Fall ball is where players sharpen skills, test new roles, and shake off the rust before spring season ramps up. After weeks of practice, scrimmages, tournaments, and weather-worn reps, your stick has taken a beating; whether you realize it or not. For most players, fall ball is the number-one time when your setup starts to show wear, and upgrading now can make all the difference heading into the main season.
Here’s why a new stick should be at the top of your preseason checklist:
1. Your Pocket Has Changed More Than You Think
Even the best stringing doesn’t last forever. Wet grass, cold mornings, mud, and constant play stretch mesh, loosen sidewalls, and break in patterns you don’t always notice immediately. A pocket that worked in September may start bagging out or throwing inconsistently by November.
Small changes = big problems when the spring season starts.
2. Shafts Wear Down
Fall ball is full of ground balls, checks, and physical play. Over time, shafts gain dents, lose grip, and weaken. Even minor dents can change how a stick flexes, vibrates, or feels in your hands. If you're an offensive player, that affects your release. If you're a pole or D-mid, that affects your durability.
A fresh shaft gives you:
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Better control
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A cleaner release
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More confidence taking or delivering checks
3. Heads Get Soft, Warped, or Cracked
Temperature swings and turf surfaces accelerate head wear. A head may look fine but still be:
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Too soft
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Slightly warped
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Beginning to crack along stress points
If your scoop isn’t grabbing GBs the same way or your accuracy feels off, odds are your head is tired.
4. Fall Ball Helps You Learn Your Style — Your Stick Should Match It
Fall gives players the chance to figure out:
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What position they’ll play
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What dodging lanes they prefer
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What type of pocket gives them the best release
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What head shape fits their role
If you found out you’re more of a feeder, shooter, transition guy, or two-way middie, your stick should reflect your game.
Spring season is too long to be using the wrong setup.
5. The Offseason Is the Best Time to Make a Switch
Getting a new stick now gives you:
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Time to break in a new pocket
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Time to adjust to a new head shape or shaft
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Time to get reps before tryouts and spring games
Plus—Lacrosse Unlimited’s custom stringers can dial in your exact pocket so you start January–March with a stick that throws perfectly from day one.
Upgrade Now. Dominate Later.
Fall ball exposes your weaknesses so you can fix them. Don’t let worn-out gear hold you back once the real season starts. Whether you need a fresh head, a stronger shaft, or a custom-strung pocket tuned to your style, Lacrosse Unlimited has everything you need to level up before spring hits. Stop in, test out new gear, and let our pros rebuild your stick the right way.