Olden days
AutoAbort, it used to be that to be known as a "good stick" was the highest compliment to gain. If your rep was somewhat less, "stick" was a word not included in banter about your skill. (see below for exception).
A "Decent Stick" meant you were RHS, and might have potential. It used to be bad form to talk about your skill or reputation, I blame Tom Cruise and Val Kilmer.
rgds.
AF