minor hockey

Episode 244 of the InGoal Radio Podcast, presented by The Hockey Shop Source for Sports, features an in-depth interview with Los Angeles Kings prospect Erik Portillo.

In that feature interview presented by NHL Sense Arena, Portillo shares his roots in the position growing up in Sweden, including the influence of goalie coaching from an early age and the impact (and a personal interaction) that Henrik Lundqvist had on him as a young goalie in the Frolunda system. Portillo walks us through his decision to come to North America as a teenager, how he ended up at the University of Michigan, and the unique challenges -- and personal benefits -- of balancing the demands of NCAA hockey with the desire to also push himself academically in a tough program, and how it's made his first year as a pro easier in some ways despite making some significant changes to his tactical and technical approach (which he also discusses in detail) since joining the Kings.

We also introduce a new segment for parents, answering your questions. This week - what mask to I buy for my son or daughter? (hint: we don't name a specific brand).

All that, plus an in-person trip to The Hockey Shop Source for Sports for a closer look at the CCM All Out custom graphics program, and how to plan and order your own personalized set.

Episode 243 of the InGoal Radio Podcast, presented by The Hockey Shop Source for Sports, features an informative interview with two-time USA Olympian Maddie Rooney of PWHL Minnesota.

In that feature interview presented by NHL Sense Arena, Rooney shares lessons from her early experiences in the all new PWHL, and what separates it from past options for women's hockey players, as well as some of the adjustments that come from a busier schedule with more travel. Rooney also walks you through the keys to her success, and how her game has evolved (and continues to evolve even now) through high school and college, including medals at the 2018 and 2022 Olympics, 2017, 2019 and 2022 World Championships, and a stint helping her alma mater UMD as a remote goalie coach.

Episode 241 of the InGoal Radio Podcast, presented by The Hockey Shop Source for Sports, features a deep dive with Team USA's World Junior Championship gold-medal winner Trey Augustine.

In that feature interview presented by NHL Sense Arena, Augustine, who was already back at Michigan State University to continue his fantastic freshman campaign as the youngest goalie in college hockey, talks about managing pressure under the bright lights of the World Juniors in Sweden. Picked by his home state Detroit Red Wings in the second round (No. 41) of the NHL Draft last season after winning bronze at the WJC as a 17-year-old, Augustine shares insights into his early influences, and the work that has gone into his early success, including how much -- and specifically how -- he watches hockey to get better at reading plays, and what he's learned by playing at practicing against older players over the years, and training in the offseason with NHL goalies like Alex Nedeljkovic and Scott Wedgewood. Nicknamed "Gramps" and "Buckets" at USNTDP, Augustine also gets into his competitive roots playing other spots, including pickle ball and basketball.

All that, plus a trip to The Hockey Shop Source for Sports for a look at the all new Brian's Eclipse gloves, which includes their first "580-style" glove break and new options for the blocker.

Episode 240 of the InGoal Radio Podcast, presented by The Hockey Shop Source for Sports, features a great conversation with Brian Daccord coming off the Winter Classic his son, Joey, starred in.

In that feature interview presented by NHL Sense Arena, Daccord takes us back through a magical day surrounded by family and friends watching Joey pitch the first shutout in Winter Classic history for the Seattle Kraken, and offers advice on watching big games that will resonate with every goalie parent. Daccord also took the time after the big game to reflect on his son's path to the NHL, where he is now getting his first chance to carry a starter's workload and thriving in the role, and all the ups and downs that come with choosing a different route at various points along the path, including second guessing some of those decisions made and lessons that will also hit home for a lot of goalie parents, goalies from youth league through minor pro, and hopefully some coaches too.

All that, plus an in-person trip to The Hockey Shop Source for Sports for a look at the Brian's Optik 3 pants, a perfect follow up to our last segment on their Optik 3 chest protector.

Episode 239 of the InGoal Radio Podcast, presented by The Hockey Shop Source for Sports, features a great conversation with Hunter Sheppard of the Washington Capitals and Hershey Bears.

In that feature interviews presented by NHL Sense Arena, Sheppard shares an at-times winding path that has required an element of "prove it" at every level despite winning championships at each stop, including the Calder Cup and playoff MVP with Hershey in the American Hockey League last season. Sheppard shares insights into a somewhat unique style modelled in part after Henrik Lundqvist, and how it allows him to better access the hands that almost led him to play baseball in college instead of hockey, as well as managing the push back it received from various coaches along the way.

It's a can't miss interview loaded with great lessons and take aways that should resonate with goalies, goalie coaches, and goalie parents at every level of the game.

All that, plus an in-person trip to The Hockey Shop Source for Sports for a look at the Brians’s Optik 3 chest protector, which offers NHL-level protection with the rich finish we've come to expect from Brian's.

Episode 238 of the InGoal Radio Podcast, presented by The Hockey Shop Source for Sports, features a great conversation with Matt Tomkins, who made his NHL debut and recorded his first NHL win with the Tampa Bay Lightning earlier this season, more than 11 years after being drafted into the NHL.

In that feature interviews presented by NHL Sense Arena, Tomkins walks us through a memorable start to the season, including getting to soak in a chance to play in Montreal before picking up his first NHL win in the Mecca of goaltending. We then rewind things to go through a sometimes winding and unique path to that first NHL opportunity, from being drafted by the Blackhawks, choosing college hockey over the CHL and why that became so important for him, to deciding to go overseas to Sweden for two years, the decision to come back, and an important summer in Kelowna with "friends of the program" Lyle Mast and James Wendland that helped prepare him for the season's opportunity with the Lightning.

All that, plus an in-person trip to The Hockey Shop Source for Sports for a look at the Warrior Ritual F2 mask -- and some incredible savings on the F1 mask that preceded it.

Episode 237 of the InGoal Radio Podcast, presented by The Hockey Shop Source for Sports, features a multi-part sit down with Vancouver Canucks goalie Casey Desmith.

In that feature interviews presented by NHL Sense Arena, DeSmith shares some great insights into his learning curve since coming to the Canucks after training camp had already started and some of the adjustments under new goalie coach Ian Clark, as well as the importance of finding a balance between trying new things and sticking to your personal foundations with a new team. DeSmith talks about what made his very short time with the Montreal Canadiens so special, including a secret note from Carey Price and a shared love with his dad for Ken Dryden, as well as his time in Pittsburgh and the secrets to playing well even when you don't play a lot.

All that, plus an in-person trip to The Hockey Shop Source for Sports for a look at the new Brian's ICONIK pads and gloves, and the creation of a new word from Cam: "Hybrid-y"

Episode 236 of the InGoal Radio Podcast, presented by The Hockey Shop Source for Sports, comes to us with two feature interviews this week. Former NHL Goaltender and current Anaheim Ducks Broadcaster Brian Hayward chats with Kevin Woodley, while David Hutchison is joined by Calgary Flames EBUG Dusty Nickel, who recently dressed in a game vs. The Vegas Golden Knights.

Both feature interviews are presented by NHL Sense Arena. Hayward first discusses the evolution of the game in goal, including his experience as Patrick Roy’s goalie partner in Montreal. Working under legendary coach Francois Allaire, Hayward was there as Allaire and Roy worked to define the modern butterfly style.

Nickel then gives us a behind the scenes look at being an NHL practice goalie and Emergency Backup Goaltender and shares the full experience of dressing for a recent game where, only two minutes in against the defending Stanley Cup Champions, it looked like he was going to have to takeover from Flames starter Dan Vladar who had been rocked by a collision in his crease.

All that, plus an in-person trip to The Hockey Shop Source for Sports for a look at the new Trinity padded inner glove from the makers of Paddle Wedge. This glove could make the perfect gift for the goalie in your life who is dealing with stingers in games or long practice sessions.

Episode 235 of the InGoal Radio Podcast, presented by The Hockey Shop Source for Sports, features a detailed discussion with James Wendland following up on his popular 5 Damn Things articles at InGoal.

In that feature interview, presented by NHL Sense Arena, we speak with Wendland who is a manual osteopathic therapist and kinesiologist with a master’s degree in exercise/respiratory physiology, a bachelor’s degree in human kinetics/kinesiology, a diploma in manual osteopathy and a strong focus on how the body works and commitment to making it work better. His 5 Damn Things articles have been game changers for a lot of goalies based on the feedback received at info@ingoalmag.com, so it made sense to dig a little deeper. Wendland did not disappoint, with advice that will resonate with goalies of all ages, goalie coaches, and perhaps most important, goalie parents who want to keep their kids healthy and playing this position we all love.

All that, plus an in-person trip to The Hockey Shop Source for Sports for a look at the new Warrior RV3i stick, which weighs in at less than 1.5 pounds and features a great new look and unique shaft shape.

Episode 234 of the InGoal Radio Podcast, presented by The Hockey Shop Source for Sports, features the fascinating journey to an NHL contract of Vancouver Canucks prospect Nikita Tolopilo.

In that feature interview, presented by NHL Sense Arena, Tolopilo, who started playing goal in Belarus because he was tall and flexible, shares stories and lessons from his journey to becoming a coveted NHL free agent last spring. It includes leaving home as a teenager to play in Switzerland, where he was coached by ex-NHL goalie David Aebischer, then going back to Belarus and a couple years in the KHL before signing in Sweden, where things really started to take off three seasons ago. The 6-foot-6 goalie walks us through his technical and tactical evolution in Sweden and the decision to stay there one more year after getting NHL contract offers, why he eventually chose the Canucks ahead of order offers, and the challenges of adjusting to a very different style of play in the AHL early this year.

All that, plus an in-person trip to The Hockey Shop Source for Sports for a look at the new Bauer AG5NT stick, which uses Boron to help weigh in at an incredibly light 1.25 pounds!

Episode 233 of the InGoal Radio Podcast, presented by The Hockey Shop Source for Sports, features four-time Stanley Cup winner Bill Ranford, Director of Goaltending for the Los Angeles Kings.

In that feature interview, presented by Sense Arena, Ranford talks about his new position with the Kings, how to scout young goaltenders, advice for young coaches, the evolution of the position, what makes Jonathan Quick such a special goaltender, a plan to add a third goalie to NHL rosters…and much more.

All that, plus an in-person trip to The Hockey Shop Source for Sports where Cam schools Woody on the Bauer line of pants, in another good, better, best analysis to find the right gear for you and your game.

Episode 232 of the InGoal Radio Podcast, presented by The Hockey Shop Source for Sports, features Winnipeg Jets prospect and reigning OHL goaltender of the year, Dom Divincentiis of the North Bay Battalion.

In that feature interviews, presented by Sense Arena, Divincentiis talks about his experience as a young pro at the Jets camp, his training and preparation that has taken him to this point in his career, learning to deal with nerves in big moments such as his first NHL preseason game, and the development of his technique under the direction of the Jets coaching staff along with his coaches in the summer and in North Bay. The entire interview is a fantastic lesson for young goaltenders looking to move to the next level about the work required, the mental approach to support it and the importance of being open to change even though you have had so much success already.

All that, plus an in-person trip to The Hockey Shop Source for Sports for a look at Vaughn’s V10 pant that features protection so good that when one Vezina Trophy winning goalie saw an earlier video we published, he made the switch to Vaughn pants!

The feature interviews, presented by Sense Arena, Magnusson, who is also co-founder and co-owner of Sweden Hockey Institute, catches us up on his seemingly never-ending journey to learn more about the position he loves, including journeys to the dark side of scoring development that has put the goalies in a position of playing catch up, and being invited to present to the Toronto Maple Leafs on how workload affects goalie health and performance. It's another deep dive into the art and science of goaltending, including great insights into why (and how) goalie coaches may need to re-thinking practice plans, applicable lessons of Ecological Dynamics from a virtual Sport Movement Skill Conference, and the impact of soon-to-be Hall of Fame Henrik Lundqvist on goaltending in Sweden.

Also, we talk about the upcoming coaches conference at the 2024 World Junior Championship in Sweden. Anyone with a strong interest in learning from and participating in the discussions at the goaltending stream of the conference are welcome to attend, which also include tickets to the bronze, silver and gold medal games of the tournament.

All that, plus an in-person trip to The Hockey Shop Source for Sports for a look at the new CCM AXIS XF mask, with an innovative new 3D printed liner that improves comfort, protection and breathability.

Episode 230 of the InGoal Radio Podcast, presented by The Hockey Shop Source for Sports, presented by The Hockey Shop Source for Sports, features recently signed Vancouver Canucks prospect Ty Young of the WHL Prince George Cougars.features recently signed Vancouver Canucks prospect Ty Young of the WHL Prince George Cougars.

The feature interviews, presented by Sense Arena, Young talks about going from a late bloomer who didn't make the top rep teams until Bantam to being picked by Vancouver in the fifth round last summer, to signing his first NHL contract at the end of his Canucks training camp late last month. Young shares stories, examples and lessons from his path to date, including how he learned the importance of intention and purpose in practice from goalie coach Taylor Dakers in Prince George, and some of the technical adaptations he's made with the goaltending staff in Vancouver.

All that, plus an in-person trip to The Hockey Shop Source for Sports for a look at the new Vaughn V10 chesty some of the improvements that make it a more protective departure for the company.

Episode 229 of the InGoal Radio Podcast, presented by The Hockey Shop Source for Sports, features Cory Schneider, who recently announced his retirement after 13 NHL seasons.

The feature interviews, presented by Sense Arena, Schneider walks us through his difficult decision to walk away from the game -- and position -- he has always been so passionate about, shares some of his favourite career highlights from his time with the Vancouver Canucks, New Jersey Devils and New York Islanders, and what might be next. Schneider also shares some great advice and insights into his mindset while playing with future Hall of Fame goalies like Roberto Luongo and Martin Brodeur, as well as equipment stories that should resonate with other young pros.

All that, plus an in-person trip to The Hockey Shop Source for Sports for a look at their exclusive custom Brian's "Slash" set up, and what makes that combination special beyond the graphic.

Episode 228 of the InGoal Radio Podcast, presented by The Hockey Shop Source for Sports, features interviews with Vancouver Canucks goalie coach Ian Clark as well as Brandy Osbourne, who worked at the NET360 Goalie Camp as both an RMT an elemental coach specializing in breathing techniques.

The feature interviews, presented by Sense Arena, In the feature interviews, presented by Sense Arena, Osbourne walks us through several breathing techniques in a follow-along style that will allow the audience to participate as well, with different methods to achieve different results depending on ho you are feeling, and how you need to shift your awareness and focus levels. Our interview with Clark is from Tendyfest earlier this summer with The Hockey Shop, which had been exclusive to InGoal Premium Members until now, and features the highly respected Canucks coach sharing his insights on everything from skill building, and how to build good technique without losing touch with the instinctual side, to summer training focus.

All that, plus an in-person trip to The Hockey Shop Source for Sports for a closer look at the lower price point CCM EFlex 6.9 and 6.5 lines that includes special extra features exclusive to them.

Episode 227 of the InGoal Radio Podcast, presented by The Hockey Shop Source for Sports, features interviews with Cornell University’s Anneliese Bergmann and Anaheim Ducks AHL goaltender Gage Alexander.

The feature interviews, presented by Sense Arena, were recorded at a CCM goaltending event in Montreal. We know you’ll enjoy getting to know these two insightful young goaltenders who have taken different paths to early success. Bergmann, who made history when she started for the Janesville Jets in the NAHL this season - is about to embark on her first season in women’s hockey at Cornell, a school with a long history for developing outstanding goaltenders. Alexander may not have made history but in signing a pro contract and going to play in the AHL partway through his WHL season, he certainly turned heads not the least of whom include the Anaheim Ducks staff who see great potential in the 6’6” goaltender.

All that, plus an in-person trip to The Hockey Shop Source for Sports for a closer look at the new TRUE 7X3 gear that combines the great features goalies have come to expect from TRUE at a price that is sure to make them smile.

Episode 226 of the InGoal Radio Podcast, presented by The Hockey Shop Source for Sports, features interviews with Buffalo Sabres goalie Devon Levi and his long-time personal goalie coach Marco Raimondo.

In the feature interview, presented by Sense Arena, Levi talked to us as part of a lengthy Pro Reads session that spun off into longer conversations at three different points, walking us through the benefits of the somewhat unique training he does with Raimondo on the 3-on-3 rinks at Quartier Hockey in Montreal, as well as sharing insights into his late season NHL debut and some of his unique rituals (like meditating during TV timeouts) that during attention during that successful stint. We also talk to Raimondo, who coaches Victoriaville in the QMJHL (and formerly Halifax, including to a Memorial Cup) about his offseason approach with Levi and other goalies, how specifically it differs from some approaches -- and most importantly why! -- and the benefits his goalies report once the season starts.

All that, plus an in-person trip to The Hockey Shop Source for Sports for a closer look at the Bauer Elite Chest Protector and the specific attributes that make this second price point unit a great option.

Episode 225 of the InGoal Radio Podcast, presented by The Hockey Shop Source for Sports, features the first goaltender selected in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft and winner of the Top Goaltender award at the 2023 World Junior Championship, Adam Gajan.

In the feature interview, presented by Sense Arena, the Chicago Blackhawks second round pick talks about his experience from being left off the Slovakian World Junior Roster to becoming a late addition as third goaltender to unlikely hero, defeating the United States and taking fellow Blackhawks draft pick Connor Bedard and the Canadians in a 57-shot overtime game, that Bedard ultimately ended. We learn how Gajan came to playoff Chippewa of the NAHL, to developing his elite puckhandling skills and the coach that enabled it, and how he handled the big-game pressure with a humble confidence.

All that, plus an in-person trip to The Hockey Shop Source for Sports where we look at CCM’s new EFlex 6 skate, what sets it apart from other models and why it’s worth considering for your next purchase even as other skates on the market garner considerable attention.