This video explains the importance of understanding hockey stick lie and flex, and how these factors affect performance based on a player's style, height, and strength.
Coaching Bullet Points:
- Stick Flex: The higher the flex number (e.g., 100 Flex), the stiffer the stick; lower numbers like 75 Flex provide more bend, useful for lighter or younger players.
- Stick Lie: Lie refers to the angle of the blade; a Lie 4 blade sits lower (better for low, crouched players), while Lie 6 has a more upright blade (suitable for taller or upright skaters).
- Choosing the Right Lie: The goal is to have the blade lie flat on the ice when stickhandling—avoid using only the heel or toe.
- Length of Stick: Stick length should typically reach from the player’s nose to chin when they’re in skates, with variations for different play styles (e.g., shorter sticks for close control, longer sticks for shooting).
- Customizing Stick for Play Style: Players like Sidney Crosby use shorter sticks for puck control in tight areas, while others prefer longer sticks for reach and shooting power.
- Balance Flex and Strength: A balance between stick flex and the player's strength is crucial—stiffer sticks for stronger players, and whippier sticks for lighter, younger players.
