Hockey Goalie Positioning & Angles
Like any position in hockey, the approach to a given situation in the game is not always standard. Situations such as a Penalty Kill, Breakaway, or odd-man rush can factor into different approaches a goalie will take to a situation. Even so, in a matter of a split second, a goalie must always be monitoring the current play and both his/hers and opposing players to determine the best positioning and angle for the play. Additionally, goalies playing roller, ball/foot, or another type of hockey often will find different techniques more successful than they would playing ice hockey. Lastly, this may not apply to all ages/groups of goalies. Young players don’t often have the skill or power to shoot or pass the puck like older players do, so a goalie’s positioning will reflect this.
Defensive Depth
A defensive depth is generally used when the goalie identifies a potential cross-ice pass, play near the net, or when his/her team is shorthanded. Playing “deeper” in the net (closer to the net) requires the goalie to cover less distance when moving side to side, thus being quicker and more able to protect the net against a cross-ice pass or play down low.
Base Depth
The base or standard depth a goalie will play is when neither the goalie or the shooter have the advantage. This could be during a typical even-man zone situation or an even-man rush.
Aggressive Depth
An aggressive depth is used typically when the goalie has the advantage over the player and is looking to maximize net coverage and presence. This could be when the goalie identifies a shot from far out or a situation where the opposing player has few options to pass to another player. By playing aggressively and moving further out of the net, the opposing player has less net to shoot at and the goalie has a better ability to cover more of the net.
Hockey Goalie FAQs
What equipment does a hockey goalie need?
A goalie’s equipment setup is designed to protect from head to toe, while allowing for full movement to make saves. This includes Goalie Skates, Leg Pads, Protective pants (breezers), chest and arm protector, blocker, glove, goalie mask, and stick. Besides these items, a variety of accessories are generally worn including, undergarments, neck protector, and groin protector. For a full list and more detailed explanation of a goalie’s equipment, check out our full guide here.
What is the most common hockey goalie playing style?
A hybrid/butterfly style has become the most prominent playing style in hockey today. This style allows for maximum net coverage and an ability to easily move to other areas of the net to make follow-up and rebound saves, depending on the situation.
Is goalie the hardest position to play in hockey?
Goalie is a difficult position, it requires learning to skate and make movements with more gear than skaters, however for many, it comes easier. Often young players will try goalie and become hooked, growing into the position with a background in skating out.
Do you have to be a good skater to play goalie in ice hockey?
It is very helpful for a goalie to be strong on their skates, although they generally don’t have the same speed and agility that skaters do. Being strong on their skates with a good understanding of using both edges is key to the position.
