Goaltender Terminology
When it comes to the world of ice hockey, one of the most important positions on the team is the goaltender. These skilled individuals are responsible for defending their team’s net and stopping the opposing team from scoring goals.
To fully understand the role of a goaltender, it’s essential to know the various terminology associated with this position. In this article, we’ll dive into different types of saves and techniques, the equipment worn by goaltenders, their positions on the ice, and the statistics and awards associated with their performance.
Types of Saves and Techniques
Butterfly: The butterfly technique is a commonly used method for goaltenders to make saves. This technique involves dropping to the ice with their knees together and their feet apart, resembling a butterfly’s wings.
By using the butterfly technique, goaltenders can cover more net area, making it more difficult for pucks to find their way past them. Glove save: A glove save refers to a goaltender stopping the puck using their glove hand.
This technique requires quick reflexes and excellent hand-eye coordination. Goaltenders often extend their catching glove to snatch the puck out of the air, preventing it from entering the net.
Stacking the pads: Stacking the pads is a more unconventional save technique where the goaltender drops to the ice and extends their legs fully, creating a “stacking” effect with their pads. This technique is typically used when a shooter tries to deke or make a quick move in close to the net.
By sliding horizontally and stacking their pads, goaltenders can take away the lower portion of the net and make an impressive save. Parts of the Goaltender’s Equipment
Blocker: A blocker is a piece of equipment worn on the goaltender’s stick hand.
It is essentially a larger version of a player’s glove, with added padding and protection. The blocker is used to redirect shots and also to clear rebounds away from dangerous areas.
Chest protector: As the name suggests, a chest protector is worn to protect the goaltender’s upper body. It is heavily padded and covers the chest, shoulders, and sometimes the arms.
The chest protector absorbs the impact of shots, minimizing the risk of injury. Goalie pads: Goaltender pads are large, rectangular pieces of equipment worn on the legs to provide protection and help cover more net area.
The pads are designed to absorb the impact of a shot and also have additional features like knee and calf protection. Goalie pads vary in size depending on the user’s preference.
Goaltender Positions and Areas on the Ice
Backdoor: The backdoor position refers to an area of the ice located near the side of the net, away from the goaltender. This is a vulnerable area for goaltenders, as opposing players can often get open for a high-percentage scoring chance.
Crease: The crease is a designated area in front of the net where the goaltender is allowed to move freely. If an opposing player enters the crease while the goaltender is attempting to make a save, it may result in a penalty.
The crease area provides the goaltender with the best vantage point to defend against shots. Doorstop: The doorstop position is located near the edge of the crease, close to the goaltender’s glove side.
This area is often targeted by opposing players who try to score by redirecting a pass or catching the goaltender off guard. Goaltenders must be vigilant in defending the doorstop to prevent easy goals.
Goaltender Statistics and Awards
GAA: Goals Against Average (GAA) is a statistic that measures the average number of goals a goaltender allows per game. It is calculated by dividing the total number of goals allowed by the total number of games played.
A lower GAA indicates better overall performance. Save percentage: Save percentage measures the percentage of shots a goaltender saves compared to the total number of shots faced.
It is calculated by dividing the total number of saves by the total number of shots on goal. A higher save percentage indicates better goaltending performance.
Vezina Trophy: The Vezina Trophy is awarded annually to the goaltender considered to be the best in the National Hockey League (NHL). The trophy is voted on by the league’s general managers and recognizes outstanding goaltending skills and performance throughout the regular season.
Goaltender Skills and Techniques
Goaltender Movement and Positioning
Angles: Goaltenders must position themselves at specific angles relative to the shooter to maximize their coverage of the net. By understanding a shooter’s position and the potential shooting angle, goaltenders can position themselves accordingly to reduce the distance the puck needs to travel to beat them.
Hugging the post: “Hugging the post” refers to a goaltender’s technique of standing flush against the goal post. This technique prevents pucks from sliding between the goaltender and the post, eliminating scoring opportunities.
Square to the puck: Being square to the puck means that a goaltender’s body is in line with the puck’s trajectory, allowing them to make saves with a solid and controlled technique. By staying square to the puck, goaltenders can have a better chance of making successful saves.
Goaltender Saves and Rebound Control
Freeze the puck: “Freezing the puck” refers to a goaltender’s action of covering the puck with their glove, blocker, or body to halt play. This technique is used to eliminate scoring chances and give the goaltender’s team an opportunity to regroup.
Rebound: A rebound occurs when the goaltender saves a shot, but the puck bounces back into play rather than being caught. Goaltenders often try to control rebounds by directing them away from the front of the net or into areas where their teammates can retrieve the puck safely.
Stone a shooter: To “stone a shooter” means to make a spectacular save on a high-quality scoring chance. This term is often used to describe a goaltender’s impressive ability to stop a shot that appeared destined to go into the net.
Goaltender Communication and Decision Making
Reading the play: Goaltenders must possess excellent vision and anticipation skills to read the play unfolding in front of them. By analyzing the movements of opposing players and how the play develops, goaltenders can make informed decisions on how to position themselves for optimal saves.
Pulling the goalie: “Pulling the goalie” refers to the act of removing the goaltender from the ice in exchange for an extra skater, usually towards the end of a game when a team is losing and needs to score quickly. This decision often rests with the coach and is implemented to increase offensive pressure.
Trapezoid: The trapezoid is a designated area behind the goal line where goaltenders are allowed to play the puck. The area is marked by lines that restrict the goaltender’s ability to handle the puck in order to prevent them from gaining an advantage and disrupting the flow of play.
In conclusion, understanding the terminology associated with goaltending is essential for appreciating the skill and complexity of this position. From different save techniques to the equipment used, each aspect of a goaltender’s role contributes to their ability to stop pucks and lead their team to victory.
By diving into the various positions on the ice and the statistics and awards associated with goaltending performance, fans can gain a deeper appreciation for the goaltender’s impact on the game. So, the next time you watch a hockey game, pay close attention to the goaltender and their mastery of these techniques and skills.
Goaltender Equipment and Gear
When it comes to playing the position of goaltender in ice hockey, having the right equipment and gear is crucial. Goaltenders face fast-moving pucks and high-impact collisions, so their protective gear must provide adequate coverage and support.
In this section, we will take a closer look at the protective gear goaltenders wear, including their chest protectors, pads, and trappers. We will also explore the importance of helmets and face protection, as well as the essential tools for a goaltender the stick and glove.
Protective Gear for Goaltenders
Chest protector: The chest protector is a vital piece of equipment for goaltenders. It covers the goaltender’s torso, shoulders, and sometimes the arms, providing protection from shots and collisions.
Modern chest protectors are designed with a lightweight yet highly durable construction, incorporating multiple layers of padding to absorb and disperse the impact of pucks. Goalie pads: Goaltender pads are arguably the most recognizable piece of equipment worn by goaltenders.
These large, rectangular leg pads are designed to protect the goaltender’s legs and provide additional coverage in the net. Made from high-density foam covered with synthetic materials, goalie pads are lightweight and flexible, allowing goaltenders to move quickly and effectively.
Trapper: A trapper, also known as a catcher, is the glove worn by a goaltender on their non-dominant hand. The trapper is heavily padded, featuring a wide webbing between the thumb and fingers to catch and secure the puck.
Goaltenders use their trappers to make glove saves, snatching pucks out of the air and preventing goals from being scored.
Goaltender Helmet and Face Protection
Cage: The cage refers to the metal face protection located on the front of a goaltender’s helmet. It consists of a series of bars or wires that create a protective barrier without obstructing the goaltender’s vision.
The cage is designed to prevent pucks and sticks from making direct contact with the face, reducing the risk of facial injuries. Face mask: In addition to the cage, many goaltenders also wear a face mask.
Made from a combination of high-impact plastic and other materials, the face mask provides further protection for the goaltender’s face, particularly the vulnerable areas around the eyes and chin. Face masks are custom-fitted to ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
Goaltender interference: Goaltender interference is a penalty called when an opposing player intentionally or recklessly makes contact with or impedes the progress of the goaltender. This penalty is enforced to protect the goaltender from unnecessary collisions and to ensure fair play.
Goaltender Stick and Glove
Goalie stick: The goalie stick is a crucial tool for a goaltender. It is typically longer and wider than a player’s stick, providing additional reach and blocking surface.
Goaltenders use their sticks to make saves, redirect pucks, and even pass the puck to their teammates. The bottom portion of the stick, known as the paddle, is used for making low saves, referred to as “paddle down.”
Glove: The glove, also known as the catching glove or blocker glove, is worn on the goaltender’s dominant hand.
It is heavily padded and features a wide glove pocket to catch and secure pucks. The glove is used for making glove saves, snatching pucks out of the air, and covering the puck to prevent rebounds.
Goaltending Performance and Measures
Goaltender Performance Metrics
Goals Against: Goals Against (GA) is a simple yet critical metric that measures the total number of goals conceded by a goaltender. Tracking the number of goals against allows for a basic evaluation of a goaltender’s performance.
GAA: Goals Against Average (GAA) is a more comprehensive statistical measure that calculates the average number of goals a goaltender allows per game. It is calculated by dividing the total number of goals against by the number of games played.
GAA provides a more accurate representation of a goaltender’s performance because it factors in the length of the games played. Save percentage: Save percentage is another important metric used to assess a goaltender’s performance.
It calculates the percentage of shots a goaltender saves compared to the total number of shots faced. Save percentage is calculated by dividing the total number of saves by the total number of shots on goal.
A higher save percentage indicates a higher level of goaltending performance.
Goaltender Performance Terms and Phrases
Brick wall: When a goaltender is described as a “brick wall,” it means they are consistently making saves and not allowing many goals. This term emphasizes their ability to stop pucks and frustrate opposing teams.
Razor sharp: Goaltenders who are “razor sharp” are extremely focused and on top of their game. This phrase highlights their mental and physical preparation, as well as their ability to react quickly to pucks and make saves.
Shutout: A shutout occurs when a goaltender successfully prevents the opposing team from scoring any goals in a game. Achieving a shutout is a significant accomplishment for a goaltender and demonstrates their exceptional skill.
Goaltender Challenges and Mistakes
Sieve: When a goaltender allows multiple goals and fails to make significant saves, they may be referred to as a “sieve.” This term highlights their struggles and implies that shots easily pass through their defense. Undressed: If a goaltender is “undressed,” it means they were beaten by a shooter who made a deceptive move or deke, leaving the goaltender out of position.
Being undressed reflects a moment of vulnerability and suggests a mistake by the goaltender. Ricochet: A ricochet occurs when the puck deflects off a surface or player and changes direction unexpectedly.
Goaltenders must be prepared for ricochets, as they can present challenging scenarios and require quick reflexes to make saves. In conclusion, the equipment and gear worn by goaltenders play a vital role in protecting them from injury and enabling them to make saves.
From chest protectors to pads and trappers, goaltenders require specialized equipment designed to withstand the demands of the position. Helmets with cages and face masks provide essential facial protection, while the stick and glove serve as key tools for making saves and controlling the puck.
By understanding the equipment used by goaltenders, fans can gain a deeper appreciation for the immense skill and dedication required to play the position effectively. Additionally, evaluating goaltender performance based on metrics such as goals against, GAA, and save percentage, as well as recognizing common phrases and challenges, allows fans to better understand and assess the goaltender’s contributions to the game.
Goaltender Strategies and Tactics
Playing as a goaltender in ice hockey requires not only physical skill and agility but also a deep understanding of strategic positioning and tactical decision-making. Goaltenders must employ various strategies and tactics to effectively cover the net, manage shooters, and handle the puck.
In this section, we will explore the strategies goaltenders use for net coverage, shooter management, and puck handling, highlighting their primary objectives and the techniques they employ.
Goaltender Strategy for Net Coverage
Between the pipes: The term “between the pipes” refers to the goaltender’s positioning within the goal crease, which is the designated area in front of the net where the goaltender is allowed to move freely. By positioning themselves between the goal posts and staying centered within the crease, goaltenders effectively cover the most significant portion of the net.
This strategy forces shooters to make precise shots to beat the goaltender. Netminder: The goaltender, also referred to as the “netminder,” is responsible for guarding the net and intercepting shots.
The netminder’s primary objective is to ensure that the puck does not cross the goal line and that opposing teams cannot score. Screen: A screen occurs when an offensive player positions themselves between the goaltender and the shooter, obstructing the goaltender’s view of the incoming shot.
In response to a screen, the goaltender must adjust their position and rely on their tracking ability and anticipation to make saves. Strategically, goaltenders may try to peer around the screen or move to maintain visual contact with the shooter.
Goaltender Strategy for Shooter Management
Roof: “Roofing” refers to shooting the puck high into the top half of the net, often aiming for the area above the goaltender’s shoulders. As a strategy, goaltenders are aware of this approach and focus on maintaining good positioning and quick reflexes to make saves on high shots.
By keeping their upper body square and their glove elevated, goaltenders can effectively counter the roof shot. Holes: Goaltenders are trained to be aware of the “holes” in their positioning areas of the net that may be vulnerable to shots.
Commonly referred to as the five-hole (between the goaltender’s legs), the short-side, or far-side, goaltenders aim to minimize these gaps by staying square to the shooter, maintaining proper angles, and positioning their stick or pads strategically to close off potential shooting areas. Five-hole: The five-hole is the area between a goaltender’s legs, which can be exploited by skilled shooters who can shoot the puck through the narrow opening.
Goaltenders work on positioning their legs close together, maintaining a tight stance, and using their stick or pads to seal off the five-hole and prevent shots from going through.
Goaltender Strategy for Puck Handling
Backstop: The goaltender acts as a “backstop” for their team, providing support and stability in their defensive zone. Goaltenders are responsible for retrieving pucks, especially those shot wide of the net, and quickly moving them to their teammates or freezing the puck to halt play.
A reliable backstop allows the defensive players to trust their goaltender’s ability to handle the puck effectively. Netminder: As the last line of defense, the goaltender, or netminder, often becomes involved in the puck management strategy.
Goaltenders must make quick decisions on whether to play the puck, pass it, or freeze it, depending on the situation. Their decision-making is based on factors such as the proximity of opposing players, the position of their own teammates, and the score or time remaining in the game.
Paddle down: “Paddle down” refers to the technique where a goaltender positions their paddle (the bottom portion of their stick) flat on the ice when making a low save attempt. By adopting a paddle down position, goaltenders increase their net coverage near the ice surface, making it more challenging for the puck to get past them.
Goaltenders typically use this technique when the puck is close to the net and shooting angles are limited. In conclusion, goaltenders employ various strategic approaches and tactical techniques to effectively fulfill their role.
They focus on net coverage by positioning themselves between the pipes and adjusting their stance to counter screens. Goaltenders also analyze shooters’ tendencies to manage their angles and minimize vulnerabilities, particularly in the form of holes like the five-hole.
In addition to guarding the net, goaltenders must make decisions regarding puck handling and effectively become a backstop for their team. By employing strategies such as paddle down positioning and engaging in decisive puck management, goaltenders contribute to their team’s defensive success and overall game strategy.
These strategic and tactical aspects of goaltending require not only physical abilities but also mental acuity, providing enormous challenges and opportunities for goaltenders to shine on the ice. In conclusion, understanding the terminology, skills, equipment, performance measures, and strategies of a goaltender is essential for appreciating the complexity and impact of this position in ice hockey.
From the various types of saves and techniques to the gear they wear, goaltenders play a crucial role in defending the net. Metrics such as goals against average and save percentage, along with performance phrases like “brick wall” and “razor sharp,” provide insight into their skill and influence on the game.
Additionally, strategic approaches for net coverage, shooter management, and puck handling highlight the thinking and decision-making involved in goaltending. By delving into these topics, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the intricacies of the goaltender position and the vital role it plays in the sport.
So, the next time you watch a hockey game, take a moment to appreciate the goaltender’s skill, athleticism, and strategic thinking as they protect the net and contribute to their team’s success.