The waffle board is one of the most effective tools in the arsenal of any hockey goalie. It provides an extra barrier against shots on goal, giving the goalie more time to react. It is also beneficial for allowing the goalie to peek over the top and see attackers coming at him from all sides.
The waffle board was first used in the 1908-1909 season, and the device has since gone through several incarnations. The current iteration provides a flat surface on top of a series of ridges that allow for greater agility while staying on top of the puck.
If you’re not sure what the waffle board is or how it works, this article is for you. Here we’ll discuss what the waffle board is and how it applies to hockey. We will also dive into some of the most effective uses for the device as well as give you some advice about the best versions available.
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Define The Waffle Board
The waffle board is a flat board with a grid pattern of small indentations, or waffles, running down its length. The indentations are around two to three inches deep, and since they are so close together, the puck often has trouble sliding through. This makes the waffle board an excellent tool for goaltenders, and because of its flat surface, it also works great for skaters looking to work on their shifting. While the device was first used to defend against shots on goal in hockey, it has since become equally effective at preventing puck rushes and keeping the puck in the sideways for more time.
How Does The Waffle Board Work?
When a player or team wants to shoot the puck, they will usually begin by aiming for the middle of the rink, where the puck is often at its most unstable. This allows for the easiest shot, and for the most part, this is where the puck will stay; however, there are numerous instances where the puck will bounce off the waffle board and end up somewhere else entirely. If the attacker is looking to quickly change directions, they will often have to slow down or stop in their tracks to get the puck under control and send it his way.
More Than Meets The Eye
The waffle board doesn’t just assist the goalie in defense, it can also be used to redirect shots. While the goalies of old would typically use their pads to block shots, the waffle board allows for greater agility and coverage.
On their power play, a teammate may shoot the puck at the opposing net, knocking down the goal and giving the puck a new location. The goalie will then have to move quickly to track the puck down and make the save. As a result, the goalie and waffle board have gone hand in hand throughout the years, with the indentations on the board gradually becoming deeper and broader.
Different Styles, Same Theory
While each goalie likes to play with a particular style, the theory behind using the waffle board remains the same. Through a combination of smarts and skill, the goalie can use the board to their advantage. The key is knowing where to place your feet and how to use your body to maximize the effect of the device.
Solid, Sturdy, And Effective
The waffle board provides a sturdy base and an even surface for the goalie to stop shots on. Its sturdiness also allows for more agile movements as pucks cannot easily pop out from underneath it. These sturdiness and agility provide the goalie with greater coverage and a higher success rate.
Versatile
The solidity and effectiveness of the waffle board are enhanced by its versatility. When used properly, the board can stop almost any shot, no matter the quality. The indents in the board allow for closeโrange shots as well as long-range shots, giving the goalie more options when responding to a rush.
This versatility makes the waffle board popular across the major leagues. The New York Rangers use the board frequently as a result of its adaptability, having employed Veliฤko Carraro and Aleksander Lilja as their respective goalies. Both athletes use the device heavily in practice, with Carraro stating that practice makes perfect when it comes to using the waffle board.
Size, Shape, And Construction
Because of its versatility, the waffle board can be used by both pros and amateurs. The only requirements are a desire to stop shots and a lack of height restrictions. The board is available in either a standard size or an oversized format that provides greater stability while keeping the puck closer to the ice.
Peek Abo
A key element to using the waffle board effectively is being able to peek over the top. This provides the goalie with an extra barrier against incoming shots and also allows them to take a peek at the attackers, both on and off the ice. The indentations in the board prevent the goalie from easily being hit with the puck, so even if they’re not looking directly at the puck, they will still have the advantage of being protected.
Fully Concealed
A unique quality of the waffle board is that, unlike pads and helmets, the board is completely concealed when in use. The board can be used by both goalies and doesn’t stick out from beneath the chin like a traditional mask would. The concealment makes the waffle board particularly effective when used by goalies who are positioned far behind the net, where it can’t be seen easily.
How Do I Choose The Right One?
As with any other piece of equipment, your goalie’s preferences will play a key role in your decision. One of the most important factors is the height of the board, with the taller, the better. The reason for this is that the taller the board, the greater the coverage. This allows for greater stability when stopping shots and a better view of the action, particularly when using peek-a-bo.
The second important factor pertains to the shape of the board. Generally speaking, the wider the board, the better. This makes it easier for the goalie to slide across the ice when using shift-speed.
As for the material used to make the board, firm is typically preferred over soft when choosing an equipment item for goalies. The former provides a bit more cushion, making it easier for the goalie to reach tight spots, while the latter prevents the board from slipping on icy surfaces.
Wondering Where To Place It On The Ice?
When positioning the board on the ice, there are several factors to consider. The first is the proximity of other equipment in the vicinity. For example, if you are playing on an oval ice rink or one with a crowd, you will want to keep the board at the corners so it does not get in the way of players or fans. Similarly, the board should be placed high enough above the ice so that it does not interfere with the ref’s or opposing players’ view of the action.
When Should I Use It?
Another important factor to consider when using thewaffle board is how you will be booting up the puck. In some cases, the board can be used in combination with the puck in its entirety. In other cases, the board may need to be removed and placed on the ice in advance of the puck to provide the goalie with some added protection.
Generally speaking, it is best to remove the waffle board before the penalty kicks or during bouts of rough play. This gives the goalie more time to react and potentially make a save before the next offensive action takes place. In such cases, it is often necessary to keep one hand on the puck at all times to prevent it from being kicked away or stolen. This also gives the goalie the advantage of one more touch when stopping the puck.
If the puck is on the right side of the board, the goalie will have to take a step forward toward the net to stop it. In such cases, it is often advantageous to place one foot in front of the other, leaving the other foot behind the line, to provide the best balance. This not only makes it easier to stop the puck, it also allows the goalie to easily track the motion of the puck.