Looking to Improve Your Goalie Skills This Summer. Bill Pilat Goalie Camp Has 15 Winning Drills

Looking to Improve Your Goalie Skills This Summer. Bill Pilat Goalie Camp Has 15 Winning Drills

Summer is the perfect time for hockey goalies to work on improving their skills and getting an edge on the competition for next season. One of the best ways to do this is by attending a specialized goalie camp, like the renowned Bill Pilat Goalie Camp. For over 40 years, Bill Pilat has been training elite goalies using his innovative and intense on-ice drills. Attending his summer camp is a great way to take your game to the next level by learning Pilat’s proven goalie drills.

Butterfly Slide Drill for Agility

One of Pilat’s favorite drills for improving a goalie’s agility and mobility is the butterfly slide drill. This drill develops a goalie’s ability to move laterally in the butterfly position, which is critical for covering low shots in the crease. To perform this drill, the goalie begins in a proper butterfly stance with pads sealed to the ice. Keeping the chest upright, the goalie pushes off the inside edge of the lead pad to slide across the crease. Focus on pushing hard with the lead leg and sliding smoothly across. Perform multiple repetitions sliding side to side to work on explosiveness. This drill improves a goalie’s ability to move across the net quickly while maintaining stability in the butterfly.

Another benefit of this drill is that it strengthens a goalie’s legs and groin muscles. The explosive lateral pushes place force on the legs and inner thighs as you move across the crease. With repetitions, this drill will increase leg strength needed for quicker butterfly slides and recovery during games. Proper technique is important, keeping the upper body tall and using the lead leg to initiate movement across the crease in a controlled slide.

Shuffle Drill for Foot Speed

Improving foot speed and shuffling technique is also a focus of Pilat’s summer goalie camps. The shuffle drill develops fast, explosive movements to either side using a modified T-Push. To perform the shuffle drill, the goalie begins in a neutral stance with feet shoulder-width apart. Load weight onto one leg, engage the edge of that foot, and push hard off that leg to shuffle to one side. Repeat to the opposite side for several reps. Keep the feet moving quickly with short, choppy steps to gain speed across the crease.

This drill improves a goalie’s ability to adjust angles quickly against lateral plays or passes across the zone. Having fast feet and efficient shuffles allows a goalie to get square to the puck even when moving across the net. Keeping the upper body quiet and having active feet are keys to proper shuffle technique. Over time, this drill will build up ankle flexibility and leg strength for quicker footwork in game situations.

Reaction Drill with Balls

Reading plays quickly and having fast reaction time is critical for goalies to make timely saves. Pilat has an excellent drill using balls and reaction cues to sharpen reflexes and response time. For this drill, the goalie begins in a neutral, athletic stance in front of the net. The coach then rapidly rolls or tosses balls at different spots on the ice for the goalie to react and smother. The key is reading the release point and trajectory quickly and responding with fast hands and feet to the ball.

This challenging drill improves reaction time, hand-eye coordination, and the ability to track and respond to rapid shots in tight spaces. As the goalie’s skills improve, the coach can increase speed and vary the release points and angles of the balls. Quick hands, fast feet work, and keeping the head still to track the balls are keys to success. With focused repetitions, goalies will see big improvements in reaction skills and reflexes.

Crease Movement Drill

Controlling rebounds and moving effectively within the crease area is another aspect Pilat works on in his summer camps. The crease movement drill develops efficient skating skills for tracking pucks and covering holes around the net. For this drill, the goalie starts in the middle of the net and moves to each post area while staying in a compact, athletic stance. Coaches call out different spots in the crease for the goalie to react and shuffle or slide to.

This drill emphasizes technical skating skills like crossunders, pivots, shuffle pushes, and T-pushes to execute smooth, efficient movements around the crease. Goalies work on pushing hard and controlling momentum to move precisely to spots without oversliding. Quick changes of direction and stopping on a dime to control rebounds are also practiced. Mastering precise crease movements gives goalies the ability to take away shot angles and depth needed to consistently make tough saves look easy.

Attending Bill Pilat’s summer goalie camp provides an amazing opportunity to learn from the best and take your game to new heights. Using his innovative on-ice drills for agility, speed, reaction time, and crease control will give goalies a winning edge next season. Be sure to exploit Pilat’s proven coaching methods and elite goalie drills this summer!

Angle Play Technique

As summer approaches, young hockey goalies have a prime opportunity to develop their skills and take their game to the next level. While offseason training is important for all positions, goalies in particular can make huge strides by focusing on position-specific drills and techniques during the summer months.

One of the most critical skills for goalies is mastering the angle play – controlling rebounds and cutting down shooting angles to give the shooter less net to target. Perfecting this technique takes time and repetition, making the summer offseason an ideal chance for goalies to sharpen this ability.

Legendary goalie coach Bill Pilat runs intensive summer goalie camps at rinks across North America. Pilat’s curriculum focuses on instilling proper fundamentals and techniques in developing goalies through a series of innovative drills and on-ice training.

Here is an overview of 15 angle play drills goalies can expect to learn and master at Bill Pilat’s Goalie Camps:

1. Shuffle Drill

The shuffle drill develops strong lateral movement and recovery skills. Goalies shuffle side-to-side across the crease, working on pushing off explosively from the posts while maintaining balance and control.

2. Angle Play Out Drill

Goalies focus on playing angles by moving just outside the edge of the crease, challenging shooters and cutting down wide open shooting lanes. This advanced drill improves positioning and angles around the net.

3. Rebounds Out Drill

Rebound control is tested by having goalies control and smother shots taken just outside the crease, using proper hands and leg positioning to keep the puck from squirting loose.

4. Cross-Crease Movement

Quick cross-crease pushes and recoveries are developed in this drill. Goalies work on explosively pushing off the posts and moving across the net.

5. Retreating Angles

Goalies retreat to the net on a shot from the point, maintaining proper positioning and angles while recovering back into the crease. This helps simulate in-game retreats on long shots.

6. Point Shot Recovery

Goalies work on recovering and resetting their position after shots from the point. By recovering back into proper stance quickly, goalies improve their angle play for follow-up shots and rebounds.

7. Outside-In Movement

Goalies move side-to-side from outside the crease to the top of the crease, working on angling attackers and taking away space while recovering inside the net.

8. Save and Spin

Goalies make a save and immediately spin to square up and face the next shot, developing quick recovery skills to face continuous attacks.

9. Post Integration

Goalies practice using the posts to push off of for explosive lateral pushes across the crease, keeping contact with the posts for reference.

10. Telescopic Extension

The telescopic extension drill improves ability to extend the leg pad quickly while sliding across the ice. Goalies work on full extensions and quick retractions.

11. Rebound Pickoffs

Goalies stop an initial shot then pick off the rebound out of the air, developing quick hands and reaction time to control loose pucks.

12. Rapid Fire Angles

Shooters rotate rapidly around the zone, firing off quick shots that challenge goalies to move across the crease and cut down angles under pressure.

13. Screened Shots

Screened shots help goalies adjust and adapt their angle play while dealing with limited visibility. Goalies learn to minimize openings based on shot trajectory.

14. Cycling Recoveries

Goalies cycle around the net and recover back into position quickly as a new shot comes. This engrains recovering back to the proper angle after initial saves.

15. Stance Squares

Goalies get into stance and square up directly to an oncoming shot, developing muscle memory to get set instantly for quick shots.

Mastering these drills and others under the guidance of Bill Pilat’s goalie coaches allows developing goalies to build proper technique and take their angle play to an elite level. Goalies who put in the work over the summer have a huge advantage coming into tryouts and the season. Attending a program like the Bill Pilat Goalie Camp gives goalies all the tools needed to gain a winning edge.

Creative Stickhandling Practice

Summer presents the perfect opportunity for hockey players to take their stickhandling to the next level. With more free time and no games, players can focus on honing their hands through creative skill development.

Master stickhandler Pavel Barber runs high-level summer hockey camps devoted to stickhandling and hands training. Barber’s innovative on and off-ice drills build elite puck control skills in players of all levels and ages.

Here are 15 creative stickhandling drills to help hockey players enhance their hands and boost confidence with the puck this summer:

1. Obstacle Courses

Set up stations with cones, tires, sticks, and other objects. Stickhandle through the course with speed and control, keeping your head up.

2. Dangling Pattern Drills

Practice specific dangling patterns like toe drags, puck flips, and inside-out moves in sequence to develop muscle memory.

3. Stickhandling Soccer

Keep the puck close and maneuver it like a soccer ball around obstacles and defenders. Work on quick footwork with the puck.

4. Stickhandling Levels

Alternate stickhandling the puck at different levels – knees, waist, chest, and stick. Quickly change heights for a challenge.

5. Reaction Stickhandling

Have a partner randomly call out different moves like “toe drag” or “split legs.” Practice reacting quickly to execute them.

6. One-Handed Drills

Stickhandle with just your top or bottom hand to improve dexterity. Add fakes like dragging the puck behind your leg.

7. Puck Rollovers

Roll the puck over the blade to manage it in tight spaces and improve coordination.

8. Shooting Combos

Quickly string together stickhandles like rolls, drags, and fakes before shooting to mimic game moves.

9. Bouncing Puck

Let the puck bounce but maintain control using quick hands to keep it close.

10. Slalom Course

Set up a course with upright stick blades to slalom through, controlling the puck tight to your body.

11. Tight Turns

Use only your hands to make tight turns around cones with speed. Keep your upper body quiet.

12. Two Puck Drills

Juggle two pucks simultaneously to challenge your hand-eye coordination.

13. Close Cantor

Keep the puck within one stick length using quick hands and wrist flicks.

14. Rapid Fire Stickhandling

Quickly stickhandle the puck in and out of cones with changes of pace and direction.

15. Brain Training

Visualize stickhandling through challenging drills with your eyes closed to sharpen reflexes.

Implementing unique drills like these builds elite puck skills and boosts a player’s confidence with the puck. Stepping outside your comfort zone and trying unorthodox training methods keeps repetition fresh and challenging. The summer provides the perfect window to creatively enhance your stickhandling using specially designed camps from expert instructors like Pavel Barber. Stickhandle outside the box this summer and unleash your full potential.

Situational Breakaway Saves

Mastering the breakaway is one of the most critical skills for hockey goalies. The ability to make clutch saves on breakaways can be the difference between winning and losing key games.

Goalie guru Maria Mountain runs specialized summer camps focused on honing a goalie’s breakaway technique. Her innovative situational save drills mimic real game breakaways to build confidence and sharpen reflexes.

Here are 15 must-know breakaway drills goalies learn at Maria Mountain’s summer programs:

1. Basic Breakaway Save

Work on the textbook technique – staying patient, making yourself big, and reacting to the release.

2. Angled Breakaway

Practice more angled breakaways that come from the corner instead of straight on.

3. Deke and Dangle

Facing attackers utilizing advanced dekes like toe-drags forces quick reactions.

4. Backhand Breakaway

Reading backhand moves off the rush prepares goalies for deceptive attacks.

5. Rebound Breakaways

Making an initial save then immediately stopping a rebound breakaway simulates game intensity.

6. Tip In Breakaways

Reacting to deflections and tips in close quarters develops quick reflexes.

7. Screened Breakaways

Saving breakaways through traffic simulates battling screens and tips.

8. Escape Breakaways

Stopping attackers after they escape coverage in open ice mimics odd-man rushes.

9. Penalty Shot Drill

Simulate the pressure of a penalty shot situation for mental toughness.

10. Multiple Breakaways

Consecutive breakaway saves without rest prepares for sustained pressure late in games.

11. Breakaway Competitions

Competing against fellow goalies boosts focus while under the gun.

12. Bridge Breakaways

Lead attackers with your glove by opening up early then snapping it shut quickly.

13. Desperation Breakaways

Rob attackers using any technique necessary like two-pad stacks and diving poke checks.

14. Rebound Control

Focus on controlling rebounds to preferred areas to prevent second chances.

15. Post Integration

Use posts for reference and support on breakaway recoveries.

Executing these high pressure situations trains a goalie’s mental focus. Breaking down different breakaway types ingrains proper techniques to make clutch saves. Maria Mountain’s goalie camps provide a blueprint for success by mastering every breakaway scenario. Goalies who put in the work over the summer gain the edge needed to shine when the game is on the line.

Challenging Screen and Tip Drills

Dealing with screens and tips is one of the most difficult skills for hockey goalies to master. With attackers crowding the net, goalies are left blind and helpless on quick shots and deflections.

Maria Mountain, a former goalie turned elite coach, runs specialized summer camps to train goalies on screen and tip techniques. Her innovative battle drills prepare goalies to thrive in heavy traffic areas.

Here are 15 intense screen and tip drills goalies can expect at Mountain’s camps:

1. Basic Screen

A straight on screen shot helps goalies practice picking up shots through traffic.

2. Half Screen

An angled or half screen challenges goalies to track the puck off the blade.

3. Moving Screen

A moving screen tests goalies to track the puck through a moving obstacle.

4. Double Screen

Reading shots through multiple stationary screens mimics heavy traffic.

5. Shot Tip

Straight on shots aimed for sticks teaches goalies to expect deflections.

6. Rebound Tips

Stopping an initial shot then reacting to a rebound tip quickly builds reflexes.

7. Deflecting Passes

Intercepting tipped passes through legs helps goalies adjust to redirected pucks.

8. Tip Reaction

Reading stick angles and posture prepares goalies for subtle tip directions.

9. Blind Screen

An extreme screen blocking the goalie’s entire vision tests reflexes.

10. Tip-In Scramble

Making rapid-fire saves during stick battles around the crease simulates chaotic scrums.

11. Scissor Screen

Two angled screens that “scissor” together completely blind the goalie.

12. Deflection Angles

Various angled tip drills force goalies to anticipate puck redirections.

13. Tip Rebounds

Controlling rebounds from tipped shots teaches goalies to smother redirects.

14. Tip Competitions

Facing screened shots in contests boosts focus when battling traffic.

15. Rapid Fire Tips

Quick sticks jamming at rebounds with no whistle develops quick reflexes.

By breaking down the intricacies of screens and tips, goalies gain the skills to battle traffic. As Maria Mountain knows first-hand, mastering these chaotic situations gives goalies the edge to win games. Goalies who train hard in the offseason are prepared to stand tall when the puck is flying and vision is limited.

Rapid Fire Low Shot Reaction Time

Reading and reacting to quick low shots is an essential skill for hockey goalies. With the proliferation of quality wrist shots and snap shots beating goalies along the ice, training reaction time on low releases is crucial.

Mitch Korn, director of goaltending with Nashville Predators, runs intensive summer camps focused on sharpening a goalie’s reaction skills. His rapid fire low shot drills hone abilities to see the puck off sticks instantly.

Here are 15 rapid reaction low shot drills goalies can expect at Korn’s camps:

1. Basic Low Shots

Foundational low shots along the ice help goalies read clean releases.

2. Quick Release Snaps

Low snap shots with deceivingly fast releases force quick reactions.

3. Off-Angle Low Shots

Shots from bad angles challenge goalies to track low pucks from all directions.

4. Tip Low Shots

Deflections aimed along the ice teach goalies to expect unpredictability.

5. Screened Low Shots

Tracking low shots through traffic simulates game situations.

6. Blocker Side Low Shot

Focusing on the blocker side forces reaction on short side low shots.

7. Low Shot Rebounds

Controlling low rebound angles quickly eliminates second chances.

8. Rapid Pad Slides

Exaggerated lateral movements across the crease prepare explosive pushes.

9. Low Shot Combos

Sequenced reaction drills mix up low shot types – snap, wrist, screened, etc.

10. Face-Paced Low Shots

No pucks are iced during fast-paced drills, testing continual focus.

11. Low Shot Recovery

Immediate lateral recoveries after each low save mimics rebound situations.

12. Reacting To Pass Recipients

Reading passing lanes helps goalies anticipate shot targets.

13. Visualization Training

Envision sequences of low shots with eyes closed then execute them live.

14. Walking In Low Shots

Patient lateral movement prepares positioning on low shots.

15. Low Shot First, High Shot Second

Forcing reactions down low then up high quickly builds reflexes.

Mastering the intricacies of low shots trains a goalie’s eyes, legs, and reaction time. Drilling rapid fire sequences ingrains the ability to make reflex saves. Goalies who focus on challenging reaction drills in the offseason have the tools to deny low shots when the game speeds up.

Scramble Recovery Footwork

Goalies must be masters of controlled chaos, battling through scrambles in the crease to make desperation saves. Recovery footwork during frenzied situations can mean the difference between a big save and a costly goal.

Mitch Korn, director of goaltending for the Nashville Predators, runs intense summer camps focusing on footwork and movement skills. His specialized scramble and recovery drills teach goalies how to regain control after chaos.

Here are 15 scramble and recovery footwork drills goalies will encounter at Korn’s camps:

1. Lateral Push-Slide

Exaggerated lateral push-slides across the crease focus on explosive starts and recovery power pushes.

2. Post Integration

Use posts as anchors for quick recoveries after rapid lateral saves across the net.

3. Reset Drill

Immediately get into stance and square up after each save to ingrain muscle memory.

4. Save and Spin

Make a desperation save then instantly spin and get square to the next shot.

5. Transition Movement

Practice exploding up from butterfly into stance and vice versa.

6. T-Push Recovery

Work on the T-Push motion to efficiently regain positioning from knees.

7. Shuffle Drill

Exaggerated shuffles across the bottom of the crease focus on edge control.

8. Reverse Shuffle

Shuffle backwards post-to-post while staying square to develop backwards recovery.

9. Point Shot and Save

React to point shots then recover crease positioning for the rebound.

10. Chaos Scrum Drill

Rapid stick hacking and tipped rebounds force goalies to regain control under duress.

11. Post Push-off

Launch laterally from posts with power pushes for quick cross-crease saves.

12. Telescopic Extension

Extending and retracting pad quickly boosts explosive leg drive.

13. Tip and Scramble

Consecutive tipped shots create rebounds and chaos to battle through.

14. Transition Footwork

Rapidly alternate skating forwards and backwards to work edges.

15. Rebound Deflections

Control unpredictable rebound trajectories off angled sticks.

By isolating key footwork mechanics, goalies learn to regain positioning with power after making initial desperation saves. Mastering scramble recoveries gives goalies the edge they need to make consecutive saves when chaos breaks loose in the crease.

Explosive Lateral Pushoff Training

Lightning quick lateral movement is imperative for hockey goalies. Being able to explosively push off and drive across the crease gives goalies the ability to make highlight reel saves.

Mitch Korn, director of goaltending for the Nashville Predators, runs intense summer camps focused on honing a goalie’s lateral skating skills. His innovative push off exercises train power and edge control for dynamic lateral saves.

Here are 15 lateral pushoff drills goalies can expect to master at Mitch Korn’s summer camps:

1. C-Cuts

C-Cuts enhance lateral skating form by working inside and outside edges in a c-shaped pattern.

2. Crossunders

Quick crossovers develop ankle flexibility and strengthen push off power.

3. Power Side Steps

Exaggerated lateral steps activate glutes and groin muscles for strong pushes.

4. Edge Control

Various edge drills like outside edges, mohawks, and crossovers build balance.

5. Lateral Dash Drills

All-out full speed dashes across the crease focus on straight line velocity.

6. Lateral Push Strength

Drive hard off edges using resistance bands for added push strength.

7. Reverse C-Cuts

C-Cuts facing backwards develop backskating edges.

8. T-Push

The T-Push emphasizes driving through the trailing leg for power.

9. Uphill Strides

Striding laterally up a slope forces strong leg extension for pushes.

10. Quick Feet

Fast paced lateral skating with small, choppy strides boosts foot speed.

11. Slalom Drill

Weaving through obstacles develops edges and stability for pushes.

12. Wall Drill

Quick lateral pushes and stops controlling distance from the boards.

13. 360 degree Movement

Open hip rotation enhances power from all angles.

14. Lateral Skating Angle Drill

Push off and drive directly across crease at sharp angles.

15. Edge Recovery Drill

Regain edges quickly after pushoffs using fast feet.

Mastering explosive lateral skating gives goalies the physical tools needed to make spectacular highlight reel saves. Goalies who put in the hard edge work during the offseason have a leg up on the competition when driving laterally across the crease.

Advanced Glove Hand Positioning

Proper glove hand form and positioning is vital for goalies looking to make clutch saves. Advanced hand skills allow goalies to snag pucks out of the air with precision.

Professional goalie coach JF Pelletier runs intensive summer camps focused on honing a goalie’s glove hand abilities. His innovative grip and positioning exercises train quick reactions and total glove control.

Here are 15 advanced glove hand drills goalies will learn at JF Pelletier’s summer camps:

1. Basic Ready Position

The fundamentals – hands out front, fingers pointing up, and palms facing the puck.

2. Angled Glove Approach

Turning the glove hand slightly to meet pucks improves hand-eye coordination.

3. Active Hands

Opening and closing the glove quickly develops dexterity.

4. High Shot Glove Position

Palm up and elbow elevated snags high shots out of the air.

5. Low Shot Glove Position

Palm sideways scoops up along the ice.

6. Relaxed Grip

Avoid over-clenching so the glove can “give” to absorb pucks.

7. Deflecting Passes

Intercepting redirected pucks trains quick adjustments.

8. Bare Hand Drills

No glove work enhances bare hand dexterity and reactions.

9. Reacting To Releases

Reading stick angles and body posture improves anticipation.

10. Ball Tracking

Follow and catch tennis balls to sharpen tracking and coordination.

11. Above The Head

Snare pucks from all angles, including above the head.

12. Behind The Back

Twisting and turning the glove hand grabs pucks from all angles.

13.Quick Hands

Rapid hand opening and closing improves reflexes.

14. Vision Blockers

Obscured vision trains reaction time.

15. Plyometric Training

Clapping push-ups and medicine ball tosses build glove hand strength.

By breaking down hand skills piece by piece, goalies learn to optimize glove placement for any situation. Perfect glove hand form allows goalies to snatch pucks out of midair with confidence.

Vision Control and Rebound Tracking

A goalie’s eyes are their most important asset. Controlling vision and tracking rebounds allows goalies to see shots and quickly react.

Steve McKichan, a professional goalie coach, runs specialized summer camps honing a goalie’s visual skills. His vision control and rebound tracking drills sharpen abilities to track the puck at all times.

Here are 15 vision drills goalies will learn at Steve McKichan’s summer camps:

1. Eyes on Puck

Basic puck tracking keeps eyes locked on the puck at all times.

2. Peripheral Vision

Widen focus to increase awareness without losing sight of the puck.

3. Visualization

Envision making saves with your eyes closed to increase focus.

4. Target Tracking

Follow bouncing tennis balls to improve concentration.

5. Release Reading

Identify stick angles and body posture to read shots.

6. Save and Locate

Make saves while keeping sight of rebounds.

7. Deflection Reading

Anticipate rebounds based on tip angles.

8. Screens and Traffic

Track pucks through obstacles like net traffic.

9. Quick Hands Vision

Manipulate balls in hands while looking forward improving multitasking.

10. Shadow Tracking

Follow shadows and silhouettes through obstacles.

11. Shooting Range

Rapid fire shots from all angles keeps head moving and eyes active.

12. Behind the Back

Track pucks moving out of frame of vision.

13. React Drill

Verbally identify shot type and location training rapid reactions.

14. Trajectory Tracking

Follow the arc and trajectory of shots.

15. Puck Sound Recognition

Identify puck location based on sound cues when vision is limited.

Advanced vision skills allow goalies to make saves based on instinct, reactions, and tracking ability. Goalies who master vision control read the game at a higher level.

Recovery and Centering Exercises

As the summer heat beats down on the ice rink, dedicated goalies continue their training to improve their skills for the upcoming season. While game situations allow goalies to practice technique, the off-season provides the perfect opportunity to focus on exercises targeted at building and honing specific skills.

Bill Pilat’s acclaimed goalie camps provide an intensive program to push goalies to the next level. With over 15 specialized drills and exercises, goalies will enhance their physical and mental abilities in the crease. The strategic combination of on-ice instruction and off-ice training provides a comprehensive approach to becoming an elite netminder.

One of the key focuses of Pilat’s camps is recovery and centering exercises. These drills improve a goalie’s ability to square up to the puck after making a save and reset for the next shot. Quick recovery leads to better rebound control and fewer second chance opportunities for opponents.

For example, the “Push and Reset” drill trains rapid recovery after making a kick save. The goalie begins in a butterfly position and makes a kick save with the right pad. As soon as contact is made with the puck, the goalie explosively pushes backwards and sideways with the right skate while dropping the left pad down, square to the puck. This drill mimics game situations where quick recovery is essential after sprawling for a hard shot.

Another great centering exercise uses resistance bands. The goalie begins in a neutral stance with resistive bands around the knees and waist. When activated by a coach’s command, the goalie drops into a butterfly while recovering back to center as the bands provide tension. This challenges stability and the ability to recover under duress.

Off-ice training also plays a major role in Pilat’s curriculum. Exercises like shuttle sprints, ladder drills, and slide boards all boost a goalie’s power and mobility. The infamous goalie mountain climbers drill targets explosive power to move side-to-side quickly. These high-intensity workouts build the athleticism needed to thrive in the crease.

Head Tracking and Reaction Time

Even the best technique needs to be executed in sync with the play on the ice. Goalies rely heavily on reading and reacting to the action in their field of vision. Pilat’s summer program dedicates focused drills on enhancing head tracking and reaction time.

The “Visual Training” drill utilizes a Jacobs Ladder conditioned response trainer. Hockey pucks fall randomly down the ladder and the goalie must react instantly, tracking the puck and making the appropriate save – butterfly, pads together, glove, blocker, stick or skate save. This engages the goalie’s visual reactions and ingrains instinctual save selections.

Another innovative drill uses a strobe training light that randomly flashes as pucks are shot. This challenging drill forces the goalie to track the puck based on instinct and peripheral vision, since they cannot rely on watching the puck directly. The strobe light heightens hand-eye coordination and awareness.

Off-ice training to boost goalie’s visual skills includes reaction ball drills. These objects have an unpredictable bounce, requiring quick reflexes to catch. Plyometric exercises with rapid changes of direction also boost explosive reactive power. Focused vision drills while working on the slide board or balance board keeps goalies honed in.

Battle and Compete Drills

Goalies also need the mental game and compete level to bring their best when the pressure is high. Pilat’s camp includes intense battle and compete drills that replicate real game intensity.

The classic 3-on-3 clay pigeon drill pits two teams of skaters against each other in tight quarters around the net. The goalie must track rapid puck movement and recover under pressure. With so much action in close, goalies improve rebound control and crease awareness while battling for every save.

Another compete drill, the screen shot challenge, has skaters take shots while screens are executed. The goalie must find the puck through traffic, rely on instinct, and control rebounds with chaos in front. This drill focuses on real-game situations skaters crowd the crease.

The final compete drill in the series is the consecutive 1-on-1 challenge. Skaters attack the goalie consecutively, providing little rest between threats. Goalies must battle fatigue as they focus on every shot. This works on conditioning and mental toughness while under fire.

Off-ice compete training includes distracting and pressuring goalies during drills. Coaches fire shots on net during agility ladder skate work or add flashing lights during weight routines. This conditions goalies to block out distractions and perform under stress.

Game Situation Etiquette

Finally, part of being an elite goalie means representing yourself and your team with professionalism on the ice. Pilat’s summer program teaches goalies the optimal etiquette and habits for game situations.

Goalies learn how to properly prepare their equipment before a game, including techniques for efficient taping, strap adjustments, and puck placement. Proper pre-game routines are essential for optimal performance.

Goalies also practice techniques for game breaks such as intermissions and TV timeouts. Keeping the right focus, hydration, and activity level during extended breaks enables goalies to pick up where they left off.

In-game rituals are also covered, from positioning and communication on breakouts to tracking time and score. Even advanced goalies can hone their awareness for game management situations that give their team the best chance for success.

By dedicating their off-season to Bill Pilat’s intensive goalie camp, netminders can take their skills to the next level in all facets of the game. With expert coaching, specialized drills, and simulated game situations, Pilat’s program prepares goalies to excel when it matters most. After a summer of elite training, goalies will have the physical, mental, and instinctive ability to stand out in the crease.

Battle and Compete Drills

Pushing goalies out of their comfort zone is key for elevating their game. Bill Pilat’s acclaimed summer goalie camps include intense battle and compete drills designed to simulate the physicality and mental pressure of game situations. By testing goalies with competitive scenarios, they build the skills to thrive under fire.

The classic intense drill at Pilat’s camp is the 3-on-3 clay pigeon exercise. With barely enough room to operate, three skaters per team fight for possession right in front of the netminder. The cramped space leads to rapid puck movement, screens, tips, and rebounds. Goalies must track the puck through chaos and recover to make second and third saves. The nonstop action in tight replicates the mayhem of a real game crease.

Another battle drill, the screen shot challenge, has skaters firing away with screeners planted directly in the goalie’s line of sight. Tracking and reacting to shots through tangled legs and sticks improves a goalie’s ability to read plays based on instinct and peripheral vision. Contending with screens builds confidence to take away space when the puck is obscured.

The final compete test pits goalies against wave after wave of 1-on-1 attackers. With barely a moment to reset between shots, netminders must fend off top shooters as exhaustion sets in. This grueling drill improves focus and mental stamina when the pressure is amped up. Goalies learn to thrive under relentless pressure.

In the weight room, goalies add battling elements to training. Medicine ball overhead slams are performed while trainers fire soccer balls at the netminder, who must react to block shots between reps. During lateral shuffle plyometrics, flash photography goes off in the goalie’s face, teaching concentration amid chaos.

Do or Die Shootout Drills

Shootouts are the ultimate pressure situation, with the spotlight squarely on the netminder. Pilat’s camp dedicated extensive training to high-stakes breakaways and shootout simulations. The repetitive exposure in do or die scenarios elevates a goalie’s save percentage when it counts most.

Line drills fire continuous breakaway shots without reprieve, forcing goalies to reset after every attempt. Shooters attack with a variety of dekes and placements, improving the goalie’s read on shot selection and scoring tendencies. By the drill’s end, goalies are tested both physically and mentally.

Another variant uses targeted shooters with distinct shot types: sniper, dangle specialist, five-hole shooter. The goalie studies shooter tendencies and adapts save technique to defend targeted shot locations. Reading and reacting to shooter strengths builds an advantage in shootouts.

The final shootout preparation drill mimics the real shootout scene. Goalies stand in solo against the shooter, with camp attendees surrounding the rink cheering them on. The rowdy shootout simulation preps goalies for the intensity of a crowd hanging on every save.

During off-ice video review, goalies evaluate shooter tells and tendencies. Seeing shootouts from the shooter’s perspective provides insight on positioning, reaction time and approach. Studying the subtleties of body position and stick angles enhances a goalie’s shootout IQ.

Battle Drills Against Former Pros

To truly test their compete level, Pilat’s camp has goalies square off against former pros. Staring down seasoned veterans with NHL shots keeps goalies on high alert.

The pro breakaway drill sees netminders take on a barrage of shorthanded chances from ex-pros. Tracking elite speed and hands improves reaction time and gap control. Handling howitzers from former snipers also tunes reflexes and rebound control.

Another battle scenario has two former pros run a 2-on-1 rush. Reading and reacting to seasoned passing and finish forces goalies to make rapid save selections. Contending with the pace and skill boosts focus and competitiveness.

Finally, the former pros run set offensive plays against goalies – behind the net cycling, cross-ice one-timers, backdoor taps. Recognizing and disrupting set plays improves goalies’ ice awareness and ability to anticipate developing threats. Facing established chemistry pushes goalies to their cognitive and physical limit.

By challenging goalies with intense battle scenarios, Bill Pilat’s summer camp instills the skills needed to deal with mayhem. Competitive drill after drill engrains the technical ability, situational awareness and mental toughness necessary to win when the game is on the line. Goalies leave prepared to thrive between the pipes when the pressure peaks.

Video Analysis Feedback Sessions

One of the most valuable learning tools at Bill Pilat’s acclaimed summer goalie camps are the in-depth video review and feedback sessions. Using game tape and practice footage, Pilat’s coaches breakdown a goalie’s mechanics, positioning, and reactions to highlight areas of improvement.

The video sessions utilize footage captured during camp drills and scrimmages. The goalie sits with coaches to review each repetition, evaluating aspects such as angles on shots, save selections, rebound control, and recovery speed. The frame-by-frame analysis identifies subtle technical corrections to refine a goalie’s technique.

Another helpful video drill captures the goalie’s crease movement during intense battle drills. The hectic action is examined to suggest adjustments to depth, positioning, and post integration to optimize coverage. Goalies learn exactly how to improve stance, transitions, and movement in chaotic situations.

On-ice footage also assists in troubleshooting specific areas of concern. For example, if a goalie is struggling with screens, the video can diagnose issues tracking the puck, sealing holes, or maintaining edges when visibility is limited. The goalie receives tailored advice to address weaknesses.

Video From the Shooter’s Perspective

Insight into a shooter’s visual perspective provides another valuable learning opportunity. Video from a shooter’s vantage point during breakaways and shootout drills gives goalies a sense of how their positioning, body language, and reactions are perceived.

Seeing video of their stance, depth, angles, and movement helps goalies understand how shooters read and react to them. Small adjustments, like reduced motion before the shot or a lower crouch, can disrupt scoring chances based on this perspective.

The shooter’s perspective also assists in diagnosing issues with keeping shoulders square, limiting net exposure on initial shots, and controlling rebounds back into the crease. Reviewing where pucks leak through helps seal holes.

pro Scouting Reports on Shooters

When camp shooters include former pros, video analysis unlocks a scouting report on elite scoring tactics. Goalies glean insight on shot targeting, release points, and deception tactics as pros attack the net.

Noting where pros aim on breakaways, target on screens, and shoot on 2-on-1s enables goalies to adapt positioning to take away preferred shot locations. Learning pros’ go-to finish moves and release habits improves save anticipation.

Watching video of pros’ on-ice communication also provides clues into their strategy. Goalies can align technique based on shooting tips pros share with campers. Reviewing video with coaches trains goalies to think analytically about countering scoring threats.

Video Support All Season

Pilat’s staff supplies year-round video support beyond camp. Goalies receive access to a portal to submit game and practice clips for review. The remote analysis and feedback keeps goalies progressing once camp concludes.

Before big games, goalies can send last-minute tape for quick tips from Pilat’s coaches. Trouble spots, bad habits, and positioning questions can be addressed heading into key performances when stakes are high.

Ongoing video analysis provides accountability as well. Goalies stay focused on technical improvements knowing clips could be submitted for assessment. Virtual coaching offers a checks-and-balances system for continuing development.

Video review allows Bill Pilat’s summer goalie camps to extend far beyond a week-long session. By detailing specific adjustments through ongoing collaboration, goalies build skills long after leaving camp. The frame-by-frame feedback accelerates development year-round.

Unique Obstacle Course With Slaloms

Bill Pilat’s summer goalie camps feature an innovative on-ice obstacle course unlike any other. Winding across the zone, the course incorporates cones, hurdles, and slalom patterns to challenge goalies physically and mentally as they navigate the gauntlet.

The opening segment has goalies shuffle laterally around conesplaced zig-zag across the ice. The tight turns test agility and edge control while tiring out the hips. Goalies must stay controlled through the lateral shuffle despite building fatigue.

Next, a series of hurdles forces goalies to explode up and across each obstacle. The repeated leaping enhances power and stamina in the butterfly. Goalies gain elevation on their initial push and control on the landing as they clear hurdle after hurdle.

The final phase of the course incorporates a diabolical slalom pattern. A mix of short and long slalom gates are positioned haphazardly across the zone, requiring rapid pushing and recovery across each arc. The chaotic left-right movements push a goalie’s technical skills and stamina to the brink.

Recovery Technique is Key

While navigating the changing direction of the slalom, the key is mastering recovery technique. Goalies must plant hard, rotate their body square, and push powerfully towards the next gate. The ability to repeatedly drop into stance and explode across the arc tests a goalie’s speed and efficiency.

The varied spacing of the slalom gates also keeps goalies honest. Moving laterally from a short gate to a long gate challenges pad extension to cover the wider arc. Goalies improve their range and fluidity while remaining balanced through each push and plant.

The final slalom gates are placed at sharp backward angles, forcing goalies to execute reverse vb pushes. Getting low in stance and driving backwards builds backward recovery ability. By the end, goalies have mastered lateral movement through the obstacle course.

Integration Into Game Situations

The obstacle course translates directly into game situations. As goalies fatigue going through the course, coaches pepper them with shots. Contending with bad angle attacks right after navigating cones or hurdles mimics in-game recovery demands.

The course is also run with goalies wearing vision-restriction glasses. With limited sight, goalies must move efficiently yet explosively while relying on muscle memory and instincts to make saves blindly.

Finally, goalies run the course in full equipment and stick while dealing with angled approach shots. Challenging mobility while fully geared improves stamina and technical precision under game conditions.

Customization for Individual Improvement

A unique benefit of the obstacle course is customizing it for an individual’s specific needs. Goalies targeting lateral movement will run extra slalom gates. For recovery work, more backward gates or hurdles are added.

Based on game film, the course can include situational drills like angled scrambles out of the crease or lateral redirects across the top of the crease. Obstacles are set up strategically to improve positioning and technique for game scenarios.

The flow and spacing of the course can build very targeted skills. For example, placing obstacles to mimic the flow of a breakaway improves positioning and recovery on scoring attacks. Customization takes the obstacle drill to the next level.

Bill Pilat’s intense summer goalie camps put goalies through the wringer with the innovative on-ice obstacle course. Completing the winding gauntlet of cones, hurdles and slalom gates tunes a goalie’s technique, stamina and mental toughness. Goalies gain an edge by mastering this unique routine.

High Repetition Muscle Memory Drills

Proper technique and positioning needs to become second nature for goalies through thousands of repetitions. Bill Pilat’s acclaimed goalie camps dedicate extensive ice time to high repetition muscle memory drills that ingrain proper save mechanics.

A key muscle memory drill at the camps is the double angle shot series. The goalie rotates across the arc of the crease, taking rapid shots from both posts. Moving laterally while tracking shots locks in correct angles and post integration.

Another repetition drill has goalies alternate glove and blocker saves on shots down the middle. Going back and forth while remaining square tunes hand-eye coordination and engrains good habits stopping pucks.

The final high volume drill is the angled rebound exercise. Shots intentionally carom off the goalie’s pads, forcing rapid resets and recovery to the proper angle for second shot stops. Rep after rep develops reflexive positioning.

Targeted Technical Repetitions

Pilat’s camps also customize muscle memory drills to focus repetitions on mastering specific techniques. Targeted repetitions build confidence executing the refined skills in games.

For example, goalies needing glove hand work will take a barrage of high repetitions on clean glove side shots. The volume trains proper hand positioning, reaction time, and puck reception on that side.

Goalies looking to quicken feet speed will rapid-fire lateral shuffle across the crease, building hips and edge work through volume. Getting low and pushing hard throughout boosts muscle endurance.

High rep rebound control drills develop the ability to direct pucks into the corners rather than back into the slot. Controlling speed and angle on rebounds through repetition reduces second chances.

Repetition Under Fatigue

Advanced camp goalies perform muscle memory drills under fatigued conditions. After sprints or lateral shuffle work, technical repetition continues while fighting through exhaustion.

Pushing hard through extra saves at the end of a tough workout extends muscle endurance and mental stamina. Goalies learn to maintain technique when tired to survive late game sieges.

The high volume training also improves concentration. Playing backbreaking volumes of rapid shots forces goalies to maintain focus. Breaking down mentally means more pucks in the net.

Video Review for Corrections

Following high repetition drills, goalies review video with Pilat’s coaches. The frame-by-frame analysis identifies technical corrections based on miscues from repetition fatigue.

Seeing elements like stance width, save selection, hand position, or rebound control breakdown helps goalies self-diagnose weaknesses arising when exhausted. They gain insight to refine technique.

Video from early repetitions is compared to late repetitions after fatigue sets in. Goalies learn exactly which aspects of technique slip as they tire. Making fixes prevents errors down the road.

By honing muscle memory through thousands of smart repetitions, Bill Pilat’s goalie camps construct the solid technical foundation needed to thrive in any situation. Repetition trains quick reflexive saves and efficient movement to frustrate shooters.