Try Goaltending: Free First Session
Want to try being a goalie? Your first session is free.
Every great goalie started with one first time in net. Come try a Shield session with no commitment. We provide the goalie gear and a coach who makes sure the first experience is a great one. All your child needs to bring is a pair of skates.
A free first session
Your child tries goaltending on the ice with a Shield coach. There is no cost and nothing to sign up for afterwards. One free trial session per child.
Goalie gear provided
No need to buy expensive equipment before you know your child loves the position. We provide the goalie gear and help with the fit.
Keep the gear while you decide
Want more time in net? Your child can keep the goalie gear for a longer period. We decide on the length together with your family, based on what works for you.
Start with a private session
New goalies can try any Shield program, but we recommend a private first session. One goalie, one coach, full attention. We make sure the gear fits, teach the first basic movements and make the first time in net fun and positive.
If your child wants more after that, they can try our group goalie sessions or goalie power skating next.
Send the form
Tell us about your child and the times that work for your family.
We set it up
We reply by email with an ice time and arrange the goalie gear in the right size. You bring the skates.
Try it, then decide
Your child tries goaltending with a coach. Keep going only if they love it.
Marek Benda and the Shield coaching staff
Shield Goaltending was founded by Marek Benda, a former professional goaltender and goaltending coach of the Newfoundland Regiment (QMJHL). Every Shield instructor is trained in the same system, so new goalies learn the right habits from their very first session.
Request received
Thank you. We will reply by email with an ice time and arrange the goalie gear for your child. Remember to bring skates.
Questions in the meantime? Email info@shieldgoaltending.com.
Is the first session really free?
Yes. Each new goalie can have one free trial session. It costs nothing and there is no commitment to register for anything afterwards.
What do we need to bring?
Just your own skates. Shield provides the goalie gear for the trial session and helps make sure it fits.
Do we need to buy goalie equipment first?
No. Shield provides the goalie gear for the trial session, so you do not need to buy anything before you know your child wants to play in net.
What if my child wants to keep trying goaltending?
Your child can keep the goalie gear for a longer period while your family decides. We agree on how long together, based on what works for your family. Your child can also try our group goalie sessions or goalie power skating.
Which session should a brand new goalie try first?
New goalies can try any Shield program, but we recommend a private first session. With one coach and full attention, we can fit the gear, teach the basics and make the first time in net a positive one.
What age can my child try goaltending?
Any age. Most goalies are ready for goalie specific coaching around age 7 or 8, once they can skate comfortably, and it is never too late to start. Read what age should my child start goalie lessons for more.
What if goaltending is not for my child?
That is completely fine. There is no commitment and nothing to cancel. Many young players try the net and go back to playing out, and that is a great experience too.