GoalieU: Read & React with Rick Wamsley
- Manage depth on the penalty kill by reading both the shooting threat and available passing options simultaneously, not one at a time.
- Jackson Parsons' play demonstrates how proper PK positioning requires anticipating puck movement before the shot, not reacting after.
- Short-side high saves demand specific positioning fundamentals that differ from standard butterfly or blocker-side reads.
- Rick Wamsley's GoalieU program provides daily game-clip breakdowns — 365 per year — to train situational reads at a pro level.
- Understanding the 'why' behind each goalie decision is the foundation of Wamsley's Read & React teaching method.
Welcome to Part 7 of our video series with Rick Wamsley, who spent 13 seasons in the NHL as a goalie and another 15 as an NHL goalie coach.
In this new 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, and while it typically features Ontario Hockey League footage and goalies, this week Wamsley had a little fun by reviewing a couple of saves he made during the 1992-93 season while playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs.
THIS WEEK: PROTECT-THE-NET PK DEPTH
Today’s breakdown features Kitchener Rangers goalie Jackson Parsons, who was signed by the Ottawa Senators as an undrafted free agent on July 2. The focus: how to manage depth and passing options with a shooting threat on the penalty kill (plus a bonus look at short-side high save fundamentals).
🎥 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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