How To Select a Stick

Generally, stick length is related to height. However, players have different preferences based on style of play, field position, and comfort level. If you are a forward or midfielder, you may want a shorter stick than a defender would prefer because shorter sticks allow for better maneuverability.

When choosing a field hockey stick, select the length that you can control comfortably. Place the index finger of your right hand on your right hip bone. Place your middle and ring finger next to your index finger. The top of the stick should approximately reach the side of your ring finger.

Consult this guide to help you determine which stick length is right for you:

HEAD SELECTION:

Shortie:

A popular head size with attack players and youth. The shorter head allows a player to turn the stick over the ball faster.

Midi:

A midi head is 1/2 inch longer than the shortie head to allow for better reverse stick play and for a greater receiving surface.

Indoor:

The head of an indoor stick is flat on the end rather than rounded like the midi and shorti heads. The flat head enables a player to get the stick closer to the floor to better stop the ball since the ball stays on the ground more indoors than out.

Additionally ( From www.planetfieldhockey.com)

Choosing the right stick
There are many kinds, types & styles of sticks on the market. One can choose by brand, by material, by size, by weight and by shape.

Where to start?

Choosing a stick is a little bit like choosing the right skis. You must first determine what you would like to do with them and what they should be able to handle. You must then choose a ski that is able to perform accordingly and feel natural to you.

The key to choosing the right stick is to play with a variety of them. Try to use a demo stick or borrow one from a teammate or a friend. Once you try a stick that you think might be the right one, do not get frustrated and give up on it if it does not work for you right away. A change in sticks takes a little while and you must allow for time to get used to it. However, if you still have doubts after 3 or 4 sessions with it, it is probably not the right stick for you.

When making a switch or choosing a new stick ask yourself what it needs to do and you can limit your choices:

· Are you a hitter?

· Are you a finesse player & like to dribble?

· Do you mostly distribute the ball in midfield?

· Do you hit or flick corners?

· Do you push out corners?

They are all questions that will help you in your choice.

As a result:

· If you do not hit much, choose a lighter stick that offers you better & quicker control. By choosing a composite stick, you can probably make up for the lost power if you need to hit sometimes.

· If you flick on corners, you should probably get a stick with a good curve or bow.

· If you have trouble with backhand trapping, a stick with a “maxi” head will probably help you. However, if you also push out corners, make sure that the shape of the head doesn’t limit you from cradling the ball like you need to be effective.

All stick suppliers make similar sticks. The choice of brand is individual and depends on what feels right. The biggest difference between brands is seen in the stiffness, the shape of the shaft and the way in which this shape continues into the head of the stick and the grip. The quality in manufacturing should be important when making your choice. Most mainstream brands offer high quality and use similar materials although, manufacturing processes & techniques can be quite different.

Try them out and see what feels right for you. Don’t let the grip bother you, it can be exchanged just like the bindings on a pair of skis. GOOD LUCK  (Planet field hockey)

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