In the spirit of the holidays, useful advice from the Blue Crabs to all.

Day 2: Cut that Pole by Mr. Lee

When my son was a young defenseman, cutting his lacrosse shaft was one of the best things he ever did. Most of them are not strong enough to control a six foot pole. They drag it on the ground, and rely on the pole’s length instead of their feet. Until they get taller and stronger (usually 12U and/or 5’ tall), a shorter shaft will allow them to run faster, move their stick more accurately, and make it easier to throw and pick up groundballs.

1. Your son won’t like this idea. If he has an nice, expensive shaft (though you shouldn’t buy an expensive shaft at this age), buy a cheap used or marked-down shaft, and save the nice one for later.

2. Place the pole (with the head on) upright but upside down so that the head is at his feet. Mark a spot on the shaft between his eyebrows and the top of his head.

3. Click here for tips on cutting it: www.bit.ly/2C2KQlc

Your son might complain about it now, but he’ll thank you later.