I wouldn't say you need to hit it in for general play, but if you struggling to find the sweet spot of the stick you may need to hit it in and keep hitting the sweet spot a few times. However its not something I've ever done really, I think its more just getting used to finding the sweet spot of the stick.
Yes its a good stick for an attacker. Good for shooting, dribbling and aerials. If you drag flicking you might want a lower bow but if you don't drag flick its perfect.