Goalie Vision 101
- Each eye has six muscles with dual functions — understanding this anatomy is the foundation of effective goalie vision training.
- Vision training can measurably improve a goaltender's reaction time and puck-tracking efficiency through targeted eye exercises.
- Dr. Woo has applied these methods with elite goalies including Adin Hill (Vegas Golden Knights) and Kristen Campbell (Canadian Women's National Team).
- Young goaltenders can begin improving their vision at home using traditional eye exercises introduced in this multi-part series.
- The fovea plays a central role in how goalies perceive and track the puck — training it specifically is key to peak visual performance.
InGoal is pleased to welcome Dr. Christopher Woo, as he shares his expertise in optometry and vision training for athletes with InGoal Members. Also look for him on the InGoal Radio Podcast where he joined us for a feature interview in an episode that included his client Kristen Campbell of the Canadian National Team.
Dr. Woo is an optometrist in Calgary, Alberta. He is also a goaltender, having played at the U18 and junior levels in Alberta. He has worked with numerous WHL and NCAA goalies including former NHL goalie Chad Johnson, Adin Hill of the Las Vegas Golden Knights, and presented for Hockey Canada and Hockey Alberta.
He can be reached via Instagram @eye2eye_calgary and also at www.eye-to-eye.ca
Introduction
Hello goaltenders, coaches and hockey enthusiasts. I am an optometrist in Calgary, Alberta that provides optometry services, but more importantly, I work with athletes on improving their vision. I am also a goaltender, having played at the U18 and junior levels in Alberta. Through specialized eye exercises using technology and traditional methods, my aim is to improve athletes’ reaction times, have their nervous systems work at peak performance levels and train their eyes to track objects efficiently. I have worked with numerous WHL and NCAA goalies including former NHL goalie Chad Johnson, Adin Hill of the Las Vegas Golden Knights, Kristen Campbell of the Canadian Women’s National Team and presented for Hockey Canada and Hockey Alberta.
I will be presenting a multipart series on tracking and provide some eye exercises at the end of the article for young athletes to do at home.
Keeping Things Clear on the Fovea
Many goaltenders and coaches understand from a basic view that tracking is important. We need to know the fundamental anatomy of the eye so that we can understand how the eye muscles move and function, how to train them, and how to best use them in a game.
Unlock the rest of this premium breakdown
Join thousands of goalies, parents, and coaches who train smarter with InGoal.
15+ years as the #1 goaltending resource
Already a member? Log in