Part I: Games & Gaming · Dice Games — Craps & Sic Bo

Stickman

Craps

One of the four members of the craps crew, positioned in the center of the table opposite the boxman. The stickman’s primary duties include: controlling the dice using a long flexible stick (hence the name), pushing the dice to the shooter, announcing the result of each roll in a loud, clear voice using traditional calls, managing all proposition bets in the center of the layout, and controlling the pace of the game. The stickman is the most visible and audible person at the table and plays a critical role in creating table atmosphere, entertaining players, and ensuring accurate game flow. The stickman also acts as a secondary supervisor, watching for cheating or irregularities.

In practice

A dealer working the stickman position is said to be “on the whip.” The stickman’s calls are an essential part of craps culture and include colorful slang for various rolls.

One entry from the Casino Industry Glossary — 1,157 terms written for surveillance, compliance and operations professionals rather than for players. Definitions describe industry usage; where a term carries a regulatory meaning, verify against the instrument that governs your jurisdiction.