Together Kevin Weekes and his personal goaltending coach" Sudsie" Maharaj are providing KevinWeekes.com with Goaltending Tips and Advice for those aspiring goalies. These tips and drills will be posted here on a continuous basis. So check back here regularly for more tips from the pros.

GOALTENDING TIPS & ADVICE
PART I - Rebound Control

One of the questions that we get asked most frequently is, “what do I as a goaltender have to do to take my game to the next level”? Although there are a number of factors that determine the ultimate success of goaltenders as they move up the ranks, one of the most important skills is Rebound Control. Advanced goaltenders have now become so technically proficient that it is almost taken for granted that they will make the first save on most of the shots that they face. As a result, it is the placement of the rebound that dictates the percentage of pucks that end up in front of the net minder or behind him/her. However, rebound control issues like any problem may have multiple root causes. Some of the main factors that impact negatively on a goaltender’s rebound control is as follows.

Equipment Size, Fit and Construction

Although professional and higher level junior and college players may not have difficulties with ill-fitting equipment, it is a factor for younger net minders. Equipment that is not the proper size or is too bulky can restrict the ability of the goaltender to move efficiently, causing them react late to shots or hinder them from executing proper save technique.

Also, in their zeal to constantly change the design and weight of goaltending equipment, manufacturers have introduced a series of new materials into the construction of goaltending gear. Although they have succeeded in improving the look and protection of the equipment, it has in some cases resulted in very lively equipment- particularly some of the new leg pads.

Skating Ability

As well, the skating ability of the net minder is a significant factor. If a goaltender is not a strong skater, then he/she will often not be properly positioned as shots are fired, causing them to make desperate, uncontrolled reaction type saves. As a result, they will tend to give up more rebounds because they are forced to move and reach on each shot rather than playing a more economical game.

Technique

Finally, the goalkeeper’s overall technique plays a large role in the ability of the athlete to control pucks. Goaltenders with strong technical skills are better able to not only get in front of shots, but also direct the puck with great precision.

Now that we have examined some of the causes of poor or undisciplined rebound control, what are some of the ways that we can improve this skill?

Obviously, ensuring that the goaltender is wearing properly fitted gear is one of the simplest solutions. Clearly the cost of outfitting a young player in a full set of equipment is expensive, but proper fit should out weight some of the other factors when selecting equipment.

Since skating is such an important element in rebound control, it is important that it be worked on regularly. A great many NHL goaltenders work on their skating every practice to improve or maintain their technique- not straight ahead skating necessarily, but movements within the crease such as shuffles and T-Pushes.

Finally, net minders must learn to use their stick, body and hands to deflect or control pucks. Goaltenders should attempt to steer or deflect shots fired along the ice with their stick. Although this sounds like a simple task, it is a skill that must be reinforced regularly if it is to become a positive habit.

Like wise, net minders need to understand the importance of catching pucks before they hit their bodies, and also learn how to control pucks once they have made contact. Pucks that are fielded cleanly in the air no longer pose a threat, as are pucks that are trapped after they hit the goalkeeper’s upper body.

Rebound control like any skill can be improved through good practice habits. By focusing your attention on ensuring that you are properly placing or covering pucks in practice may not guarantee success, but it will definitely carry you closer to achieving that next step….whatever it is.