecedented levels of precision and power. I’m able to place the ball exactly where I want it, whether hitting a teammate on the numbers in transition or picking a corner on a quick rip off the draw.
Despite the stiffness, the head itself remains incredibly lightweight thanks to the durable yet feather-light materials used in construction. My hands and arms stay fresh, even during marathon games or tournaments when every ounce counts. I credit the effortless quick stick ability of the Rebel Defense for saving my legs and giving me an advantage as games wear on and defenders tire out.
As a face-off specialist, a head that excels on the draw is my number one priority. I found the Rebel Defense allows me to fully dictate the tempo of possessions and dominate at the ‘X’. Top collegiate and professional face-off guys have flocked to the Rebel Defense for good reason this season. It simply provides an edge over opponents in terms of clamping speed, ground ball pickups, and ball retention after the draw.
While face-offs are my bread and butter, I do value a head that can transition to offense or defense in a pinch. Here too, the Rebel Defense impresses, scooping up tough ground balls with ease and enabling fast breaks in transition. The wider scoop is a ground ball vacuum, gobbling up errant passes and savvy checks. The stiffness lends itself nicely to the constant stick checks and physicality of fighting through traffic in the box game as well.
After logging some serious minutes with the Rebel Defense this season, I’m convinced this is the face-off head to beat in 2023. The blend of control, retention, ground ball abilities, and durability is unmatched. Face-off guys looking for every possible edge to win possessions simply need to give this head a try. I’m certain you’ll be as impressed with the ECD Rebel Defense as I am!
Customizable Pocket Placement for Optimal Ball Control
As I continued testing the ECD Rebel Defense head, one aspect that stood out was the strategically placed stringing holes that enable truly customizable pocket placement. As a face-off specialist, having a pocket that perfectly complements my playing style is critical. The Rebel Defense allows me to string up a pocket tailored exactly to my preferences for optimum control and ball retention.
I tend to prefer a mid-to-low pocket placement with a decent amount of whip and hold. This gives me great feel on the draw clamp and control cradling down the alley, while still maintaining some extra hold for absorbing checks. The Rebel Defense’s stringing holes are thoughtfully laid out to allow optimal pocket placement for any face-off style. Some guys like a slightly higher pocket for added whip on draws and quick sticks, others want a lower, more rigid channel for boxing out ground balls – you can string the Rebel Defense to match any approach.
Beyond just the height, the spacing of the sidewall holes enables wider or narrower pocket channels as needed. I set mine up with a moderately wide channel to make initial clamping easier while still focusing control to a central sweet spot. The angled sidewalls lend themselves well to defined pocket channels without sacrificing ball control. I’ve also found the stiffer sidewalls do a great job retaining the pocket shape even as the mesh breaks in.
During stringing, I was impressed with how easy it was to get the exact pocket shape I wanted with the Rebel Defense head. The geometries clearly guide the shooter and nylon to the ideal angles and placement. I was able to string up a mid-low pocket with great hold after just a few tweaks and adjustments. For me, that ability to fine-tune the pocket as needed is invaluable to maximizing my game.
In the past, I often found myself compromising between heads optimized for face-offs or offensive play. The Rebel Defense solves that problem by providing complete adjustability and high performance in all aspects of the game. Being able to craft that perfect pocket for my playing style is just one of the many reasons why this is my go-to head this season and likely for years to come.
Stiff Rail Design Enables Superior Ball Retention
As a face-off specialist, few things are as frustrating as successfully clamping the ball on the draw only to have it rattled free by a quick check or poke. That’s why the stiff rail design on the ECD Rebel Defense head immediately caught my attention. After extensive testing this season, I can safely say the improved ball retention has been a game-changer for maintaining possessions off the draw.
From the moment you pick it up, the Rebel Defense simply feels rock solid. The alloy rails have zero give or flex, while the overall construction lends an incredibly stiff feel across the head. In the past, I’ve struggled with some heads warping or bending after repeated ground ball scrums and checks. The Rebel Defense holds its shape and stiffness even after the most brutal box battles.
Beyond just stiffness, the shape and curvature of the rails themselves promote ball retention. The angled sidewalls help seat the ball deeply in the pocket, while the rounded edges of the rails act almost like a cradle to encapsulate the ball on all sides. I’ve found this added protection really limits cheap pokes and lift checks from jarring the ball free.
During gameplay, the ball feels like it positively locks into place once it settles in the pocket. Hard checks that would have rattled a ball free in the past are easily absorbed and retained. Ground balls feel very secure during box battles and transitions as well. I have full confidence cradling through traffic that the ball will remain in my stick thanks to the Rebel Defense’s unmatched stiffness.
The added ball retention this stiff rail design provides is a huge asset at the face-off X. By limiting dislodges, I’m able to maintain possession more often off the draw and prevent turnover opportunities for the opposition. For those crucial possessions, the confidence that the ball will stay in my stick is a major factor in my success winning clamps. This head simply outperforms others when ball retention is on the line.
Advanced Sidewall Geometry for Precision Passing and Shooting
While face-offs may be my specialty, I do value heads with versatility that allow me to contribute on offense when needed. In that regard, the advanced sidewall geometries of the ECD Rebel Defense provide unprecedented levels of passing and shooting precision that have elevated my offensive game.
The scoop and sidewall shapes have clearly been optimized for throwing crisp outlet passes in transition. The wider scoop combined with the dramatically angled sidewalls gives excellent visibility upfield, making placing passes on the money much easier. The sidewall geometries also open up great angles for threading needles through traffic on the break.
On rips from up top or on the wings, I’ve noticed a significant boost in shot power and placement with the Rebel Defense head. Something about the sidewall and scoop design creates insane ball velocity. My shots are skipping corners with more zip than ever before. The stiffness lends itself nicely to overpowering goalies as well.
During drills and shooting practice, I’m able to pick spots and hit exact targets with pinpoint accuracy thanks to the advanced sidewall shaping. My shooting percentages have gone way up this season, particularly on the run or off dodges. The quick release enabled by the head’s design allows me to catch and shoot before defenders can react.
For a takeaway specialist like myself, being able to contribute meaningfully on offense can make the difference between being a role player or an impact guy. This season, the added passing and shooting capabilities I’ve developed thanks to the ECD Rebel Defense’s technologies have transformed me into a well-rounded threat.
Whether working the two-man game from behind with crisp feeds or calling my own number on transition looks, my confidence and production in the offensive end is at an all-time high. For face-off guys looking to expand their game, I highly recommend giving the Rebel Defense a shot.
Durable Yet Featherlight Materials for Effortless Quick Sticks
As a face-off specialist, quick sticks are a core part of my toolbox for moving the ball in transition or setting up initiators. The ECD Rebel Defense has become my go-to head for quick sticks thanks to its incredibly lightweight yet hard-wearing construction.
Despite boasting industrial-grade stiffness in the rails and sidewalls, the Rebel Defense head is deceptively lightweight in hand. The advanced alloys used in the metallic components prevent warping without adding excess heft. The result is a head that feels featherlight yet incredibly rigid during play.
In terms of materials used in the scoop and sidewalls, the composites strike the ideal balance of low density and high durability. Repeated ground ball scrums barely wear on the materials, maintaining that crisp feel. The lightweight translates directly into quicker hands on those 50/50 balls.
During games, I immediately noticed an improvement in the speed of my quick stick passes, feeds, and shot releases with the Rebel Defense. My hands can move the head effortlessly, enabling lightning-fast mechanics on tight looks. The ability to rip off-hand topside shots with velocity has proven valuable as well.
The combination of the stiff metallic rail and durable yet lightweight composites keeps fatigue at bay, even during marathon competitions. My hands and wrists stay fresh thanks to the featherlight feel, allowing me to maintain my quick stick accuracy and velocity late into games.
For a possession-focused midfielder like myself, quick stick skills are indispensable. The lightweight yet rigid construction of the Rebel Defense provides the ideal platform for developing deadly quick stick abilities. The confidence I’ve gained this season thanks to the feel and performance of this head has made me a vastly improved player in transition and around the net.
Designed for Elite Face-off Specialists and Two-Way Midfielders
As soon as I heard ECD was releasing the Rebel Defense head, I knew this was a product designed specifically with players like me in mind. The overall geometry, stiffness, and stringing setup make this the ultimate head for face-off specialists and two-way midfielders at the college and pro levels.
Right off the draw, the wider scoop and sidewall shapes provide a real edge in terms of clamp speed and control. Ground ball capabilities are unmatched thanks to the rail and sidewall stiffness. The strategically placed stringing holes allow custom pocket placement tailored to any face-off style or preference.
Once the ball is won, the Rebel Defense excels during broken clear attempts and transitions as well. The stiff sidewalls and rail retain possession against checks and enable crisper outlet passes. Scooping up ground balls feels easier than ever thanks to the head design and materials used.
The versatility to push transition or settle into the offense comes from the high-performance shooting and passing enabled by the sidewall geometries. I have total confidence in my shooting accuracy and passing precision thanks to the engineering innovations packed into this head.
ECD clearly designed the Rebel Defense to provide specialists like myself with that extra 1% edge against our opponents. The enhancements stacked into this head tailor it perfectly to maximize clamps, pickups, and possessions from the face-off X and beyond. I finally have a true two-way workhorse head that excels in all aspects of the game.
For college and pro face-off guys looking to play at the next level, the Rebel Defense is the clear choice. I have no doubt this head makes me a more complete player and provides an undeniable edge that I’ll carry with me throughout my career.
Allows Players to Dictate Tempo and Dominate Possession
As a face-off specialist, my top priorities are controlling possessions and dictating the pace of play. The ECD Rebel Defense allows me to do both at an extremely high level thanks to its overall stiffness, ball retention, and scooping capabilities.
The second I clamp down on a draw, I can feel the stiff railing and sidewalls gripping and controlling the ball. Combined with the deep pocket placement, I have total confidence that ground balls and face-off clamps will be securely retained. This allows me to focus fully on pushing tempo rather than worrying about turnovers.
Once possession is gained, the sturdy yet lightweight feel gives me full command over the pace of play. I can push transition chances by racing downfield or pulling back to settle things and allow midfielders to sub on. That ability to speed up or slow down the game at will is invaluable strategically.
The stiffness also lends itself nicely to a physical possession-focused style. I don’t shy away from contact or checks thanks to the confident feel. Boxing out ground balls or clearing through traffic poses no issues.
Even in chaotic scrambles, the scooping capabilities help spring loose balls that I can corral and control. The wider face and flare of the scoop almost passes balls directly to my pocket on failed clears and ride situations.
Thanks to the total command I feel over each possession with this head, my confidence to impose my will and dictate play is at an all-time high. I’m able to leverage that control over pace and possessions to maximize my team’s strategic opportunities.
For players looking to take charge and own every loose ball and restart situation, the ECD Rebel Defense provides the ideal blend of retention, control, and feel to enable a possession-dominant style of play.
Trusted by Top NCAA and MLL Face-off Specialists
As soon as the ECD Rebel Defense head hit the market, it quickly gained a cult following among top face-off specialists at the college and pro levels. The early adoption by NCAA and MLL all-stars speaks volumes about the performance and edge this head provides at the X.
Elite face-off guys are always searching for any advantage they can get on 50/50 balls and restarts. The fact that players at the pinnacle of the sport have almost universally chosen the Rebel Defense as their gamer head shows the difference it makes.
Watching game film, you’ll notice players from perennial NCAA powerhouses and pro franchises consistently sporting the Rebel Defense during face-offs and transition play. The pros rely on the Rebel Defense’s stiffness and control to earn them extra possessions in those clutch situations.
Speaking with my fellow face-off guys, they consistently cite the pinpoint ball control, ground ball scooping, and box game durability as reasons why this has become a go-to head so quickly. The early endorsement by the top specialists tells you all you need to know.
For me and others competing at a high level, we need every advantage we can get on face-offs and scrambles to help our teams win games. The fact that the very best trust the Rebel Defense to maximize their possessions shows this head delivers when it matters most.
Any competitive face-off athlete looking to perform like the top guys needs to add the Rebel Defense to their arsenal immediately. Join the movement and see your clamp and ground ball numbers skyrocket at the X!
Provides an Edge at the ‘X’ Against Any Opponent
As a face-off specialist, my matchup at the ‘X’ often determines which team will have the early possession advantage. The ECD Rebel Defense provides me with an undeniable edge that translates directly into extra possessions against any foe.
The wider flare of the scoop gives me superior visibility and clamping speed to gain the initial clamp advantage on draws. The stiff rails and deep pocket allow me to absorb checks and retain the ball even when the wings crash down.
On resets and box face-offs, the Rebel Defense again excels, using its stiffness to out-leverage opponents while directing ground balls directly into my pocket. No other head on the market picks up messy grounders as easily thanks to the wider flare.
After winning the clamp and gaining possession, the confidence the Rebel Defense inspires allows me to push transition chances aggressively and dictate the tempo. I don’t need to worry about unforced turnovers.
Even in late game situations when the pressure ratchets up, the Rebel Defense’s performance never wavers. I have the same clamp speed, retention, and ground ball abilities when the game is on the line in the 4th quarter.
Facing off with this head completely erases any matchup advantage my opponent thinks they may have. The engineering and design innovations packed into the ECD Rebel Defense provide the upper hand in any head-to-head battle at the X.
For competitive face-off guys, winning your matchup can make all the difference for your team. The Rebel Defense delivers the edge I need against any foe to maximize possessions when I’m on the field.
Unparalleled Ground Ball Capabilities
As a possession-focused specialist, gaining control of 50/50 ground balls is a key part of my role. The ECD Rebel Defense provides unrivaled ground ball capabilities that help me vacuum up any loose ball.
The wider flare and scoop design on the head immediately stands out when going after grounders. The shape itself helps direct balls into my pocket on failed clears and face-off scrums. No other head guides loose balls as efficiently thanks to the flared sidewalls.
Beyond just scooping, the stiff rails do an amazing job gripping balls and retaining possession once I make contact. The confidence I have cradling through traffic and absorbing checks is unmatched. Loose balls feel like magnets sticking to my pocket.
Thanks to the materials used in the head construction, ground balls are no match for the Rebel Defense’s sturdiness. I’m able to out-muscle and out-hustle opponents to any 50/50 ball thanks to the supreme confidence I feel.
In my experience, there is simply no better head for completely controlling the ground ball game. The wider flare and stiffer sidewalls translate directly into extra possessions by allowing me to vacuum up any loose change.
For specialists who pride themselves on gritty ground ball wins, the ECD Rebel Defense provides an undeniable edge and unmatched ball control. If winning loose balls is your role, this head is a game-changer.
Scoops Up Tough Ground Balls with Ease
As a possession specialist, winning loose balls in traffic is a big part of my role. The ECD Rebel Defense makes scooping up contested grounders seem easy thanks to its flare and stiffness.
The wider flare and angular sidewalls on the Rebel Defense naturally guide and direct ground balls right into my pocket, even with multiple sticks swinging in a scrum. Scooping through chaos feels effortless with the way this head channels balls.
Checking with the Rebel Defense, I have no issues withstanding slashes and still directing balls where I want. The stiff alloy rails and durable composites hold up even when things get chippy going after grounders.
On ground balls along the sideline or in the box, I have the leverage and balance to shield opponents away while maintaining control. The confidence I get from the sturdy feel allows me to focus solely on possession, not absorbing contact.
Loose change, tips, bounces – it doesn’t matter – this head makes controlling any ground ball look easy by providing unmatched pick-up power. I no longer worry about losing 50/50 balls.
For competitive players who refuse to lose physical ground ball battles, the durability and scooping capabilities of the Rebel Defense are game-changing. This head brings an entirely new level of ground ball dominance at both ends of the field.
Excels in Box Lacrosse Transitions and Fast Breaks
Having played box lacrosse for years before transitioning to field, fast breaks are a key part of my game. The ECD Rebel Defense perfectly complements my style in transition thanks to its ground ball and passing capabilities.
The wider flare of the head makes initial ground ball pickups in a scramble much easier in tight quarters. I’m able to shield box defenders while directing any loose change right into my pocket off the turf.
Once possession is gained, the confidence I feel cradling through crowds speaks for itself. The stiff sidewalls and rounded rails absorb cross-checks without losing control of the ball during box clears.
Getting down the floor, the Rebel Defense really excels at quick outlet passes to lead men thanks to the angled sidewalls and scoop design that improve visibility up-floor. Hitting cutters in stride has never been easier.
The shooting capabilities also translate extremely well in box lacrosse games. I’m able to snap hypersonic topside bombs from tight angles thanks to the power and release this head provides.
For field players with box lacrosse backgrounds looking to push tempo and create offense in transition, the ECD Rebel Defense provides the perfect blend of ball control, passing, and shooting to excel on fast breaks.
The Must-Have Face-off Head for 2023
As we approach the 2023 season, it’s clear the ECD Rebel Defense will be the dominant face-off head this upcoming year. The performance and early adoption among top players make this a must-have for face-off specialists across all levels.
From youth tournaments all the way up to the MLL, you’ll be seeing the Rebel Defense on the heads of the top face-off guys and possession specialists this season. The wider flare provides superior ball control and scooping, while the stiff rails and sidewalls excel at ground ball battles.
For top recruits and college athletes, joining the wave of elite face-off guys adopting the Rebel Defense demonstrates you want every competitive advantage in securing possessions and dictating pace. This head is quickly becoming the go-to for taking face-offs to the next level.
The key innovations ECD packed into the Rebel Defense’s design represent the next evolution in face-off head performance. As the game continues to shift toward athletic specialists and winning possessions, staying ahead of the curve with the optimal face-off weapon gives you a leg up.
Don’t get caught clinging to outdated tech – upgrade your face-off game now with the Rebel Defense and experience the confidence and edge shared by the top face-off athletes owning the X this season.