Hockey Goalie Drills For 8 Year Olds
Playing goalie in hockey can be a challenging but rewarding experience for young athletes. It requires quick reflexes, agility, and mental toughness. For 8 year olds who are just starting to play, there are plenty of drills that can help them develop the skills they need to become a successful goalie. In this article, we will outline some effective hockey goalie drills for 8 year olds that coaches and parents can use to help young goalies improve their game.
1. The Butterfly Drill
The butterfly is a fundamental move for goalies, and this drill will help young athletes perfect it. To execute the butterfly, the goalie drops to their knees and spreads their legs, creating a "V" shape. To practice this move, have the goalie start in their normal stance and then drop down into the butterfly position as quickly as possible when the coach or parent yells "down!" Repeat this drill for a set amount of time or number of repetitions.
2. Post-to-Post Drill
In this drill, the goalie starts in the center of the goal and then slides quickly from one post to the other, pushing off with their skate against the post to gain momentum. This drill helps goalies develop their lateral movement and quickness. Coaches can vary the distance between the posts and the number of repetitions to make the drill more challenging.
3. Rebound Control Drill
A common challenge for goalies is controlling rebounds. This drill helps young goalies learn how to control the puck after making a save. Have another player shoot pucks at the goalie from different angles, and have the goalie focus on making the initial save and then controlling the rebound by directing the puck away from danger. This drill can be done in a stationary position or with the goalie moving around the crease.
4. Vision Drill
This drill helps goalies improve their peripheral vision, which is critical for tracking the puck and anticipating shots. Have the goalie stand facing forward with a coach or parent to their left, right, and behind them. The coach or parent will hold up fingers or colored cones, and the goalie must identify the number or color without turning their head. This drill can be done for a set amount of time or number of repetitions.
5. One-on-One Drill
This drill simulates a one-on-one breakaway situation, which is a common scenario for goalies to face. Have another player skate toward the goalie with the puck and try to score while the goalie defends the net. This drill helps goalies practice their decision-making skills and positioning.
These are just a few effective hockey goalie drills for 8 year olds. Coaches and parents should mix up their drills and keep practice sessions fun and engaging to help young goalies develop a love for the game. With time and practice, young goalies can develop the skills they need to become successful on the ice.