Tag: stick positioning

How Do Goalies Control the Five-Hole?

IHM Knowledge Center

How Do Goalies Control the Five-Hole?

How do goalies control the five-hole, why is it a common scoring target, and what techniques prevent goals between the pads?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: December 17, 2025

Short Answer

Goalies control the five-hole by maintaining proper stick positioning, pad seal and posture to eliminate space between the legs during shots and rebounds.

Full Explanation

The five-hole refers to the space between a goalie’s pads. Shooters target this area because it can open during movement, poor posture or delayed stick placement.

Effective five-hole control begins with posture. Goalies keep their hips square, knees flexed and hands forward. The stick blade remains flat on the ice, sealing the gap between the pads.

During butterfly drops, proper pad flare and stick positioning eliminate space along the ice. Late drops, poor balance or lifting the stick create openings.

Elite goalies treat five-hole control as a combination of positioning, patience and timing rather than a single technique.

Why Five-Hole Control Matters

Many goals labeled as “bad goals” result from five-hole breakdowns. Strong fundamentals eliminate this scoring option and force shooters to aim elsewhere.

Key Takeaways

  • Stick position seals the five-hole.
  • Posture and balance prevent gaps.
  • Late movement opens space.
  • Elite goalies control five-hole instinctively.

What Is Stick Positioning for Goalies?

IHM Knowledge Center

What Is Stick Positioning for Goalies?

What is stick positioning for goalies, how do goalies use the stick effectively, and why does stick placement prevent goals along the ice?

Editor: Coach Mark • Updated: December 17, 2025

Short Answer

Stick positioning is how a goalie places and uses the stick to control low shots, deflections and passes through the slot.

Full Explanation

Proper stick positioning helps goalies seal the ice between the pads and eliminate scoring chances through the five-hole. The stick blade should remain flat on the ice, angled slightly forward to deflect pucks away from danger.

Goalies use the stick not only to block shots but also to steer rebounds into safe areas. Active stick use can disrupt passes across the crease and prevent tip-in goals.

Poor stick positioning often results in goals along the ice, especially on low shots from the slot or sharp-angle attempts. Many goals labeled as “bad goals” are actually caused by incorrect stick placement.

Elite goalies treat the stick as an extension of their body, maintaining control and awareness even when dropping into the butterfly.

Why Stick Positioning Matters

Strong stick positioning reduces the need for pad reactions and improves overall save efficiency. It is one of the most underrated goalie fundamentals.

Key Takeaways

  • The stick seals the ice and five-hole.
  • Blade angle controls rebounds.
  • Active sticks disrupt passes.
  • Poor placement leads to low goals.