GoalieU: Read & React with Rick Wamsley
- Beat the pass, not the shot — arrive laterally early enough to set your feet before the puck arrives, rather than sliding reactively into the save.
- Read the shooter's hands and body language to identify small cues that reveal whether a pass or shot is coming.
- Manage depth actively — know when to hold your ground and when to retreat to close shooting lanes during east-west plays.
- Rick Wamsley's GoalieU delivers 365 daily video breakdowns using real game clips to teach goalies the 'why' behind every decision.
- InGoal readers can save $50 on a GoalieU annual membership using code INGOAL50 at goalieu.ca/joinnow.
Rick Wamsley spent 13 seasons stopping pucks in the NHL and another 15 as an NHL goalie coach, so he knows the game and the position
In this new InGoal series, Wamsley takes us inside his process for reading the game and making decisions under pressure. Each episode is based off the daily video work Wamsley does at GoalieU, breaking down a real game clip to help you see what the goalie sees – and understand the “why” behind each choice they make. The series will run weekly as he works through the 10 most common ways goals are scored, before shifting to a monthly format.
This Week: Handling East-West Plays
Today’s breakdown features Edmonton Oilers prospect Nathan Day of the OHL’s Flint Firebirds. The focus: how to handle dangerous east–west puck movement without opening up easy scoring lanes.
🎥 Watch the full breakdown:
About Rick’s Read & React
Each month, Wamsley will dissect a different game situation – from rush chances to net-front battles – showing how elite goalies process the game in real time. Think of it as a “film room” for your goalie IQ. As Wamsley explained on a recent episode of the InGoal Radio Podcast, his approach was influenced by a visit to Europe as part of group of Hockey Canada goalie coaches and learning how Finland broke down the 10 most common ways to score. His analysis is anchored in that philosophy, and how goalies can counter each.
Want More from Rick?
Wamsley’s GoalieU program offers a new video breakdown like this one every single day – 365 days of situational reads, technical tips, and what he calls “Rick-isms” to help you think (and stop pucks) like a pro. InGoal readers can save $50 on an annual GoalieU membership join InGoal Today to reveal the checkout code!
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