GOALTENDERS
Introduction
Goaltending is a critical aspect of team play and requires direct & consistent unique coaching skills.
As forwards and defenders get specific coaching for their respective positions, goalies require the same attention and guided skill development.
Five Key Concepts for Goaltending
PRE-SAVE / SAVE / POST-SAVE
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Find the Puck ‐ (Eyes First)
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Movement ‐ (Getting into position)
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Position ‐ (Stance, angles ‐ square to puck, depth)
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Save Selection ‐ (Appropriate to the situation)
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Puck Control ‐ (Rebounds recovery)
Goaltender Skating
To be a good goaltender you must be an efficient skater. Goaltenders do not necessarily have
to be the fastest skaters on the team, but the best in terms of control and mobility. Pushes from post
to post and ability to get quickly to plays laterally are essential for goalies to be able to perform at a
higher level.
Goaltenders must learn to push with strength and stop hard when needed. When doing a T-push or a
shuffle drill, it is suggested that everything is done in sequence. Example: A coach should be calling out for the goalie to PUSH–STOP–PUSH–STOP–PUSH–STOP etc. giving one second in between pushes. This will give the goaltender time to recover and will keep him from developing bad habits by doing the drill too fast.
The ability for a goaltender to change directions quickly is also an absolute must. The way the current game is structed a lot about trying to create a situation to get a goaltender moving in the wrong direction. In order to do this, and be effective, skating drills are a natural part of goaltender development.
Goaltender Pyramid of Skills
The Goaltender Pyramid of skills outlines what a goaltender should be focusing on based on where they are in their development.
Resources