Philosophy

At Performance Goaltending we believe that training sessions are critical to goalie development. We create situations and conditions that will seriously challenge each goalie - game action will seem routine in comparison. Using a progressive system of learning, each drill will have its core lesson increased in difficulty, constantly challenging the goalie to get better.

"Low-Ice-Priority-System [LIPS]" Tactical Training

Low-Ice-Priority System [LIPS] tactical training is a belief that in the modern game of hockey Goalies must prioritize coverage of the bottom 1/3 and centre of the net. Like a game of chess, the goalie must be thinking not only of the immediate move [save] but must also anticipate the next 2 or 3 moves. Our training will help the goalie to be in a position to react to any outcome in any situation.

Why is this more critical than ever before?

Easily observable at higher levels of hockey, we are witnessing the proliferation of a wide-open, high tempo, high speed sport. Players are skating hard and fast to the net with no interference, thereby creating active screens and serious pressure on the goalie and defensemen. We are seeing an unprecedented number of lateral passes to one-timed shots, multiple passes 'east-west' as well as deflections off sticks, skates and bodies as the puck crosses the ice. New stick technology has resulted in quicker releases and faster shots with less reaction time. Goalies who cannot handle this new reality are being regularly exposed.

LIPS tactical training

teaches goalies how to move laterally in an explosive and controlled manner, covering the lower portion of the net while being ready to react to every situation. There are many styles and techniques that will accomplish this coverage and we teach goalies the proper timing and selection of each one. Predicated on strong skating skills and above average rebound control, we teach goalies how to thrive in the modern, fast moving game of hockey.

"Imperfect Information" Training

Imperfect Information Training is a reference to how we help goalies excel in game realistic situations. At Performance Goaltending we believe in creating situations which are more than game realistic, creating a 'fog of war' environment. Rarely in a game do you get to see the entire play in front of you. We recreate game situations introducing screens (high & low screen boards, blackout goggles, mesh screens) deflections (deflection boards) and active rebound battles (instructors). This gives 'imperfect information' to the goalie as he or she does not see the entire shot release or puck trajectory and must use solid goaltending principles to make a quality save and battle for any rebounds… just like in a game situation.

Skating Ability is the most critical foundation for success in the modern game. Every session at Performance Goaltending will begin with a dedicated skating session with particular emphasis on explosive lateral movement techniques and edge control. We strongly encourage every goalie to work on their skating techniques whenever possible - your skating skill and explosive power can always be improved!

Good Safe Fun is the reason we are all playing the great sport of hockey. Some drills will require A great deal of physical effort and may not feel like 'fun' when you are doing them. When training just think of the smile that will be on your face when you make a critical save during a game because you worked hard during practice. Trust me, it's worth all the effort you put in!

At Performance Goaltending we believe that if a goalie is not having fun they will not stay in the position for very long. We take our training seriously, not ourselves! We will ensure that the instructors we use are qualified for the age group, are well supervised and use skill specific shots and techniques.

Knee Protection is absolutely critical to the modern goaltender and style of play we promote. If a Goalie does not have adequate knee protection we will restrict him or her from any drills that could expose the knee to a puck. From experience, we know that a puck to the knee is extremely painful and will almost certainly produce a 'puck-shy' goalie. We do not want that responsibility and it is safer to err on the side of caution. 

When sending your child on the ice, please ensure that at the very least there are 'good' knee guards and/or thigh boards in place [preferably both]. 'Good' is a relative term but at the junior and intermediate pad level it almost always means buying knee guards off the shelf. Typically - at the junior & intermediate pad price point - the manufacturer skimps on knee protection. Please do not sacrifice in that area or your young goalie will almost certainly suffer an injury at some point during the season. For an extra $30 or $40 dollars you can keep them safe and protected for many years. We would be happy to examine the knee protection in place and make suggestions if needed.