What Age Should My Child Start Goalie Lessons?
By Marek Benda, Founder and Head Coach of Shield Goaltending
Short answer: most goalies are ready for goalie specific coaching around age 7 or 8, in the U9 age group, once they can skate comfortably. Younger than that, the best thing a future goalie can do is skate as much as possible and try the net for fun at team practices. It is also never too late to start. Many of the goalies we coach began at U11 or U13.
Signs your child is ready
Age is only part of the answer. A child is usually ready for goalie lessons when:
- They ask for it. The goalies who improve fastest are the ones who want to be in net.
- They can skate forward, backward and stop without falling every few strides. Goalie skating builds on regular skating.
- They can move in the equipment. Goalie gear is heavy for young players. If they can get up from their knees on their own, they are ready to learn.
- They can focus for a full session. Our sessions are about 50 minutes on the ice.
What to focus on at each age
The right coaching changes as goalies grow. This is the order we follow at Shield Goaltending:
- U9 (about 7 and 8 years old): skating, balance, a proper stance, the butterfly and getting back up. Most of all, we want young goalies to fall in love with the position.
- U11: crease management, depth and angles. Many young goalies play too deep in their net, so we teach them to take away more of it.
- U13: puck tracking and rebound control. Watching the puck all the way into the body is what lets goalies make a second save.
- U15 and older: save selection in game situations and controlled movement at full speed.
At every age, skating comes first. A goalie who moves well gets set in time, stays square to the puck and is ready before the shot.
Group sessions or private lessons?
For young goalies we usually recommend starting with small group sessions. They get lots of repetitions, learn alongside other goalies and have fun doing it. Private lessons work best once a goalie has the basics and needs to fix one or two specific habits, or wants extra attention before a big season.
Is it too late to start?
No. Goalies who start at U11, U13 or even later can catch up quickly, especially if they are good skaters. What matters most is learning the right habits from the start, so there is nothing to unlearn later.
One tip for parents
Make sure the equipment fits. Gear that is too big makes it harder for a young goalie to move, get set and get back up. A good fit matters much more than an expensive brand.
Questions parents ask
What age should my child start goalie lessons?
Most goalies are ready for goalie specific coaching around age 7 or 8, in the U9 age group, once they can skate comfortably. Younger children should focus on skating and trying the net for fun at team practices.
How do I know if my child is ready to play goalie?
Your child is usually ready when they ask to play in net, can skate forward, backward and stop, can get up from their knees in the equipment on their own, and can focus for a 50 minute session.
Is it too late to start goalie lessons at U11 or U13?
No. Goalies who start at U11, U13 or later can catch up quickly, especially if they are good skaters. Learning the right habits matters more than the starting age.
Should a young goalie start with group sessions or private lessons?
Most young goalies do best in small group sessions, with lots of repetitions and fun alongside other goalies. Private lessons work best once a goalie has the basics and needs to fix specific habits. For a brand new goalie trying the position for the first time, a private first session gives the most positive start.
Can my child try goaltending before we commit or buy gear?
Yes. Shield Goaltending offers new goalies a free first session with goalie gear provided and no commitment. If your child wants to keep trying, the gear can be rented for a longer period while your family decides.
What goalie equipment does a young goalie need?
Equipment that fits matters more than an expensive brand. Gear that is too big makes it harder to move, get set and get back up. For a first try, you do not need to buy goalie gear at all.
Ready to start?
- Brand new to goaltending? Try a free first session with goalie gear provided and no commitment.
- Private lessons with Marek Benda or a Shield instructor can be booked any time. Request a private session.
- Fall goalie sessions are almost full. Join the waiting list and we will contact you when a spot opens.
- Goalie power skating still has spots in some age groups. See power skating groups.
Questions? Email info@shieldgoaltending.com.
About the author
Marek Benda is the founder and head coach of Shield Goaltending and goaltending coach of the Newfoundland Regiment (QMJHL). A former professional goaltender, he won the 2019 Kelly Cup as goaltending coach of the Newfoundland Growlers and has worked with NHL goaltenders and prospects including Luke Cavallin (Boston Bruins), Riley Mercer (Minnesota Wild) and Louis-Antoine Denault (Florida Panthers).