Training device for stick-based sports

Abstract

A device for use in training activities for stick-based sports. The device is comprised of a generally rigid material provided in a generally cylindrical configuration. The device can have a first end and a send end that can define the length of the device. A slot can be formed between the first end and second end forming a first edge and second edge. An apparatus, such as a stick, can be positioned within an interior cavity of the device by inserting the stick through the slot allowing the device to be removably coupled to the apparatus. One or both ends of the device can have a flared portion. The flared portion can provide a better grip to a user as well as ensure smooth movement of the device along the apparatus.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A training device for stick based sports comprising:
 a generally cylindrical body having an exterior surface and an interior surface with a cavity formed within, wherein the body has a first end and a second end to form a length of the device,
 wherein the device further includes a first edge and a second edge, wherein the first edge and second edge are configured to wrap around a stick and are positioned proximate to each other; 
 wherein a slot is formed between the first edge and second edge of the body. 
   
     
     
         2 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein a portion of the first edge is positioned on a first plane and portion of the second edge is positioned on the second plane. 
     
     
         3 . The device of  claim 2 , wherein a portion of the first edge extends past a portion of the second edge. 
     
     
         4 . The device of  claim 3 , wherein the first end includes a first flared portion. 
     
     
         5 . The device of  claim 4 , wherein the second end includes a second flared portion. 
     
     
         6 . The device of  claim 5 , wherein the first flared portion and second flared portions are configured to maintain the interface between the user as well as prevent the ends from catching on the stick while in use. 
     
     
         7 . The device of  claim 6 , wherein the interior surface has a first coefficient of friction and the exterior surface has a second coefficient of friction. 
     
     
         8 . The device as in  claim 7 , being comprised of a material selected from the group consisting of rubber, silicone, thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), and leather. 
     
     
         9 . The device of  claim 7 , being comprised of a polymer. 
     
     
         10 . The device of  claim 9 , wherein the polymer has a predetermined rigidity. 
     
     
         11 . The device of  claim 10 , wherein the distance between the first edge and second edge can be changed by applying a predetermined compressive force. 
     
     
         12 . The device of  claim 11 , wherein the first edge configuration approximates the shape of a user's four fingers that wrap around the exterior surface of the body. 
     
     
         13 . The device of  claim 12 , wherein the second edge configuration approximates the shape of a user's thumb. 
     
     
         14 . A method to enable training of stick-based sports using a device as in  claim 1 , the method comprising the steps of:
 providing the a stick handling device, wherein the device includes generally cylindrical body having an exterior surface and an interior surface with a cavity formed within, wherein the body has a first end and a second end to form a length of the device,
 wherein the device further includes a first edge and a second edge, wherein the first edge and second edge are configured to wrap around a stick and are positioned proximate to each other; 
 wherein a slot is formed between the first edge and second edge of the body; 
   placing the device around a shaft of the stick by wrapping the inserting the stick through the slot of the device;   wherein the device forms a cylindrical shape around the shaft of the stick via the first edge and second edge of the device, the cylindrical shape comprising an adjustable internal diameter based upon the force applied by a user; and   gripping the device loosely during stick handling drills to allow axial rotation of the stick.   
     
     
         15 . A method as in  claim 14 , wherein the device further includes a flair portion at the first end and the second end.