| |
The basic
lacrosse stick is composed of three parts; an aluminum or
aluminum-alloy handle or shaft, a hard plastic head, and a woeven or net
pocket.
Each part of the stick can be changed, to maximize its utility to
the player. Sticks vary according to the position of the player, in
terms of size, shape and length. Additionally, men's and women's
sticks are slightly different, utilizing different materials.
Handles / Shafts -
Although
traditionally made of wood, modern handles are now more commonly
made from aluminum. Professional and higher-end models are
also made from titanium and graphite alloys. Children sometimes use plastic
sticks when learning the sport. Plastics sticks are lighter and
more durable than their aluminum counterparts, making them easier to
use and minimizing the risk of injury.
Handles
also differ based in shape and size. Defensive players tend to use
heavier, thicker handles, which are stronger and better suited for
blocking and checking. Attacking players use lighter handles, which
allow for better faking and quicker shots. The shape of the handle
is largely a matter of preference, as some players prefer square or
oval handles which give a feel for the direction of the pocket.
Handles can also come with either a smooth or rough shaft, depending
on the amount of grip the player wants.
Pockets -
Lacrosse
sticks come with two types of pockets, mesh and traditional. The
simpler of the two is the mesh pocket, in which a simple nylon
webbing is woven directly into the sides of the pocket. Mesh
pockets are the
easiest to use, requiring little or no adjustment, but are generally
looser and less accurate than traditional pockets. Mesh pockets are
better suited for beginning players, as the looser pocket makes it
easier to control the ball when running or moving. Mesh pockets
require little maintenance and do not need to be replaced as often
as traditional pockets. Similarly, goalkeepers often use mesh
pockets, which decrease the risk of rebounds. Among mesh pockets
there are several types of materials available. Soft mesh is the
most common, as well as the easiest material to maintain. Duramesh
is stronger and harder to break in, but lasts longer than soft
mesh. Even stronger is MonsterMesh, which offers a larger pattern
of holes and stiffer fabric.
For more
experienced players, however, traditional woven pockets allow for
greater control and precision during the game. Traditional pockets
consist of nylon laces woven around four adjustible leather strips.
These strips can be tightened or loosened for greater control, but
wear out faster than the nylon mesh and need to be replaced after
significant use. Traditional pockets are generally stiffer than mesh
pockets, giving greater accuracy for shots but giving less control
when running or moving. Traditional pockets do allow the player to
adjust the depth of the pocket. A deeper pocket generally provides
more ball control, while a shallower pocket gives a quicker release
for shots.
Stick Length
The length of
the stick a player uses is highly dependent on their position in the
game. Attackers, who must emphasize mobility and speed,
generally use the shortest sticks, close to the minimum length of 30
inches. Defenders, at the opposite end of the spectrum, are
encouraged to use the longest sticks they are comfortable using,
usually around 60 inches, to maximize reach. In the middle are
the midfielders, as medium-length sticks allow them to switch
between offense and defense throughout the game. Sticks for
goaltenders differ from those of the other players, with a much
larger pocket for better blocking and defense.
|
|
