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World Renowned Goaltending Schools > We Get Letters from Students, Parents & Coaches

The comments below are all ACTUAL excerpts or complete emails or letters we have received from students, parents and coaches.

From the mother of a long time Intensity student - Brian was drafted today by the Saganaw Spirit of the OHL, Thank You, without your help it wouldn't have been possible. 

From a teenaged student who had never been on a team before our camp!  I got a letter from the assistant GM of the Chatham Maroons Jr. B hockey team inviting me to their training camp this May, I'm very excited and you were the first person I thought to tell (besides my mom of course). They said in the letter that their scouting staff had been watching me (most likely since my high school team practised in their arena)  I will try my absoloute best when the training camp comes around, and I'll let you know what happens.
Andy

From the mother of a long time Training Centre and first time Essentials student Chris, I don't know what you have done with Allie but keep it up! She played 6 games this weekend at a tournament. 3 shutouts and 4 goals against. She was on fire! Thanks again
Vicki 

From the mother of a first time Training Centre student - Hi Chris,You have a great product and a gift for teaching.

From the mother of a long time Training Centre student - Hi Chris, Connor and his team are doing very well and have advanced to the semi-finals for OMHA.  We have a short break waiting for the other series to finish, so I thought it was a good time to get some skills re-inforced.  Connor has improved so much with your guidance..... job well done.  Thanks so much,
Kindly, Sue

From the mother of a long time returning Intensity student - Hello from Pennsylvania!! We saw your article in the Hockey News issue and we thought we would update you on Brian and his season. Brian is playing for the Junior A New Jersey Rockets and doing well. USHL did an interview with him!.. Also the USHL will be ranking him this week sometime - word is he should
be ranked very high. A lot of colleges and USHL teams are looking very hard at him.  
  
We miss not coming to your camp. When we watch Billy Sauer Brian always remembers seeing him and how much he admired him when he was at your camp
Martha, Mark and Brian

From a long time adult student, turned instructor - Chris, I have an article on Transfer of Learning and the NHL's guitar-playing goalie phenomenon coming out in the next issue of The Goalie's News. It's based on the article I wrote for the Puckstoppers Newsletter four years ago. It looks like it's broadening into a larger research project I'm doing through the University of SC with sports psychologist Dr Eva Monsma. I think we will be working with Sean Burke, Henrik Lundquist, Ryan Miller, Robert Esche, and some others.  I already have these guys' cell phone numbers.
Ted

From the parents of a first time Training Centre student - Hey Chris -Connor has just started OMHA playdowns and they won their first game today. We have loads of people comment on the difference in Connor this year and we think his time with you has really paid off.  Thanks once again. Regards Sue and Mark

From the mother of a first time Training Centre student - Thanks Chris, Thanks for all your work so far with Lauren...she has improved greatly and is loving it! Regards, Christine

From the father of a long time student - Competing with 15 other teams, Steven won top goalie award in the shootout contest - give yourself a pat on the back!  He was wearing his Puckstoppers T shirt around the arena.

From the father of a returning student - Hi Chris! Having a really good season. In the last three tournaments, his team made it to the finals. In each final game that Evan played he received the MVP. Something seems to have "clicked" with him this season.  We will be transferring back to the area in Marc. We hope to be getting him back to Puckstoppers for some one-on-one training.
  

From a long time adult student, turned instructor - Dys, Just got back from Inferno practice (ECHL). I called up for the weekend. Man, this is a testament to your coaching - way to go!
Ted

FOLLOWUP:
I just got my 4th callup of the season to the ECHL. This time backing up the Augusta Lynx against the Florida Everblades. Thanks for all of your great help.

From the father of a returning student Hi Chris! Evan was successful in the Atom AA tryouts. He is very excited about the season and his coach was very impressed with the improvement in his technique over the summer as a result of the Essentials and Personal Guru Program. Thanks again for the great program you offer!

From a first time teenaged student who had never even had goal equipment on before our camp!  - Hey Chris, thought I'd update you on what's going on with tryouts.Yesterday was our first pre-season game and we lost 6-1 (but only 1 on me). We have 3 goalies so we got one period each. The second period was my turn....7 minutes left and here is a guy in front screening me, I used my Puckstoppers skills to look past him and stop the shot. Long story short - my own teammate ends up creaming me and I'm down on my hands and knees trying to breath. The trainer asks me if I want to get off the ice but I decide to finish the period. I continued to hold onto my one-period shutout until almost the end of the period ... 40 seconds left on their powerplay, a slapshot, and a save by me. The rebound goes in, the period ends and it's the third goalie turn to play. I'm pretty sure I got bruised ribs or something, all I know is my chest hasn't stopped hurting since and I might go see a doctor. .Andy

From the mother of a first time student - Dear Chris; I have to tell you that Paul really excelled at your camp.  Being that he is a senior in high school, starting last year with essentially no experience, except being a goalie for roller hockey (which I am not sure counts). His coaches are thrilled with his improvement.  Last year he got 10 minutes in all year. This year, they are planning on playing him probably 8-10 games out of 30. So, thanks for all your hard work in putting together the camp. Ruth 

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From a first time adult student - Hello Chris!!!  My hockey season is going well, I'm playing in the Mexico national men league, and I'm the only woman there. I have really noticed improvement in what you taught me and I'm still practicing the thousands of
tips that your staff gave me. Greetings, Nelly

From the father of a long time Training Centre student - Hi Chris, Thanks for the help today. Mark's team played Cambridge and he played well winning 3-1 on an empty net goal. Mark got a round of applause in the dressing room and that applause belongs to you as well. Interestingly, I reminded Mark of last years team where the other goalie got praised a number of times and he never had one game where he had an appreciation. It choked him up a little. In any event one does not look for praise as all that counts is a tie or a win. I believe the preparation he had with you was key and again thank you. 

From the father of a first time Essentials student - Hi Chris, We  just found out that Nathan made the Forest City Oakridge minor pee-wee Tier 1 (A) team!  Due in large part to the fundamentals and mindset we both learned at Puckstoppers, we would talk after each session and fine tune his techniques. I know that without attending your camp, he would not have reached this level so quickly, yet I feel we have only scratched the surface of his potential.
I would like to schedule some 1 on 1 sessions with you once his schedule is finalized. 
Nathan and I Thank-you

From the mother of a Training Centre student - Chris, Just an fyi. Hayden is doing very well in try outs and regardless of where he ends up, we have definitely seen an improvement in his positioning and confidence.  When he came off the ice, he asked how he did and told me he
was doing "everything Chris told him to." Just wanted to pass this along...


From the father of a returning High Intensity student - Hi Chris, AJ and I would like to thank you for putting on another successful Intensity camp and enjoyable dinner at the Huron House. 

AJ came way from this camp feeling more confident about his own play. It has suddenly come to his attention that no matter how good his technique is, mental preparation and self confidence are just as important.  

From watching part of the sessions and speaking with some of your instructors, their patience and positive interaction with the kids is great.  It speaks volumes, when the student holds them in high regard and they for him. 

From the father of a first time Essentials student -  Hello Chris, Feedback on your Essentials Goalie School. Best one I have ever seen.It was well organized and laid out. Commend your team on an excellent job! Kyle really enjoyed it. He says he learned a lot. His try outs, for hockey, are in two weeks. I found the parent orientation excellent too. It is important for the parents to attend. Keep up the good work.

From the mother of a long time returning Intensity student - Dear Chris: It is without a doubt a regret that Brian will not be able to attend the Puckstoppers Camp in August.

Brian has made a Junior B team and the cost and the extras even before the season starts is way too costly.  So we have to cut back on a lot and this sadly is one of them. You know we have loved and looked forward to Puckstoppers every year and Brian has learned so much from all of you. 

Brian has gotten a very solid foundation of goaltending and he is complimented wherever he goes and we brag that the basics and the training he gets from Puckstoppers is why plays the way he does.  Brian has determination and heart for his position - just like you do for your students every year. Maybe Brian in the next few years will go far - and if he does you should be proud of him because he loved being a Puckstoppers student.

Again this was a tough decision for all of us.  We will miss it dearly.  I hope you have great and successful camp in August - I HAVE NO DOUBT!!!!!

From a first year adult Essentials student - Hey Chris! I was ready to hang up the skates, thinking these 45 year old knees just weren't going to carry me much longer. Now, I've buckled down. I got so much out of last year's Puckstopper's camp, I decided to give it another try. Then, I figured, I'd better get with a trainer and get strong enough to skate with the kids at camp this summer. So, the knees are already feeling stronger with exercise.

Tonight, my team won the league championships. We were at the top of 7 teams! I really kept my team in the game. I got shelled, but only let in 2 goals! Yay! The college goalie half my age who just moved down from Boston let in 4 in the other net. I was voted star of the game! Not bad for starting goal at 43! Couldn't possibly have done it without the Puckstoppers coaches.
See you this summer.

From the father of a first year Essentials & TC student - You may remember my son Evan, from Moncton New Brunswick who attended your one on one coaching last March and June as well as the 1 week Essentials program this past summer.
 
Although he only started playing as a goalie this past winter in his last year as an 8 year old Novice, with your coaching he decided to try out for the Moncton Hawks competitive double A team. This was going to be a real step, as the local hockey school coach had not instilled much for Evan's confidence or capability and thought of him as a house league goalie.
 
We are pleased to advise that he just missed the double A goaltending positions, however, he secured the single A goaltender position and was also asked to attend the weekly double A practice sessions.Evan is delighted with his results and he proudly wore his Puckstoppers jersey to every try out!!
 
I would like to say thank you for helping Evan acquire new skills and gain confidence in playing goal and to be able to play at a level that he had never considered last year.  He has much to learn but now has a sound base to play from.
 
I was looking at the Puckstoppers web site but I have not seen any winter training sessions offered.  It takes a bit of coordination for us coming from Moncton but if you are planning on any goalie schools this fall, holiday season or winter season I would appreciate to hear from you.  I know we will be back again next summer as my wife and I are really pleased with the confidence that Evan has gained from your coaching and goalie school and would like to continue with the progress.

From the mother of a long time Intensity student & regular TC student - Thought I'd let you know that Jess looked good Saturday at tryouts. Chris, you are amazing. This is my quote to (husband) Alistair,  "Chris is amazing, eh?! (a true Canadian)  He has been a godsend to Jess really."  There you go--in a nutshell.  7 goalies trying out though.  I'll keep you posted.

Thanks again for fitting her into your busy schedule and expertly finding the problems.

Follow up - She Made the team!!

From the mother of a first time Intensity student & regular TC student- Just wanted to reply to your mail out and thank you and your staff again for the excellent camp you ran in London this summer.  As you know this wasn't the first camp we tried but it will definitely be the only one we use from now on.
 
Chris attended his first AAA tryout this past weekend and although there is an enormous amount of talent out there he certainly held his own! The training he received over the spring in your 1-on1 sessions was certainly well worth the time.
 
We'll let you know how he makes out.  Enjoy the rest of your summer and we'll see you over the coming season for more 'abuse'

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From the mother of a long time returning Intensity student - Just a quick note to let you know what a wonderful week Brian had at your camp this year. Brian said how much fun that he had this year. He certainly experienced a full week of intensity learning.  Another goalie happy with the results.

He even mentioned the pointers that Jerry had given him during guru about going side to side and how he was going past his points.  He said he checked and he was right on the mark.  WOW!! 

You and your staff are wonderful people.  We as a family have great respect for you, your staff and the teaching of a goalie.  This was the 6th year for Brian.  The great foundation you laid and are still laying for him works wonderfully.  Between your teaching and his attitude should make a great combination for a great upcoming season.

Thank you again.  We will keep in touch throughout the season.  I know Jerry wanted to know his stats throughout the year.  We will let him know.

Again, thank you for your true dedication to a wonderful goalie school.  Six years ago- Puckstoppers was the best choice we ever made for Brian and his learning as a goalie - a Puckstopper goalie!!!!

From the parent of a student at one of our Minor Hockey Clinics - Please register my son Austin, we were at the last one (minor hockey clinic) and I have meant to email you and let you know what a great job you guys did especially with the youngest group which my son was in. He enjoyed every part of it. Just from the one clinic I think we will be looking to enrol in a Puckstoppers program next summer.

From an Adult student (Shooting School) - I always regretted that I never played hockey, I only started playing hockey 2 seasons ago, and last summer was the first time I went to any type of hockey camps.  I actually went to some power skating lessons, adult hockey camp  for 1 week and your Shooting and Accuracy school for 1 week.
 
I can honestly say your school is the one thing I wanted to definitely return too this year over all the rest.  I had a blast last year and actually won a stick for showing the most improvement from the start to the end of the course.  I really like the fact that the adults are with the kids, I forgot how much fun it is to work with kids. Helping them on the ice or even helping some of the really young ones lace up their skates, it was just a blast.  Also, being with just adults at the other schools, they tend to give you more breaks and take things much more slowly (because they figure your older I guess).  So I really liked the fact that we were kept very busy, and it's hard to not feel energized with so many kids around all day, you guys must really feel beat at the end of the week.  Also being the oldest shooter last year, most of the kids kind of looked up to me even though most of them were better than I was.  I got lots of pointers and help from lots of the other younger players there and really had a great time.  Hopefully you will always keep it all ages, it forces the adults to work much harder.
 
I can't say enough good things about my experience at Puckstoppers and will recommend your school to anyone, whenever I have a chance.

From Joni Hallikainen, a former student (now a pro goaltender in Europe), concerning his brother (Joonas), who started both games at the 2005 World Junior Tournament in Grand Forks, N.D,  against Gold Medal Winner's, Canada -  Chris, could you please write Joonas a few words about what you think about his performance in the World Junior Tournament. You know like a little "scouting report". He doesn't usually give a damn about most people's comments, but I know that he respects your "all round" goalie knowledge a lot!  Thanks, Bona

From the father of first year goalie and Training Centre student - Chris: It was really good to see how much Evan had learned in such a short period of time. Your coaching is excellent and Evan is still talking about what "Chris" would ask him to do and would tell him!!

 
Evan just completed his first game of his tournament this weekend and faced a very strong team where they would typically lose 11 to 2 or 12 to 1.  Today was a much different game.  What an amazing difference.
 
Although the game ended up 5 to 2 in favour of the other team - even the other coaches were impressed with the saves that Evan made.  Overall it was a great game - Evan really made a lot of saves and really had the team in the game.  This big change was due to the success of your coaching and help that you gave to Evan. You have a great program and we wish that we were much closer to attend more often.
 
We will be seeing you again in the future, thanks for giving Evan the confidence he needed to get started as a goaltender.

From the father of an Intensity and Training Centre student  - Chris, I am happy to say that Matthew has been accepted to attend a highly respected Prep School (Culver) this fall. The school has a great reputation for academics, development of character and for having one of the top 5 hockey programs in the country.  I reflect on all the time and energy Matthew has put into hockey and I know now that it has been worth it!  He is thrilled with this accomplishment and knows that his academic work and hockey development allowed for this opportunity.
 
I also want to thank you for the instruction, guidance and hard work you put into Matt's progression.  He has been working with you for the past three years and he considers you his most valued asset and mentor.  As you know, Matt has attended many of the notable Canadian/US goalie camps prior to his work with you and Puckstoppers.  They were fine camps but either "pigeon holed" you into a particular style or did not show an ongoing interest in your development. They could not tell you from year to year how you were progressing or what you needed to focus on for continued improvement.  Upon his attending Puckstoppers and the Training Centre, we could tell that this was a completely different experience.  He found someone who truly cared about his development from visit to visit and about a proper perspective on keeping the game fun!  Matthew's achievement could not have happen if it were not for you and Puckstoppers. Thanks again Chris!

From a long time returning Intensity student who took a year away at 'other' camps - Ok I tried some other camps and came back because you guys are by far the best I've ever been to! I get to go to many camps each summer because my dad wanted me to make the Varsity squad. You guys did it, I made the squad as the starter. Here is my all time camp list and you guys are hands down NUMBER ONE! No more, yours is my only camp from now on.

NUMBER ONE FAR ABOVE THE REST FOR INTENSITY, TEACHING, ICE TIME AND WORKING MY BUTT OFF IS PUCKSTOPPERS!!!!!! You guys rock, tell Elroy & Dysman THANKS for making me believe I could get through it and succeed!
|All the rest are way below your school but here is a list of where I have tried
Number 2 - Francois Allaire's camp
Number 3 - Jon Elkins
Number 4 - Jim Parks
Number 5 - Heinz's (been to 4 of em, only 1 was even close to the others and no where near your Intensity school, the other 3 were a waste of money)

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From a long time returning Intensity & Training Centre students father  -  Chris, I just received word that Matt was accepted to Culver Academy!! I truly believe that Matthew's play and love of the game has a ton to do with you.  He loves to work hard for you, he believes in you and he reviews your evaluations a lot.  If he is not playing his best he will read it.  He knows what he needs to work on but it helps him to review it. 

Culver has been written up by a Denver Newspaper as being one of the top five prep / high schools In US to play hockey.  It was also mentioned on TV during the World Jr's tournament.  The fact that you have two goalies out of the 7 on the three teams there says something about Puckstoppers too!

From an adult Weekly Clinic student  - Your goalie school must have done something for me, I just got my first ever shutout in league play today!

From the father of a Training Centre student - Just to let you know Tyler and his team won the Bell Capital Cup tournament! He played 3 games out of 6 including the championship game at the Corel Centre (Ottawa) and did not let a single goal in the whole weekend!  Thanks for all your help the session just before we left was just what he needed!!

From an adult Weekly Clinic student  - Chris, I just wanted to take a couple of moments to commend you on your winter clinics held at the Western Fair Sports Complex.  I attended two clinics earlier this season and  want  to let you know how much I enjoyed them!  I found the drills to be very practical and realistic to game time situations. The power skating drills are the building blocks to successful goaltending.  Great job!

From the mother of a long time returning student - Dear Chris, Gerry and the Puckstoppers staff: The family would like to wish everyone at Puckstoppers a Happy Holiday and a wonderful and safe New Year. Before you know it we will planning for your camp in August. Can't wait! 

You have been great to us this year and in years in past.  Chris, you and your staff are a great group of people who have a lot of kindness and understanding in their heart for goalies. We love that. Here in the states the goalies don't get enough attention for their positions. But you have helped Brian in so many ways and I know he looks forward in continuing his learning at Puckstoppers. He loves to go to your camp and he loves the sport and the position he plays. He is very dedicated to his team.  We often say to each other that if we only lived a little closer to London Ontario. 

Even as a goalie mom, I now have a better understanding of the position my son plays. Parents want to know why I am so quiet and calm during a game and my usual response is that I am here for Brian and only Brian knows what is going on in the net. I let him play the game.  He knows why some shots go in and what to do to prevent that from happening again. 
 
Again, have a wonderful holiday and we look forward to seeing you and your Puckstoppers staff in August.

From a returning Personal Guru & Intensity student - I like to work on as much as possible. I really like having just one or two other goalies with me at the stations.  I know Dad said that when he sees that kind of attention it is important to him. He works an extra job so I can come here and I know he wants me to learn as much as possible. I have only gone to your goalie school. I went to a few player camps they were OK, but I really want to get good enough to play Midget major here at home.  My goal is to play college hockey and be the top goalie for my school.

My dad says that word of mouth is always the best advertising. I heard him say that he liked the way you treated him and that you were always telling me I am doing good but I can do better.  He really talks to our team about that.  How they are good players and stuff, but never be 100% satisfied with your efforts. He always says that you should never be satisfied with being average because anyone can be average.

I tell all my teammates about the school.  They see a difference in me. I have told them about the shooting school also. It was hard, but learning more about goaltending makes it more interesting than it is hard.

 
...And a word from his dad - Chris in all sincerity, my wife and I thank you and your staff for doing a great job not only with my son, but with all the kids.  If all goes well, we will see you in August of 2004. Take care and may God bless you richly.

And a follow-up message from dad, 1 month later - Just letting you know John made the Bantam Major A team. I am positive that this is because of the fine quality of teaching your school provides. Take care and say hello to your staff from us. 

From the mother of a first time student - My son Sean loved your camp. He will definitely be back next year. We will enrol him in the Intensity next year. The Essentials program was good. It was our first year, so we were not sure what to expect. Sean picked up a lot of good tips from your instructors. I feel that the different stations were great. When kids have 8 different stations with 20 minutes at each, their attention span seems to stay better focused. If you had less stations with more time at each, I think they would grow bored. They worked on several different parts of their goaltending skills which keeps their interest up.

As I said, we liked the camp, but more importantly Sean felt he learned from attending the camp. He thought it was the absolute best goalie camp he has ever attended. I will definitely put a link in our website. (It can't hurt)

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From the parents of a first time student - Chris, We just wanted to thank you and your team of instructors for a great week for Justin.  He really did enjoy the whole week.  We asked him what he liked the best and the least and he liked all but the stretching.  In the next breath though he was telling us how he needed to stretch on Saturday morning when he got up.  So he couldn't have minded it too much.  As we watched Justin through the week we were impressed by the instructors making sure the goalies knew exactly what they were doing wrong as well as right.  Justin has done a few other hockey schools but by far this was the best he has attended.  In the past he has had younger instructors not correcting him or keeping him busy.  When Justin spends 15 minutes shuffling, twirling, jumping, etc. and then turns up to the stands and gives us a big smile we knew this was the camp for him.  We know that you know Justin's personality and he can go either way some times, we have to give you all credit for keeping him smiling. Thanks again for all your hard work, it was well worth the 5:15 mornings.Brent and Theresa  

From a first time student - by keeping your standards as high as they are, you'll continue to attract quality students.

...And a word from his dad - As a parent, I thought it was well worth it. I was impressed on how well the students responded to the instructors on and off the ice.

From the father of a long time returning Intensity student - It was great as usual, I have been recommending you guys for years now. CJ went to Elkins but you guys are still the best

From the father of a first time student - My son attended last year in London.  So far, my son has had a dramatic improvement in his play. The team is undefeated and he has 6 shutouts so far with two games, plus playoffs to go. This was the same team that last year was only a "500" team.  The difference is a goalie with proper training.

From the parents of a student who attended one of our clinics - Dear Chris, I will time frame to save you time. 8:00am Jan2/03 Mary hits ice.   2 hours later tired, break, 2 hours later tired, sleeps on the way home.  27 hours later hits ice for practice.  Pokechecks everything.  Parents have a talk, reminder her of everything else she has learned.  11 hours later hits the ice, SHUTOUT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We will be seeing you again soon.  Thanks Tom and Emily.           PS Mary is 9 yrs. old.

From the teams goalie coach of a long time student - Timmy just returned for the IIHF U20 world championships Div II as all star goalie of the tournament. His medal will be in the Hockey hall of fame later this year ... (thanks to his goalie schools teachings in London)

From the father of a returning student - Just sending you a little note Thanks for talking to Carly on Fri the last day of the camp. Carly had a great time at the camp again and I think hopefully she learned some things. I think Carly was surprised how hard the advanced program was, just natural ability was not good enough, I don't think she was prepared how vigorous the program was. Again the dad was right, I told Carly before the camp to do some extra work in jogging and bike riding and some endurance exercises. THANKS CHRIS and staff I think a great job was done by all.  

From the mother of a long time returning student - ...the personal guru program is innovative and will surely fill quickly. I know that Conor immediately said "Sign me up for that!" We appreciate how much thought and work you put into your program. As we share goalie camp stories and experiences with other goalie parents, we realize how fortunate Conor has been to have been steered in direction all those years ago. Keep us in mind...we're coming back again next year! As soon as your application process opens up, we'll be signing up. 

From an adult student - It was a terrific experience -- and I'd hope to participate again next year. More importantly, I'd like to help you build this as a local success in the future.

I did find the instruction most helpful, and have been able to apply most of the lessons learned. I especially noted the quality of the instructors as well of the instruction. To a man your team is impressive -- their knowledge obvious but not prideful -- their sincere willingness to help a mark of your program.

In my fifty odd years of being a goalie in this great sport -- probably an attempt to win with endurance what I could not with raw talent! -- I have seen the goalies typically treated as "different" and seldom coached as the players would be. They are thought to be a solitary breed (who would choose to do THAT???), yet few would argue they are the most important player on the ice. I have always reveled in those ironies. But I believe your school will eventually help change that image, and for the better. There IS a body of knowledge about the position -- and your are helping spread that knowledge throughout Canada and the U.S.

I believe some of this (Puckstoppers knowledge), at least, is achievable and thus transferable to all these young goaltenders looking for not only improvement in technique and concomitant results but also a deeper understanding of the position within the game.

From the father of a Shooting School student - I couldn't be more pleased and neither could my daughter. She has only played 5 years and has been a steady defensemen for the past 3 years, however she was a slow plodding skater and had little velocity on her shot. Mind you she is 17 and didn't start playing until 12, she was in house league but wanted better competition so we 'forced' her to attend this summer. After working with Fred and John the first day, she was bugging me to get back to the rink the next day, "it's FUN and I'm learning so much" was her comment.

Fred worked with her on her skating and her shot obviously improved over the week, but it wasn't until hockey season started that we really saw what your school had done. She attended the HL evaluations and was one of the best players on the ice (coaches comment - not mine), they invited her out for competitive and she MADE THE TEAM as 1/2 of the top defensive unit. Funny thing, after she received word that she had made the team, her first comment was "email John and tell him I made it". Obviously your instructors’ care about their students and it comes through to them.

This is absolutely no question that would not have happened had your instructors taken the time and worked with her!! From us both, a huge thank you!! We'll be back next summer.  

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From the father of a first time student - When I spoke to you at Cosmo City, I told you how great I thought the camp was. Dan said it was the best camp he'd ever attended. We were very impressed with the quality of every aspect of the camp. From the efficient structure and organization of the way each day was planned, to instructors ability to communicate effectively and make immediate changes or corrections when needed. I also thought it was important that each instructor be suited up in goal pads to be able to show proper technique.

The shooters were also excellent, and added to the quality of the entire program. I know the camp made my son a better goalie, he and his team will benefit from it this season. We are already looking forward to next year's camp.  

From an Intensity student - To all Puckstoppers Goaltending Instructors (Coaches), I would like to send my appreciation to Puckstoppers Goaltending School and its instructors. On Saturday the sixth of November I was able to stop 60 out of 64 shots and I would like to dedicate my performance to you all at Puckstoppers. I was able to use many of the concepts and moves that the instructors had taught me, with my travel B team, playing against the number one A team in the area. 

I feel since going to your school that my game performance has increased by 98%. If it were not for your school and instructors pushing for the best I do not feel I would be as good as I am today. Many of the parents of the A team after the game had said that I was quite possibly the best goalie in the area. At my home rink I was also accepted to play senior "A", but I decided to play adult B to make sure I was still having fun, and it has proven to be great experience for my game. I feel that your school is the best and most challenging around, and I plan to come this summer again. 

Thank you all for your help and high expectations, Special thanks to, Hodge, for having me in his house, helping me when I couldn't quite get a move right, and for believing in me when I felt I was not doing well. Coach Yona, for teaching me the correct way to do the pad stack to my blocker side (made a huge save on my Saturday game) and how to recover correctly from it. Coach Henrikson, for being my group instructor, and for teaching me desperation saves, (again goes along with the Saturday game). Coach Bricker (a.k.a. teeth), for teaching me the correct butterfly moves and the correct half butterfly moves. (Saturday game) Coach's Dyson, Ropponen, and Craig, for always having and insightful and helpful word when needed.

From the mother of a student who has attended several times - We want to take a moment to thank you for another great year of Puckstoppers! Conor and I had a wonderful time in London; he learning more than each year before, and myself just watching and listening in awe at all you and your staff do each of those five days with all of those kids! Conor begins try-outs this week and I know he is more confident this year after being chosen by your "guys" as the student in the Advanced program that demonstrated great effort and determination. He is still flying high about the prize. Thanks again for everything: moving Conor into the Advanced program mid-week...  

From the parent of a first time student - He thought it was great and liked all the instructors. He was talking about coming back next year after the first day. Thank you and all the instructors for making it such a good experience for him.  

From one of our on ice helpers - Hey, thanks for a great week. I think the camp was a big success. A lot of goalies improved over the week that I saw anyways. I would just like to thank you for letting me be a part of it.  

From a parent of a student being personally trained by one of our instructors - Yona, Thank you for your efforts and support in working with Peter. There is a fine line between constructive criticism & useless criticism. You have always provided Peter with constructive criticism. For that I am extremely grateful. You know much better than I that goaltending is 90% confidence & 10% technique. You have certainly gone above and beyond what I anticipated you could do with Peter. His entire attitude has changed. Moreover, his lateral movement & technique have greatly improved. We still have 4 lessons left & we will call you upon our return from vacation.
Thankfully yours

From a first time student in Germany - it was great ... that simple

From a returning Personal Guru & Intensity student - You guys are the most intense and hands down the best.  

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We certainly try our best to please everyone, but that isn't always possible. We are never afraid to learn from our experiences and encourage feedback; this is what makes us better.

We aren't afraid or ashamed to show that all the notes and letters we receive aren't complimentary. However after coaching literally thousands of goaltenders since 1988, we have come to the realization that most dissatisfaction stems from an unrealistic expectation.

In the case of this parent, he was sure his 10 year old son was able to stop NHL shooters only a year before coming to our camp. Yet, after our camp he was sure he wasn't as good as a year previous.

From the parent of an 11 year old enrolled in an Advanced program - My son just completed your advanced program and I must say we are both disappointed. First, I will admit I only watched the Monday and Friday sessions.
 NOTE: Monday is the day when the least 'appears' to be happening because this is the day we spend most time analyzing and  teaching the student, as well as and least time actually drilling (shooting). This father watched a  slow paced, teaching day, from the stands this can look like nothing is happening, but in reality this is the key to building a foundation for the rest of the school.  Friday at this program was a skills competition, where his son was involved in every event, but again from the stands, this can be deceiving. 

The bottom line is Matthew feels he received very little instruction during the program and does not at all think he feels like a better goaltender. In each of the other camps he came out fired up ready to go and show off his new skills. After Puckstoppers, he fears he is not going to make his old team if the other goalies improved.
NOTE: It is unfortunate that we agree that his son did not come away from this week with much improvement. His father had enrolled his son in a program that was far above his capability and the boy was genuinely scared because he was clearly in a situation he could not handle, mentally pr physically. 

Although we tried very hard to keep his son motivated and interested, he clearly didn't want to be there and intentionally missed his turn in the net or only gave it a half hearted effort. While we do everything possible to help our students, there is not much we can do when a student does not want to be there and is forced to stay. 

I concur with his opinion. I was very disappointed in what I saw in the final 2 sessions on Friday and I have since watched the video I took and it looks bad. I know some is because he is 11yrs. old and he had much older kids going full speed at him, but last year (at another school) was advanced to a group with all Bantams and Midgets and he had all Midget AAA and even 2 NHL shooters going full speed and he looked great. I realize he is not going to stop all the shots but there is a difference between getting beat by a more advance player and the goalie looking like he knows what he is doing and getting beat because the goalie is just "swimming" out there.
NOTE: How can anyone really believe an 10 year old is capable of 'looking good' against NHL players or even players 4 or 5 years older? Obviously this is a case of unreal expectations. The program this student had taken was designed to mentally push students to their breaking point because, the reality is, goaltending is a very tough job and the tougher the goalie, the better their chances of success. This father believed that at 10 (a year before) his son was capable of looking good against NHL players, the truth is likely that the previous school he had attended, was not designed as a truly high level program where all aspects of the goalie are tested and the shooters had been instructed to 'make the goalie feel good'. 

An important part of any program is that the shooters understand that they have a job to do and that sometimes this job is to 'make the goalie feel good' and/or build their confidence, but to do this for an entire program would be a lie and give the student a false sense of their ability. Our shooters are told to do both 'score' and build confidence, the student's mental ability, fragility and the situation dictate which method is used at any given time. 

Unfortunately, this students father only attended the first day, where we are doing an honest evaluation of the students abilities, where we have to see what they are capable of. And on the last day when the students are at the point of 'putting it all together' and utilizing all the skills and knowledge in game type situations and a skills competition. Both situations are clearly tests of their ability and what they have learned. Participating at a half interested level all week, clearly shows up at this point......

Commentary from the President,

It is because of this incident and several others like it over the years, that we very strongly suggest that parents take the time and select the right program for their child. A 'high level AAA' 10 year old is not mentally ready for our Intensity school, but he'll still find our Essentials program VERY challenging, as will the AAA level 13 year old goalie, but by that age, the goalie is likely mentally ready to move to the Intensity school.

Please let your kids have fun; hockey is a sport and should be viewed as a fun activity. Invariably we have several situations every year where a child has been pushed to live up to the parents unrealistic expectations. These kids are often 'puck shy' or outright scared. This causes our instructors great anguish, and myself as we try to contain our feelings.

Unfortunately these 'hockey parents' usually see everyone else as being the problem and insist that their child is 'getting the short end of the stick'. They usually insist that their kids are capable of playing with much older players and they should "see much harder shots, because they need it and can handle the it". They seldom consider that their child's gear is designed to face shots from the age group it was intended for, as well they do not understand that training considerably above their normal calibre of play is detrimental because the goaltender has no 'timing' when returning to his own level and will often overplay shots. Training should always be done at a level that is above the goaltenders normal level of play, but only one or two levels above the normal playing range.

Parents should strongly support their children in their sporting choices, but should be very careful not to 'live through their children' and force them to achieve. It is difficult having to work with and watch a child struggling to achieve what a parent wants, only for the satisfaction of that parent. These children seldom smile and are rarely enjoying what the parent believes is the child's 'greatest joy in life'. Children should play sports for THEIR enjoyment and theirs alone.


Sincerely,

Chris Dyson

 

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Click the button below to sign up online. You will be taken to our Shopping Cart program, simply select 'Clinics & Training Centre' from the menu on the left and then select the appropriate item from the list. 

Click the button below to print an application that you can then mail or fax to us