How to Compete AND Support: Ian Shane on Why Great Goaltenders Think About Others First

How to Be a Great Teammate in Hockey: Lessons from Goalie Ian Shane

Every hockey kid dreams of scoring the big goal or making the game-winning save. But ask almost any pro, and they’ll tell you: the players who truly stand out aren’t just the most talented — they’re the ones who are great teammates.

That’s exactly what pro goaltender Ian Shane (Cornell University standout, now playing professionally) joined us to talk about on The Ride to the Rink. His message? If you want to improve as a player, focus on improving the people around you first.

Why Being a Great Teammate Matters

Hockey moves fast. You don’t have time to overthink every play. But when your mind is cluttered with stress — about ice time, school, or expectations — it’s easy to get stuck. Ian shared a powerful mindset shift:

👉 Get out of your own head by focusing on someone else.

Ask yourself: How can I make the locker room more positive today? How can I lift up a teammate? The surprising result? Not only do you help others, but your own game becomes lighter, freer, and more fun.

The Unique Role of Goalies

Goalies face an especially tricky dynamic — only one plays at a time, which means every goalie relationship is naturally competitive. But instead of seeing that as a negative, Ian challenges young goalies to flip the script.

• Compete hard, but also learn from each other.

• Share tips, compare experiences, and root for your goalie partner.

• Remember: when both goalies get better, the whole team gets better.

It’s not about tearing down your teammate to get ahead — it’s about raising all ships together.

Flipping Negative Thoughts

Every kid has moments of negativity: “That kid stinks.” or even “I stink.” Ian’s advice? Don’t let those thoughts run wild. Instead:

1. Ask where the thought is coming from — jealousy? Frustration? Competition?

2. Reframe it into curiosity — “What can I learn from this player?”

3. Start a conversation — people love sharing about their process, whether it’s stick taping, pre-game routines, or practice habits.

This not only helps you improve, it builds relationships that make the locker room stronger.

Growth Mindset: The Game-Changer

One of the biggest takeaways from Ian’s journey is the importance of a growth mindset.

He grew up playing hockey in California — far from a traditional hockey hotbed. He started at Cornell as the third-string goalie. By focusing on constant improvement and learning from others, he worked his way up to a four-year starter and is now playing professionally.

For kids listening: it’s proof that where you start doesn’t define where you can go.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, hockey isn’t just about goals and saves. It’s about relationships, positivity, and growth. Being a great teammate isn’t just “nice” — it’s what helps you, your team, and your future success.

So next time you head to the rink, ask yourself: Who can I make better today?

🎧 Want more from Ian’s inspiring story? Check out the full episode of The Ride to the Rink for a deeper dive into his mindset, routines, and journey from California rinks to professional hockey.

Until next time, skate hard, stay positive, and remember: great teammates make the game great.