The Elite Goalies Belt Levels is our system for guiding students through the different ranks of being a goaltender. From the first time wearing the pads until the moment they turn pro, our system guides and shapes who goalies become as athletes and as human beings.

Each belt level, from White to Black, contains different elements Elite Goalies students will learn as they develop.  All of these techniques combine the ability to control the mind with the ability to control the body.  Cultivating the relationship between the mind and the body allows for optimal performance both on and off the ice.  Maintaining a balance between mind and body while learning the techniques necessary for success, creates and environment rich with opportunity.  With this knowledge anything is possible between the pipes.

This is the foundation of the Elite Goalies unique and productive training system. Success is imminent if students are willing to open their minds and strengthen their mental toughness. Below is the complete description of the Elite Goalies Belt Levels system. Levels are determined by age, experience, skill and a combination of input from the Elite Goalies coaching staff.

ELITE GOALIES BELT LEVELS

Elite Goalies instructors may promote any goalie to the next level if he displays exceptional talent for his age.

Goaltenders aged eight to 10-years-old are considered White Belts. This is the initiation stage of the Elite Goalie process. During these two years, you will learn the fundamentals of skating and dissect videos of other Elite Goalies that have already mastered the position. Enter our world, be initiated and begin to write your story.

Goaltenders aged 11 and 12-years-old are considered Gold Belts. This is the second initiation stage of the Elite Goalie process. During these two years, you will hone the fundamentals of skating and begin to learn the advanced aspects of movement, positioning and the butterfly. You will continue to absorb videos and drills of other Elite Goalies that have already mastered the position. Strengthen friendships and complete the initiation stage of the goaltending position.

Goaltenders aged 13 and 14-years-old are considered Orange Belts. This is the first execution stage of the Elite Goalie process. During these two years, you will begin to understand the advanced skating and movement aspects of the goaltending position. The execution stage is focused on education and development of mental toughness. You will begin to develop a competitive edge and continue to build on the fundamentals that have been honed during the initiation stages.

Goaltenders aged 15 and 16-years-old are considered Green Belts. This is the second execution stage of the Elite Goalie process. During these two years, you will begin serious physical training, both on and off the ice. As your body begins to grow at a more rapid pace, health, nutrition and conditioning will move to the forefront.  The execution stage is focused on education and development of mental toughness. You will begin to develop a competitive edge and continue to build on the fundamentals that have been honed during the initiation stages. This is also the stage in which scouting, promotion and recruiting truly begins.

Goaltenders playing Junior-A or B hockey (ages 17 years and up) may be considered Blue Belts. This is the crucial implementation stage of the Elite Goalies process. During these two years, you will take the collection of tools and traits developed over the past 8-10 years and evolve into an Elite Goalie. Because of the skills you learned in each previous stage, execution has become a result of muscle memory. This allows you to understand the highest of skills, including anticipation, baiting, poise, composure and consistency. The Blue Belt goaltender also begins to teach White Belt goaltenders and learn the intricacies of the position from a variety of personal coaches.

Goaltenders currently playing at the Juniors and Collegiate (NCAA, CIA) level (ages 18 and up) and above are considered Brown Belts. This is the first mastery stage of the Elite Goalie process. During these two years, you will write your own chapters and create your own Elite Goalies identity. Whether you are playing junior, club or collegiate hockey, the emphasis is on continuing education both on and off the ice. This is the stage in which the student slowly molds into the teacher. The body is one with the mind and the evolution of skill, size and five senses allows you to reach a pinnacle. The Brown Belt goaltender is actively pursuing opportunities to play at a higher level and determining the path he will travel for the rest of his life.

Goaltenders that are playing professional hockey outside of the NHL (Europe included) are considered Black Belts. This is the stage in which you are truly deemed an Elite Goalie. Your identity has been established. You are now the storyteller, the wise sage, the teacher. Although you still learn things through experience, you are ready to spread the good word of the goaltending position and pursue a professional career in the position. You can always count on the Elite Goalies staff to aid you along the way and you are welcome to enter the coaching process if necessary.

The 2nd Degree Black Belt level is reserved for NHL goaltenders that have played in a regular season or playoff game. This is the highest rank in the Elite Goalies Belt System.