The goalie blocker is a multi-purpose piece of equipment that is vital in stopping high shots to the goalie's stick side. This is every goaltender's most vulnerable area because the shaft of the goalie stick is narrow and does not have the same impact in stopping high shots as it does on low ones. The goaltender can use his glove to catch or deflect shots on high shots on his non-stick side, but the goalie blocker or "waffle board" is the key to stopping shots in this vulnerable area. It also serves an important purpose in that it is attached to the glove that holds the stick. Therefore the blocker must be light and strong so the goalie can move his stick hand quickly and instinctively.
What to Look for
A young goalie starting out needs to find a blocker that is comfortable and easily broken in. A right-handed goaltender holds his stick and blocker pad with his right hand and his glove in his left. A left-handed goaltender does just the opposite. The blocker itself is a rectangular board that is slightly curved from top to bottom and that prevents rebounds from going directly back to the shooter. That curve makes it more difficult for offensive players to predict where the puck will end up and gives the goalie a better chance of stopping rebound shots. Comfort is a key factor. A goalie's stick can start to feel heavy as a game wears on and the blocker must be comfortable or that weight can become burdensome over time.
Common Pitfalls
The modernization of the blocker has been a significant advantage to goaltenders. Over the last 10 years, the equipment has gotten lighter, stronger and easier to manipulate. As a result, older equipment has become obsolete. A goalie needs to be aware of the latest developments because he is not doing himself any favor by sticking with older equipment just because he is used to it. For example, manufacturers have made the thumb flap on the back of the blocker easier to manipulate, giving the goalie greater ease of movement with his stick and his blocker. If a goaltender or a coach is unaware of this, he may be missing out on a chance to play his position to the best of his ability. Blocker pads also come with a built-in power wedge that allows the goalie to put more zip in his clearing passes.
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