Which Stick Will You Need?

Before you can go right out onto the field and start practicing, you have to make sure you are using the proper stick for your height and position. The three main components that you need to pay attention to when buying a stick is its length, weight, and head shape.

Let’s first start with the length of the stick. The length that you need all determines on how tall you are. The length is very important because if you have a stick that is too long, then every time you go to hit the ball you will hit the ground or undercut the ball. Depending on if you have a wooden or composite stick, the head of it can break off. If your stick is too short, then you will be constantly bending over. Which can cause back pain. Field hockey sticks usually range from 28 inches to 38 inches. Here is the chart you should follow when determining the length of your stick.

Height:                Length:
28″                   4’0″ and under
30″                   4’1″ – 4’3″
32″                   4’4″ – 4’6″
34″                   4’7″ – 5’0″
35″                   5’1″ – 5’3″
36″ or 36.5″      5’4″ – 5’6″
37″ or 37.5″      5’7″ – 5’9″
38″                   5’10” and up

Now lets move on to the weight or your stick. How heavy or light your stick should be is determined by your position on the field. For instance, if you are a forward, which is the front line on the field, then you want a lighter stick so neither your speed or stick skills are restricted. Mid-fielders who play both defense and offense want a mid-weight stick so they can still have the ability to be fast, but also can have defensive skills. Defensive players who play right in front of the goalies, want heavy sticks so when they drive the ball to clear it, it is powerful and goes far. Here is a chart to see which weight will best suit your position.

Ounces:    Position:
19-20       Forwards
21            Mid-fielders
22-24      Defense

The last component when considering which stick to purchase is the head shape. The head shape is also based on which position you play because the different shapes make it easier to perform different moves. There are three different head shapes to consider. They are shorty, midi, and hook.

Shorty: Typically used by forwards because it is a one-piece head that makes it easier to move the ball around. It helps increase balance and control.

Midi: Typically used by mid-fielders because it is a two-piece head that is multi-laminated. This stick head is longer and allows for better reverse stick play. It helps with flicks, receiving, and reverse stick.

Hook: Typically used by defensive players because it is also a two-piece head that is multi-laminated. This stick is J-shaped and looks like it is hooked up. It has an increased surface area to help with receiving and ball control.

The design of your stick is very important and can help increase your skills. Before buying a stick make sure you know what position you want to play and know how tall of a stick you should get!