Choosing what stick to buy as a new lacrosse player (or a coach of a lacrosse player) is not as simple as it may sound. Some players and coaches have no idea when it comes to lacrosse sticks, and that is where we come in to help you answer your question on which size lacrosse stick does your kid or your team needs. So, how do you choose an ideal lacrosse stick?
Based on your position, you can determine the lacrosse stick length to purchase. It should be noted that stick length specifications for adult and youth lacrosse players vary. Before you make any choice, be sure to understand the legal length criteria and how it affects a player’s performance.
These legal stick length criteria give you a good and comprehensive idea of what size stick to buy. However, you may have observed that defensemen, LSMS, and goalies have a wide range of stick lengths to choose from.
It might be difficult for a novice lacrosse player to know what exact stick length within this range is best for their individual preferences and body frame.
Always Buy the Right Size Based on the player’s position
The first step in selecting the right lacrosse stick is deciding what lacrosse position you wish to play. You obviously can’t do that if you don’t even know what lacrosse positions are.
If you haven’t decided on a position yet, don’t make a hasty decision without first gaining a basic understanding of the position. Take your time as a coach and try to understand your player’s gaming position before making any purchases.
Following that, you should be aware that the lacrosse stick is made up of three key components: the shaft, the head, and the pocket. The majority of novice lacrosse sticks come fully constructed. However, if you want to totally customize the stick, you must purchase each component separately.
What size lacrosse stick for 10-year-old
A beginner lacrosse stick or a 10-year-old player should have a bigger head and a flattering scoop to assist your players in learning to throw, grab, and scoop up ground balls.
It is legal to trim your shaft (non-HS level) to make it the acceptable size at the youth level. The stick should be as long as the distance between the back of your shoulder and your fingertips, plus one to two inches for growth. Sticks to Buy for Advanced Players.
A more advanced player’s choice of off-set or non- off-set head is determined by a combination of personal taste and position. An off-set tip improves the accuracy, pace, and accuracy of passes and shots by driving the ball higher in the shaft for a faster release, rendering it excellent for an attacker or playmaker.
A non-offset head, such as the P11, has an aggressive scoop angle to aid ground balls and a sharper head for greater control to reduce giveaways, making it suitable for attacking midfielders.
What size Lacrosse Stick For Girls
As previously stated, the size of your stick will be determined by the position you play, and this applies to both genders, that is, male and female players. Players on the field will use sticks ranging in length from 35 12″ to 43 14″.
A keeper’s shaft can be longer, measuring between 35 12″ and 52″ in length for all female and male players. You should use the same dimensions for all coaches or players.
Choosing a size for youth players, especially female players can determine how well they can handle the stick. Whatever position they play, they necessitate a stick that fits them. In youth or female competitions, the beam of the stick can be trimmed the player’s size, but it is becoming illegal in high school and other competitions.
In order to determine how and when to cut the shaft, measure the length of the players’ arms, then subject it to the required size. The stick should also extend from the player’s fingertips to their arm.
A portion or two can be incorporated and considered for height gain, so you don’t have to buy a new stick after each growth spurt.
Lacrosse Shooting Strings
Shooting strings are always horizontally placed near the top of the stick’s head and influence the equilibrium balance and trajectory of the ball. Three or four shots strings, often known as hockey roller blade cords, are used to create a smooth pathway for the ball to run out of the pockets, while nylon strings are utilized for a “crisper” sensation.
The firing strings decide whether your shot will have “whip,” or the angle at which the ball leaves the head. The more whip you have in your stick, the lower the ball will travel when you throw it. Attackers are more likely to seek more whips.
Final Word
The whole concept is all about understanding what your players need and how to use your new equipment. As a coach, be sure to understand all the basics before you make any move towards buying; also, you involve the players to pick the right stick for their position.