GoalieU: Read & React with Rick Wamsley
Welcome to Part 8 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 monthly as Wamsley continues to work through the 10 most common ways that goals are scored.
THIS WEEK: LONG EAST-WEST PASSES and OPEN NET STRATEGY
Today’s breakdown features former Ottawa Senators goalie Andrew Hammond, and while first-year GoalieU subscribers may have seen this clip before, Wamsley wanted to break it down again because it’s a “favourite of all time” with “so many positive elements.”
The focus: managing depth on a shooting threat with multiple passing options, recovery mechanics on a long east-west pass, and how understanding the way shooters see and think about an empty net can help you make more highlight reel saves like this one.
🎥 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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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