Where It All Started
I’m sure many of you have seen those old clips of me as a kid, training in my driveway that still float around on social media. It might look a little silly and innocent now, but that driveway, and the garage wall that took a beating over the years, is truly where it all began for me.
I spent countless hours out there, no matter the conditions — rain, snow, blistering heat, or total darkness. I was always playing. I was so intrinsically motivated to get better that I became obsessed with seeing progress. But more than anything, I just loved being out there. Whether my dad was attempting to pass with me or my dog was trying to steal the ball, it was always carefree and judgment-free.
In that space, I could try new things, fail (a lot), and just enjoy the game of hockey without the pressure of people watching me. It’s where I developed my technical skills and reverse chips, but more importantly, it’s where my love for the game grew.
Before You Start...
Now, I always encourage players to have a stick in their hand and practice anywhere and anytime, but I have to warn you: DO NOT use your good stick on concrete! I repeat, do not use your good field hockey stick on concrete!
Unfortunately, I learned this the hard way and broke more than a few sticks. If you’re practicing on your driveway, grab an old stick you don’t care about, or put a sock over the head of your good one to protect it. Concrete is rough and will wear your stick down completely!
I went through plenty of sticks growing up, but luckily, I had a stash of old ones ready to go whenever my “practice stick” broke.
Where to Look
You might be wondering, where can I stock up on sticks? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Actually, if you’re reading this, you’re already in the right place! Longstreth Sporting Goods carries a wide range of sticks, including some that are perfect for practice and totally budget-friendly. You don’t need the fanciest or most expensive stick to train on your driveway — trust me. All you need is something reliable, whether it’s wooden or low-carbon.
Below are a few of my favorite options if you’re looking for a solid practice stick but can’t decide which one to get. They’re not only affordable, but they also come in fun colors and designs so that you can train in style.
