Lacrosse head pocket and related method of manufacture

Abstract

A lacrosse head pocket and a related method of manufacture are provided. The pocket can include a longitudinal axis, with a first runner disposed laterally of the longitudinal axis on a first side, and a second runner disposed laterally of the longitudinal axis on an opposing second side. A strand is joined with and extends, optionally continuously, between the first and second runners. The strand is joined with a tensioning member that is selectively adjustable so as to extend and / or retract the strand, thereby altering lateral spacing between the first and second runners, and / or tightening any lacing between the runners and respective sidewalls of a lacrosse head. The tensioning member can be a reel-type tensioner, which can spool the strand on and / or off the reel. Generally, the tensioning member and strand cooperatively configure a ball receiving surface of the pocket. A related method of manufacturing the pocket also is provided.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates generally to lacrosse equipment, and more particularly, to a lacrosse head pocket and a related method of manufacture.[0002]Conventional lacrosse sticks include a head joined with a handle. The head includes a frame that forms a region within which a lacrosse ball can be caught, held or shot. A net is joined with the back side of the frame. Typically, the net is constructed from laces (e.g., a traditional pocket) or mesh (e.g., a mesh pocket), which is further connected to the frame via multiple small net holes defined by the frame. The net forms a lacrosse pocket within which the lacrosse ball is held while a player is in possession of the ball, and can be a determinant factor as to the player's ability to catch, retain and shoot the ball.[0003]When the net is in the form of a traditional pocket, it usually includes four separate leather thongs interwoven with the laces. The center two thongs are generally parallel, and...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text describes a lacrosse pocket that includes a tensioning mechanism to adjust the position of the pocket without having to restring or re-lace parts of the pocket. The tensioning member can be selectively adjusted to engage or disengage from the strand, which can alter the spatial relationship between the strand and the runners, thus adjusting the lateral spacing between them. The pocket can also be configured to have a more relaxed or taut shooting ramp where the strand and shooting strings are located, allowing for customization to a player's preference. The pocket is easily serviceable and adjustable, providing consistent performance and allowing players to change the pocket's profile on the fly.

Problems solved by technology

Such traditional pockets typically require extensive maintenance, and are prone to deteriorated performance when the thongs are subject to moisture.

Further, during play, the laces can become broken in, and in so doing, can loosen.

In turn, this can cause the thongs to separate from one another, becoming non-parallel, and can ultimately change the shape of a shooting channel within the pocket.

In addition, when a traditional pocket wears out, the mere thought of replacing it can be daunting to many, particularly younger or less experienced lacrosse players.

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