The Ultimate Guide to Understanding the Five Hole in Hockey

Are you a new fan of ice hockey? Or maybe you’re a seasoned player looking to perfect your game. Either way, understanding the five hole is crucial to your success. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this essential aspect of the game.

For those who are new to hockey, the five hole refers to the space between a goaltender’s legs, which is considered to be one of the best areas to shoot and score a goal. But why is it called the five hole, and how do you shoot through it? We’ll answer all these questions and more, so keep reading!

As you dive deeper into the world of hockey, you’ll find that the five hole is one of the most important elements of the game. Whether you’re a forward looking to score or a goaltender trying to defend your net, mastering this area is key. So, without further ado, let’s explore the ins and outs of the five hole in hockey.

If you’re ready to take your hockey game to the next level, this guide is for you. From shooting techniques to goalie strategies, we’ve got you covered. So, grab your stick and let’s get started!

What is the Five Hole in Hockey?

Hockey is a fast-paced, exciting game that is enjoyed by millions of fans around the world. One of the key aspects of the game is scoring goals, and there are many ways to do this. One of the most popular ways to score is by shooting the puck through the five hole.

The five hole is the area between a goalie’s legs, which is also known as the lower part of the net. It is called the five hole because it is the fifth and final area that a shooter can aim for. The other four areas are the top left corner, the top right corner, the bottom left corner, and the bottom right corner.

Shooting the puck through the five hole is a popular tactic because it can be difficult for goalies to defend. Goalies are trained to cover the five hole with their stick and pads, but even the best goalies can be beaten by a well-placed shot.

While the five hole is a common term in hockey, it is not the only way to score goals. There are many other areas of the net that shooters can aim for, and the best players are able to score from anywhere on the ice.

Definition and Explanation of the Five Hole

The term “Five Hole” refers to a specific area of the ice hockey goal net that a player can shoot the puck through to score a goal. It is located between the goaltender’s two leg pads and is the largest opening on the net. The name “Five Hole” comes from the fact that there are four other areas of the net where a puck can be shot to score a goal, and the area between the goaltender’s legs is the fifth opening.

Scoring through the Five Hole is often considered a high-risk, high-reward shot, as it requires precise accuracy and timing. If a player can shoot the puck through the Five Hole, they are often rewarded with a goal, but if the goaltender is able to close their legs quickly enough, the puck may be stopped and play will continue.

While the Five Hole is the largest opening on the net, it can also be the most difficult to hit. Goaltenders are trained to keep their legs together as much as possible, making it challenging for players to find an opportunity to shoot the puck through the Five Hole. However, some players have made careers out of their ability to shoot accurately through the Five Hole, and it remains a popular and exciting way to score a goal in ice hockey.

Term	Definition	Explanation
Five Hole	The specific area of the ice hockey goal net where a player can shoot the puck through to score a goal	The fifth opening in the net located between the goaltender’s leg pads and considered a high-risk, high-reward shot
Goal Net	The structure at each end of the ice hockey rink where players shoot the puck to score a goal	The area where the Five Hole is located and the main focus of the game of ice hockey
Goaltender	The player on each team responsible for defending their respective goal net and preventing the opposing team from scoring	The player who guards the Five Hole and tries to prevent the opposing team from scoring a goal through that area
Accuracy	The ability to shoot the puck precisely and hit a specific target on the goal net	An essential skill for players who want to score through the Five Hole and make an impact on the game

Understanding the concept of the Five Hole is essential for anyone interested in the game of ice hockey. It is a unique and exciting aspect of the sport that requires skill, timing, and accuracy. Whether you’re a player or a fan, the Five Hole is sure to remain an important part of ice hockey for years to come.

Why is it Called the Five Hole?

Ice hockey is a sport with a rich vocabulary, and “five hole” is one of the most unique terms you’ll hear on the ice. But where did the term come from? The answer is relatively simple. The “five hole” refers to the area between a goaltender’s legs, or more specifically, the space where the pads of their leg guards don’t quite meet. This space is the fifth and final potential target for a shooter, hence the name “five hole.”

While it might seem like an odd name for a scoring opportunity, the five hole is actually one of the most effective targets for shooters in ice hockey. Goalies are trained to protect the four corners of the net and often rely on their leg pads to stop low shots. However, the five hole remains a viable target for skilled players, especially if a goalie is slow to close their legs or if they’re caught off balance.

While the term “five hole” has been used for decades, its popularity has increased in recent years thanks to the proliferation of highlight reels and social media. Nowadays, you’re just as likely to hear a fan yell “five hole!” as you are to hear a coach use the term on the bench.

The Origins of the Five Hole Name

While the “five hole” is a term that has been used in hockey for many years, its exact origins are somewhat unclear. There are a few theories about how the term came to be, however, and they all center around the idea of shooting the puck between a goaltender’s legs.

One theory is that the term comes from the five holes in an old-style goalie mask. These masks featured five small openings that allowed the goalie to see the ice, and it’s possible that the term “five hole” was originally used to describe shooting the puck through one of these holes and into the net.

Another theory is that the term comes from the idea of a “hole” being a target for a shooter. In this interpretation, the five hole is simply the fifth and final target that a shooter can aim for, after the four corners of the net.

Regardless of its exact origins, the term “five hole” has become a beloved part of the hockey lexicon. It’s a term that’s used by players, coaches, and fans alike, and it’s a testament to the sport’s rich vocabulary and history.

The Evolution of the Five Hole Term

• Shift in Meaning: Over time, the term “five hole” has taken on different meanings. Originally used to describe the space between a goalie’s legs, it has now evolved to refer to any spot on the net that can be exploited by a skilled player.

• Usage in Other Sports: The term “five hole” has even crossed over into other sports, such as basketball and soccer, where it is used to describe a similar opening between a player’s legs that can be exploited for a score.

• Pop Culture References: The term “five hole” has also made its way into popular culture, appearing in movies, TV shows, and even songs. It has become a part of the lexicon not just for hockey fans, but for anyone looking to describe a vulnerable or exposed spot.

The Popularity of the Five Hole Phrase in Hockey Culture

One reason the five hole has become so popular in hockey culture is its simplicity. The phrase is easy to understand, even for non-hockey fans, and it perfectly captures the action it describes. In addition, the five hole has been popularized in mainstream media, particularly in movies and television shows that feature hockey.

Another reason for the popularity of the five hole in hockey culture is the importance of the goal-scoring moment. Scoring a goal is the ultimate achievement in hockey, and the five hole is a common target for players trying to beat the goalie. Using the five hole to score is often seen as a skilled and impressive move, which has contributed to the popularity of the term.

Finally, the five hole has become a part of the lexicon of the sport, with commentators and fans alike using the phrase to describe goals and near-misses. It has become a part of the shared language of the hockey community, which helps to reinforce its popularity and keep it in the public consciousness.

How Do You Shoot through the Five Hole?

Shooting through the five hole can be an effective way to score in hockey. The five hole refers to the space between a goalie’s legs, which is typically the smallest area to aim for.

One way to shoot through the five hole is to fake a shot to one side, causing the goalie to shift their weight, and then quickly shoot through the other side. Another way is to get close to the goalie and aim low, using a quick wrist shot or a snap shot.

It’s also important to read the goalie’s movements and look for openings. If the goalie is slow to get into a butterfly position, there may be an opportunity to shoot through the five hole before they close their legs.

Practicing shooting through the five hole can improve a player’s accuracy and help them score more goals. Coaches can incorporate drills and exercises into practice sessions that focus on shooting through the five hole.

Techniques for Scoring through the Five Hole

Deception: One of the most effective ways to score through the five hole is by deceiving the goalie with a fake shot or move. Faking a shot to the side of the net or quickly moving the puck from one side to the other can create an opening for the shot to go through the five hole.

Quick Release: Another way to score through the five hole is to take advantage of a quick release. When a player has a quick and accurate shot, they can often catch the goalie off guard and shoot through the five hole before they have a chance to react.

Low Shot: Shooting low and hard towards the five hole is also an effective technique. A low shot can be difficult for the goalie to track and if it’s fast enough, it can go through the five hole before the goalie has a chance to close it.

Examples of Successful Five Hole Goals in Hockey

Wayne Gretzky: In a 1983 game against the Boston Bruins, Wayne Gretzky used his signature move to deke out the goalie and score through the five hole. It was a highlight-reel goal that helped solidify Gretzky’s status as one of the greatest players in NHL history.

Sidney Crosby: In the 2010 Olympic gold medal game, Sidney Crosby scored the game-winning goal in overtime against the United States by shooting the puck through the five hole. It was a clutch performance that cemented Crosby’s status as a big-game player.

Auston Matthews: In a 2018 game against the Dallas Stars, Auston Matthews scored a highlight-reel goal by shooting the puck through the five hole while falling to the ice. It was a testament to Matthews’ skill and creativity as a scorer.

Common Mistakes When Attempting to Score Through the Five Hole

Scoring through the five hole is not an easy feat, and many players often fall into some common traps when attempting to do so. Here are three common mistakes to avoid:

1. Telegraphing your shot: If the goalie can see where you’re aiming, they can easily close up the five hole. Make sure to use fakes and dekes to throw off the goalie’s positioning before taking your shot.
2. Not getting low enough: To have a better chance of scoring through the five hole, you need to get low to the ice. Failing to crouch down enough will leave more room for the goalie to make a save.
3. Not following through with your shot: When shooting through the five hole, it’s crucial to follow through with your shot to ensure that the puck travels low and fast enough to get through the small opening. Failing to follow through may result in a weak shot that is easily saved by the goalie.

By avoiding these common mistakes and practicing your technique, you’ll increase your chances of scoring through the five hole and becoming a more effective player on the ice.

How Do Goalies Defend the Five Hole?

Positioning: A goalie’s positioning is key to defending the five hole. They need to maintain a low, balanced stance with their legs close together, making it harder for the puck to slip through.

Stick: Goalies use their stick to cover the five hole, holding it upright between their legs or angling it downwards towards the ice. They also use their stick to deflect shots away from the net.

Butterfly Save: The butterfly save is a popular technique used by goalies to protect the five hole. The goalie drops to their knees and spreads their legs apart, using their pads to block shots aimed at the bottom of the net.

Active Hands: Goalies need to have quick reflexes and active hands to defend the five hole. They use their glove hand to catch high shots and their blocker hand to deflect shots away from the net.

Anticipation: Goalies need to anticipate the shooter’s movements and react quickly to defend the five hole. They watch the shooter’s body language and footwork to predict where the shot is going.

Strategies for Protecting the Five Hole

Stick Placement: One of the most important techniques for goalies to protect the five hole is proper stick placement. Keeping the stick in the right position can help block shots from going through the five hole and redirect them to the corners.

Butterfly Style: Many goalies use the butterfly style to protect the five hole. By dropping into a low stance and spreading their legs, they can effectively cover the lower portion of the net and minimize the chances of a shot going through the five hole.

Quick Recovery: A goalie must have quick reflexes and a fast recovery time to defend the five hole. They must be able to quickly get up from a butterfly position and reset themselves to defend any rebound shots.

Reading the Play: Good goalies have a sense of where the play is going and can anticipate when an opposing player is likely to take a shot through the five hole. This enables them to position themselves properly and make a save.

Communication: Effective communication with defensemen can help goalies protect the five hole. Clear communication about who is responsible for which opposing players can help reduce confusion and ensure proper positioning.

Equipment Designed to Cover the Five Hole

Goaltenders have specific equipment designed to help them cover the five hole. One such piece of equipment is the goalie pads. Modern goalie pads have a curve that helps direct the puck away from the five hole. Additionally, some pads have a stiff outer roll that can help close the gap between the pads.

Another piece of equipment that can help goalies cover the five hole is the goalie stick. The goalie stick can be used to make quick adjustments and help block the five hole. Some goalies also use a technique called the “stick stack” where they stack their stick on top of their pads to create an additional barrier.

The goalie glove can also be used to protect the five hole. By positioning the glove correctly, goalies can prevent the puck from slipping between their legs. Additionally, some gloves have a trapper design that creates a webbing effect, making it easier to catch and hold onto the puck.

Who Are the Best Five Hole Shooters in Hockey History?

Shooting through the five hole is a skill that many hockey players aspire to master. Over the years, some players have become particularly adept at finding the gap between a goalie’s legs. Here are three players who are considered some of the best five hole shooters in hockey history:

Wayne Gretzky: The Great One was known for his incredible puck handling skills and his ability to read the game. He was also an exceptional five hole shooter, with a quick and accurate release that allowed him to score many goals in this manner.

Brett Hull: Hull was one of the most prolific goal scorers of his era, and his ability to shoot through the five hole was a big part of his success. He was particularly effective on the power play, where he could use his quick release to catch the goalie off guard.

Alex Ovechkin: Ovechkin is one of the most exciting players in the game today, and his five hole shooting ability is a big reason why. He has a powerful shot and is not afraid to use it, often catching goalies off guard with his quick release.

While these players are all exceptional five hole shooters, there have been many others throughout history who have also excelled in this area. Ultimately, shooting through the five hole is a skill that requires practice, patience, and a keen sense of timing.

The Top Five Hole Scorers of All Time

1. Wayne Gretzky – Widely regarded as the greatest hockey player of all time, Gretzky scored many of his 894 career goals through the five hole. He had an uncanny ability to find the small gap between a goaltender’s legs and shoot the puck through it.

2. Mike Bossy – Bossy was one of the most lethal goal scorers in NHL history, and many of his 573 career goals came from shooting through the five hole. His quick release and accuracy made him a constant threat from anywhere on the ice.

3. Phil Esposito – Esposito scored 717 goals in his career, many of which came from close range and through the five hole. He was known for his strength and ability to drive to the net, making him a nightmare for opposing goaltenders.

While these three players are often cited as the top five hole scorers of all time, there have been many other great players who have also excelled in this area. The ability to shoot through the five hole is a valuable skill for any hockey player, and it is sure to continue to be a key aspect of the game for years to come.

Iconic Moments Involving the Five Hole in Hockey History

• Wayne Gretzky’s 50th Goal in 39 Games – On December 30, 1981, Wayne Gretzky scored his 50th goal of the season in just 39 games, a feat that had never been achieved before. His goal involved a quick wrist shot through the five hole of the goaltender, cementing his place in hockey history.

• Brett Hull’s Stanley Cup Winning Goal – In the third overtime of Game 6 of the 1999 Stanley Cup Finals, Brett Hull scored the game-winning goal for the Dallas Stars against the Buffalo Sabres. His goal was controversial, as his skate was in the crease, but it involved a quick shot through the five hole of Dominik Hasek, one of the best goaltenders in NHL history.

• Henrik Sedin’s Five Hole Goal to Win Art Ross Trophy – In the final game of the 2010-2011 season, Vancouver Canucks forward Henrik Sedin needed a point to win the Art Ross Trophy as the NHL’s leading scorer. With just over a minute left in the game, he scored a goal by slipping the puck through the five hole of Colorado Avalanche goaltender Brian Elliott, securing both the trophy and a playoff spot for the Canucks.

The Future of Five Hole Scoring in Hockey

Technology: With advancements in technology, equipment will continue to improve, making it more challenging for players to score through the five hole. As a result, players will need to develop new strategies and techniques to beat goaltenders.

Analytics: With the increasing use of analytics in hockey, teams will continue to develop new strategies based on data analysis. This could lead to a greater emphasis on five hole scoring if data shows it to be an effective way to score goals.

Youth Development: As coaches and trainers continue to focus on developing youth players, they will emphasize the importance of scoring in a variety of ways, including through the five hole. This could lead to more skilled players who are adept at scoring in this area of the net.

Frequently Asked Questions