Is there a left-handed hockey stick?
No. In field hockey every stick is made the same way round, and left-handed children use exactly the same sticks as right-handed children.
This surprises many parents, especially those whose children play cricket or golf, where left-handed equipment is normal. Here is why hockey is different.
The rule
The FIH Rules of Hockey say the stick has "a curved head which is flat on its left side". Players may only play the ball with that flat side (and the edges). A stick with the flat face on the other side would simply not be legal, so no one makes one for field hockey.
Ice hockey is different: ice hockey sticks do come in left and right versions. If you see a "left-handed hockey stick" online, check that it isn't an ice hockey stick.
What about left-handed children?
England Hockey's advice to parents is reassuring. Hockey is played with two hands on the stick, so left- and right-handed players hold it the same way, with the left hand at the top. When players reach with one hand, it is the left hand on the stick. That means right-handed players actually have to adapt more, because they must learn to use their left hand a lot.
The main habit to learn is keeping the ball on the right of the body for most play. A left-handed player can still dribble on the left using the reverse side, which is the same skill a right-handed player learns.
So what should you buy?
Exactly what you would buy for any child: the right length, a forgiving material and a mid bow. Start with the size finder, then read how to choose a first hockey stick. Every stick in our stick list works for left- and right-handed players.
A tip for coaches and parents
Some left-handed children try to hold the stick "backwards" with the right hand at the top at first. Gently correct it early: left hand at the top, right hand lower down the handle. It quickly feels normal.
Questions parents ask
Do left-handed hockey sticks exist?
Not for field hockey. The rules say the stick's head must be flat on its left side, so every legal stick is the same way round. Left-handed players use the same sticks as everyone else.
Is my left-handed child at a disadvantage?
Not really. England Hockey points out that the left hand goes at the top of the stick for everyone, so right-handed players arguably have to adapt more.
Can I buy a left-handed stick online?
If you see one, it is likely an ice hockey stick, a novelty item or not legal for field hockey matches. Stick to normal field hockey sticks.
Related: Choosing a first stick · Stick size by age · Bow types