Announcement: Don’t miss our upcoming goalie clinic – Don’t miss our upcoming goalie clinic on January 30th at the SDRC (5:30 – 8:00 p.m.). More Information.

Playing goalie requires a special kind of player, very specific skills, strong determination and focus…and it helps to be just a little bit crazy.

But seriously, goaltending is a tricky area (one that usually contributes greatly towards winning or losing championships). Unfortunately, because 99% of goaltending focuses on one or two players on a team, there is rarely enough time to develop these skills in a regular practice.

In addition, most coaches have never played goalie, have received very little training on how to coach goaltending, and are usually overwhelmed by other aspects to really be able to pay proper attention to this very important aspect of the game.

In fact, most practices are unknowingly designed around the 18 “skaters” of the team with very little thought or time given to goaltending. Even worse, while a semi-circle “warmup” is great for players, it immediately throws a goalie into a very intense, physically demanding workout at the beginning of practice.

DCYHA is incredibly fortunate to have its very own coach just for goalies. Larry Nickels is a fantastic resource and has done a great job developing programs, conducting clinics, and providing support for this critical aspect of our game. He works with goalies individually and in group workshops throughout the season and is a tremendous asset to our organization!