Miggle and TSO are two out of the 5 or 6 major tournaments throughout the year that do not use the sticks. That is about 40% of the major tournaments that will not allow the sticks. The Bama Blast started using the sticks about three years ago. The creators of the Bama Blast thought long and hard about the sticks and I think it was actually voted down the first year it was brought up. I am glad that some tournaments do not allow the sticks because it provides for a different way of playing - more traditional efl.
For me, the sticks provide some added strategy. I've noticed that it makes you keep your safeties honest because you certainly don't want the receivers to get behind you with the chance of hitting the sticks on a long bomb. I also like the excitement using the passing sticks. It is very exciting to me to see a receiver and a defender go for the ball. It also increases the need for speedy defenders which I like. It also creates pass interference plays which creates excitement!
I have noticed (especially beginner coaches) will use the sticks as a crutch. All coaches need to listen to this: YOU MUST BE A GOOD TO GREAT PASSER WITH THE TTQB TO BE SUCCESSFUL in the major EF tournaments! All you have to do is look at the past champions in all of the tournaments for the past 5-6 years. If you can pass with the TTQB, you will increase your chances to win immensely. And with the skill that you gain by throwing the ball, you can still use the sticks if you need to!
beenutt