My son played out last season, taking a year off from playing goalie. This fall, he is going to play goalie again. Not having bought goalie equipment in a while, we had to purchase almost everything. My main question has to do with the chest protector. It has a "collar", which my son expects to go up to his throat. It just doesn't. Most of the weight of the chest protector is in the front, so it is always going to gravitate down in the front. I can super shorten the back straps, but then the protector is tight around the shoulders.
Do the "collars" typically go that far up? The collar on his old protector seemed to go higher high, but still had the same basic problem. Are some chest protectors just made this way? I have a collar/pad that goes under the chest protector so I'm not really worried about protection. I just want to make sure the protector fits properly, but is not too tight.
My other question has to do with thigh boards. We got my son true goalie pants (always just used large, padded hockey pants in the past). The goalie pants have built-in thighboards, as do his leg pads. He's never had to chose between two sets of thighboards. Which would one typically use, the thighboards in the pants, or the thighboards with the pads?
Posted on Jun 9, 2009, 12:04 PM from IP address 216.64.15.122
I can only seem to find baseball reaction balls (multi sided balls that bounce in all directions). However, they seem so small. Any suggestions on a good one?
Posted on Mar 30, 2008, 4:34 PM from IP address 24.1.223.234
I am having trouble figuring out exactly where I am or how far I am away from my net and thus this leads to me playing my angles incorrectly. then the shooter just finds a hole and puts it in. any suggestions?
Posted on Mar 12, 2008, 11:37 PM from IP address 24.71.223.149
There are several movement drills that help with angles and positioning. These classics help you ingrain your movement into an automatic response rather than needing conscious thought.
Also, a large portion of your on ice movment is going to be using a shuffle to follow the puck position. HAving a consistant shuffle distance is key. With varied shuffle distances you can end up off angle very easily. To test yourself try this little drill....
Set up on the blue line on the defensive side. W ith eyes closed and left skate on the defensive edge of the blue line take two shuffles to the right, three to the left and one back to the right. IF your shuffle distances are consistant you should look down and find yourself back in your same start position. IF not you need to work on this aspect.
The crease shuffle is a great tool to develope your shuffle. I am a firm believer in the Popa goaltending horseshoe method which has the crease diveded into 9 points of coverage.
Which ever you choose to do, make sure that you shuffle the arc consistantly. From the left to the right post and back the other way, it should be an EXACT same number of shuffles.
These next "classic" drills will help you gain hte consistancy that will solve your problem. Also, there is nothing wrong with waiting at the bottom of the crease center of your net and moveing out from there. Some say that reaching back and hitting the post with your stick can be a guide. I dont encourage this nonsence. I realize that every rink is not the same but once you have your skating down, use those visuals in front of you to develope a "net radar" for where it is behind you. Sounds kind of flakey but over time it will come. Be confident, work on your skating skills and it will fall into place. Perform these drills at a pace that has you doing so PROPERLY. work speed into the drill as you can. Correct performance is more important in ANY drill over simple speed.
To find your MAX distance start in post coverage. take TWO HARD STRIDES towards top center of the crease, stopping with the same skate you drove off the post with. Dont know your age or hight but it should put you between a foot(younger) to just about halfway to the hash marks(mature). Try to keep inside this max positional range while you develope your skills.
Posted on Mar 22, 2008, 5:10 PM from IP address 66.82.9.59
When ener I try to slide across the crease, the skate keeps slipping and I don't go anywhere. I think the skates are not sharp enough. But everytime I get them sharpened, the same thing happens. Any suggestions?
I own Baur Vapor XIV's
Posted on Feb 13, 2008, 7:27 PM from IP address 70.73.46.74
Is this from a down butterfly position or being up on both skates and transitioning into a sliding butterfly? What ROH are you having ground into your blade? If you dont know...YOU SHOULD!
IF already down, you MUST shift your weight fully onto the drive skate. IF up and not getting good drive check you pads. IF they are too snug at the toe lace they will not slide over to the side of the skate. The inside edge of hte pad will lift the blade free, reducing the leg extentin you can put into your drive. The same might apply to your lateral slide from a down position. IF you have to lift your knee nearly back upright to regain that skate edge to drive, your pads are tied incorrectly.
You want a double knot set up in the toe laces to allow the slack need to get a good slide over of the pad for faster blade recovery, longer blade contact when up and good rotation of the pad into a "profly".
which allows:
Posted on Feb 22, 2008, 5:31 PM from IP address 69.19.14.44
Like many of you, I had tried every stretching routine and exercise under the sun including the stretching guide on this website and howtostretch.com, but I never seemed gain much flexibility. In fact some of the floor stretches were painful on my joints. Then I suffered a second degree groin strain last December that put me out for 6 weeks and just wouldn’t seem to completely go away for months after no matter what I tried, but now I am happy to say that my adductor and hip flexor pain are finally gone and I am on my way to reaching my flexibility goals. Attached is a pic of me going into a recent pre-game stretch.
I am a 39 year old beer-leaguer and no Miikka Kiprusoff yet, but I can now say that I haven’t been this flexible in years. I bought a Stretch-a-Flex at (stretchaflex.com) Welcome to www.stretchaflex.com. Stretching on the floor was killing my hips, but this stretching aid uses your body leverage to maximize the stretch without putting pressure on your joints. It comes with an in-depth DVD and instruction book that steps you through many different stretch routines including upper body, lower body, and a separate section for moving into a full split. I started using it about 4 months ago when it was still painful to make a pad save to closing in on a full side split (on the floor at least). I’ve also started applying it to widen my butterfly from which I am already seeing great results. It actually feels good to stretch out my old hips now. I play twice and practice once a week and can honestly say that I don’t get sore hips after playing anymore. No more hobbling in to work the next day.
The Stretch-a-Flex was by far the best $60 I’ve ever spent. I contacted the inventor of Stretch-a-Flex and he has agreed to send members of this board a free list of specific stretches for hockey goalies and instructions on using the Stretch-a-Flex to widen your butterfly. Believe me, it is well worth it. Just email Shaun O’Leary at shaun@stretchaflex.com at your time of order with "goalie stretches" in the subject line.
Posted on Jan 3, 2008, 9:26 AM from IP address 74.204.7.83
I checked to make sure, because I thought I paid by Visa. You can pay by credit card as well. This is a great stretching aid that really maximizes your range without putting stress on your joints. It really is like having a trainer help you stretch. Well worth it!
Posted on Feb 5, 2008, 4:58 AM from IP address 70.90.43.214
I am going to bet your transfering your weight from the drive leg onto the down knee before you get close to full extention on your drive leg. When you place your weight onto the "go to" side early that down knee becomes a pivot point. Your down skate acts as a drag and spins you around. FIRMLY keep that weight shift to the drive leg into you complete the push and are about to drag it back in for the slide.
Learn how to control that spin and you will add another depth to your B-fly slide....
Posted on Jan 30, 2008, 4:05 PM from IP address 66.82.9.56
Depends on what you want the pads to do and what method you intend to use.
Buttefly with a flat faced pad? traditional pad w/ knee rolls?
If you want the pad to rotate onto its side to form a wall(pro-fly) it will typically be a moderate tight strap to secure the pads lower skate portion tight into the ankle. The straps up the calf would be easy to slip your four fingers under and the knee strap only enough to make sure that you do not come down off your landing gear. newer pads have knee lock systems to prevent this. The knee strap is very loose and the knee lock snug. The top most thigh strap...why do they even keep this strap on the pads? most goalies only put it into the first hole or if w/ speed clips just enough to keep it out of the way.
You also want the pad to slide over on the top of your skate. IF the skate gusset does not slide over, the inside edge of the pad will lift the skate blade free of the ice early. The blade should not leave the ice until your skate cowling has contacted the ice. If using toe laces you need to have a set amount of slack to allow this to happen.
note in the picture below how the skate gusset has pushed over to the side letting the blade stay in contact with the ice. This allows for a full push for lateral drive and requires less knee lift to regain that edge when you recover.
Distance between the two knots is about 1-1.5 inches.
Posted on Dec 13, 2007, 5:29 PM from IP address 66.82.9.81
1.) I have been a right handed shot all my life but I also catch lefty. This became a problem when i switched from player to goalie. . .It is extremely difficult for mt ot try and get a hard shot or even lift the puck with a left handed stick is there anything i can do other than keep practicing lefty?
2.) I have followed goalies for a long time but have always played as a player but recently changed to a goalie. I dont play for a team but i play once a week with a group of talented skaters. I seem to do well with shots but im having trouble with the 5 hole. . it seems the puck is just barely squeaking through and basically trickling into the net. Any suggestions?
Posted on Nov 18, 2007, 9:02 PM from IP address 72.22.162.130
Stick work for the goalie is a matter of practice practice practice. One of the things that youth coaches look at is this aspect of a goalie as an indicator of their maturity level. Keep working at it. As for being able to lift a puck, check out the brodeur patterns. The same basics apply to the goal stick as it does to the player. Get the puck in the wheel house and get the upper body into it. Shooting while standing on both skates? Did you shoot that way as a player? bet not.....
Five hole, Stick location. are you lifting the stick off the ice as you drop? are you closing the knees? there are a few downloads at my web site that you might want to check out....
I have a Heaton glove but it seems that it is not open enough.. .I find myself always having to stretch it out (which only lasts a few minutes). . the glove has been used for atleast 2 seasons. Is there anything i can use to loosen it up a little bit. . atleast to the point where im not trying to stretch it out mid game.
Posted on Nov 18, 2007, 8:52 PM from IP address 72.22.162.130
IF you have access to a steam cleaner you can use the wand inside the glove. Another trick is to wet a couple towels and ring out so they arent dripping wet. Microwave to get them steaming. With care to not burn yourself, stuff it into the glove and over glove. Let sit for about a half hour and then put the glove on, working it open and closed.
Which model glove. Some such as the later helite v and 6 just do not have the wide open face like the Helite IV has.
Posted on Dec 13, 2007, 5:13 PM from IP address 66.82.9.81
I had talked to another goalie a few weeks back about it and he suggested that it was because it was a medium intermediate. I have since purchased a professional large and have noticed a huge difference. . . Hopefully now glove side shots wont cause me any difficulty =)
Posted on Dec 13, 2007, 6:50 PM from IP address 72.22.162.130
I'am a new goalie just this year. I got myself 06 RBK 7K Pads (I think thats the name) and when I play with them I keep getting the knee flap going up under my pant leg after I go down, obviosly this isn't good and throws my playing off or i have to fix it when the puck is cleared. I am not really sure how to put this part of the pad on properly to stop that from happening, it's a simple velcro strap, so I'm a little lost, not sure if it's just the placement of the strap or the pant size. lol it's a pretty rookie question but i can't find anybody to help.
Thanks a lot
Posted on Oct 26, 2007, 7:03 PM from IP address 69.17.132.202
It can be a major pain in the butt thats for sure. More than likely the pant leg is just a tad short. Hte thigh board will continue to slip under unless you can keep the elastic strap up on the pant leg.
To stop this on my sons, I added an elastic loop to the back of each pant leg. Center and about 4" up from the bottom of the pant leg. Stopped the thigh board from slipping under.
Posted on Oct 27, 2007, 8:25 AM from IP address 69.19.14.35
My husband refused to get new gear...due to cost...which I understood, however...after having two of his fingers broken...I took action and purchased RBK GB RBK 6K SR Catcher and Blocker. While I was at it I bought the RBK SR GP 6K Leg pads too. His were ancient and weighed a ton and were bought used and at a full 4 inches higher than he should wear. (The old ones were 36" and then downsized when a pair became available to 34"s -- but now he has the proper 32")
So, this is day one...they just arrived today...he hasn't even seen them yet! I've read some on the catcher and blocker...wrist bands...batting or golfing gloves to wear next to skin...etc...and tips for smell reduction. He is very meticulous about airing his gear...and though they came to us smelling awful, good care has diminished the smell.
What about protecting the gear from water...ice...I don't want make the leg pad slick, but want to preserve them.
His new leg pads are predominately white in color (I've noticed that the bright colors wear poorly...so it was either all black or white...I've noticed that my husband likes to tape his stick with white tape so he can instantly view the puck to stick relationship...white blends with the ice, perhaps harder for players to see where his pads are and are not...and easier for him to see where the puck is or is not...
Anyway...really appreciate the help learning to care for new stuff...really appreciate the new stuff, having dealt with only second-hand stuff since he began to play 5 years ago.
Thank you,
Carrie
Posted on Oct 25, 2007, 11:52 AM from IP address 75.27.225.107
At the start and end of eacvh season it would be a good idea to have the gear OZONE cleaned. The gear is subject to OZONE gas which kills any bacteria or biologics. These are the critters responsible for oder. With luck you can find a local pro or sport shop that has this process. Cleangear or esporta uses dry clean chems that some can have an allergic reaction to. Rash, itch etc etc. plus the gear takes forever to dry. The ozone cleaning process is about 1 hour and the gear never gets wet other than an anti-microbial spray put on at the end.
Keep the gear in a warm dry place. Do not air dry near a heat source such as a heat vent.
Post game, the gear must never be allowed to freeze. Do not leave in a car or truck over night.
Keep the gear out of direct sunlight. UV will reduce longevity and strength of materials as well as cause fading.
To prevent sagging between the skate and chin portion of the pad, hang rather than stand pads up on the floor.
Keep glove stored in a closed position. Glove and blocker go into the bag last, on top. Skates kept with guards on or seperate compartment to prevent accidental cuts.
Posted on Oct 27, 2007, 10:30 AM from IP address 69.19.14.35
Your advice on cleaning at an Esporta location is seriously misguided. Esporta does not use dry cleaning chemicals. Esporta has the only lab tested wet wash process to rid the gear of the bacteria, mold, fungus, blood that is causing the gear to stink (99.997%)and it doesn't take forever for the gear to dry - you bring it in one day, you pick it up the next (and it's completely dry).
Ozone for one is a carcinogen, secondly, it may kill some of the bacteria (91% at best on the surface of the gear) but it's not cleaning anything - got blood on your gear, it will still be there after the ozone as well as the bacteria that was killed. For the ozone machine to work, your gear must be perfectly dry otherwise ozone changes the water to hydrogen peroxide (think that's good for your gear). Lastly Ozone makes your gear stink like a medicine cabinet.
Esporta uses low pH detergents and disinfectants so there is no damage to any of the equipment including leather (gloves, skates, leg pads, etc) and all the gear is held in place during the wash to eliminate wear and tear on the gear.
Many of the top teams in country use an Esporta location (including last years Stanley Cup champs the Might Ducks). Ozone dealers will say they have a lot of NHL and NFL teams, but that is because they have given those teams the machine for free, and what team doesn't like free.
If you ever have the chance to compare the results of Ozone to Esporta you should - there is no comparison in the results, Esporta wins every time.
Posted on Dec 7, 2007, 3:14 PM from IP address 74.61.146.22
There is documented evidence regarding the skin hazards that can come from the esporta cleaning. Esporta(clean gear)also would not clean my goalie pads. I have been using the OZONE process for about 4 years now. OUTSTANDING! Ozone cleaning kills 100% of the biologics.
true story....My wifes cat urinated on several pieces of my gear, most noticably my CA. I had it cleaned by clean gear who used an esporta machine. IT still reeked beyond belief. Took it for Ozone cleaning and in 1/2 hour I got it back smelling spring fresh. The gear comes out smelling much like that you get after a lightning storm, not like a medicine cabinet. The esporta cleaners spray your gear down with an anti microbial mist and fragrence to hide the nasty smell of the chemicals.
My oldest sons football team had a contract with a local esporta service. Half the team ended up with severe skin rash bacause of the chemicals used. It is NOT a dry process. OZONE beats Esporta any day of the week ESP for goalie gear. Let me know when esporta can also give a 1/2 hour turn around time for an entire bag of out player gear or 1 hour for the entire goalie kit, including pads.
Posted on Dec 13, 2007, 5:40 PM from IP address 66.82.9.81
Sorry, there is no lab test that shows ozone is 100% effective in killing bacteria. please pass on the "documented evidence" that Esporta is ineffective, other than an ozone pamphlet. Your right, Esporta is not a dry process, it is a more effective wet wash deep into the gear - both open and closed foam - to kill the bacteria eating away the equipment (that's why the gear stinks to begin with), something ozone physically can't do, there is no "misting" involved. If the operator didn't clean your leg pads, that was their choice, not a limitation of Esporta as we do lots of them. There is no gear that Esporta can't clean and disinfect.
I guess the football and hockey players at the five high schools and two colleges we do must have tough skin - as well as the Mighty Ducks, the Minnesota Vikings, major teams in Hockey East ,etc. They don't care that it takes longer than an hour as they know it's more effective. (again if your gear is not perfectly dry, ozone is even less effective than normal)
If you want to sell your service through your site, please do it factually. It appears people come here to get some good information, you should stop spouting the misinformation that the ozone makers throw out there. Again, you have some documents to the contrary, let's see them. 3/4 of the Esporta process are low pH and enzyme detergents and all natural biodegradable fragrance. The other is an effective (more effective) disinfectant to kill 99.997% of bacteria (including MRSA), mold and fungus.
Again, just trying to make sure your providing accurate information to those interested in playing a great sport safely.
Posted on Dec 17, 2007, 5:27 PM from IP address 74.61.146.22
Just posting my opinion and some facts regarding the benefits of OZONE over The Esporta Chemical bath. See, some DO have "tougher" skin than others. You just never know...and with the OZONE process its NOT a concern what so ever...With Esporta, you roll the dice.
You can "name drop" all you like but OZONE is more effective, more environmentally safe, less expensive, FASTER turn around and has no potential to cause harm to the wearer of the gear. Yes, it is SLIGHTY less effective when the gear is wet but who cares...I have never taken my gear in for cleaning right after a game.....lol
I am aware that it is something that the local "clean gear" facility restricts in regards to goalie leg pads.
You ask me for proof...put it up yourself. You present yourself as an "owner/operator" so I think that onus would be on YOU. Regardless, The make of my gear and my sons custom gear BOTH state that they would not suggest ESPORTA as a suitable process for their gloves, blocker, chest, pants or PADS. If the guy designing and making my gear says DONT....well, its a no brainer.
Posted on Jan 30, 2008, 4:27 PM from IP address 66.82.9.56
I have recently purchased a pair of 3700 Vision Pads. For each pad there was a loose pull strap and a strap with 4 holes attached just as in the left bottom area of the picture on the vaughn web site.
Unfortunately I do not have the manual left to check what this is good for or how it is to use and how to put it to the skate.
It would be great if you guys could help me here to get an idea.
Thanks,
Brandi
Vienna, Austria
Posted on Oct 17, 2007, 6:56 AM from IP address 81.223.159.6
I read in the sports section sometime last year about some researchers (I believe it was in Alberta somewhere) that came up with some type of mental training technique that significantly improved goalie performance. Does anyone recall anything about this? If you do and you have a link to any information please pass it on.
thanks
Posted on Sep 7, 2007, 1:21 PM from IP address 142.22.16.57
Progressive Muscle Relaxation followed by mental visualization. It isnt very new. First talked about back in the early to mid 1970's. IT is an outstanding tool done properly.
A search for PMR should get you started...
Posted on Sep 27, 2007, 4:43 PM from IP address 69.19.14.25
I'm looking to replace my vaughn 7000 blocker. It's not bad but i just don't like the balance of the blocker,very awkward in my opinion and a lilbulky too.I'm looking to replace it with a lighter, better balanced pro blocker. i've been looking at the 12.8 X-wing or the new brians theif blocker, but any opinions would be welcome on any pro blocker.
Posted on May 18, 2007, 6:35 PM from IP address 71.33.149.228
I was just looking at the new thiefs and thought the thmb and over all protection level was WAY over kill and bulky as hell. trying a paddle down in the pro shop was nearly impossible with the huge thumb pads.
Consider a thin board blocker like those from donsimmons sports? the protection levels seem adequate yet no over board on the bulk.
Posted on May 27, 2007, 9:05 AM from IP address 66.82.9.20
Thanks for the info on the thief blocker MD. I am possibly thinking bout a thin board blocker, i just heard that the brians gear has been known to be very protective and practically indestructible. I am going to take a vacation and stop at the only place in the state of colorado that actually carries a decent amount of goalie equipment and try some on. Have you by any chance tryed out or known anyone that has tryed the new itech 12.8? THanks again for the info on the thief!
Dale aka Outlaw
Posted on May 27, 2007, 9:24 AM from IP address 71.211.153.192
i would go with the Itech 12.8 its nice and is the lightest one on the market or if your looking for a cheaper get a RBK Premier Series II their nice and the also quite light but if you've got the money get the Itech
Posted on Dec 27, 2007, 9:08 PM from IP address 24.64.223.204
maintain your depth and dont drop early. When you do drop on a high shot stay tall over the knees. Also keep those gloves ahead of the body and in the "active" position.
Posted on Apr 25, 2007, 4:18 PM from IP address 66.82.9.57
Is Vaughan 3700 C/A a good chest protector for a first year travel Bantam goalie?
by
(no login)
My son has been playing goal for 2 years with the the same C/A (Vaughan-Lite Jr XL). He will be starting Bantum travel next fall and went from 5' 2" to 5' 6" in just 5 month. I want to buy him another Vaughan. I was told that the Vaughan 3700 C/A Sr Med would be prefect for him. Please advise.
Posted on Apr 9, 2007, 7:37 AM from IP address 138.162.0.44
Your son should love it. It will be stiff at first but that ends the second or third time he sweats it up. First couple practices he might consider going bare skined underneath to speed the process. One step up would be the Epic but its a bit more bulky. IF he is long in the torso, the epic may be a better fit. The Senior Med 3700 is shorter in the belly length but should fit well w/ sleeves set at the shortest setting. It should fit well until he is around 5' 8-9".
Posted on Apr 25, 2007, 4:17 PM from IP address 66.82.9.57
I had success removing the smell out of my son's gloves with vinegar.
I soak the gloves first then dump the rest in the washing machine and air dry them.
It worked for me.
Posted on Mar 13, 2007, 9:41 PM from IP address 74.101.37.135
The smell of normal vinager, left behind, can cause the family cat to get a bit confused about where to pee. The white vinegar will actually keep the cat AWAY from your gear.
Posted on Apr 25, 2007, 4:09 PM from IP address 66.82.9.57
My son just resently started playing goal and he has all new goalie equipment. He saids the scoop is really stiff & hard to open & close. Any suggestions how to soften it up?
Thanks
Posted on Jan 5, 2007, 7:27 PM from IP address 205.251.28.139
Would he be talking about the goalie catch glove? Wear the glove while watching TV. Work it as much as possible. Tape a couple pucks together w/ white hockey tape, tossing them into the glove. You can also take several towels and get it wet but not dripping wet. Microwave until steaming. Stuff one into the open hand area and cover catcher with the others. Let sit for about 15-20 minutes, remove towels and begin working the glove.
One thing you do not want to do is bend the glove TOO OPEN. That tends to weaken the glove and a hard shot to the very edge of the binding can bend the fingers back...pretty painfull. Full open position is just what the hand will open it.
Posted on Jan 7, 2007, 2:23 PM from IP address 66.82.9.36
I was just wondering if anyone knew any good exercises to improve coordination. I've been told I have a solid game but I need to work on coordination, particularly on higher shots. Any ideas?
Posted on Dec 16, 2006, 7:21 AM from IP address 74.96.188.74
Hand eye can be worked on in many many ways but its not always a matter of just co-ordination. Visual acuity is very important. So is being able to track that puck all the way into the glove. IF the glove is allowed to drop even or behind the plane of your body no hand eye work will improve that situation.
I have company over at the moment so I will get back to this thread in a while with visual accuity drills and some hand eye co-ordination drills. If you catch this before then maybe a bit more detailed info will help me target specifics. Got a pic of stance? Photobucket.com is a great free resource for uploading and sharing pictures. Specifically I am looking for how much forward chest lean you typically have and where glove placement is. Is it possible that the glove is dropping back during play? Specific hockey situations where you feel that it is hand-eye that an issue?
Posted on Dec 16, 2006, 9:52 AM from IP address 66.82.9.53
I think coordination is less of an issue for me than size. I'm not a big guy, so I don't take up a lot of room. That means that it takes better guessing of where the puck is going to go, and if I'm off by even a bit it hits the net. This is probably my biggest problem. Any ideas?
Posted on Jan 31, 2007, 2:27 PM from IP address 74.96.188.74
I practice juggling, when u beat me glove side (10 feet out), even my team is amazed. I can juggle 6 balls, and the vision that u can gain is awesome. u will notice if one ball is only a Cm from where it should be. Deflections will become routine.
Posted on Dec 19, 2006, 9:27 PM from IP address 64.231.153.161
Good to hear your finally getting back to the ice. Hope the knee holds up for you. Thanks for the kind words regarding Gator.
Funny story on a penalty shot he faced yesterday Vs Jamestown
One of his defenseman got called for covering the puck in the crease so a penalty shot was awarded. One ref placed the puck at center and explained the rules to the shooter while the other explained them to Gator. Gator lazily leaned on his left post as the ref went over them.
The center ice ref whistled the play start and gator remained leaned on his post waving the shooter in as if to say "here's the net...its all yours". The opponents bench went into an uproar. The shooter got about 3 or 4 strides into his puck carry when gator launched off the post for his two hard strides, making a hard stop at about halfway to the hash marks. The shooter must have thought Gator was charging cause he just about came to a complete stop and then restarted towards the net but very shakily. On reaching the hash marks the kid tried to deke going to his back hand but ended up losing the puck and tripping over his own skates. Gator has to have scared the hell out of the shooter! lol Gator fell over laughing LOUDLY at the poor kid and just did a two pad stack for the hell of it....too funny! The Coach was calling for an unsportsmanlike on Gator but the Ref told him to stop whining, play hockey.
scrum that lead to the penalty shot: Gator tryingto push the D out of the crease:
Gator laughing at the poor kid as he never gets a shot off:
Team mates celebrate him stopping the penalty shot:
Sorry for the crappy pics but Leisure Rink has the worste lighting around...
This would have been my favorite pic of gator this season but the Auto Focus grabbed Yeggi's stick as he skated into the frame:
By the way, that vid you did up for me is now on youtube and at a guys myspace site. It gets a bit of play time for a pre-game "pump up"!
Hey man, he is getting really big! I think the vid on you tube is a little unsynchronized, I hope it was not my editing but the beats are a little off on the cuts. Its awesome how he just throws people around and yells at refs.....that's a Hasek in the making HAHA! I see he has the V-2's....he getting better with that pro-fly?
As for me getting back out there, it starts tomorrow. Last week got cancelled. I have my new CCM GF6 mask w/Skull Design mask in on Tuesday (with a chrome cat-eye) and I am really fired up to use it.
If you want me to make another video sometime, send me some clips.
Posted on Nov 16, 2006, 5:03 PM from IP address 167.104.6.43
I have been doing still photography for the last several years so have no video. I really should dig the ol palm corder out. Nah, your vid was solid. That version has been reduced in size. Running it through a freebee editor really reduced the quality that is there in your work. I have the Disc you made for Gator tucked away in a safe place. Who knows...maybe one day it will play on a display screen in the HHOF? lol
Gator Flys well but it isnt his deal. He is hybrid after all. He is VERY nice to the refs. He makes it a point to shake their hands after games that he feels are called well. He is such a little SUCK UP! He is loving the V2 now that he has gotten used to the larger pad width and hight but he wished he had gotten the white/silver that match his glove and blocker. He Got the Pads and then I surprised him with the gloves about a month later. They hadnt done the silver where the black is when he selected the pads. I am just glad he picked them. My wallet was very relieved. He has been making comments about how its a crime that my pads sit unused...nope, it wont work. He is not getting mine to use. He is already using my sticks from maltese hockey!
Oh, that cancelation must have just ruined your day! To be all psyched up and ready...best of luck. Let me know how it goes. I havent had much time for MSN so....plus I am working third shift now.
Posted on Nov 17, 2006, 6:37 AM from IP address 66.82.9.54
Gator sucking up to the refs? That's funny. Me, I give them credit when they deserve it, but I am the first ones to get in their face when they have a bad call.
One time a ref called a goal on me (It cost us the game) when the puck bounced off the post and out. I got up and ripped him but he said he "thought" he saw it go in. I then proceeded to give him the dictionary in curse words.
I am glad the V2's are workin for him. When I get sick of my Miklin's I am gonna sell them and buy some V1's in black with white daggers.
As for getting back out there, it went well. My cat eye cage really improved my vision, and my recovery was very fast. However since I was REALLY rusty I let up quite a few softies. I did leave a little early because my knee was starting to get sore when I was doing a b-fly, and I did not want to over do it. I feel fine though, I just need to have my buddy throw shots at me in a parking lot because I need to work on my fundamentals.
You not playing anymore? Gator trying to pick up your Helite 6 Gatekeepers or something? haha.
Posted on Nov 19, 2006, 10:24 PM from IP address 71.168.141.120
My son started to play goal at age 6. He was great at Initiation(5-6 year olds) and Novice(7-8) levels with a butterfly style of goaltending. In fact, his team only lost a couple of games each year. Now he is an Atom (9-11) and still likes to go down into the butterfly real early. He's still doing ok but gets beat up high a lot. His glove and blocker are OK but not great. I have tried to teach him not to commit to early but to no avail. This down early into the butterfly style has worked so well for him so far that he doesn't want to change. He seems to do OK in the first period of games until the coaches of the opposing teams figure him out - they always seem to score a lot more goals in the 2nd and 3rd periods. How can I convince him to change his style? I have played a lot of hockey myself but never as a goalie.
Posted on Nov 7, 2006, 11:05 PM from IP address 204.50.97.238
Todays game, now about 15 years of time has passed with the full butterfly goalie in net. Unless the goalie is absolutely perfect in depth and angle it will be exploited by the opposition. Dropping early is one of the easiest to see and be expoited with. The older he gets and the higher the quality of player he faces, the problem will increase.
One aspect is him trying to model his play after his favorite NHL goalie. They make the same errors as the average joe goalie BUT they have world class reflexes to help bail them out. They are NOT someone to watch and try to emulate 100%.
As a Dad there isnt much you can do on your own if the goalie is unwilling. There is also the large habit he now has to over come. Its not going to be easy even if willing. Your best bet is to find a good reputable local coach or summer clinic where he will get a good amount of individual attention. They will have a much larger immediate impact on his desire to make corrections.
As far as your own time with the little guy you can run shot fake drills to try and get him to stay on his skates longer. Just standing at the hash marks he will face shots where you multiple fake shots. The initial object is for him to remain on his skates until a shot is released. As he makes progress, the goal can be changed to require no flinching on hte fake shot. The other thing is to play a lot of one on one with him and EXPLOIT these areas to death. Pick those corners over and over again. Be sure to let him know that if "this old man" does it what will the good kids on the ice do to him? He will get very tired of being scored on and begin to make the adjustments needed. Dont be cruel and do talk of his positives but also do not sugar coat the obvious flaws to his game. Pure butterfly is on its way out. Shooters and Coaches can exploit most with a few simple tricks. HE has to increase his skills to include more than just a blocking butterfly.
Sign yourself up for a subscription to THE GOALIE NEWS. The best 26 bucks a year you can spend to educate yourself. It also gives you access to the on-line coach for drills for every aspect of goaltending that you can think of, from basic to advanced.
Posted on Nov 9, 2006, 2:14 PM from IP address 66.82.9.12
Well we got our first win of the year this weekend and what a win it was! 11-1 - we then tied 5-5 and lost the last one 11-7. My goalie seems to be staying up longer and playing better - thanks for the tips.
Posted on Nov 12, 2006, 5:42 PM from IP address 204.50.97.238
I don't want this site to die, so let us get off our a$$es and post some of the most basic tips. They helped me when I started between the piopes again after 15 years our of the crease.
Number 1
Try to have your toe ties and skate laces a different colour so if there is a failure you know which one is causing you grief.
Number 2 anyone?
Posted on Oct 12, 2006, 1:54 PM from IP address 64.230.81.216
When you get into a FUNK and just cant seem to stop the puck...simply return to the basics of stance, positioning and angles. Dont tamper with the more advanced aspects of your game. RETURNING to the basics is kind of like rebooting the computer.
Posted on Oct 13, 2006, 10:14 AM from IP address 66.82.9.39
Remember to drink plenty of fluids. It is already too late when you feel thirsty. Drink a non cafinated beverage at least an hour before game time, longer if possible. This will alow your body to hydrate and helps prevent dehydration related injuries (cramps).
Posted on Oct 15, 2006, 7:32 AM from IP address 70.50.100.203
#2 Very important, keep your stick on the ice at all times! Use white stick tape, when a player looks quickly they will see anything other than white,so let them think nothing is there! PS. white tape with puck marks is not the same as fresh tape.
Posted on Dec 19, 2006, 9:41 PM from IP address 64.231.153.161
Some really nice articles and content such as the goals setting and rewards. I love the fact that your putting emphasis on the visual acuity. Most dont give it a thought let alone offer drills for improvement.
Went into my goaltending bookmarks
Posted on Sep 30, 2006, 4:55 PM from IP address 66.82.9.19
My son is a first year midget goalie and a little on the small side. He is currently going through tryouts and has impressed the coaches enough with his ability to stop the puck that they currently rank him 2nd among the four goalies left. Where the coach has concerns about his play is in his ability and willingness to wander out in front front of his net and aggressively play the puck up to his teamates. This has not been a big part of his game but it is something this particular coach wants to see in his midget rep goalies.
Are there some basic principles (dos and don'ts) to this part of the game. For instance, I don't see any use passing it to your d man when he is racing back to your end and is on your side of the blue line so passing it up to one of your forwards would be a better choice in this situation.
Thanks
Posted on Sep 19, 2006, 10:06 AM from IP address 142.22.16.58
His whole playing of the puck is going to hing on his confidence level and skating ability. HE must be confident or a majority of the time it will back fire.
Key is him being totally aware, paying attention to the puck when it is outside his defensive zone. When the puck is coming back, other than icing, it isa great advantage. For instance, if the opponent tries a quick line change a goalie whos on the ball can get a puck up for a real scoring chance. Another is being able to play it up to a defensman who can then advance it to a forward for another odd man situation.
Do be aggressive when the threat level is low. No opposing team members...go for it. Conversely, if he can get to the puck before an attacker to prevent an odd man threat, he needs to be able to. Dont take the risk if there is any doubt in the goalies mind. Once they commit then they have to go all out. there is no in between.
Can he shoot or puck handle well enough? This is a key area looked for as it gages a goalies maturity level. IT is better to sit back more and play the puck when he can with out risk than to play outside his abilities and get burned.
Posted on Sep 19, 2006, 5:46 PM from IP address 66.82.9.69
My son has an Itech1200 series goalie, however when he snaps up the chin strap he has great difficulty rising it up on the ice when he needs a drink. Right now he is opting to leave it undo so he can put it up & down easily. Any suggestions on this anyone?
Posted on Sep 17, 2006, 5:50 PM from IP address 205.251.29.149
This is the strap that does not connect to the backplate correct? Simply a sling under the chin? This strap is not required unless the chin cup is attached to it. On one occassion, this strap cause my little guys head to get jerked around and he had a sore neck after. Its purpose is to prevent the mask from poping off. Given an immediate whistle is a MUST when a goalie mask comes off, we have removed the strap completely. I think it is better for the mask to come off than to possibly sustain a neck injury due to that chin strap.
Posted on Sep 18, 2006, 6:41 AM from IP address 66.82.9.70
There is also a few water bottles on the market with a large lip. IT is easy to slip into the cage and pull against a bar to open. A goalie can simply squirt through the bars. www.maltesehockey.com has a very nice water bottle. My son and I both have one. LArge mouth and lip on the squirt top for easy opening. Can easily hold with one hand and open with one of the cage bars.
HE should need only a sip or two to wet his whistle so to speek. Hydration is done pre-game during the 6 hours leading up to a game or practice. Once its game time, its too late to do anything about dehydration.
Posted on Sep 19, 2006, 5:51 PM from IP address 66.82.9.69
My son's chin pad/strap only touches his chin if we tighten the back plate to where it is inside the shell AND the pads inside the shell. When I see pictures or other players with goalie helmets, it appears that the back plate fits inside the shell, but not inside the pads, which are inside the shell. This causes his helmet to ride kind of high to where his eyes sit an inch or more below the top of the opening of the helmet. He wants his eyebrows to be about even with the top of the opening of his helmet, and with most other folks I see, that's where their helmet rests. I tried loosening the backplate to where it sits outside the inner pads of the helmet, but my son's chin doesn't touch the chin pad/strap. The strange thing is that I can stick my head in his helmet with it adjusted this way, and my chin barely touches the chin pad/strap. The chin pad/strap is certainly not snug enough to keep the helmet on my head, much less his. This is an Itech 1200 helmet, either youth or junior.
My son plays football as well as hockey and he's expecting a snug goalie helmet, similar to his football helmet. Also, he sometimes plays forward and his regular hockey helmet has a chin pad practically attached to the cage, which we have adjusted to snuggly fit against his chin. Is his and my assumptions about a snug goalie helmet totally wrong? Is the chin strap irrelevant? Should we adjust his helmet to where the back plate fits inside the shell, but outside the pads within the shell? I know that adjustment would help his vision, but would it be safe?
Posted on Jun 15, 2007, 9:08 PM from IP address 75.66.205.9
They finally got Bucky phillips just south Of Jamestown NY. My little guy opened his season starting the first game of the Early Bird Tourney at jamestown saveings bank arena. As we traveled west on the southerntier expressway(86) to Jamestown, police agency vehicles passed us on the way to Freysburg nearly one after another. Placing a containment perimeter around him they had at least 6 miles of roadway covered by at least one officer every 25 yards! Thats a lot of bacon! Helicopters all over the place!
They were cuffing him as my son finished the last few minutes of his game, starting his season with a 2-0 shut out!
After the game the police vehicles leaving the area was like a near endless parade, cars pulling over to let them by, honking congratulations as people came out of their homes and stood at the sides of the streets cheering.
Posted on Sep 9, 2006, 8:54 AM from IP address 66.82.9.41
Hey guys i have a set of 32" leather goalie pads. they are only a few years old. the problem is they are black and blue. I want to make them completely black covering up all the blue leather. do you guys know what paint i could use or what i could do to make it all black...please let me know because i'm very curious.
Posted on Aug 22, 2006, 6:50 PM from IP address 24.207.120.35
They are not real leather. Its a synthetic material. IF it looks just like leather than i would say off hand that it is a product called Jenpro. Sorry, dont know how you would dye them. Someone over at the GEW posted about the subject. if you dont get usefull info here you might want to try there.
Posted on Aug 24, 2006, 2:01 PM from IP address 66.82.9.59
Its a man made material that requires less maint and care than real leather. Pretty good stuff. A tad heavy compared to weave or pro glow but its the most durable. Real leather will absorb stuff like water and conditioning oils. Synthetic will not or not nearly as rapidly soak up water.
Posted on Aug 25, 2006, 3:50 PM from IP address 66.82.9.14
a friend of mine spray painted his old pads and it started flaking off little by little. i tried spray painting a little portion on the pad and it dried on..when i scratched it a few times the paint came off so i'm pretty sure i have to spray something on the pads that will help the paint stick.
Posted on Aug 25, 2006, 6:33 PM from IP address 24.207.120.35
My son has recently started having problems with breakaway drills (he seems to have less problems with the real thing). Anyway, he has always done well with breakaways until recently. He seems to get beat a lot more than he used to. One of his biggest problems is that he goes down and then the player goes around him and puts it in the corner of the net. He's coming out at the beginning, but probably retreating too quickly and too deep into the goal. He's also probably going down too early as the opposing player is able to go around him and put it into the corner. It also looks to me like he lets the player get too close to him (facing him), without poking; thus allowing the player an easier cut to the left or right.
Obviously, this is a little hard for you to diagnose without seeing it, but I haven't played a lick of hockey in my life, and am trying to help. Any suggestions?
Posted on Aug 21, 2006, 8:31 PM from IP address 24.165.202.27
Hey , couple of things that may be happening with your son, he may be overplaying the drill, concentrating on each step , trying to execute each as if he was practicing, the other , the player has all the time in the world to beat him, remember its a drill, no one to check him. You may also get him to work on his backside edge, when one leg is up and the pad is on the ice and you slide hard over into the place where the shooter is trying to shoot.I am a goalie and my two sons are as well, when I am stumped I go to belfour.com. Its eddy belfours site, he has a really good section on tips and drills. Hope this helps
Posted on Aug 22, 2006, 9:07 AM from IP address 131.137.245.197
One of the problems with break away drills is that rarely, unless the coach is on them, do they execute at game speed. This leaves the goalie with too much time to think and their timing is off. Its not surprising that he might drop early, back in too far or other wise not perform as he would in a game. Also, many times these drills are saved for last part of the practice session to add FUN for the out players. By this time the goalie has been worked hard and has been "thinking" about his instruction.
My little guy has taken breakaways to a near art form going over 90% both in game and in practice. The secret.....POPA GOAL TENDING breakaway method and the popa goal tending mechanics of angles/positioning.
In the Popa(former University of Michigan G Coach) method it is simplified beyond belief. The goalie only need watch for 2 things on a break coming down the middle. When the player reaches the hash marks he sees if the skater is hard on his edges or coasting. Coasting and he can be aggressive with a poke or other attack move. IF the player is skating hard then he need only take two hard strides back from his max positional range. The player will have time for one deke or commits to the left or right. Your son would then only have to hit the corner of the crease(where the line straight out from the post meets the edge of the paint.
Now, many coaches want the kids to skate out to the hash marks and begin a reverse, closing the gap between them and the skaters. WHY? Why ask your goalie to be under the total control of the shooter? Why not let the goalie control the shooter instead? There is ZERO reason to going out that far. Each backward cut can take them off angle or get behind in the play. Each cut as the gap closes leaves a chance for the shooter to catch the goalie unprepared.
To find your sons max positional range have him start at post coverage, one skate heal tight to the post. Take two HARD strides top center and stop HARD with the same skate he pushed off with. This should place him square and somewhere between 6-8 inches outside the blue(little guys) to halfway to the hash marks for the older goalies. Age 12 and my Son hits just shy of half way to the hash marks. This also grows as the goalie does. He need only repeat the process to adapt to his growth, to adjust his max positional range.
This is where the goalie will HOLD until the skater reaches the hash marks. With the skater going hard on his edges, the goalie will execute two hard strides backward, recognize the deke or side commitment of the shooter and then hit the corner of the crease. A full 98% of breaks down the middle will have the puck released with in inches of that point. IF you son can learn this break method you can expect him to be over 90% in game OR practice. By holding he is in control and at game speed or not WILL make a vast majority of the stops.
For those unfortunate enough to attempt to coast in on him and look down....well, they will fig it out. lol There is nothing in the rules that says a goalie can not CHECK an attacking puck carrier. The poke check is also taught kinda wrong by most coaches. They teach a goalie to try to knock the PUCK away. What do players do? Pull the puck to the other side and go around an out of position and extended goalie! instead, "shoot the gap"! A player coasting will be either protecting the puck OR carrying it to a side, not straight out front. The gap between the players puck side skate and the puck is where you aim the stick. 99% of the time the player will attempt to draw the puck to the other side. They will lose control of it OR deliver it right to your sons stick. ONLY on a coasting player....
If you can find a POPA GOAL TENDING break away clinic, they are worth their weight in gold. Expensive as heck....you can also pick up his video on the topic at popagoaltending.com(expensive as heck cept after a clinic) My son has used this for 3 years now and is known for his skill at break aways. His Coaches do not bat an eye when an opponent gets a break away.
It is the entire popa positioning/angles and break method that allowed him to achieve a .987 Save Percentage and a .954 GAA....yes that is not a typo. less than 1! He has had other exceptional coaching from Jukka Ropponen and the guys at Maksymum Elite Goal tending in Rochester NY (ESL sports centre) but Popa gave him the MAP that let him use the skills taught to him by the others for max results.
feel free to email me for more in depth discussion.
PS...when practice is done take the little guy for an ice cream or whatever. Enjoy the time and be as positive as possible. Let him start any discussions regarding his performance. Never blame the Defense and dont let HIM use that as an out. we are the last line of defense. They can contribute to a goal allowed BUT ultimately it is we goalies that carry that burden. We even have to defend our goal against their stupidity! lol
Posted on Aug 22, 2006, 4:30 PM from IP address 66.82.9.80
I really appreciate the info. I've looked at both resources and MD's explanation and tried to do some study myself on the subject. After all of that, I see some things my son is probably doing wrong:
During these drills, my son is starting just beyond the top of the crease, then dropping back into (or almost into) the goal. He's sliding left or right, but his pads seem to be going parallel to the goal, and hence, if the player keeps the puck, he just skates around the pad and puts it into the corner of the net.
I see two schools of thought:
1) Skate out towards the skater. When the skater reaches the hash marks, the goalie starts dropping back to the top of the crease, then makes a left or right slide (depending on which way the skater goes) somewhere near the perimeter of the crease, not deep near the goal. The slide should orient the pad to be somewhat perpendicular to the goal, hence, it's more difficult for the skater to go around. Typically, don't try a poke check.
2) The goalie positions himself within two strides of the goal (probably just outside the crease for my 10 year-old). If the player gets to the hash marks and is coasting, it's probably a good time to make an aggressive poke. If the player is skating hard, the goalie needs to determine whether he is going left or right, then make a break in that direction (and towards the goal). The goalie slides so that his skate lands just outside the left or right post, thus protecting the corner.
The idea behind #1 is to prevent high shots with the goalie being out from the goal. The idea behind #2 is to eliminate backing up with the skater, allowing the goalie to just focus on making a play to the left or right. The corners of the goal are covered so there is no chance of a low shot in the corner going in, unless the goalie just gets faked. However, the goalie probably ends up deeper and is somewhat vulnerable to high shots.
Please let me know if I've got the schools of thought right. I'm not trying to determine which is better right this second, just trying to get a good enough understanding so I can present to my son.
Thanks.
Posted on Aug 23, 2006, 12:18 PM from IP address 216.64.15.122
The corners of the crease is not near the posts. If you draw a straight line out from each post towards the blue line, where the edge of the blue is the corner. Some creases will actually have a little corner mark in red at that location.
Posted on Aug 24, 2006, 1:40 PM from IP address 66.82.9.59
IF you can get him to hold his depth at about 6" to a foot outside the top of the crease on the breaks the rest is easy. He never really wants to execute any save inside the paint for a break. He would be at the edge of the paint. When he backs in, the shooter WILL keep coming. stay on the edge and explode back to just inside the paint and laterally with the carrier.
The easiest way to get him to HOLD is to use a player at about his own skill level. Have the shooter carry the puck in while your son does nothing but hold his stance at his max postitional range. Watch the kid go right by...DONT MOVE. Once he gets the HOLD part down, then have him add the two quick cuts backward and STOP, timing it to the shooters advance. Watch the shooter go around and put the puck in the net. HOLD and Timing for the back cuts add in the final part of reading the deke(faking a bite on a players deke with a chest deke of their own can help)and shoot for the correct corner of the crease. He can then choose to Drop or stand using his stick, pad or whatever method he likes best.
Goalies body and pads should ALWAYS be square to the puck and especially when executing a save. If you were to draw a line from the shot location to the center of the net at the goal line, your son and his pads(if in a B-fly) should be 90 (square) He can make the saves standing or in a B-fly. Thats his choice to make based on his skills.
seriously, e-mail me for more private discussion on the matter. ;)Click above where my initials are in red or gatekeepermd@yahoo.com
Posted on Aug 24, 2006, 1:52 PM from IP address 66.82.9.59
I have been getting beaten the blocker short side lately, easpecialliy off the wing, does anyone have any tips on avoiding this, I know to come out and challange more, but in my mind I am trying to take away the glove short side. Any tips would be appreciated.
Posted on Aug 7, 2006, 1:50 PM from IP address 161.184.67.2
perhaps your stance is a little too narrow. Make sure to watch your angles, do not over commit to the player by over challenging, thus being vulnerable to the back door play. my .02
Posted on Aug 8, 2006, 6:02 PM from IP address 70.24.144.51
Could you give a bit more descriptive run down of the situation including your depth selection? As descriptive as possible...
Just off hand my advice is to not worry about taking anything away and playing the situation straight up, be on angle and depth should be just at the edge or outside the paint. Unsupported with your D boxing out a pass through the middle you might consider a tad deeper position to be ready to respond to any weak side threat.
Posted on Aug 13, 2006, 5:10 PM from IP address 66.82.9.32
does anyone know where i can find a cat eye cage for my brians goalie helmet or what brand could work with it. ive noticed many of the cages say they fit only certain models
Posted on Jul 16, 2006, 11:45 AM from IP address 140.228.134.97
i recently bought a new set of supremes and i want to keep them fresh and in good shape. what are some things i should do after every game to keep my glove and blocker from gettin really smelly and stiff?, and to keep my leg pads in good condition?
Posted on May 15, 2006, 12:22 AM from IP address 68.171.85.167
Being sure to air dry with out heat such as from a furnace duct. Keep out of sunlight and damp environments such as a musty basement.If your unable to get your wet gear out of its bag at least leave the top open.
Smell can easily be controlled by misting the glove interiors with a 3 parts water/1 part isopropyl alcohol spray. There are also OZONE Utilizing cleaning that is gaining a foot in the industry. I had all my gear processed after my wifes cat urinated on my gear bag. Worked like a charm. IF your in the Western NY area(niagara falls) one location is TWO 'Ole Guys proshop on Pine avenue. 1 hour turn around time. Esporta(clean gear) cleaning is another solution but it is a dry clean(chemical) type process. It isnt harmful to the gear but some people can have an allergic(rash) reaction for gear worn directly against the skin. It also has a 48 hour turn around time. Some locations will not clean goalie leg pads.
Reducing sweat into the gloves by wearing wrsit bands also helps. Most palms of blockers are still real leather and can be cleaned with saddle soap. Softness can be maintained with leather conditioners. PALM ONLY....
"Magic eraser" from clorox will handle the puck marks on leg pads very well. Sweat and other salt stains can be reduced by misting with a solution of 1 part white vinegar/2 parts water.
Posted on May 18, 2006, 1:02 PM from IP address 66.82.9.40
I bought a set of Bauer Vapor 2's. So far I really like them, but I have never had a thigh guard/board. I am not sure how to wear it. The strap is elastic and I have rapped it around my knee area and around the upper part of my pants. However, in both instances the board has shifted and caused my pad to move out of place. I have a pair of Itech pants with the added inner and outer thigh roles. I have debated whether to remove the board altogether, but I am afraid that without the added protection I might get a puck to the knee and that would not be fun!!!! I see a lot of goalies wearing them so there must be a trick I am not aware of. I purchased them online and do not have a sales person I can refer back to. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Jason
Posted on May 1, 2006, 1:03 PM from IP address 12.109.161.4
Not sure what you mean. Boards and Guards are two different things. Guards are typically worn under the pant while boards are not. If the boards are slipping under your pant leg and causing recovery problem you have several solutions to try. IF your cinching up the pant or other wise raise the pant it increases the distance between the top of knee and the pant leg bottom. Reducing that gap can reduce or eliminate the board going under. Loosen the pant belt and suspenders allows the pant to drop some as well as increases your over all width in coverage.
Another problem can be the elastic strap sliding down below the pant leg at hte back of leg. In turn when you drop, the board can be drawn under the pant leg. Adding a loop about four inches up from the bottom of each pant leg at the back side of the legs solved the problem for my son. Many pants are now coming with a loop to pass the board strap through.
Posted on May 4, 2006, 3:32 PM from IP address 66.82.9.40
I read your response and think I understand your solutions. Unfortunately, I can't reloop the pants, because I do not have an adjustable strap on the back of my pants to tighten them so the board can't slide under my pants. I did try your other solutions and again it did not fix the problem. I think when I bought my pants I got some that were slightly longer, considering the pads I had before where a little short for me and it is now impacting these new pads that I purchased. I think I broke a cardinal rule when purchasing goalie equipment, buy what you can afford, or find the best deal, without making sure it all fits together. The boards are laced into the pads so I removed them for now.
I do appreciate your time and advice and if you or anyone else can think of another solution I would certainly welcome the suggestions.
Thanks much,
Jason
Posted on Jun 1, 2006, 10:30 AM from IP address 12.109.161.4
I had the same problem, all I did was sew a belt loop on the front of the pants , that way the thigh board has to stay in the front and not slide under the pants, shorting the elastic and then looping the elastic through the belt loop as worked for me. Hope this helps
Posted on Aug 22, 2006, 9:15 AM from IP address 131.137.245.200
Hey, i have had TPS X-lites for three years and loved them but i now need new pads because of size and condition. I loved the x-lites but was/am frustrated with how they held up so im not going to get TPS again. Im looking into Vaughns and i got to wear V2's tonight in a game and i didnt love them (probably because im so used to the flatness of the x-lites), but i was wondering what other pads people suggest. I realize it comes down to "my preference" and "what feels right" but i wanted to know what you all thought. I guess i'd also think about the RBK's or Vaughn Epics because the epics seems less bulky than the Velocitys. Thanks a lot.
Posted on Apr 30, 2006, 5:20 PM from IP address 24.147.132.78
does anyone know if brian's Altramax C/A fits the same as Simmons 990? I need a new C/A. The old Simmons is finally losing its padding and I'm starting to feel shots .
Posted on Apr 27, 2006, 7:40 PM from IP address 12.106.229.227
Wow, I'd almost forgotten about this website. I havent been here in a few years. Is MD still a regular? Last time I was here people were arguing wether Patrick Roy or Dominik Hasek was the best goalie in the playoffs. We all can now see that it was neither of them. It was obviously Arturs Irbe.
Go Archie!!
Posted on Apr 27, 2006, 7:37 PM from IP address 12.106.229.227
I know what ya meen!!!! I aint been here for a while either.
MD is still around..... well at least he was about 6 months ago.
Not much has been happening here..... seems as though all the regulars are gone.
Any way mate. Better go.
Aussie
Posted on Apr 30, 2006, 8:43 AM from IP address 203.129.151.207
Just looking through ebay and came across these pads.
I know of DR but I thought that they were long gone. Then I found these.
They look kind strange but interesting at the same time. Any one got any reviews or comments on these pads or any other DR goalie stuff?
G'day all.
Well the greatest time of the year has started. The hockey season has finally started in Sydney, Australia. I am all ready to read everyones hints and tips again.
Especially from my old mates MD and HENRY. How you guys going?
Posted on Apr 5, 2006, 9:02 AM from IP address 203.129.149.81
lol not bad at all, and while the season starts for you, for everyone else a more sinister and stressfull season starts.... TRYOUT SEASON. lol how are your pads holding up?
Posted on Apr 7, 2006, 11:21 AM from IP address 70.24.144.51
The pads are doing good.
I have been looking at getting something else though.
I aan ITECH fan but one of my mates Recently got the New BROWN RESONATOR series pads, and they are awesome.
It's been quiet on this site lately.......
No one seems to be around.... WHERE IS MD????
Take care mate
AUSSIE
Posted on Apr 11, 2006, 3:14 AM from IP address 203.129.144.133
Awesome pads dude.
I got my set about 6 months ago and the only faults that I can find so far is that the first skate strap has worn to quickly and the inside roll has gotten a little soft and lost a bit of 5 hole closure (sealing the 5 hole).
But they are really light and are rock solid on the leg. The break in is real quick and it feels s though the pad has grown out of my leg. It's comfortable and offers awesome protection.
I particulary like the padding to the side of the knee, not very many pads offer this.
The blocker and catcher are also awesome, but you didnt ask about em so I wont crap on.
Enjoy ya new pads mate.
Posted on Apr 5, 2006, 9:21 AM from IP address 203.129.149.81
Last summer a friend came up to NY for a goalie clinic in Rochester, NY. He wanted to get a new set of pads from Pete Smith so we went to brockport and met Pete at the shop.
THe pads and gear he makes are awesome. Some know and some dont that Pete was the designer for Vaughn. Things such as the X-web for gloves and such were his design ideas. His are the 4000 with the 300 grapihics I believe.
Here is a link to his review of the gear including pics. There are also reviews of his gloves in this forum...first and second page.
Go to
www.smithhockey.com
Pete is a good bloke. I organised a pair of pads for a mate of mine and Pete goes out of his way to help you and get everything ya want.
Take care
Posted on Apr 11, 2006, 3:19 AM from IP address 203.129.144.133
Your close enough to just drive over. Hes next door to the pizza hut on its left side. Walk to the back of that little building...49 Clinton St brockport NY
Posted on Apr 13, 2006, 5:29 PM from IP address 66.82.9.61
I own some SP2000's. I just got them, used them twice on the ice so far. I was previously a Vaughn Velocity user, i was forced to sell my gear due to knee surgury and ordered new stuff.
the SP2000's feel much like the Velocities (Pete Smith did design the Velo's) but they are improved greatly. All quick release buckles for reduced weight, sliding toe bridge, fully adjustable knee lock and removable knee stacks. Definatly the best pads ive ever used.
They are very responcive on the ice, excelent rotation and very comfortable. Pete Smith's customer service is top notch. If you have any further questions, feel free to email me at Brickwall_30@hotmail.com
Posted on Apr 4, 2006, 2:57 PM from IP address 24.222.46.72
What is the best way to secure the pad to the skate? Should it be loose or tight?
My son is just starting out and is still trying out the best feel for him and his new Rebook pads.
At the moment, I'm simply criss-crossing twice and bow tieing at the top...pad seems a little loose....any words of wisdom
Posted on Feb 23, 2006, 8:31 PM from IP address 64.230.78.112
The Vaughn site shows the pads tight to the skate. I prefer them a little looser, therefore I have knotted the lace about 1 inch from the pad. This allows for the laces to be tight, yet still leave the pad loose. The looser pad allows for better rotation in the butterfly.
Good luck
Posted on Feb 25, 2006, 8:00 AM from IP address 70.48.170.252
This is the typical set up used. THe second knot is about 1-1.5" out from the bridge. This allows the pad to slide over on the skate channel preventing the inside of pad from lifting skate blade free of the ice prior to the skate cowling touching the ice. This also allows for consistant pad recovery to front when the goalie regains his/her skates. Pads should not lift the blade free early when dropping into a butterfly.
Another problem area is with the bows and tie. They can tend to loosen or come undone, dropping to the ice where the goalie can step on them etc etc etc. Put skates on feet but do not tighten laces. Place pad toe laces on and then slip the bows and loose ends under the skate laces between the tongue. Toe laces will never drop or come loose.
Posted on Feb 25, 2006, 1:08 PM from IP address 66.82.9.18
just got my pads today...its really been a challenge...mostly in dealing with simmons, prices changing, they do have 32+1 pads, no they dont, yes they do, no wait we are going to send you 34+1 instead and yes they will ship today, no wait we are sending 32+1 and they will ship tomorrow, oh wait they really shipped a couple of days later...etc...
seems the only reason i was kept in the loop was cause i called a few times...
now they arrive..the pluses - right color, appear to be right size...the minuses - one of the pads doesnt seem to be sewn well or maybe not even fully....photos attached...guess i will call them tomorrow but i wanted to get your thoughts...maybe i am just being anal with my new pads...thoughts?
Posted on Feb 22, 2006, 9:22 PM from IP address 68.184.204.65
Looks like a small piece of stuffing got caught in the stitching. Can you poke a toothpick (or some other non metalic rod) into the area, or is the stuffing just poking out of the stitches?
If the stuffing is stuck in the stitches, do not pull it out! just melt it off with a lighter.
Good luck
Posted on Feb 25, 2006, 8:04 AM from IP address 70.48.170.252
Cant tell whats with hte last image since its too blurry but as for the fuzz its just a touch of internals that is outside the stitch. hardly anything to complain about.
Posted on Feb 25, 2006, 1:00 PM from IP address 66.82.9.18
side note...talked to mark and he said to pull the material out which i started and it keeps coming and coming and coming..so i am goin go use a pencap to push it back in...
Posted on Feb 25, 2006, 2:06 PM from IP address 68.184.204.65
I've been thinking of buying the new brians dx2's and was just seeing if anyone had any feedback on that. I currently have the eagle fusions and was wondering how much of change it would be , style wise etc.
Posted on Feb 21, 2006, 7:27 PM from IP address 207.81.42.94
ok here goes....i need a new lid....starting to play ice with an old, i mean very old itech 1000 helmet is stupid...circa 1999 as the manufacturing label says
let me preface this by saying that i really had zero issues with the itech other than it being uncomfortable - no ringing, no conussions, etc...but other than a couple of handful of guys, nobody had a rocket...did hit the post once though in a scrum and all held...but as my wife says, i have a thick head...don't get rattled too easily....even fell out of a clubhouse as a kid and mostly landed on my melon without any ill effects...except scared relatives and an er bill....
but now i am starting to play and ice and will be playing mostly at the rink where a lot of ex blues play and even some of the current ones played during the strike...now any league game i play in will not have that caliber but the stick and pucks might...hence my concern and need for a new lid
here are ones i am considering....
all prices US
itech 4600p painted (looks cool) about $280
itech 9600 solid black $580
Koho GF570 painted $290-350
Koho GF570 black $215-265
Vaughn VM8000 Black $355
and some stacey masks http://www.staceycomposites.com/canameri/index.htm - love the idea of plastering my head and getting a true fit...but kind of costly for the ones i am looking at - probably at least 475 plus shipping and extras
you will notice that all of the ones i am considering have aramid or kevlar...any of you guys have experience with any of these? any thoughts? its probably overkill but at 32 i figure this will be the last mask i buy...
also as an option to painting i have heard vinyl stickers can be used...if they get torn/chipped whatever, just lightly heat and remove with a finger/fingernail and put a new one on....not as custom or nice...but a cheap option...thoughts?
thanks
Posted on Feb 20, 2006, 8:55 PM from IP address 68.184.204.65
I am the kind of idiot goalie that moves his head into the puck to make the save, kinda like heading a soccer ball....to be honest i am not worried about shots that i have the time to think about doing that....those wouldnt phase even the itech 1000.....the ones that concern me are the ones where i dont have time to move and it nails me in the melon....
Posted on Feb 21, 2006, 5:43 AM from IP address 64.19.23.69
couple of photos from a pickup gave at savvis center
by stl legends (no login)
just a couple of shots from a nice hour and half pickup game at savvis center...what an experience...yes thats me in goal, lol...form and positioning needed some help (it was my first time playing ice...cut me some slack, lol)
Posted on Feb 1, 2006, 6:38 AM from IP address 64.19.23.69
I've been using itech vamp pads for about a year, but i only play roller right now. I'm looking to move up to ice soon, and i need new pads, any thoughts on the CCM Blockade Senior pads, the reviews on the pro models were terrible, but I haven't heard anything on the normal senior model.
Posted on Jan 30, 2006, 9:32 PM from IP address 69.142.153.23
there is one opinion...others i have heard echo the same sentiments...if the pros aren't good, would it follow that the seniors would be even worse? maybe, maybe not....
Posted on Jan 31, 2006, 5:15 PM from IP address 64.19.23.69
That's what I wasn't sure about. I read that review and the guy who reviewed them had almost nothing good to say. I guess i need to see them for myself. If anyone knows any other pads that are made with the same quality of construction for $300 dollars, I would like to hear about them.
Posted on Jan 31, 2006, 8:05 PM from IP address 69.142.153.23
posting photos of my current vaughn vision vpg3500 size 32s....thinking i will get V2 33s +1 - afraid that getting anything bigger on the plus will mess me up...acutally afraid the +1 may be too much...its hard to teach an old dog new tricks, lol....
the bigger question is what to do with my old pads...they are definitely used, no real cuts as they were used by me at least almost exclusively for roller hockey...they have to be 8-10 years old..is there any market for these pads? can't imagine i would get much for them...better to keep as a backup? wish i could totally get the smell out, clean them up etc...might make a nice wall hanging in the bar area of the basement....thoughts? what do you guys do with your put out to pasture pads?
thanks
jason
ps going to start writing articles again...too much family stuff was going on...look for steve poapst to be waived by the blues once the blues d-men all get healthy or should i say if they ever do....
Posted on Jan 22, 2006, 2:42 PM from IP address 68.184.204.65
Is there a SANI-SPORT service near you? It uses OZONE to clean the pads free of any smell. PErsonally, at that many years of service I would nevr be able to part with htem. It would be like selling on of my kids. LOL
A general rule of thumb that seems to work fine for most MALES is to go with your in-seam measure. From groin to floor in sock feet. Lets say you have a 33" inseam. 33" would be a good fit and a 35 would be a MAX size for the average goalie. in a stock pad that would also place your knee a tad below center of the knee cradle. 33 w/+1 thigh rise should be doable.
Posted on Jan 25, 2006, 4:13 PM from IP address 66.82.9.52
hate to part with them but. the new pads, taxes, car repairs, ugh......
by stl legends (no login)
hmmm maybe the simmons knock offs are best...i like the idea of shadow boxing them a lot, could even sign them as if they were real older pro goalie pads, lol...if nothing else, a conversation starter...
go with my lubos barteckp signed stick, lol
photos are in the public album for yahoo profile stgoalie73
Posted on Jan 25, 2006, 9:34 PM from IP address 68.184.204.65
