Staves are very good weapons. Faster than a sword, with greater reach and defense.

Of course, it all depends on who's using it... but a staff is, generally, a superior piece of armament. Tidus was never taught how to use his sword properly; he just combined basic principles with his own gymnastic talents. Yuna, however, knows how to handle her staff - as shown in the FMV where she performs the Sending.