As England are full steam ahead preparing to take to the field in China for the FIH Pro League, one image perfectly captures the versatility, popularity and performance the Grays Hockey stick range has to offer.
Across seven of our England international ambassadors, we have seven uniquely distinct playing styles, and seven carefully chosen stick profiles designed to elevate each player's skillset. Below, we break down why each player chooses their Grays Hockey stick, and how those performance characteristics translate at the very highest level of international hockey. Which will catch your eye? Let’s find out.
1. Tess Howard MBE – AC Dynabow-S
Position: Forward
Club: East Grinstead HC
Tess Howard, England and GB striker, is the face of our revolutionary Grays Hockey AC Range. A powerful forward with a natural striker’s instinct, Tess loves a stick that matches her explosive style in front of goal.
The AC1000 Dynabow-S complements her game perfectly, offering exceptional power generation on both forehand and backhand strikes, making use of the Low Backhand Zone – designed to enhance every backhand play. With players who want to dominate shooting moments in mind, this stick delivers the stiffness and balance needed to finish chances under pressure.
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2. Fiona Crackles & Holly Hunt – DB10 (Dynabow)
Positions: Midfield / Forward
Clubs: Fiona - Wimbledon HC, Holly - Hampstead & Westminster HC
Fiona Crackles and Holly Hunt epitomise the complete modern hockey players. Both offer a dynamic, intelligent, and outstanding skillset that allows them to play across the pitch with confidence - with the Grays Hockey DB10 as their all-round stick of choice.
The DB10’s subtle bow profile makes it incredibly versatile. It’s not overly aggressive, which enhances player’s control and consistency, particularly when carrying the ball at speed or operating in tight spaces. Paired with a ‘Micro’ head configuration to offer exceptional touch and refined 3D skill performance. Ideal for versatile gameplay, it adapts seamlessly to your moves. For players who contribute across every area of the game, the DB10 delivers.
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3. Lily Walker & Alex Malzer – PB10 (Probow)
Positions: Defence / Midfield
Club: East Grinstead HC
Long-time advocates of the Grays Hockey PB Range, Lily Walker and Alex Malzer are renowned for their creativity, flair and elite 3D skill set.
The PB10’s ultra-low bow allows players to get underneath the ball quickly - perfect for aerial passes, rapid eliminations and 3D skills. Alex Malzer’s lightning speed and fast hands perfectly maximises the PB profile, making her one of the most exciting players to watch.
While Lily Walker now operates in a more defensive role, modern hockey demands defenders who can break lines with a single pass. Her ability to launch attacks from deep, either through aerials or incisive carries, makes the PB10 an ideal weapon for starting England’s forward momentum.
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4. Grace Balsdon – JB10 (Jumbow)
Position: Defender
Club: East Grinstead HC
One of England’s most recognisable defensive stalwarts, Grace Balsdon is renowned for her back-line distribution and drag-flicking excellence.
Grace’s choice of stick is the Grays Hockey JB10, engineered for maximum hitting power. The Jumbow profile is designed strategically to allow players to elevate their distribution skillset and is a very popular shape for drag flickers - offering a modern low bow and stiffness required to consistently generate outrageous speed and accuracy.
Whether launching long aerials or stepping up at penalty corners, the JB10 has been a constant throughout Grace’s international career.
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5. Becky Manton x JB8
After making her mark at Exeter University HC, Becky Manton has quickly established herself on the international stage as a serious attacking threat.
Becky opts for the Grays Hockey JB8, selecting a slightly less stiff construction to strike the ideal balance between control and power. The Jumbow shape still enables drag flicking capability, while the JB8 composition gives Becky confidence on first touch without sacrificing essentials to her game such as, shot speed and 3D skills.
For a forward who thrives on sharp movements and decisive finishing, the JB8 delivers versatility and responsiveness in equal measure.
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FIH Pro League action starts on Thursday this week with a huge year of international hockey ahead of us, culminating in the Hockey World Cup 2026.
