7 Best Goalie Training Books For Coaches to Master Skills

Watching your child step into the crease for the first time is a mix of pride and pure nerves for any hockey parent. Navigating the technical world of goaltending can feel overwhelming, but the right resources turn confusion into a clear path for growth. These seven books offer a roadmap to help your young athlete build confidence, technique, and a love for the game.

The Art of Goaltending by Joe Bertagna

When your child first expresses interest in goaltending, you might be tempted to jump straight into expensive private lessons. However, understanding the foundational philosophy of the position is a more cost-effective first step. Joe Bertagna’s work is a classic that emphasizes the "art" of the position, focusing on the history and the mindset required to stay calm under pressure.

This book is excellent for parents of 8–10-year-olds who are just starting to grasp the tactical side of the game. It isn’t a manual of complex drills, but rather a guide to the personality and temperament needed in the net. Think of this as the "big picture" book that helps your child understand why they are doing what they are doing.

Hockey Goaltending by Brian Daccord

As your child moves into the 11–14 age range, the physical demands of the position increase significantly. Brian Daccord provides a comprehensive look at the modern game, focusing on technical efficiency and movement. It is a fantastic resource for parents who want to help their kids practice at home without needing a professional goalie coach on speed dial.

Daccord’s approach is highly structured, making it perfect for athletes who thrive on clear, measurable progression. It covers everything from skating mechanics to puck tracking in a way that is easy to digest. It’s a solid investment that will stay relevant as your child moves from house league to more competitive travel programs.

The Hockey Goalie’s Complete Guide by François Allaire

François Allaire is essentially the architect of modern goaltending, and his influence is felt in almost every goalie camp today. If your child is serious about the position and looking to refine their technical game, this book is the gold standard. It breaks down the "butterfly" style and positional play with surgical precision.

This book is best suited for the intermediate to competitive player who has already mastered the basics. Because it is so technically dense, it’s a resource you’ll keep on the shelf for years, referencing it as your child grows and their needs evolve. It’s a high-value purchase because it remains relevant even as their skill level spikes.

Goaltending: The Ultimate Guide by John H. Hocker

Sometimes, you just need a straightforward manual that explains the mechanics without the fluff. John H. Hocker’s guide is exactly that—a practical, no-nonsense resource for coaches and parents who are helping kids navigate the crease. It is particularly helpful for those who are coaching youth teams and need to explain complex movements to 5–7-year-olds in simple terms.

The focus here is on the "how-to" of every save, from glove positioning to rebound control. It’s a great book to keep in your hockey bag for quick reference before a practice. If you are looking for a resource that bridges the gap between basic skating and actual goaltending, this is a very reliable choice.

The Power Goalie by Mike Valley and Justin Goldman

Modern goaltending is as much about athleticism as it is about technique. This book focuses on the "power" aspect of the position, including explosive movement and physical conditioning. It’s perfect for the teenager who is looking to take their game to the next level by focusing on their off-ice development.

Valley and Goldman emphasize that the goalie is an athlete first, a concept that is vital for preventing burnout and injury. It encourages a holistic approach to training that includes strength, agility, and speed. This is an excellent gift for a child who is self-motivated and enjoys working on their fitness outside of team practices.

Goalie Mindset Secrets by Pete Fry

The mental game is often the biggest hurdle for young goalies, especially when they let in a "soft" goal. Pete Fry’s book is a specialized resource dedicated entirely to the psychology of the position. It provides actionable strategies for helping your child move past a bad game and stay focused on the next shot.

For parents, this book is a godsend for learning how to support your child after a tough loss. It teaches you how to ask the right questions—like "What did you learn?" instead of "Why did you let that in?"—to foster long-term resilience. It is an essential tool for keeping the sport fun and stress-free for your young athlete.

The Goalie’s Handbook by John H. Hocker

This book serves as a perfect companion to Hocker’s other works, acting as a quick-reference guide for specific game situations. It is highly visual and easy to flip through, which is helpful when you’re trying to explain a concept to a child who is already geared up and ready to hit the ice. It’s all about practical, situational awareness.

This is a great "starter" book for parents who want to learn the terminology of the position. You’ll be able to communicate better with coaches once you understand the difference between "closing the gap" and "playing the angle." It’s an inexpensive way to feel more confident in your role as a hockey parent.

Essential Drills for Youth Goalie Development

When you’re setting up a backyard rink or heading to the local pond, you don’t need a professional setup to practice. Focus on simple, repeatable drills that reinforce skating edges and basic save selection. For younger kids, keep it playful; turn "rebound control" into a game of who can catch the most tennis balls.

• 5–7 years: Focus on stance and basic T-pushes.
• 8–10 years: Introduce butterfly slides and glove tracking.
• 11–14 years: Focus on recovery speed and post-integration.

How to Teach Proper Stance and Movement Patterns

The stance is the foundation of everything a goalie does. If the stance is shaky, the save will be, too. Start by teaching your child to keep their weight centered and their chest up, rather than leaning forward, which is a common mistake for beginners.

Use slow-motion video on your phone to show them their own movement. Seeing themselves in a proper "ready" position is often more effective than any verbal instruction you can give. Remember, they are still growing, so their center of gravity will shift; be patient with their balance as they go through growth spurts.

Managing Mental Resilience in Young Athletes

The most important skill a goalie can develop is the ability to "reset" after a mistake. Encourage your child to focus on the process rather than the outcome. If they make a great save, celebrate the effort; if they let in a goal, focus on the next play.

As a parent, your goal is to be the "safe harbor." When they have a tough game, avoid over-analyzing the mistakes on the drive home. Instead, focus on the fun of the experience and the effort they put in, keeping the pressure low so they can keep their love for the game high.

Investing in these books is a wonderful way to show support for your child’s passion without needing to be an expert yourself. Remember that their interest may shift over time, so focus on resources that build life skills like resilience and discipline rather than just hockey mechanics. With the right mindset and a little guidance, you’ll help your child build a foundation that lasts far beyond their time in the crease.