Grip ‘N Rip: Matt Mackrides, Chesapeake Bayhawks

Photo cred: Mitchell Layton/Getty Images

Matt Mackrides is a stud on the attacking side of the field. Matt was a standout and four year starter at Penn State totaling 144 points and picking up 134 ground balls as an attackman. In the MLL, Matt was drafted 26^th overall by the Bayhawks where he has become a key contributor to the Bayhawks midfield.

What head and shaft are you using?

An STX Proton Power (P2) and an STX Stallion SC-TI.

Do you string your own sticks? If not, who does?

Yes, I have strung my own sticks my entire career

What kind of pocket are you using?

• Mesh: Stringking Type 2s
• Pocket placement: Low/Mid
• Shooters: One nylon and two shooters.
• Whip: low amount of whip.

How do you tape your sticks?

I put a knob on the bottom of my shaft for more control. I also only use about 1 glove width on the bottom of my shaft and then place two pieces for shooting hand positioning and one piece near the throat of the stick for cradling with one hand.

Why do you like this set up? (Pocket and tape)

Offers the most control possible. My pocket allows for me to get the ball out quickly with both passing and shooting. The tape allows for me to have the correct hand positioning at all times.

How has your stick changed since college?

I used to have a lot of whip with a much lower pocket. I have had to adjust my game to become a quicker feeder off of initiating dodges.

Any superstitions or funny stories?

I’m not a very superstitious player. Just go out and play the game the right way.

 What is your wall ball and shooting routine?

I do shoot mostly every day. I don’t have a set routine. Whatever I need to work on for that particular week. I.e. if I’m playing against a particular goalie I will practice shots that may have worked in the past against that goalie specifically.

Who have you enjoyed playing against the most in your career?

Tucker Durkin was always a battle throughout my high school days and Saturday’s in college. Recently, I have not gone 1v1 against him much due to my moving to midfield from attack in the pro’s.