The basic field hockey goalie saves are the kick save, pad save, hand save, stick save and slide or smother save. Most saves in field hockey come from the feet and leg guards because shots are usually low, so new goalkeepers should master kick and pad saves first, then add hand and stick saves for higher or wider shots. Whatever the save, the goal is the same: stop the ball safely and either control it or clear it away from danger, ideally toward the sideline rather than back into the middle of the circle where attackers can score from rebounds.
Save types at a glance
| Save | When to use it | Technique |
|---|---|---|
| Kick save | Low shots near the body | Kick with the inside or instep of the kicker toward the sideline |
| Pad save | Hard, low shots | Block with the leg guards, cushion or redirect wide |
| Hand save | Raised shots | Hands out front, deflect wide or over the goal |
| Stick save | Shots out of foot reach, especially wide on the stick side | Stick low and flat, blocking the ball’s path |
| Slide or smother | One versus one close to goal | Slide to create a long barrier with the pads |
Kick save
The kick save is the most common save in field hockey. It is used for low shots close to the body. The goalie steps toward the ball, keeps their head over it, and kicks with the inside of the foot or the instep of the kicker, directing the ball toward the sideline. A controlled kick clears the ball away from attackers and reduces the risk of a rebound goal. Good kick saves depend on balance, so the goalie should be set in a ready stance before the shot, with weight on the balls of the feet.
Pad save
Pad saves are used for hard, low shots that are too fast to kick cleanly. The goalie uses the leg guards to block the ball, often by moving the legs together to make a wide barrier. With practice, goalies learn to angle the pads so the ball deflects wide instead of bouncing back into the circle. Softening the pads slightly on contact can help the ball drop close to the goalie for a follow-up clearance.
Hand save
Hand saves are used for raised shots, such as flicks, chips and drag flicks. The goalie keeps hands up and out in front of the body so they can react quickly. The aim is to deflect the ball wide of the post or over the crossbar, or to push it down safely in front of the body. Goalies should avoid catching the ball and holding it for long periods, because field hockey rules require keepers to keep the ball in play rather than holding it.
Stick save
The stick is used for shots that are out of reach of the feet and pads, especially wide shots to the goalie’s stick side. The goalie extends the stick low and flat along the ground to block the ball’s path. Stick saves are often a last line of defense, so they require good reach and quick reactions. After a stick save, the goalie should recover quickly, since the ball often stays close to the goal.
Slide or smother save
The slide, sometimes called a smother, is used in one versus one situations when an attacker is close to goal. The goalie slides feet first or on their side to create a long barrier with the pads and body, blocking the attacker’s shooting options. Timing is crucial: sliding too early lets the attacker go around the goalie, while sliding too late can leave gaps. Goalies should practice this save carefully under supervision, because it involves contact with the ground and the risk of collisions.
How to make a basic save step by step
- Get set. Take a balanced ready stance with knees bent and hands in front.
- Position yourself. Stay on the line between the ball and the center of the goal.
- Watch the ball. Track it from the shooter’s stick onto your equipment.
- Choose the save. Decide between feet, pads, hands or stick based on height and speed.
- Make the save. Use strong, controlled technique to block or redirect the ball.
- Clear or control. Direct the ball wide or bring it under control.
- Recover. Return to your feet and reset your position quickly.
Rebounds and clearances
A save is not complete until the danger has passed. Many goals come from rebounds when the ball bounces back into the circle. Goalies should aim to direct saves toward the sidelines, away from attackers. If a clean clearance is not possible, stopping the ball dead and then clearing it can work. Defenders also play a role by covering rebounds and marking attackers near the goal.
Rulebook note: under the FIH Rules of Hockey, goalkeepers may use their body and protective equipment to stop or deflect the ball within their own circle, but they must not lie on the ball or play in a dangerous way. NFHS rules for US high schools and other national rules may differ in details, so check the current rulebook for your competition.
Drills to improve basic saves
Partner push passes. A partner pushes balls to the goalie’s feet for clean kick clearances to each side.
Alternating shots. A coach shoots alternately to the left and right so the goalie practices moving and saving.
Raised ball feeds. Gentle raised balls help practice hand saves before building up to real flicks.
Stick side reactions. Shots wide to the stick side train extension and quick recovery.
Slide practice. In a controlled setting, attackers dribble in slowly while the goalie practices timing slides.
Rebound drill. After each save, a second attacker follows up, forcing quick recovery and clearance.
Common save mistakes
- Clearing the ball back into the middle of the circle.
- Taking your eyes off the ball before contact.
- Being off balance when the shot is taken.
- Diving or sliding too early in one versus one situations.
- Staying down after a save instead of recovering.
- Using hands for low shots that feet could clear more safely.
Choosing the right save
Choosing the correct save quickly is as important as technique. Low, slow balls are ideal for kick saves and clearances. Fast, low shots may need pad blocks. Raised shots require hands, while wide balls may need the stick. With experience, goalies read the shooter’s body and stick position to anticipate the type of shot and prepare the right save before the ball arrives.
Health note: goalkeeping involves repeated lunges, kicks and dives in heavy equipment. Warm up properly, strengthen hips, legs and core, and always wear the full protective equipment required by your competition, including helmet, throat protector, body armor, gloves, leg guards and kickers. Seek advice from a qualified professional if you have pain or injury.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most common save in field hockey?
The kick save, because most shots in field hockey are low and can be cleared with the feet and kickers.
Can field hockey goalies use their hands?
Yes, goalies can use their hands and body to stop or deflect the ball within their circle, but they must not hold or lie on the ball.
Where should a goalie clear the ball after a save?
Ideally toward the sidelines and away from attackers, rather than back into the middle of the circle.
