Jim’s Intro to Glove Save
Hi folks, Jim here, the only commentator who once told goalie jokes at a stand-up comedy night. I brought the house down when I said, “What do you call it when you buy goalie gloves on discount? A glove save.” When I followed up with, “Ill be here all night, folks,” the audience (my wife) replied, “I know. You live here.
What is a glove save?
A glove save is when a goalie uses their catching glove to stop a puck headed toward the upper portion of the net, usually on the glove side. It’s both a fundamental save technique and, when executed cleanly, one of the most crowd-pleasing moments in hockey.
How does it work?
The glove save depends on positioning, tracking, and quick reflexes:
- Set Position: Start in a balanced stance with the glove open and slightly forward.
- Track the Puck: Watch the release off the shooter’s stick to anticipate height and direction.
- React with the Arm, Not Just the Glove: Move the entire arm and shoulder to meet the puck.
- Catch or Deflect: Secure the puck cleanly when possible or angle it safely away from danger.
- Maintain Balance: Keep the body centered so a missed glove attempt doesn’t pull you off position.
- Recover Quickly: Be ready for follow-up chances if the puck isn’t caught clean.
How do you make good decisions with it?
- Read the Shooter: Identify tendencies for high glove shots and be prepared.
- Position Early: A well-placed glove often means minimal movement is needed.
- Catch What You Can, Block What You Can’t: Not every shot needs to be snared.
- Control Rebounds: If you don’t catch it, direct it into safe areas.
- Stay Calm Under Pressure: Overreacting can lead to gaps elsewhere.
How do you master it?
Mastering glove saves takes hand-eye coordination, repetition, and situational awareness. Goalies work on catching drills, quick-release tracking, and reading puck flight. Strong wrists and shoulders help keep the glove steady under pressure.
What does it look like when done right?
A great glove save looks smooth and confident. The goalie snatches the puck mid-air with no flinch, freezes play, and maybe gives the shooter a little look like, Nice try.
Commentator’s Corner
Jim’s Take
A clean glove save is like stealing cookies out of the jar. Quick, smooth, and usually followed by disbelief from the other side.
Parent Tip
Hand-eye drills off the ice go a long way. Tennis balls, reaction lights, or soft tosses help young goalies develop quick gloves safely.
Player Tip
Shooters, change your release points. Goalies, keep that glove out front, not tucked by your hip. Meet the puck, don’t chase it.
A Final Thought
The glove save is equal parts skill and showmanship. Master it, and you’ll frustrate snipers while giving your team momentum with every snatch.
