To the untrained eye, all field hockey sticks probably look the same: long and thin, with a small curve at the end and one side flat for striking. A closer look reveals that different positions use different types of sticks, and players on defense have a stick preference all their own.
Playing Defense
The goal of the defensive player, or fullback, is the prevent the attacking team from scoring goals. The stick becomes an important ally in this endeavor, allowing the defender to strike the ball and send it back up the field, away from her own goal. Thus, a stick that provides striking power is of vital importance.
Stick Length
Defenders generally want to use a longer stick than that of an attacker. While the shorter stick is better for ball control, the longer stick provides a defender with a longer reach to poke the ball away from an attacker, and also creates a greater windup, to propel the ball farther and out of harms way. With that in mind, a defender also benefits from a maxi toe, or striking surface, because the larger the sweet spot, the farther the ball will travel.
Stick Weight
In much the same way a defender needs a longer stick, so does a defensive player prefer a heavier stick, in the range of 22 to 24 oz. The heavier the stick, the more likely the toe will remain closer to the ground, making it more useful in defending attacks. The heavier stick also creates more force for the strike, providing greater distance on the ball.
Composite Stick
Composite sticks are made up of several materials, including fiberglass, Kevlar and carbon. Composite sticks differ from traditional wooden sticks in that they are lighter and have greater stiffness. The added stiffness creates greater striking power, so it is a popular choice among defenders who want a lighter stick, but greater clearing ability.
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