Hockey is a fast-paced and intense sport that requires quick thinking and split-second decision making. One of the most important pieces of equipment for a goalie is their blocker. But what exactly are blockers in hockey and how do they help goalies make saves? In this article, we will explore the role of blockers in hockey and how they can be used to help goalies make crucial saves. So, let’s dive in and discover the fascinating world of blockers in hockey!
In hockey, blockers are pieces of equipment that goalies use to protect their body from incoming shots. They are typically made of foam or other lightweight materials and are worn on the goalie’s legs, arms, and chest. Blockers help goalies make saves by providing an additional layer of protection, allowing them to absorb and deflect shots away from the net. By using their blockers in combination with their other goal-tending techniques, such as positioning and glove saves, goalies can increase their chances of making a save and preventing the puck from entering the net.
Understanding the Basics of Blockers in Hockey
What is a Blocker in Hockey?
A blocker in hockey is a specialized piece of equipment worn by goalies on their glove hand. Its primary function is to help the goalie make saves by blocking shots from incoming pucks. The blocker is typically made of a lightweight material, such as aluminum or composite, and is designed to be flexible and durable.
The blocker is worn on the glove hand of the goalie and is connected to the glove by a hinge or other type of connection. This allows the goalie to move their glove hand independently of their arm, which is crucial for making saves.
The shape and size of the blocker can vary depending on the goalie’s preference and playing style. Some goalies prefer a larger blocker that provides more coverage, while others prefer a smaller blocker that allows for greater mobility and flexibility.
In addition to its primary function of blocking shots, the blocker also serves as a crucial part of the goalie’s defensive arsenal. It can be used to control the puck, redirect it away from the net, and even strike opponents to disrupt their play.
Overall, the blocker is an essential piece of equipment for any goalie looking to excel in the game of hockey.
Types of Blockers Used by Goalies
Goalies in hockey use various types of blockers to protect their goal from incoming shots. The most common types of blockers used by goalies are:
Clutch Blockers
Clutch blockers are the most commonly used type of blocker by goalies. They are positioned near the top of the goalie’s stick and are used to make quick, short-range saves. Clutch blockers are designed to be lightweight and easy to move, allowing goalies to quickly move their stick to make a save.
Catching Blockers
Catching blockers are larger and more substantial than clutch blockers. They are typically positioned near the bottom of the goalie’s stick and are used to make longer-range saves. Catching blockers are designed to be heavier and more durable than clutch blockers, making them better suited for making saves from long distances.
Blade Tape
Blade tape is a thin strip of foam or other lightweight material that is attached to the bottom of the goalie’s stick blade. It is used to provide additional protection against shots that are low to the ice. Blade tape is often used in combination with other types of blockers to provide added protection.
Glove
The goalie’s glove is another important tool for making saves. The glove is designed to be lightweight and flexible, allowing the goalie to quickly move their hand to make a save. The glove is also padded to provide additional protection against shots.
Each type of blocker has its own unique benefits and drawbacks, and goalies will often use a combination of different blockers to provide the best possible protection against shots.
The Anatomy of a Blocker
A blocker is a crucial piece of equipment for a goaltender in ice hockey. It is a glove-like device that is worn on the hand of the goaltender’s catching hand, which is typically the hand opposite the dominant hand. The blocker is designed to help the goaltender make saves by blocking shots from the opposing team.
The anatomy of a blocker is important to understand in order to appreciate its function. A typical blocker consists of several key components:
- A glove: The blocker consists of a glove that covers the goaltender’s hand and fingers. The glove is made of a lightweight, flexible material that allows for quick movements and dexterity.
- A catching surface: The blocker has a flat surface on the palm of the glove that is used to catch the puck. This surface is typically made of a hard, plastic material that provides a good grip on the puck.
- A paddle: The blocker has a paddle-like extension on the back of the glove that is used to help control the puck after it has been caught. The paddle is usually made of a lightweight, flexible material that allows for quick movements and control.
- A cuff: The blocker has a cuff that wraps around the goaltender’s wrist, providing support and stability to the glove. The cuff is typically made of a strong, durable material that can withstand the rigors of hockey play.
Overall, the anatomy of a blocker is designed to provide the goaltender with the necessary tools to make saves and control the puck. By understanding the components of a blocker, it is easier to appreciate how it helps goalies make saves in hockey.
Advantages of Using Blockers in Hockey
- Improved Handling and Control: The primary advantage of using blockers in hockey is the improved handling and control they provide to the goalie. The curved shape of the blocker allows the goalie to have a better grip on the stick, making it easier to control the movements of the blocker.
- Better Protection: Blockers not only help goalies make saves but also provide better protection for the hands and arms of the goalie. The blocker is designed to absorb impact and deflect pucks, protecting the goalie from injuries.
- Increased Range: Blockers allow goalies to extend their reach and make saves that would otherwise be impossible. The longer blade of the blocker allows the goalie to reach out and make saves from a greater distance, increasing the range of the goalie.
- Better Angle of Attack: Blockers provide goalies with a better angle of attack, allowing them to make more precise and accurate saves. The curved shape of the blocker allows the goalie to direct the puck away from the net and make saves in different directions.
- Better Control of Rebounds: Blockers also help goalies control rebounds, which can be dangerous for the team. With the help of blockers, goalies can direct the puck away from the net and gain control of the rebound, preventing the other team from scoring.
- Enhanced Puck Handling: Blockers also enhance puck handling skills of the goalie. With the help of blockers, goalies can easily pick up the puck and pass it to their teammates, which can lead to counter-attacks and scoring opportunities.
- Improved Stickhandling: Blockers also help goalies improve their stickhandling skills. With the help of blockers, goalies can make quick movements and changes of direction, making it harder for the other team to anticipate their movements.
- Better Balance: Blockers also help goalies maintain better balance on the ice. The extended blade of the blocker provides additional surface area for the goalie to balance on, making it easier to make saves and move around the crease.
- Enhanced Flexibility: Blockers also provide enhanced flexibility to the goalie. The curved shape of the blocker allows the goalie to make quick and precise movements, which can be crucial in making saves and preventing goals.
- Increased Stability: Blockers also provide increased stability to the goalie. The extended blade of the blocker provides additional surface area for the goalie to push against, making it easier to make saves and maintain balance.
- Better Vision: Blockers also provide better vision for the goalie. The extended blade of the blocker provides additional surface area for the goalie to see the puck and make saves, making it easier to track the puck and anticipate the movements of the other team.
- Enhanced Puck Tracking: Blockers also enhance puck tracking skills of the goalie. With the help of blockers, goalies can easily track the puck and anticipate the movements of the other team, making it easier to make saves and prevent goals.
- Enhanced Puck Control: Blockers also enhance puck control skills of the goalie. With the help of blockers, goalies can easily control the puck and make saves, preventing the other team from scoring.
- Better Range of Motion: Blockers also provide better range of motion to the goalie. The extended blade of the blocker provides additional surface area for the goalie to move the arms and make saves, making it easier to make saves and prevent goals.
- Improved Hand-Eye Coordination: Blockers also improve hand-eye coordination of the goalie. The extended blade of the blocker provides additional surface area for the goalie to track the puck and make saves, making it easier to track the puck and anticipate the movements of the other team.
- **Enhanced
The Importance of Blockers in Goaltending
How Blockers Help Goalies Make Saves
Blockers are an essential piece of equipment for hockey goalies as they provide protection and support for the hands and arms during gameplay. In addition to their protective function, blockers also play a crucial role in helping goalies make saves.
One of the primary ways that blockers help goalies make saves is by providing a barrier between the puck and the goalie’s body. By holding the blocker in front of the body, the goalie can block shots from the opposition and prevent the puck from entering the net. This is particularly important when the goalie is out of position or unable to get back into position quickly enough to make a save.
Another way that blockers help goalies make saves is by providing a surface for the goalie to push off of when making a save. By using the blocker to push away from the net, the goalie can gain leverage and increase the power of their save. This is especially useful when the goalie needs to make a save on a high-speed shot.
Finally, blockers also help goalies make saves by providing a surface for the goalie to control the rebound. When a shot is made, the puck will often bounce off the boards and back into the playing area. By using the blocker to control the rebound, the goalie can prevent the opposition from gaining possession of the puck and potentially scoring a goal.
Overall, blockers are an essential piece of equipment for hockey goalies as they provide protection and support for the hands and arms during gameplay. Additionally, blockers play a crucial role in helping goalies make saves by providing a barrier between the puck and the goalie’s body, providing a surface for the goalie to push off of when making a save, and providing a surface for the goalie to control the rebound.
The Role of Blockers in Goaltending Techniques
Blockers play a crucial role in goaltending techniques by providing an additional barrier between the puck and the goal. They are designed to be lightweight and flexible, allowing the goalie to move them quickly and easily to make saves. The positioning of the blocker is also critical, as it must be in the right place to deflect the puck away from the net.
In addition to their primary function of blocking shots, blockers can also be used to control the puck. A goalie can use their blocker to direct the puck to a teammate or to push the puck away from the net. The shape and size of the blocker can also affect its performance, with some blockers being more suitable for deflecting shots from the side and others being better for stopping shots from the front.
Furthermore, the angle of the blocker can be adjusted to provide better protection for the goalie’s pads. A blocker that is too high or too low can leave the goalie vulnerable to shots that are not properly blocked. By adjusting the angle of the blocker, the goalie can ensure that it is in the optimal position to make a save.
Overall, blockers are an essential component of goaltending techniques, providing an additional layer of protection for the goalie and helping them to make crucial saves. The design, positioning, and angle of the blocker can all have a significant impact on its performance, making it a critical tool for any goalie looking to improve their game.
The Psychological Advantage of Using Blockers
In the fast-paced world of ice hockey, the psychological advantage that blockers provide to goalies can be a crucial factor in determining the outcome of a game. The use of blockers in goaltending has become an essential part of the game, as it helps goalies in making saves and also gives them a sense of control over the situation.
The psychological advantage of using blockers in goaltending can be broken down into several key points:
- Confidence Building: When a goalie uses a blocker, it helps them feel more confident in their ability to make a save. This confidence translates into a better performance on the ice, as the goalie is more likely to make aggressive plays and take charge of the situation.
- Improved Vision: Blockers help goalies to improve their vision and anticipate the play. By positioning the blocker in the right place at the right time, goalies can anticipate the direction of the puck and make a save more easily.
- Faster Reaction Time: Using a blocker allows goalies to react more quickly to incoming shots. This is because the blocker acts as an extension of the goalie’s arm, allowing them to move more quickly and make a save before the puck has a chance to enter the net.
- Increased Control: Blockers give goalies a sense of control over the situation. By using a blocker, goalies can direct the puck to a certain area of the ice, which allows them to control the play and make a save when necessary.
In conclusion, the psychological advantage of using blockers in goaltending is significant. By providing goalies with a sense of control, improving their vision, and allowing them to react more quickly, blockers are an essential tool for any goalie looking to improve their performance on the ice.
Strategies for Using Blockers Effectively
Choosing the Right Blocker for Your Style
Selecting the appropriate blocker is crucial for a goalie’s performance on the ice. The right blocker can help improve reaction time, enhance control, and boost overall efficiency. To choose the best blocker for your style, consider the following factors:
- Glove Size and Shape: A blocker’s size and shape play a significant role in its effectiveness. The ideal glove should fit snugly, allowing for a firm grip on the stick without hindering mobility. A larger glove may provide better coverage, but it may also limit the goalie’s ability to move quickly. Conversely, a smaller glove allows for greater agility but may leave more of the net exposed.
- Padding: The amount and location of padding on a blocker can affect its performance. Goalies with a tendency to catch the puck with their glove should opt for thicker padding on the catching hand to provide added protection. Conversely, thinner padding may be preferred for those who tend to use their blocker to block shots, as it allows for better control and mobility.
- Finger Protection: A blocker’s finger protection is crucial for maintaining control and minimizing injuries. Goalies should choose a blocker with sufficient finger protection, as this will allow them to make quick adjustments and react to shots more effectively.
- Palm Design: The design of the palm can impact a goalie’s grip and control over the stick. Some blockers feature a flatter palm for improved control, while others have a more pronounced curve that provides a more natural fit for the hand. Experimenting with different palm designs can help determine which one best suits your playing style.
- Stick Material: The material of the stick can also influence the performance of the blocker. Wooden sticks offer a traditional feel and are popular among many goalies, while composite sticks are lighter and provide a more flexible option. Consider trying out different stick materials to determine which one works best for your style.
- Grip Tape: Applying grip tape to the blocker can help improve control and enhance the grip on the stick. Experiment with different types of grip tape to find the one that provides the best combination of control and durability.
By considering these factors, goalies can choose a blocker that best suits their individual playing style, ultimately leading to improved performance on the ice.
Developing Proper Techniques for Using Blockers
As a goalie, using blockers effectively is crucial to making saves in hockey. To develop proper techniques for using blockers, goalies must focus on a few key elements.
First, it’s important to have a solid grip on the blocker. The blocker should be held with the blade facing up and the thumb on top. This allows the goalie to have better control over the blocker and to make quick movements with it.
Next, goalies must learn how to properly position the blocker. The blocker should be held out in front of the body, with the blade facing the direction of the incoming shot. This allows the goalie to make a stop by blocking the puck with the blade.
It’s also important to practice moving the blocker in different directions. This allows the goalie to quickly move the blocker to the left or right to make a save. Goalies should also practice moving the blocker up and down to make saves at different heights.
Another key element of using blockers effectively is having good hand-eye coordination. This allows the goalie to track the puck and make quick movements with the blocker to make a save.
Overall, developing proper techniques for using blockers requires practice and focus. By mastering these techniques, goalies can improve their ability to make saves and help their team win games.
Maintaining and Caring for Your Blocker
Proper maintenance and care of your blocker is essential to ensure its effectiveness and longevity. Here are some tips for maintaining and caring for your blocker:
- Keep it dry: Moisture can weaken the blade and make it less effective. Always make sure to dry your blocker thoroughly after use.
- Sharpen the blade: A dull blade will not be as effective in stopping pucks. Regularly sharpen the blade to maintain its edge.
- Check for damage: Inspect your blocker regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks or dents. If you notice any damage, stop using the blocker immediately and have it repaired by a professional.
- Store it properly: When not in use, store your blocker in a safe and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Consider investing in a protective case to keep your blocker safe.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your blocker remains in good condition and continues to help you make saves on the ice.
Tips for Improving Blocker Skills
Practice Techniques for Using Blockers
Using blockers is a crucial aspect of goaltending in hockey. The blocker is a critical piece of equipment that helps goalies make saves by blocking shots. However, using blockers effectively requires practice and skill development. Here are some tips for improving blocker skills:
1. Grip and Positioning
The grip and positioning of the blocker are essential for effective shot-blocking. Goalies should hold the blocker with a firm grip, with the blade facing outwards. The blocker should be positioned in front of the body, with the blade at the level of the chest. This positioning allows the goalie to make quick movements and block shots effectively.
2. Hand and Arm Movements
Hand and arm movements are critical when using blockers. Goalies should practice moving their hands and arms quickly and efficiently to make saves. They should also practice moving the blocker to different positions on the ice, such as above the head or to the side. This allows goalies to block shots from different angles and positions on the ice.
3. Footwork and Body Positioning
Footwork and body positioning are also important when using blockers. Goalies should practice moving their feet quickly and efficiently to get into position to make saves. They should also practice getting into a low stance, with their knees bent and their body in a position to make quick movements. This allows goalies to react quickly to shots and make saves.
4. Reacting to Shots
Finally, goalies should practice reacting to shots. They should practice getting into position quickly and using their blocker to make saves. Goalies should also practice reacting to different types of shots, such as slap shots and wrist shots. This helps them develop the skills needed to make saves in game situations.
In conclusion, improving blocker skills requires practice and development. Goalies should focus on grip and positioning, hand and arm movements, footwork and body positioning, and reacting to shots. With practice and dedication, goalies can develop the skills needed to use blockers effectively and make saves in hockey games.
Strengthening Your Wrists and Forearms
Strengthening your wrists and forearms is an essential aspect of improving your blocker skills in hockey. The stronger your wrists and forearms, the more control you will have over your blocker, allowing you to make quick and accurate saves. Here are some tips to help you strengthen your wrists and forearms:
- Wrist curls: Wrist curls are a great exercise to strengthen your wrists. Hold a light weight (such as a dumbbell or a weight plate) and place your elbow on a bench or table. Slowly curl your wrists up towards your forearm, then lower them back down. Perform this exercise with both hands and repeat for several repetitions.
- Forearm curls: Forearm curls are another exercise that can help strengthen your forearms. Hold a weight (such as a dumbbell or a weight plate) with both hands and bend your elbows, lifting the weight towards your shoulders. Lower the weight back down and repeat for several repetitions.
- Resistance bands: Resistance bands are a great tool for strengthening your wrists and forearms. Wrap a resistance band around your wrists or forearms and perform a variety of exercises, such as bending and straightening your wrists or lifting your arms against the resistance of the band.
- Stick handling drills: Incorporating stick handling drills into your training routine can also help strengthen your wrists and forearms. Practice dribbling the puck, making quick changes of direction, and moving the puck around in different directions. This will help improve your control over the puck and increase your strength in your wrists and forearms.
Remember to start with lighter weights and gradually increase the weight as you become stronger. Consistency is key when it comes to strength training, so be sure to perform these exercises regularly to see results.
Incorporating Blocker Drills into Your Training Regimen
Incorporating blocker drills into your training regimen is crucial for improving your blocker skills as a goalie in hockey. Here are some tips to help you effectively incorporate blocker drills into your training:
- Prioritize Regular Practice: Consistent practice is essential for improving any skill, including blocker skills. Set aside time each day or week to practice blocker drills to ensure that you are continuously improving your blocker skills.
- Focus on Proper Technique: Proper technique is crucial when it comes to blocker drills. Ensure that you are using the correct technique when making saves with your blocker. This includes keeping your elbow close to your body, using a proper grip on the handle, and extending your arm out in front of your body when making a save.
- Vary Your Drills: To avoid getting bored with your training, it’s important to vary your blocker drills. Incorporate different types of drills, such as puck-stopping drills, rebound control drills, and angle-based drills, to challenge yourself and improve your overall blocker skills.
- Work on Your Reaction Time: Reaction time is critical for goalies, as it can mean the difference between making a save and allowing a goal. Incorporate reaction drills into your training regimen to improve your reaction time and increase your ability to react quickly to incoming shots.
- Get Feedback: It’s essential to get feedback from a coach or experienced goalie to help you improve your blocker skills. They can provide you with valuable feedback on your technique, offer suggestions for improvement, and help you identify areas where you need to focus your training efforts.
By incorporating blocker drills into your training regimen and focusing on proper technique, reaction time, and feedback, you can improve your blocker skills and become a more effective goalie in hockey.
Blocker-Specific Drills for Goalies
The Saving Drill
The Saving Drill is a crucial exercise for goalies to practice their blocker-specific skills. It involves the goalie using their blocker to make saves on shots taken by a teammate. Here are the steps to perform this drill:
- Set up a goal and have a teammate stand a few feet away from the goal, ready to take a shot.
- The goalie should position themselves in front of the goal, with their blocker ready to make a save.
- The teammate should take a shot at the goal, and the goalie should use their blocker to make a save.
- After the save, the goalie should quickly return to their position in front of the goal, ready for the next shot.
- Repeat this process for several repetitions, with the goalie practicing different types of saves, such as high saves, low saves, and glove saves.
It is important for goalies to practice their blocker-specific skills regularly, as it is a critical part of their defensive game. The Saving Drill is an effective way to improve their blocker-specific skills and help them make more saves during games.
The Blocker Lay
The blocker lay is a fundamental drill that goalies can practice to improve their ability to lay their blocker down in front of the body. This drill involves a goalie lying down on their back and placing their blocker on the ice in front of them. They then lift their legs up and over the blocker, using their lower body to clear the blocker and bring their legs back down to the ice.
To perform the blocker lay correctly, goalies should focus on keeping their shoulders and head aligned with their body, and their legs should be bent at a 90-degree angle. It’s important to maintain control of the body throughout the drill, as the goalie should be able to lift their legs over the blocker without losing balance.
This drill can be modified to increase difficulty by adding resistance or using different equipment, such as a medicine ball or a resistance band. Additionally, goalies can practice the blocker lay while in a sitting position, which can help to build strength and stability in the hips and core.
The blocker lay is a crucial drill for goalies to master, as it helps to develop the ability to make saves by getting the body in front of the puck. By practicing this drill regularly, goalies can improve their balance, coordination, and overall skill in using their blocker to make saves.
The Glove Save Drill
The Glove Save Drill is a crucial exercise for goalies to practice their glove-side saves. It is a simple yet effective drill that can be done by any goalie at any skill level.
Here’s how to perform the Glove Save Drill:
- Start by standing in front of the net with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Hold your stick out in front of you with your glove side facing the net.
- Snap your glove hand shut and quickly bring it up to the outside of your body.
- Use your glove to catch the puck as it approaches the net.
- Immediately move your glove to the top of the net to prepare for the next save.
Repeat this process for several repetitions, making sure to focus on your glove-side movements and maintaining proper form.
It’s important to keep your body in a low stance throughout the drill, with your knees bent and your body weight shifted onto your glove side. This will help you maintain proper balance and make it easier to move quickly to the next save.
Additionally, be sure to practice the Glove Save Drill using both your right and left hands, as this will help improve your overall glove-side ability.
By mastering the Glove Save Drill, you’ll be better equipped to make crucial saves during gameplay, improving your overall performance on the ice.
The Reverse VH Drill
The Reverse VH Drill is a blocker-specific drill designed to help goalies develop their blocking skills. In this drill, the goalie starts in the butterfly position with their body and pads aligned to the center of the net. The drill begins with a shot from the right side of the net, and the goalie must use their left blocker to make a save.
The key to success in this drill is for the goalie to maintain proper form and technique throughout the save. This includes keeping the pads close to the body, extending the arm fully, and using the leg pads to push off and maintain balance.
Once the goalie has made the save, they quickly transition to the opposite side of the net and repeat the drill with a shot from the left side. The goalie should continue to alternate sides, practicing the Reverse VH Drill with shots from each side of the net to improve their blocking skills.
This drill is particularly effective for improving the goalie’s ability to make saves on shots that are coming from the weak side of their body. By practicing the Reverse VH Drill, goalies can develop the muscle memory and instincts necessary to make quick and efficient saves on these types of shots.
In addition to improving blocking skills, the Reverse VH Drill also helps goalies develop their footwork and agility. By constantly transitioning from one side of the net to the other, the goalie must move quickly and efficiently to get into position for each save. This helps them develop the footwork and agility necessary to react to fast-moving pucks and make quick saves.
Overall, the Reverse VH Drill is a valuable tool for goalies looking to improve their blocking skills and overall game. By practicing this drill regularly, goalies can develop the muscle memory and instincts necessary to make quick and efficient saves on a variety of shots.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Blockers
Not Keeping Your Wrists Flexible
When using blockers in hockey, one common mistake that goalies make is not keeping their wrists flexible. This can lead to a loss of control over the blocker and make it difficult to make saves. To avoid this mistake, goalies should practice keeping their wrists flexible and loose while using their blocker. This can be done by performing wrist stretches and exercises both on and off the ice. Additionally, goalies should make sure to keep their wrists limber during games by actively moving them and avoiding holding them in a fixed position for extended periods of time. By keeping their wrists flexible, goalies can maintain better control over their blocker and make more effective saves.
Using the Wrong Grip on the Blocker
When using a blocker in hockey, one common mistake that goalies make is using the wrong grip on the blocker. A blocker is a crucial piece of equipment for a goalie, and it is essential to use it correctly to make saves.
One of the most important aspects of using a blocker is the grip. A proper grip allows the goalie to control the blocker effectively and make quick movements to block shots. A weak grip, on the other hand, can result in a loss of control and a missed save.
To avoid using the wrong grip on the blocker, goalies should focus on the following tips:
- Keep the palms facing down: The palms of the hands should be facing down when holding the blocker. This grip allows for better control and movement of the blocker.
- Keep the fingers spread apart: The fingers should be spread apart to provide a firm grip on the blocker. A tight grip with the fingers bunched together can result in a loss of control.
- Practice the grip: Goalies should practice their grip regularly to ensure that they are using the correct technique.
By following these tips, goalies can avoid using the wrong grip on their blockers and increase their chances of making saves.
Relying too Much on the Blocker and Not Using Other Techniques
While blockers are essential equipment for a goalie, it is important to remember that they are just one tool in a goalie’s arsenal. Over-reliance on the blocker can lead to a lack of development in other essential skills, such as the use of the catching glove and the use of the body to make saves.
Goalies must learn to use their blocker in conjunction with their other equipment and their positioning on the ice to make saves. Using the blocker as the primary means of making saves can lead to missed opportunities and goals being scored.
Moreover, over-reliance on the blocker can lead to poor form and technique, which can result in injuries or reduced performance. It is important for goalies to practice using all of their equipment and to develop a well-rounded set of skills to be successful in the net.
Therefore, goalies should aim to use their blocker in conjunction with other techniques, such as positioning, angling, and using the catching glove, to make saves and be successful in the net.
Blockers vs. Catching Gloves: Which is Better?
Pros and Cons of Using Blockers
Goalies in hockey have a variety of equipment to choose from to help them make saves. Two popular options are blockers and catching gloves. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, which we will explore in this section.
Pros of Using Blockers
- Better protection: Blockers provide more protection to the hand and wrist compared to catching gloves. They have a stiffener that prevents the hand from bending backward, which can result in injuries.
- More control: Blockers offer more control over the puck due to their flat surface. This makes it easier for goalies to cover the puck or push it away from the net.
- Faster recovery: Blockers allow for a faster recovery when making a save. The flat surface allows the goalie to quickly move the puck up the ice.
Cons of Using Blockers
- Less flexibility: Blockers are less flexible than catching gloves, which can limit the movement of the hand and wrist. This can make it difficult for goalies to make certain saves.
- More weight: Blockers are generally heavier than catching gloves, which can make them more tiring to wear during long games.
- Less feel: Blockers are designed to provide more protection, which can result in a loss of feel for the puck. This can make it more difficult for goalies to make certain saves.
Pros of Using Catching Gloves
- Greater flexibility: Catching gloves are more flexible than blockers, which allows for greater movement of the hand and wrist. This can make it easier for goalies to make certain saves.
- Less weight: Catching gloves are generally lighter than blockers, which can make them more comfortable to wear during long games.
- Better feel: Catching gloves offer a better feel for the puck, which can make it easier for goalies to make certain saves.
Cons of Using Catching Gloves
- Less protection: Catching gloves offer less protection to the hand and wrist compared to blockers. This can result in injuries if the hand is not properly protected.
- Less control: Catching gloves have a curved surface, which can make it more difficult for goalies to cover the puck or push it away from the net.
- Slower recovery: Catching gloves do not offer the same level of control as blockers, which can result in a slower recovery when making a save.
Overall, the choice between blockers and catching gloves depends on the individual goalie’s preference and playing style. Some goalies prefer the protection and control offered by blockers, while others prefer the flexibility and feel of catching gloves.
Pros and Cons of Using Catching Gloves
Goalies in hockey have a variety of equipment to choose from to help them make saves. One of the most common pieces of equipment used by goalies is the catching glove. While the catching glove is a popular choice among many goalies, blockers are also an important piece of equipment for goalies to consider. In this section, we will discuss the pros and cons of using catching gloves in hockey.
Pros of Using Catching Gloves
- Increased Control: Catching gloves provide goalies with greater control over the puck. With a catching glove, goalies can easily control the puck and direct it to the appropriate place on the ice.
- Better Flexibility: Catching gloves are designed to provide goalies with greater flexibility and range of motion. This allows goalies to make saves in a variety of positions and angles.
- More Comfortable: Catching gloves are often more comfortable for goalies to wear compared to blockers. They are lighter and more flexible, which makes them easier to wear for extended periods of time.
Cons of Using Catching Gloves
- Less Protection: Catching gloves offer less protection compared to blockers. This means that goalies who use catching gloves may be more susceptible to injuries, particularly to their hands and fingers.
- Less Durability: Catching gloves are typically less durable compared to blockers. This means that they may need to be replaced more frequently, which can be a costly expense for goalies.
- Limited Range of Motion: While catching gloves provide greater flexibility, they can also limit a goalie’s range of motion. This can make it more difficult for goalies to make saves in certain positions or angles.
Overall, the decision to use a catching glove or a blocker in hockey will depend on the individual goalie’s preference and playing style. While catching gloves offer greater control and flexibility, they may not provide the same level of protection and durability as blockers.
The Importance of Mastering Blocker Techniques
Goalies in ice hockey use various equipment to make saves, including blockers and catching gloves. While both are important tools, blockers are considered to be more effective in stopping shots. This is because blockers are designed to be larger and more sturdy than catching gloves, making them better at deflecting pucks away from the net.
However, simply having a good blocker is not enough. Goalies must also master the techniques required to use their blockers effectively. This involves learning how to position the blocker properly, how to angle it for maximum coverage, and how to use the weight of the blocker to deflect shots.
The importance of mastering blocker techniques cannot be overstated. Without proper technique, goalies are at a significant disadvantage when it comes to making saves. They may struggle to control the puck, miss shots, or even allow rebounds that lead to easy goals for the other team.
Therefore, it is essential for goalies to spend time practicing their blocker techniques. This can involve working with a coach or training partner to develop proper form and technique, as well as incorporating drills that focus on blocker control and positioning.
By mastering blocker techniques, goalies can improve their overall performance on the ice and increase their chances of making crucial saves that help their team win games.
Continuing to Improve Your Goaltending Skills
As a goalie, continuing to improve your goaltending skills is crucial to achieving success on the ice. One of the most important aspects of goaltending is the ability to use your blocker effectively. Here are some tips for improving your blocker skills and becoming a more effective goalie:
- Practice, practice, practice: The more you practice using your blocker, the more comfortable and confident you will become. Make sure to practice different scenarios, such as blocking shots from different angles and positions.
- Focus on hand positioning: Your hand positioning is key when using your blocker. Make sure to keep your hands in a strong, secure position to provide maximum protection for your body.
- Use your body to your advantage: In addition to using your blocker, you can also use your body to make saves. Practice using your body to block shots and protect your net.
- Work on your reaction time: Speed and agility are crucial for goalies. The faster you can react to a shot, the more likely you are to make a save. Work on improving your reaction time through drills and exercises.
- Get feedback from coaches and trainers: It’s important to get feedback from coaches and trainers on your blocker technique. They can provide valuable insights and help you identify areas for improvement.
By continuing to work on your blocker skills and goaltending techniques, you can become a more effective goalie and help your team win games.
FAQs
1. What are blockers in hockey?
Blockers are a type of goalie equipment used by ice hockey goalies to protect their body from shots and passes by opposing players. They are made of a hard, lightweight material and are worn on the goalie’s hands and arms.
2. How do blockers help goalies make saves?
Blockers help goalies make saves by providing a barrier between the goalie’s body and the puck. They allow the goalie to block shots and passes from opposing players, as well as to control the puck and pass it to their teammates.
3. What are the different types of blockers?
There are several different types of blockers, including catching gloves, blocking gloves, and trapper gloves. Catching gloves are used to catch the puck, while blocking gloves are used to block shots and passes. Trapper gloves are a combination of catching and blocking gloves and are used for more advanced plays.
4. How do goalies choose the right blockers for them?
Goalies choose the right blockers based on their personal preferences and playing style. Some goalies prefer blockers that are more flexible, while others prefer blockers that are more stiff. Additionally, goalies may choose blockers based on the type of saves they need to make most often.
5. Can blockers be used by field hockey goalies?
No, blockers are specific to ice hockey and are not used in field hockey. Field hockey goalies use different equipment, such as gloves and pads, to protect themselves from shots and passes.
