Before we even get into the pros and cons, it helps to understand exactly what the RVH is. RVH stands for âReverse VerticalâHorizontal,â and itâs a modern postâintegration technique used by goalies when the puck is near the goal line or in tight around the corners. Instead of standing upright or using the old-school VH…
The truth about shoulder checking in hockey is that most young players think theyâre doing it right simply because they make contact, but real shoulderâtoâbody checking is a technical skill built on timing, posture, and controlled force. A proper shoulder check isnât about throwing your weight around or trying to âblow someone up.â Itâs about using your shoulder and upper body to legally bump a puckâcarrying opponent and separate him from the puck without losing your own balance or taking yourself out of the play.
One of the most important but often overlooked skills in youth hockey is communication. Many players spend hours working on skating, shooting, and puck control, but very little time is spent learning how to talk to teammates on the ice. The truth is, strong on-ice communication can make an average team much more effective, while poor communication can cause even skilled players to struggle.
Stickhandling in open ice can feel comfortable, but the game becomes much harder when space disappears and pressure increases. This is where the âquiet handsâ technique becomes one of the most valuable skills a player can develop. Quiet hands refer to calm, efficient, and controlled puck handling that allows players to maintain possession even in heavy traffic.
Better puck support is one of the most important team habits young hockey players can learn, yet it is often one of the most misunderstood. Many young players focus almost entirely on the puck carrier, thinking the job is done once someone has control of the puck. In reality, hockey is a game of constant movement, spacing, and decision-making. Strong puck support gives teammates options, reduces turnovers, and helps young players feel more confident when they have the puck on their stick.
Tempo is the speed and rhythm of the game, and learning how to change it at the right moments can separate smart players from players who only rely on speed. Hockey is not played at one constant pace. The best teams know when to attack fast, when to slow things down, and how to control momentum during a shift, a period, or an entire game.