How to Catch a Hockey Puck as a Goalie

There's more to being a hockey goalie than standing in front of a puck that's traveling more than 100 miles an hour. In the book, "Hockey Made Easy," John Shorey says that when a goalie catches every puck that he can, he is in control. This control, when performed regularly along with other types of saves, will contribute much to his team.

Instructions

    • 1

      Practice moving your glove in a straight line, not in a dramatic swoop.

    • 2

      Position yourself correctly. Hold your glove hand with your palm forward and your fingers upward. Position your glove forward until you can see it in the corner of your eye. Seeing your glove enables you to react more quickly and accurately when you reach for the oncoming puck.

    • 3

      Adjust according to gameplay. While the standard stance for a goalies calls for outward palms and upward fingers, adjust your position as necessary. For example, if a puck comes at you below your waist, point your fingers downward instead of upward as this "scoop position" puts you in a better position to catch the puck.

    • 4

      Refine your position when executing a save. The best glove save happens with your elbow hugged against the bottom of your ribcage and your glove in front of your core, instead of behind. This allows for more coverage of the net and less space for the puck to travel. Catch the puck in the pocket portion of the glove, if possible.

    • 5

      Use the correct equipment. Purchase a glove with a deep, webbed pocket. Ensure that the glove is "broken in" sufficiently to allow for faster opening and closing.