As a new lacrosse player, one of the biggest decisions you'll make is when you select your stick. It's the one thing you will always have on the field with you, so you'll need to make sure it is as comfortable as it can be. Lacrosse sticks come in several styles with many different features, so you'll need to take some time to choose the right one for you. Here are a few things you'll have to evaluate when shopping for that first stick.
Getting a Grip
The right grip on the shaft of the stick is essential to helping you hold on to the stick during play. After all, when you're out there on the field, sweaty hands can cause your hands to slip if you haven't treated the shaft for texture and grip. There are several grips available that you can affix to the shaft of the stick. The grips are typically made from sandpaper, rubber or a similar material.
Some players find that they prefer to tape the shaft instead. When you tape the shaft of the stick, you can alter the pattern of the tape as needed to create a comfortable grip. This gives you the freedom to customize your grip to your own personal preference, even if it changes over time. Most players prefer to use athletic tape, while others opt for medical tape or electrical tape for a different texture. You'll have to find what works best for your playing style and your grip.
Shaping Up
The shape of your lacrosse handle is going to affect the way you hold the stick and how easily you can wield it on the field. When you know how you will typically grip your lacrosse stick, you can evaluate each handle shape to determine which one is going to work best for your style.
The traditional lacrosse stick features an octagonal handle shape, but there are some shafts that feature modified octagons with either indented or curved sides for added grip. Try each one to find a handle structure that fits your hand and playing style.
Making the Cut
The length of the stick is another important factor to your ability to handle it well on the field. Lacrosse sticks are measured from the cap to the tip of the net for a total length. Although you can buy your stick precisely to match the length you are most comfortable with, you can buy a longer stick and then cut it down to a length within the regulation for your league.
The shorter the stick, the more control you will have over it. And, shorter sticks provide more protection for the head and handle during a game. Just make sure the head is secure in place before you do any cutting. If you look where the head meets the handle of the stick, there's a screw that holds the head in place. Make sure the screw is tight.
Measure the stick carefully with a tape measure, making sure you are within your league's length regulation. A stick that's too short is going to cost you your field time. Measure the length you want, mark it with a chalk pencil on the stick, then measure it again to make sure it's correct. Once you've confirmed the length, cut it with a metal cutting blade or a cutting tool. Use a metal file to get rid of any burrs from the exposed edges before you replace the cap and put your grip in place.
The tips presented here will help you to get a beginners lacrosse stick that will work well for you in play. As you gain more experience in the game, you may find your handle, grip and shaft length preferences change. Now that you understand each of these features, you'll be able to narrow down what you need to change and consider your options to find the best ones for your needs.
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Share8 January 2015
When I was a child, I remember the time I shared with a special uncle fondly. During the summer, he would take me fishing at my family’s pond. Sometimes, we would fish quietly at the dock. He would occasionally steer me around the pond in a little boat. A few days ago, I found out that I will inherit the family pond. I’m extremely excited about the possibility of purchasing a boat to ride around in with my future kids. On this blog, you will learn how to shop for the perfect pleasure boat for a small body of water. Enjoy!