Many goaltenders allow bad goals when they don’t use these 3 key tips:
1. Separating and Using Your Primary and Secondary Vision
- What not to do: Fail to glance at the middle of the ice using both sets of vision.
- What to do instead: Quickly glance to the center of the ice to spot the most dangerous player using your primary vision. The center gives you a good view of the whole ice.
- Use your side (peripheral) vision to watch for screens, deflections, or sneaky plays from behind.
- Why it works: This will help you see what might happen next and prepare for it.
2. Timing Your Response to the Threat
- What not to do: Don’t react too early or too late, or you’ll lose track of the play.
- What to do instead: Match your movements with the players’ actions.
- Why it works: This helps you stay on target and control the game.
3. Avoiding Over-Movement
- What not to do: Don’t move too much, or you’ll be out of position.
- What to do instead: Always move just enough to be in the right spot to defend the net.
- If you’re too far out, the player might pass around you.
- You could get beaten by a high shot if you’re too deep.
- Why it works: Moving to the middle of the crease will give you the best angle and position to make a save.
Remember: Your vision, positioning, and timing are the most important parts of tracking the puck. Stay alert to what’s happening around you, including where your teammates and opponents are. It’s not just about following the play; it’s about doing it at the right time and in the right way.
Ready to get better at tracking? What will you do next to avoid these common mistakes?
Coach Valana
