Heart of a lion
© Bandits Goalie School - 2008
Ambition to win, superior training habits and focus are just a few characteristics that exemplify a strong willed athlete. Goalies can learn to stop a hockey puck but they cannot be taught to have true desire and internal sacrifice.
So how does a goalie develop these characteristics to one day be considered a true champion?
AMBITION TO WIN. Some of the greatest NHL goalies have earned the title of being big game players. They are known for stepping up to the challenge during big games and crucial situations. Reliable goalies always have the desire to achieve greatness. Goalies such as Terry Sawchuk, Ken Dryden, Patrick Roy and Martin Brodeur have all achieved greatness in their playing careers. Each goalie playing their own system and style that made them what they are known for today, consistent goaltenders. Many characteristics can be used to describe these types of goalies, but the main element was and still is today, CONSISTENCY!
GOOD TRAINING HABITS. At Bandits we always teach our students to strive for consistency. In order to obtain this we educate our students to go on the ice with a purpose. Every time a goalie steps onto the ice, they have to mentally create certain goals that he or she will be working on during practice. Lazy habits are developed from goalies just going out and putting in their 60 to 90 minutes of practice. The problem with this is that goalies are far too often wasting valuable time at practice. More damage is done than good when practice is done without a purpose. Practice is the best time to develop into a more consistent goalie. So how do we go out onto the ice with a purpose? A few things we suggest at Bandits are work on being patient while holding their white ice, watching the puck all the way into their body, having an active stick and checking your mirrors. A goalie that is eager for a challenge each time he or she steps on the ice is an individual that has the work ethic and desire to one day become a champion.
FOCUS. Its one thing to want these prestigious achievements such as winning a national championship, making a new team or getting an athletic scholarship, but it’s another thing to prepare to achieve these goals. Everyone wants to be at the top of the mountain, but some do not want to take the long, rigorous journey to make the climb to the top! The individuals that attempt to climb to the top and succeed will one day be able to look down and appreciate what they have accomplished with no regrets.
True desire and internal sacrifice comes from within you. No matter what you read, hear or say, at the end of the day the responsibility falls back on the individual that’s looking back at you in the mirror. If you want to succeed, go after it with no regrets!
To learn more about Bandits, go to: Bandits Goalie Camp - Learn to Rob the Shooters Blind! 
Linear Mode
