Share via

Purpose:

This drill is designed to enhance the goalie’s ability to anticipate and react to shots, improving their readiness and reflexes. It’s a critical exercise for goalies to practice dealing with both direct shots and shots off a pass, simulating game-like scenarios.

Setup:

Two offensive players position themselves in the faceoff circles on either side of the ice, each with a puck. The goalie sets up in the net, ready to defend. This setup allows for a variety of shooting angles and speeds, replicating the unpredictability of actual gameplay.

How It Works:

  • The player with the puck has the option to either take a direct shot or pass to the opposite player.
  • If the puck is passed, the receiving player attempts a quick shot on goal.
  • The drill is run continuously for 4-6 minutes, challenging the goalie’s endurance and concentration.

Coaching Tips:

  • Introduce variations in shot types and passing speeds to challenge the goalie further. Players should mix up wrist shots, slap shots, and quick snap passes to keep the goalie guessing.
  • Encourage offensive players to change their positioning slightly with each repetition. This subtle movement can simulate the dynamic nature of a real game, where shooters rarely remain stationary.
  • Implement a ‘fake shot then pass’ tactic occasionally. This will test the goalie’s ability to stay focused and quickly adjust from anticipating a shot to preparing for a pass.

Tips for Younger Athletes:

  • Focus on basic goaltending techniques such as stance, glove positioning, and tracking the puck.
  • Keep the drill simple and more predictable, allowing young goalies to build confidence and basic skills before introducing complexities.
  • Use lighter pucks or softer balls to ensure safety and encourage learning without the intimidation of hard shots.

Tips for Older Athletes:

  • Increase the intensity and speed of the drill to challenge older, more experienced goalies.
  • Introduce deceptive maneuvers by shooters, like looking away before shooting or disguising a pass as a shot, to enhance the goalie’s anticipatory skills.
  • Incorporate mental toughness training, encouraging goalies to quickly recover from goals scored and maintain focus throughout the drill.
Share via