Our Top-5 Episodes For Youth Hockey Goalies & What They Uncover About Pressure & Performance

To celebrate 400 episodes of Our Kids Play Hockey, the team put together a special "Best Of" list—and this one’s all about the goalies.

Whether your child just laced up the pads for the first time or is vying for a varsity or junior team, these five episodes are goldmines of insight, inspiration, and actionable advice. Even if you’re not raising a goalie, these conversations can deepen your understanding of the most mentally demanding position on the ice—and help your entire hockey family grow.

Here’s a breakdown of the top five goalie-centric episodes every player, parent, and coach should check out:

1. Steve Valiquette – Goalie Development and Mental Toughness

Former NHL netminder and analytics guru Steve Valiquette dives into how today’s goalies need more than just physical drills—they need mental reps, game-simulated pressure, and purpose-driven practice.

“The goaltender knows the next shot is imminent. Everything feels like a game... now we're competing.”
– Steve Valiquette

Why it matters:
This episode arms goalie parents, coaches, and players with a roadmap to elevate performance through mental training and competitive scenarios.

2. Sami Jo Small – Goaltending, Grit, and Growth

Three-time Olympic gold medalist Sami Jo Small shares her journey from street hockey in Winnipeg to the world stage—and everything in between. She discusses handling adversity, being a supportive teammate, and finding joy in the game.

“But why can’t she play?” – Small’s parents, challenging early gender stereotypes in hockey.

Why it matters:
It’s a masterclass in resilience and leadership from someone who’s played every role between the pipes.

3. Brian Daccord – Coaching and Communication for Goalies

Renowned goalie coach and author Brian Daccord talks about how communication, mindset, and early passion shape long-term success in goaltending. He also reflects on coaching his son, NHL goalie Joey Daccord.

“You absolutely, positively have to develop that passion while you're younger.”

Why it matters:
This episode is essential for goalie parents and coaches looking to build not just skills, but staying power.

4. The Goalie Doctors – Winning Tryouts and the Mental Edge

Elite goaltending coaches from The Goalie Doctors, led by Matt Tendler, break down how goalies can shine at tryouts—and in life. Their mantra? Stay present.

“Be where your feet are.”

Why it matters:
From mindset tips to performance hacks, this episode is a go-to for anyone facing competitive pressure—on or off the ice.

5. Paul Cohen – Physical and Mental Training for Goalies

Former AHL goalie Paul Cohen mixes physical training with mental and even philosophical elements of goaltending. His origin story—crying because he didn’t want to leave the ice—captures the spark every young goalie needs.

“You get to stay on the ice the whole game.”
– The words that sealed his fate as a lifelong goalie.

Why it matters:
This episode bridges the physical and mental demands of goaltending with humor, honesty, and depth.

Final Thoughts

Whether your goalie is just getting started or chasing college and pro dreams, these episodes are rich with wisdom from those who’ve lived it. More than that, they’re a reminder of why goaltending is one of the most unique and rewarding roles in all of sports.

So take a listen. Share these episodes with your team chats, goalie groups, and coaching staff. And keep growing the game—one save at a time.

🎧 Catch all 400+ episodes of Our Kids Play Hockey wherever you listen to podcasts!