Both sides have good points. I have played every position. If these are club lacrosse crazies posting, I am sure the long pole will not be the only stick in the house. I never understood the hostility in the responses about having a stick a little longer (and heavier) if that is what excites the child. If having a long pole is going to keep a stick in his hands then it cant be all bad. Realistically, the stick can not be longer then 60 inches so it has to be cut anyway and shouldn't be taller then the player. But it takes tremendous strength to wield a pole, beginning to build those muscles and fell the weight isn't bad either. My .02.