Post Hold: Reverse VH (aka RVH, Half-Butterfly)

'“Hugging the post” while standing is not an easy task for new goaltenders, so it’s no question that “hugging the post” in partial butterfly is much more difficult.

The Original “VH”

The Original “VH”

The “RVH” Post hold. The puck and shooter are slightly above the goal line. Our demonstrator’s next move is to pickup his left leg and square his hips to the shot.

The “RVH” Post hold. See the diagram below to grasp when a goalie would typically use this method.

*Note Inside Leg and hip positioning.

*Note Inside Leg and hip positioning.

The RVH technique is most commonly used when there is a threat approaching the net below (or on) the goal line (red zone). It’s imperative that youth goalies recover to their feet as soon as the threat of a shot is gone (i.e. when the attacking player retreats to the back-wall or passes the puck outside the “red-zone”). Goalies who remain on their knees will become out of position quickly as play continues.

coachmate-hockey-board-RVH Zone.png

Our Philosophy

Goaltending isn’t a one-technique fits all position; every shot, threat, defensive situation is different. It’s the instructors responsibility to understand and inform goaltenders the pros/cons of using each technique.

Assumptions & Points of Emphasis

  • Shooter within 10 feet of goal or skating without pause closely behind the net

  • There is defensive support in-front of the net

  • You must be “THIS” tall to use the RVH when the puck is at a low angle shooting position. Taller Goalies (6 ft or more) may consider extending the applicable zone to use this technique when the puck is at the lowest point of the face-off circle or closer(yellow zone).

  • Goalies should prioritize mastery of the standing post-hold or “hugging the post” before exploring the VH or RVH technique.

On-Ice Goalie DrillsJustin LochnerRVH, Hugging the PostComment