Joseph Woll Pro-Read 3
With Joseph Woll
Breakaway Depth and hand vs. stick position
The #1 goalie vision & cognitive training tool trusted by over 50 NHL & AHL goalies.
“Vizual Edge has added a quality element to my preparation as a goaltender. I use the game day drills every game before heading to the rink. It’s a combination of recognition, reaction and focus that activates my brain and eyes to feel ready for what’s to come.” — Jordan Binnington
Save 10% on Vizual Edge monthly and annual plans using code INGOAL at check out! (InGoal Members receive a 20% discount – why not join today? )
When we went back to Toronto Maple Leafs puck-stopping prospect Joseph Woll last week for a long overdue Pro Reads session, he broke down video of a 2-on-1 rush off a regroup that quickly turned into a breakaway from the hash marks and pointed out how that type of play differed from a more traditional breakaway and his traditional depth triggers.
It only made sense to check back in with Woll this week to share those triggers too.
THE SCENARIO
We already told you this is a breakaway, and it’s against Winnipeg Jets forward Blake Wheeler:
This is a question Pro Reads regulars will be familiar with by now, but we’ll ask it again anyway: what do you think about Woll’s depth here relative to Wheeler’s position on the breakaway?
Are there any other details you are looking for at this point from Wheeler? Any tells that might provide a clue about whether he’s about to shoot or deke?
THE SAVE
Since this is a breakaway, we already know flow and timing matter, and neither is discernable from the still photo above, so let’s watch the entire save before we hear from Woll:
Watching it at full speed, do any of your answers about depth change?
THE PRO READ
Now let’s check in with Woll for his breakdown and some of those breakaway depth triggers.
Join thousands of goalies, parents, and coaches who train smarter with InGoal.
15+ years as the #1 goaltending resource
Already a member? Log in
Think you're seeing this in error? Contact support
Looking for a goalie coach?
Browse coaches in our directory — powerful search tools, contact coaches directly.
- Woll breaks down his save on a Blake Wheeler breakaway, showing how he manages depth and timing against a one-on-one rush.
- Woll targets the top of the face-off circles as his cue to initiate backward momentum, aiming to land just outside the crease with toes inside the bottom hash marks.
- On breakaways, Woll prioritizes blocker position over stick placement, trusting his pads to seal the bottom of the net so his hands remain active and available.
Comments
Let's talk goaltending!
We welcome your contribution to the comments on this and all articles at InGoal. We ask that you keep it positive and appropriate for all — this is a community of goaltenders and we're here for each other! See our comment policy for more information.
You must be logged in to view and post comments.