Two Against Goalie Drill

Purpose:

Goalie works on defending shots.

Setup:

Two offensive players line up near the blue line on opposite sides of the ice. Goalie is in net.

How It Works:

Offensive players drive in toward the goal, passing back and forth until one shoots.
Run the drill for 4-6 minutes.

Coaching Tips:

Goalie should have feet a little more than shoulder’s width apart; skates parallel to each other; knees pushed forward; and chest up to the shooter.

Tips for Younger Athletes:

Younger goalies should focus on basic positioning. Teach them to always square up to the puck and understand angles to cut down the shooter’s options.
Encourage young players to use their stick effectively, not just for making saves but for directing the puck safely to the corners.
Teach younger goalies the importance of controlling rebounds. They should aim to either catch the puck or direct it away from dangerous areas.
Young goalies should learn to communicate with their defenders, calling out instructions and helping to organize the defensive play.
Reinforce confidence in young goalies by celebrating successful saves and providing constructive feedback on areas for improvement.

Tips for Older Athletes:

For older, more experienced goalies, focus on advanced positioning techniques like challenging the shooter and adjusting positioning based on the angle of attack.
Incorporate drills that enhance reflexes and quick decision-making, essential for making split-second saves.
Stress the importance of tracking the puck at all times, especially during fast exchanges between offensive players.
Encourage mental toughness by simulating high-pressure situations where goalies must make crucial saves to maintain the lead or keep the game tied.
Incorporate exercises that improve agility and flexibility, key attributes for making acrobatic saves and quick lateral movements.