Abstract: The present invention relates to shafts, handles and hand grips of sports equipment that include concave embedded indentations, such as grooves, dimples or ribs, located along the shaft at a location of frequent hand placement. The finger grooves are specially located and structured to provide the shaft with grips that correspond to the way in which a player grips the shaft to enhance a player's control of the shaft when performing various skills, such as cradling, throwing, shooting, and scooping. The present invention is primarily designed for a lacrosse stick shaft, but is also equally applicable to other sports shafts, such as an ice hockey stick or field hockey stick. The invention may enhance control of the equipment for all level of players and may assist in training novices in hand placement along the shaft for performing various skills.