Goalie Training Tips: RVH

The RVH or Reverse Horizontal is a very popular technique employed by many of today’s goalies.  Just like every movement we as goalies make, there is a proper time and situation to apply it in.  If done properly, the RVH can be a beneficial tool for many goalies.

Sealing the Post

One benefit of the RVH, and perhaps the biggest, is that it allows a goalie to almost completely seal off the post side.  This forces the shooter to either make a tough pass through the crease, or take a low percentage shot at the goalie.  By applying this “blocking” technique appropriately, the goalie maximizes the amount of net covered while still leaving themselves in a position to react or readjust if needed.

Stability Benefits

Another benefit of the RVH is the stability it allows a goalie to have on a hard jam play or a tight play to the net.  While in the RVH, one skate (or pad) is locked against the post while the other is digging into the ice, effectively pushing the goalie into the post and giving them more stability.  Having this edge dug into the ice will aid in keeping the goalies balance as well as allow a goalie to “push back” should they be getting pushed into the net on a hard play.  This anchor leg will also allow the goalie to adjust their angle to the puck accordingly while down in the RVH.

Applications

Another situation in which the RVH can be used is during a wrap around.  When a player goes to make a tight wrap, the goalie can slide into the post already in the RVH, effectively sealing the ice down low, as well as short side.  This forces the shooter to either take a low percent shot or forces them to take a different route to the net.  By keeping an active stick while in the RVH, goalies also give themselves a chance to eliminate passes through the crease.

The most important thing for goalies (especially younger, smaller goalies) to keep in mind while applying the RVH is that there is an appropriate time and situation to apply it in.  It can be an effective tool at times, but only if used correctly.  It is important to always focus on the situation developing and be aware of when this technique may or may not be necessary.