The problem with the grip
One of the first and most repeated mistakes with the hurley is the grip. Players often either place the wrong hand on top or they hold the stick in a way that does not allow free movement. A poor grip usually shows when players cannot control the ball in tight situations or when every strike feels forced. The dominant hand should always stay at the top with the other hand lower down, and when striking from the hand the two hands should come together in what coaches call the lock.
The grip should never be stiff like a clamp because that stops the wrist from doing its job. At the same time a loose grip will make the hurley slip or bounce in the hand which makes control harder. The grip is about balance, steady enough to hold firm, relaxed enough to allow movement. This is something that needs constant practice until it feels automatic.
Hurleys that are the wrong size
Another common problem is playing with the wrong hurley. Many players pick up whatever is available or they choose one based on appearance rather than fit. The length of the hurley matters more than people think because if it is too long it slows everything down and makes ground strikes awkward, and if it is too short it limits reach and power. The size should suit the height of the player and the style of play.
A simple check is to stand relaxed with the hurley upright; the toe should reach close to the hip bone. Some players also ignore the shape of the bas or the toe direction, which changes how the ball is lifted from the ground. A hurley that fits properly makes every skill easier and it helps avoid unnecessary habits that come from fighting with the stick.
Holding the hurley too tight
It might sound small but the way players hold the hurley during play makes a big difference. A very tight hold creates tension in the arms and shoulders which slows the swing and reduces control. Many players do this without realizing because they think a strong grip means stronger strikes. In reality the opposite happens. The wrists lose freedom and the hurley does not move cleanly through the ball.
On the other side a grip that is too light is just as damaging because it makes the hurley unstable and often the player loses touch when striking at speed. The key is to keep the hands firm but easy, where the hurley feels like part of the body and not like a heavy tool being forced around. Relaxed control gives both accuracy and power, while tight control only gives strain and inconsistency.
Poor striking technique
Striking from the hand and from the ground shows many mistakes that can be avoided early. A lot of players try to power the strike with the shoulder alone, lifting the hurley in a big swing. The result is usually poor accuracy and weak contact. The strike should come from the wrists and arms working together with the right step into the ball. Another issue is the ball toss when striking from the hand.
Some players throw the ball too far in front or too high which breaks the rhythm and causes misses. The correct action is a controlled toss to shoulder height, the hands locking on the stick, and a smooth follow through. Poor mechanics not only lead to bad strikes but also make the player hesitant in matches. Once the body learns to move with the right rhythm the strike becomes natural and consistent.
Neglecting hurley care
Even the best players struggle if the hurley itself is in bad condition. A mistake many players make is leaving the hurley in cars, near radiators, or in strong sun. Wood reacts to heat and dryness, so the hurley can warp or crack much faster than expected. Another problem is using a brand new hurley in a heavy game straight away without any break in.
Fresh hurleys are more likely to chip or split if they are thrown into hard use immediately. Keeping the stick in a cool place away from heat and allowing it to adjust slowly to sliotars and matches keeps it in better shape. Simple care and respect for the stick means it will last longer and perform properly, but it is often ignored until the hurley gives way in the middle of a match.
Inconsistent hand position
Hand position sounds basic but it is one of the mistakes that never fully goes away unless corrected. Some players shift their hands around without realizing, or they forget to slide the lower hand up into the lock when striking. This inconsistency leads to awkward catching, missed lifts, and poor striking rhythm.
Correct hand position sets up every skill, from picking the ball off the ground to controlling it in the air. If the hands are not where they should be the rest of the movement cannot flow smoothly. Practicing with steady hand positions until it becomes habit is essential. Once it is automatic the player can focus on reading the game instead of worrying about the stick in the hands.
Rushing and skipping basics
The final mistake is not with the hurley itself but with how players approach their use of it. Many players rush to more advanced drills or match play without fixing the small details. They ignore the basics of lifting, soloing, and wall striking because they think those skills are too simple. In truth, those are the skills that build the foundation for everything else. Skipping the basics leads to players carrying their early mistakes into matches where they become bigger problems.
Spending time on controlled lifts, steady solos, and repeated wall strikes allows players to connect properly with the hurley. This is how confidence and natural movement are built. The hurley should not feel like an object that has to be managed but like a natural part of the game. That only comes when the basics are repeated until they can be done without thought.
You can check out the Mystery Hurley in senior sizes here: Mystery Hurley Senior Sizes 31–36.