Top 30 Search Questions for Elite Hockey Goalie Schools
Below are the most frequently asked questions regarding program logistics, training philosophy, and development pathways at elite hockey goalie schools, such as Jon Elkin’s Goalie School.
I. Program Logistics and Investment
1. How much does a week-long summer camp cost?
Pricing is dependent on the program duration and level (e.g., Beginner vs. Pro). Prospective students must **contact the school directly** for current rate sheets and package options.
2. What are the specific dates and locations for the next intensive camps?
Dates and specific facility locations (e.g., in the Greater Toronto Area) are announced on the **official school website’s registration portal**. Programs often run during the summer and key holiday breaks.
3. What is the maximum goalie-to-instructor ratio on the ice?
Elite programs prioritize personalized instruction, targeting a ratio of **2 goalies per net maximum**, with a dedicated, high-level instructor at every station.
4. Are accommodations (boarding) provided for international or long-distance students?
Yes, the school often coordinates lodging or suggests hotel partners for out-of-area and international students. Details must be confirmed during registration.
5. What is the difference in cost and focus between a camp, a clinic, and a private lesson?
Call for details. (Typically: Camps are multi-day immersion; Clinics are short, specialized sessions; Private lessons are 1-on-1, customized training.)
6. Which age groups and skill levels are accepted into the training programs?
Programs are **tiered to accommodate all levels**, typically including Minor Hockey, U16/U18, Junior (OHL/NCAA), and dedicated Pro-level groups.
7. What is the daily structure of a full-day camp (On-Ice, Off-Ice, Classroom)?
A typical day includes multiple sessions: morning on-ice technical work, a classroom session with video, a **classroom mindset session**, an off-ice/dryland training block, and an afternoon on-ice game simulation session.
8. What is the cancellation or refund policy for camp registration?
Policies vary by program and registration date. Applicants should **contact the administration office directly for details**.
9. Are there payment plans or early bird discounts available?
Call the office for details.
10. Is there a dedicated Athletic Trainer (AT) or medical staff on site during the camp?
For intensive and Pro camps, it is common to have a **dedicated AT or medical personnel** present to manage injuries, recovery treatments, and equipment needs.
II. Training Philosophy and Curriculum Details
11. What is the core training philosophy that guides the coaching?
The philosophy centers on mastering **Technical Precision, Athletic Movement, and Mental Toughness**. Continually integrating innovative techniques to match the evolving professional game.
12. How much dedicated time is spent on skating and movement efficiency drills?
Skating and movement are considered **fundamental**. A significant portion of on-ice time is dedicated to goalie-specific mobility.
13. Is video analysis provided, and is it real-time or post-session?
**Both are utilized**. Coaches often use on-ice video tools (e.g., iPads) for **real-time feedback** during drills, supplemented by longer **classroom video analysis** sessions using game footage.
14. What specific mental skills training is incorporated?
Mental training focuses on developing **resilience, focus techniques, effective self-talk**, and strategies to quickly reset after mistakes, emphasizing a professional, growth-oriented mindset.
15. Do the drills utilize high-level shooters?
Yes. To simulate game intensity, camps are supplied with **high-calibre shooters**, often including Junior A, NCAA, or professional players, ensuring realistic pace and shot quality.
16. Is there specialized training for puck handling and playing the puck?
Yes, puck handling is a critical modern goalie skill. Dedicated sessions and drills are integrated to improve passing, shooting, and decision-making behind the net.
17. How is the off-ice training session structured and what are the main goals?
Off-ice training is **goalie-specific**, led by certified professionals, focusing on **core stability, lower body power, agility, flexibility, and recovery** to enhance on-ice movement efficiency and longevity.
18. What is the focus on angles and positioning?
Training emphasizes mastering **depth and angle management**, ensuring the goalie’s body is consistently square to the puck and optimizing save selection based on the shooter’s position and the flow of play.
19. How does the school ensure goalies develop effective rebound control?
Rebound control is trained through specific drill sequences focusing on hand positioning, body coverage, and **directional kicking/deadening of the puck** to safe areas away from threats.
20. Is there education provided on goaltending equipment setup and maintenance?
Yes, instruction on proper equipment fit, maintenance, and strategic adjustments (e.g., pad strap tension, skate sharpening) is typically included to maximize performance and safety.
III. Reputation, Results, and Development Pathway
21. What are the NHL/Pro credentials of the lead coach (Jon Elkin)?
Jon Elkin has extensive NHL experience, including serving as an NHL Goalie Coach and currently holding the title of **Director of Goaltending for the Pittsburgh Penguins (NHL)**, in addition to over 40 years of goaltending instruction.
22. Which current NHL players have been trained and developed by the school?
The school has developed numerous NHL talents, including **Stanley Cup Champions and current NHL starters**.
23. How does the curriculum reflect the demands of the modern NHL game?
Due to the lead coach’s active NHL role, the curriculum is **immediately current**, focusing on modern tactics, advanced tracking, and high-pressure situational awareness.
24. How do the coaches evaluate a goalie’s progress during the camp?
Evaluation is continuous, utilizing **on-ice observation and video review feedback**. Good communication is a focal point of the program.
25. Are there opportunities for goalies to get scouted or gain exposure?
While not a scouting service, attending a reputable camp with high-level shooters and NHL-affiliated coaches provides **direct exposure**, and the endorsement is often a valuable asset on a goalie’s resume.
26. What is the school’s philosophy on multi-sport participation for young goalies?
The philosophy **encourages multi-sport participation** for younger goalies to develop overall athleticism, agility, and motor skills, aligning with modern development science.
27. Are there any parent information sessions or workshops during the camp?
Some elite camps include dedicated classroom sessions or **Q&A periods for parents**, focusing on navigating the development pathway (Junior, NCAA), nutrition, and the mental aspects of the position.
28. How is game scenario training integrated into the schedule?
Game scenario training is integrated into dedicated on-ice sessions, focusing on complex situations such as **penalty kills, odd-man rushes, screened shots, and point shots with traffic**.
29. What is the ratio of high-repetition drills versus decision-making drills?
Training balances both: high-repetition drills are used to solidify technical muscle memory, while **decision-making drills** (with live shooters) are used to develop the required Hockey IQ and composure under pressure.
30. Can the coaching staff provide guidance on the NCAA or Junior hockey recruiting process?
Yes, with extensive experience at the Junior and NHL levels, the coaching and administrative staff can offer general guidance and mentorship on **recruiting timelines, expectations, and necessary development steps**.