...thumb notches limit thumb movement, basically you're locking your hand and stick into one holding position.

it is for stink.

string is also a must for big games, or some form of stick keeper like finger bands etc... no argument or preferences, any coach will shoot you for losing a stick at an important time and stuffing up the whole team by being forced to sub out to get a new one.

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it's more polite on the grating than on the subs bench