Are you a fan of ice hockey and curious about the meaning of the term top cheese? If so, you’re in the right place. This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know about this slang term used in hockey and its various meanings and contexts.
From its definition to its origins and how it’s used in the sport today, this article will cover all aspects of top cheese. You’ll also learn about top cheese shots, their difficulty for goalies to stop, and famous examples of top cheese goals in NHL history.
Whether you’re a hockey player looking to improve your skills or a fan seeking to deepen your understanding of the game, this guide has everything you need to know about top cheese. So let’s dive into the world of hockey slang and discover the meaning behind the term top cheese.
Read on to explore the rich history and fascinating intricacies of this beloved sport, and unlock the secrets of one of its most intriguing terms. Get ready to score big with your knowledge of top cheese!
Table of Contents
Understanding the Definition of Top Cheese
If you are a hockey fan, you have probably heard the term “top cheese” being used to describe a type of goal. But what exactly does it mean? In hockey slang, top cheese refers to a shot that is aimed at the top part of the net, just under the crossbar, where the goalie has little chance of making a save.
The phrase “top cheese” is often used interchangeably with other hockey terms, such as “top shelf” or “upstairs,” which all refer to the same type of shot. The term is commonly used in North America, especially in Canada, where hockey is a national obsession.
While the term top cheese is mostly used to describe a specific type of shot, it has also become a part of hockey culture and slang. Players and fans often use the term to describe a particularly impressive goal or an exceptional performance on the ice.
So, why is top cheese such a coveted way to score in hockey? To understand this, we need to look at the game’s fundamentals. In hockey, the goaltender is the last line of defense, and stopping shots is one of their primary responsibilities. A shot aimed at the top cheese is one of the most difficult for a goaltender to stop because they have less time to react and are often screened by players in front of the net.
The Meaning of Top Cheese in Hockey Terms
Top cheese is a term used in hockey to describe a specific area of the net where players aim to shoot the puck to score a goal. The area referred to as top cheese is the top part of the net, just under the crossbar, and inside the corners of the net. The term is often used interchangeably with bar down or roof.
- Bar down refers to the sound made when the puck hits the crossbar and bounces down into the net.
- Rooftop refers to the top part of the net, similar to the term top cheese.
- Shelf is another term used to describe the top part of the net where a player aims to shoot the puck, similar to the top shelf of a bookcase.
- Cheese is a slang term used to describe a goal, and when combined with top, it refers to a goal that is scored in the top part of the net.
Top cheese shots are highly coveted in hockey as they are considered difficult to stop for the goalie. The term is widely used in North America, especially in Canada where hockey is the national sport. Understanding the meaning of top cheese is essential for anyone who wants to excel in the sport.
Origins of the Top Cheese Term in Hockey
The origins of the term “top cheese” in hockey are unclear, but there are several theories. One theory suggests that the term originated from the idea of the “cheese” being the goaltender’s weak spot, and shooting high would place the puck in the “top cheese.”
Another theory proposes that the term comes from the French phrase “au-dessus du fromage,” which translates to “above the cheese.” This phrase was used by French-Canadian hockey players to indicate that a shot was aimed at the top of the net.
Regardless of its origins, “top cheese” has become a widely used term in hockey to describe a well-placed shot in the top part of the net.
The term has also evolved over time, with variations such as “cheddar” and “cheddar cheese” being used interchangeably with “top cheese.”
Despite its unclear origins, “top cheese” remains a popular and recognizable term among hockey players and fans alike.
The term “Top Cheese” is a phrase that has been used in hockey for decades, and its origins are not entirely clear. Some theories suggest that the term may have come from the idea that the “top” of the net is the most difficult spot for a goaltender to defend, while others believe it may have originated from the French-Canadian term “le fromage,” which means “the cheese.”
Regardless of its origins, “Top Cheese” has become a popular term in the hockey world and is often used to describe a shot that beats the goaltender over the shoulder and into the top of the net.
While the exact origins of the term may be up for debate, there is no denying that “Top Cheese” has become an integral part of hockey slang and culture.
Top Cheese Shots: A Skill of Elite Hockey Players
Shooting top cheese is a coveted skill among hockey players, requiring a combination of power, accuracy, and finesse.
Players who are able to execute top cheese shots consistently are often regarded as elite players, as it is a difficult skill to master.
Top cheese shots require a player to lift the puck high and quickly over the goalie’s shoulder, placing the puck in the top corner of the net.
This skill is particularly useful in situations where the goalie is playing deep in the net, as it forces the goalie to move quickly and make a difficult save.
What Are Top Cheese Shots and Why They’re So Effective
Top Cheese shots are hockey shots that are aimed high and usually over the goalie’s shoulders, hitting the top corner of the net. These shots are considered a skill of elite hockey players, as they require both accuracy and power. A successful top cheese shot can be the difference between winning or losing a game.
The reason top cheese shots are so effective is that they are difficult for goalies to stop. Since the shots are aimed high and hit the top corner of the net, it gives the goalie less time to react and make a save. Additionally, top cheese shots are often taken quickly and unexpectedly, catching the goalie off guard.
Top cheese shots are typically used when the shooter is in close proximity to the net or when the goalie is out of position. While the shots are high-risk, high-reward, they can be a game-changer when executed properly.
Overall, top cheese shots are a coveted skill among hockey players, as they can turn an average player into a scoring machine and a great player into a legend.
Why Top Cheese Shots are so Difficult to Stop for Goalies
Unpredictability: One of the main reasons why top cheese shots are difficult to stop is that they are highly unpredictable. Goalies have to anticipate the shooter’s movements and determine where the shot is going, but top cheese shots can go in a variety of directions, making it difficult to predict where the puck is going.
Speed: Top cheese shots are also known for their speed. When a player takes a top cheese shot, they typically put a lot of power behind it, making it travel at a high speed. This means goalies have less time to react and adjust their positioning.
Elevation: The elevation of a top cheese shot can also make it difficult to stop. When a player aims for the top of the net, the puck can be out of reach for the goalie’s stick or glove, which are the main tools they use to stop shots.
Technique: Finally, top cheese shots require a high level of technique and skill to execute properly. Players must have good hand-eye coordination, as well as the ability to accurately aim and shoot the puck with enough power to get it past the goalie’s defenses.
Understanding why top cheese shots are so difficult to stop can help both players and goalies improve their skills and strategies during games. Whether you’re a fan of the sport or a player looking to up your game, mastering the top cheese shot is an impressive skill to have in your arsenal.
The Physics Behind Top Cheese Shots
Understanding the science behind top cheese shots can help you develop your game and become a better player. The power and accuracy of a shot depend on several factors, including the angle and velocity of the puck, the position of the player, and the force of the shot.
One of the keys to a successful top cheese shot is the release point. To get the puck up high, the player needs to release the puck from a higher point on the stick blade. This allows the player to get the puck up quickly and at a steep angle, making it more difficult for the goalie to react in time.
Another important factor is the speed of the shot. The harder the shot, the less time the goalie has to react. This means that a top cheese shot with a high velocity is more difficult for the goalie to stop.
Finally, the angle of the shot plays a crucial role in the success of a top cheese shot. The player needs to shoot the puck at a high angle to get it over the goalie’s shoulder and into the top corner of the net. The optimal angle for a top cheese shot is between 10 and 15 degrees, which allows the player to get the puck over the goalie’s shoulder while still maintaining accuracy.
By understanding the physics behind top cheese shots, players can improve their technique and accuracy, making it more difficult for goalies to stop their shots and increasing their chances of scoring.
The Importance of Hand-Eye Coordination in Stopping Top Cheese Shots
Hand-eye coordination is a vital skill for any goaltender looking to stop top cheese shots. The ability to track the puck with your eyes and react quickly with your hands can mean the difference between making a save or allowing a goal. Top cheese shots can come in fast and high, making it essential for goalies to be able to read the play and position themselves correctly to make the save.
Developing hand-eye coordination requires a combination of practice, focus, and timing. Goaltenders can use drills and exercises to improve their hand-eye coordination, such as juggling or reaction time exercises. Additionally, goalies can benefit from working with coaches and trainers who can provide feedback and guidance to help them develop this essential skill.
In conclusion, having strong hand-eye coordination is critical for goaltenders when it comes to stopping top cheese shots. By practicing regularly and working with coaches and trainers, goalies can improve their ability to track the puck and make the necessary saves to keep their team in the game.
The Role of Anticipation in Stopping Top Cheese Shots
Anticipation is a key skill for a goaltender to possess when trying to stop top cheese shots. This means being able to read the play and anticipate where the puck is going to be shot. By doing so, a goaltender can position themselves in the right spot to make the save.
There are several factors that a goaltender needs to take into consideration when anticipating a top cheese shot. These include the player’s body language, the position of the player’s stick, and the angle at which the shot is being taken. By analyzing these factors, a goaltender can make an educated guess as to where the puck is likely to be shot.
Examples of Famous Top Cheese Goals in NHL History
Top cheese goals have been responsible for some of the most iconic moments in NHL history. Here are five examples:
Bobby Orr’s Stanley Cup-Winning Goal – In the 1970 Stanley Cup Finals, Bobby Orr scored a top cheese goal in overtime to win the Cup for the Boston Bruins.
Wayne Gretzky’s 50 in 39 Goal – In 1981-82, Wayne Gretzky scored 50 goals in the first 39 games of the season, many of them top cheese.
Brett Hull’s Stanley Cup-Winning Goal – In the 1999 Stanley Cup Finals, Brett Hull scored a controversial top cheese goal in triple overtime to give the Dallas Stars the Cup.
Sidney Crosby’s Golden Goal – In the 2010 Winter Olympics, Sidney Crosby scored a top cheese goal in overtime to win the gold medal for Canada.
Alex Ovechkin’s “The Goal” – In the 2009 playoffs, Alex Ovechkin scored a top cheese goal while falling down to tie the game and force overtime.
Top Cheese Goals that Changed the Course of NHL History
Top cheese goals have always been a defining feature of NHL history. Here are some of the most famous top cheese goals that changed the course of NHL history:
- The Goal Heard Round the World: In the 1972 Summit Series, Paul Henderson’s top cheese goal in the final moments of the eighth game secured a victory for Team Canada and cemented their place as hockey legends.
- Gretzky’s Overtime Winner: In the 1988 playoffs, Wayne Gretzky’s top cheese goal in overtime secured the win for the Edmonton Oilers and helped them clinch the Stanley Cup.
- Lemieux’s Miracle Goal: In the 1991 playoffs, Mario Lemieux’s top cheese goal in the second overtime period of Game 2 against the Minnesota North Stars helped the Pittsburgh Penguins win their first Stanley Cup.
- Bergeron’s Game 7 Winner: In the 2013 Stanley Cup Final, Patrice Bergeron’s top cheese goal in Game 7 helped the Boston Bruins win their first Stanley Cup since 1972.
- Kucherov’s Cup-Winning Goal: In the 2021 Stanley Cup Final, Nikita Kucherov’s top cheese goal in Game 5 helped the Tampa Bay Lightning clinch their second consecutive Stanley Cup.
These top cheese goals are just a few examples of how a well-placed shot can change the course of an NHL game, and even make history in the process.
The Most Iconic Top Cheese Goals in NHL Playoffs
Scoring a goal in the playoffs is always special, but some goals are more memorable than others. The top cheese goals are the ones that stick in fans’ minds for years to come. These goals are often scored in clutch moments, with the game or even the series on the line.
- Wayne Gretzky’s overtime goal in Game 7 of the 1987 Campbell Conference Finals against the Detroit Red Wings is considered one of the greatest goals of all time. Gretzky roofed the puck past Detroit goalie Glen Hanlon to send the Edmonton Oilers to the Stanley Cup Finals.
- Patrick Kane’s Stanley Cup-winning goal in Game 6 of the 2010 Stanley Cup Finals is another example of a top cheese goal. Kane skated down the left side of the ice and fired a shot past Philadelphia Flyers goalie Michael Leighton that went top shelf, clinching the championship for the Chicago Blackhawks.
- Joe Sakic’s goal in Game 7 of the 2001 Stanley Cup Finals is also considered one of the most clutch top cheese goals in NHL history. With the game tied in the third period, Sakic received a pass in the slot and fired a shot over the shoulder of New Jersey Devils goalie Martin Brodeur, giving the Colorado Avalanche the championship.
- Brett Hull’s controversial goal in Game 6 of the 1999 Stanley Cup Finals is another memorable top cheese goal. Hull’s shot appeared to be scored with his skate in the crease, which was against NHL rules at the time. The goal was reviewed and ultimately counted, giving the Dallas Stars their first championship.
- Sidney Crosby’s overtime goal in Game 2 of the 2017 Stanley Cup Finals is another recent example of a top cheese goal. Crosby received a pass from teammate Chris Kunitz and fired a shot over the shoulder of Nashville Predators goalie Pekka Rinne, giving the Pittsburgh Penguins a crucial win on the road.
These top cheese goals will forever be etched in NHL history, as they represent some of the most exciting and memorable moments in the sport.
The Top Cheese Goals that Made Players Legends
Scoring a top cheese goal can be the defining moment in a player’s career. These goals can elevate a player to legendary status and cement their place in NHL history. Some of the most memorable top cheese goals include:
- Wayne Gretzky’s goal against the Philadelphia Flyers in the 1987 playoffs, where he lifted the puck over the goalie’s shoulder and into the top corner of the net.
- Bobby Orr’s iconic goal in the 1970 Stanley Cup Finals, where he flew through the air after scoring the game-winning goal in overtime.
- Mike Bossy’s goal against the Boston Bruins in the 1982 playoffs, where he roofed the puck over the goalie’s shoulder with a backhand shot.
- Teemu Selanne’s goal in the 1993 playoffs, where he scored from a nearly impossible angle by roofing the puck over the goalie’s shoulder with a wrist shot.
- Alex Ovechkin’s goal in the 2018 Stanley Cup Finals, where he scored from the left circle by lifting the puck over the goalie’s shoulder with a powerful one-timer.
These goals not only demonstrate the skill and talent of the players who scored them but also show the incredible impact that a single top cheese goal can have on a player’s legacy.
Top Cheese as a Hockey Slang: Other Meanings and Contexts
Hockey slang is full of unique expressions, and “top cheese” is one of the most popular ones. Beyond its literal meaning of a high shot in the top part of the net, “top cheese” is used in various contexts to describe different situations:
Celebration: Scoring a top cheese goal is often followed by a player throwing their arms up and shouting “top cheese!” as a celebratory shout-out to themselves or their teammates.
Trash Talk: Top cheese is sometimes used as a form of trash talk against an opponent. A player might say something like “I’m going to snipe top cheese on you all night long” to intimidate their opponent.
Compliment: In a more positive context, top cheese can be used to describe a well-executed shot, such as “He picked the top corner like it was nothing – that’s top cheese right there.”
Style: Finally, top cheese can also refer to a player’s playing style, specifically one that is flashy and showy. A player who regularly attempts top cheese shots might be referred to as a “top cheese specialist.”
Overall, “top cheese” is a versatile slang term that has found its way into the broader lexicon of hockey culture, both on and off the ice.
The Different Contexts in which “Top Cheese” is Used in Hockey Slang
Aside from its definition as a goal-scoring technique, “top cheese” has other meanings and contexts in hockey slang. One of these is using the term to describe a player who is overconfident or cocky, someone who thinks they are better than they actually are on the ice.
Another context where “top cheese” is used is when a player tries to deke or fake out an opponent with a flashy move, only to end up losing the puck. In this case, “top cheese” is used as a sarcastic remark to make fun of the player’s failed attempt at a fancy move.
In some cases, “top cheese” can also be used to describe a player’s performance in a game, regardless of whether they scored a goal or not. For instance, if a player played exceptionally well, made several great plays, and dominated their opponent, they might be described as having “top cheese” performance that night.
- One other context where “top cheese” is used is to describe a team that is dominating its opponents in a game or series. In this case, “top cheese” is used to imply that the team is on top and in control of the game or series.
- Lastly, “top cheese” can also be used to describe the best player on a team or in a league. For instance, if a player is scoring a lot of goals and making a significant impact on their team’s success, they might be referred to as the “top cheese” player on their team or in the league.
Overall, “top cheese” has evolved from being just a term used to describe a particular goal-scoring technique to being a versatile slang term used in various contexts within the hockey community.
Other Hockey Slang Terms Related to “Top Cheese”
There are several other hockey slang terms related to “top cheese” that are commonly used by players and fans:
- Bar down – a shot that hits the crossbar and goes into the net
- Biscuit – the puck
- Celly – a celebration after a goal is scored
- Duster – a player who rarely sees ice time
These terms are just a few examples of the unique language used in hockey culture. Understanding them can make watching or playing the sport even more enjoyable.
It’s worth noting that the origins of many of these terms are not well-documented, and some may vary in meaning depending on the region or context in which they are used.
Regardless, hockey slang is a fun and colorful aspect of the sport that adds to its appeal and helps to create a strong sense of community among players and fans alike.
Tips for Executing Top Cheese Shots and Scoring More Goals
Practice your aim and shot placement: To score more top cheese goals, you need to aim for the top part of the net consistently. Work on your aim and shot placement during practice sessions and focus on hitting the top corners of the net.
Improve your puck handling skills: Top cheese shots require precise puck handling skills. You need to be able to handle the puck well and quickly move it into position to take a shot. Focus on improving your stickhandling skills to be able to execute top cheese shots effectively.
Work on your timing and anticipation: Timing and anticipation are crucial when it comes to scoring top cheese goals. You need to be able to read the play and anticipate the movements of your opponents to take advantage of any gaps in their defense.
Get into position: To score top cheese goals, you need to be in the right position. Move to the high slot or find open spaces in the offensive zone to create scoring opportunities. Positioning yourself correctly will give you a better chance of scoring a top cheese goal.
Be confident and take risks: To score top cheese goals, you need to be confident and take risks. Don’t be afraid to try a new move or take a shot from an unusual angle. Be willing to take risks and trust your skills to execute a successful top cheese shot.
Developing Accuracy and Power for Top Cheese Shots
Scoring a top cheese goal requires both accuracy and power. Here are some tips for developing both:
Practice your wrist shot: The wrist shot is essential for executing top cheese goals. Practice shooting from different angles and distances to improve your accuracy.
Strengthen your upper body: Having a strong upper body will help you generate more power in your shots. Work on exercises that target your chest, shoulders, and arms.
Work on your stickhandling: Being able to maneuver the puck around defenders is crucial for getting into position to score top cheese goals. Focus on improving your stickhandling skills through drills and practice.
Practice shooting in game-like situations: Set up drills that mimic game situations, such as shooting from the slot or one-timers from the point. This will help you develop your accuracy and power under pressure.
Visualize success: Visualize yourself executing the perfect top cheese shot before attempting it on the ice. This mental preparation can help boost your confidence and improve your chances of success.
Creating Opportunities for Top Cheese Shots on the Ice
Scoring top cheese goals requires more than just having an accurate shot. It also requires creating opportunities on the ice. Here are a few tips to help you get those opportunities:
Positioning: Position yourself in the right areas of the ice to receive passes or rebounds that can lead to top cheese shots. Make sure you’re in the right position to receive the puck and shoot.
Speed: Speed is key in hockey, and being fast on the ice can help you create opportunities for top cheese shots. Use your speed to get past defenders and find open space on the ice.
Vision: Having good vision on the ice means being able to anticipate where the puck will go and where your teammates are on the ice. This can help you get into good positions for top cheese shots.
Communication: Communication is important on the ice. Let your teammates know where you are and where you want the puck. This can help them find you on the ice and set you up for top cheese shots.
Creativity: Don’t be afraid to try new things and get creative with your shots. Experiment with different angles, positions, and shot types to keep the goalie guessing and increase your chances of scoring top cheese goals.