GDI Prairies Hockey Goaltending 1 on 1 Instruction,Camps, in Manitoba Saskatchewan Ontario

New Website

2011-07-21T10:26:00.003-05:00

The most interactive goaltending website online is now here!

Join the Revolution online as GDI Prairies provides access to all of your goaltending needs.

Visit www.gdiprairies.com

- GDI Student Login
- GDI Goalie News/ Blog (Updates Daily)
- GDI 3 Stars (Updated Montly)
- The Inside Edge Newsletter (Cutting Edge Tactical and Technical Instruction)
- Online Registration (Camps and 1v1 Instruction)
- Direct Social Network Access (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube)
- Flashy Look With a Quick and Easy to Access Presentation for Clients

"If they want to give me the opportunity, I won't hesitate to take it."

2011-07-15T06:03:00.000-05:00

NEWARK, N.J. -- Like it or not, there will come a time when future Hall of Fame goalie Martin Brodeur decides to call it a career.

It even could be at the conclusion of the 2011-12 season, when the NHL's all-time leader in regular-season wins, shutouts, games played and numerous other marks has played the final season of the six-year deal he signed prior to the start of the 2006-07 season. Whenever the inevitable does occur, who takes over between the pipes?

Will the Devils consider someone from outside the organization? Or do they begin a new era from within?

Perhaps one of the four goaltenders in attendance, including Jeff Frazee (second round, 2005), Scott Wedgewood (third round, 2010), Maxime Clermont (sixth round, 2010) or Keith Kinkaid (free agent, 2011), one day will fill that huge void along the goal line.

"Goalies are funny … you never know when they're going to come forward," Devils General Manager Lou Lamoriello said. "But we've been extremely pleased with Clermont and Wedgewood. They both had very good years with the teams they played for. I know (goalie coaches) Chris (Terreri) and Jacques (Caron) have been very impressed by them."

"Goalies take a lot longer (to develop) than players … I've come to realize that," Wedgewood told NHL.com. "I'm not going to be in there in a year or two; it's just a waiting game for goalies. It takes longer for us to evolve. But with Brodeur and Hedberg here, there is time. Brodeur has set the records for everything. People have said their contracts are coming to an end next year, but what does that mean? What will happen? It's up to Lou (Lamoriello) and the coaching staff. All I can do is show them my game, show them what I can do. If they want to give me the opportunity, I won't hesitate to take it."

"I want to play in the NHL; that's why I'm here and that's why I wake up every day," Clermont told NHL.com. "It's the job I want to have, but I have to go step by step. Now I feel I'm ready to turn pro. I've played four years of junior and I think it's enough for me. I have to show them what I can do."

Clermont, born in Brodeur's hometown of Montreal, went 30-10-5 with a 2.55 GAA and .896 save percentage in 2010-11.

For more on this article by Mike G. Morreale of NHL.com Click Here.

Greatest Glovers!

2011-07-14T08:48:00.001-05:00

Everyone's favorite... the one's that feel the best! We all know that your missing turning on the highlights to catch last nights games, so here they are, the NHL's top glove saves. Including some of the games best - Eddie the Eagle, Patty Roy, the Dominator, and Felix that Cat!

Past GDI Champions!

2011-07-13T19:53:00.007-05:00

Well, it's that time again! GDI Prairies one on one lessons are jam packed with instruction and excitement. Over the course of July and August the center is open from 10:30-9:30. Looking to the weeks ahead the schedule is already more than half full. Tip of advice, organize and register your time slots in advance to secure your training!

Of course, with every GDI session there is that compete factor included! Over the past months the one on one battles have been intense. The GDI one on one war zone of one on one games has had its fair share of battle scares and bone fractures, broken sticks, and has left teammates physically and mentally exhausted after the final series.

On another note, the fact of competing may be considered one of the most crucial and looked upon aspects of the position. Goaltenders that give their all, no matter what, if it is a fun "pick up game" or if it during actual in game performance, will always be considered and known as a "competitor". These "competitors" define the character that everyone admires!

...who knows, maybe YOU could be the next "competitor" for that team your are training for.

In the end, whether the end result has ended in a championship victory or an epic loss, the competition is always one to remember!

Until your next game, here are a couple pictures of past victories...

Booster Juice 3v3 Champions

2011-07-12T08:11:00.001-05:00

Congrats to the Walkers Rejects for being crowned the Booster Juice 3v3 Champions.

The Championship team includes the following players: Nolan Waker, Chris Benias, Calin Wild, Kip Workman, Dustin Degagne, Riley Dudar, Joe Caligiuri

The Importance of Hydration

2011-07-11T11:51:00.003-05:00

Without water, your body would virtually stop working properly! With water making up more than half of your body weight it becomes evident that a person will not be able to survive for more than a few days without it... at most.

Now, bringing you back to the hockey world, water plays a large importance when training and performing.

If the instructors at GDI started to charge goaltenders for each time they forgot their water bottle for a session we would probably be rich by now. The act of drinking water almost seems routine. But, at the same time the it should be considered essential for all of your athletic needs.

Jeff Fisher - EL1TE Performance - recently posted a great article related to the importance of hydration.

{...the key to your next EL1TE Performance whether it is on the fied, RINK, or in the gym is HYDRATION....

...as most of you already know...blood is the VEHICLE that transports the "good stuff" to working muscles (fuel, oxygen) and the "bad stuff" (acid and waste products)...

...when we loose water from the body...through sweat and other means...if we aren't replacing the fluid we actually loose blood volume...

...meaning...the vehicle that gets the good stuff to our working muscles...can't move as much...and the bad stuff (i.e. Lactic Acid...the "burn" you get from training hard) is harder to remove from our muscles...

...so, as we approach the "dog days of summer"...let's make sure we are taking in enough fluids...

Here are a couple of tips to make sure you are properly hydrated:

1- Don't rely on thirst to get you to drink...funny thing is thirst is a poor indicator of hydration level, if you are thirsty, chances are you are already dehydrated!!!

2- It takes time to hydrate properly...our athletes receive their own personalized hydration plans 1 week out of a major race...or game. Start increasing your fluids 3 days out of a game or race for a good start!

3- Electrolytes...the salts that balance off hydration levels...if you are racing/ playing, make sure you speak with an expert before supplementing either Salt or Potassium...try to consume them through natural sources...BANANAS for Potassium is a great place to start.

4- Lastly...start with 3 litres of WATER per day...not including your juices or milk...Use 3 litres of water per day as your FLUID FOUNDATION. With all of the other fluids you consume, soon you will be body will be ready for most of your physical endeavors.

Success is not a coincidence...it is a choice...make it yours.

Until next time EL1TE Nation,
Onward and upward,
your pal,
fISH}

It's Back! ... Introducing the "In-Season" Total GDI Academy

2011-07-07T11:35:00.009-05:00

JOIN THE REVOLUTION

The Total GDI Academy is not designed for the individuals who want a casual program. This is for aspiring professional athletes looking to take their game to the next level. GDI Prairies, being the regional leader in goaltender development, has designed a unique program that offers goaltenders something you can’t get anywhere else in the country.

With a goaltenders performance on the ice being the main area critiqued and evaluated across Western Canada, GDI Prairies has created a goaltending academy that incorporates all on-ice aspects that will take the aspiring athlete to new heights. Off-ice training is also taken to a new high with Elite Performance guiding each athlete to improve physically. Through this academy goaltenders will be able to advance their potential and exceed previous standards, year by year, throughout the progression of the academy.

IN-SEASON TOTAL GDI ACADEMY

OVERVIEW

The In-Season Total GDI Goaltending Academy is designed to support the competitive athlete. With hectic team practice and game schedules in mind, the Academy gives goaltenders the opportunity to train before school hours to maximize their time management ability and create a positive environment to succeed at both education and hockey development. Our goal is to provide world-class goaltending instruction which is lacking in other school programs. In addition to on-ice development sessions goalies will receive performance mentorship with their club teams. This includes a visit to a game, along with video review in order to support and enhance game play throughout the season.

ON ICE SESSIONS

Goaltenders will follow a progressive teaching curriculum designed with elite athletes in mind. Technical improvements as well as tactical approaches will highlight this development. All on-ice sessions are one hour in duration and include 10-15 minutes of confined-space movement. Only 6 goaltenders are accepted into each group. This provides goaltenders a low athlete:coach ratio to maximize on ice development.

GAME ANALYSIS

A GDI Instructor will attend one game to provide a detailed game report with an action plan to be followed up during on-ice sessions. Using GDI’s underlying benchmarks we can ascertain which of these variables represent weaknesses in YOUR game and then provide you with an array of development information. This information is then used by GDI Instructors to design YOUR monthly on-ice sessions to develop those areas of your game. In addition, GDI goaltenders are able to purchase numerous video analysis sessions following their first video breakdown.

EVALUATIONS

Goaltenders in the Academy will receive quarterly reports on both their on-ice sessions as well as their game play analysis. This feedback is essential in the process of developing elite level netminders. They will be able to understand both their strengths and weaknesses as a goalie, enabling them to take their game to levels they have never achieved.

OFF-ICE SESSIONS

ELITE uses a comprehensive evaluation to design a customized program, specific to the athlete, his or her sport, and often their position. From this approach, ELITE guarantee’s superior performance and results. To arrange a supplementary off-ice training component please contact ELITE by calling (204) 831-6758 in order to schedule a consultation.

PROGRAM DETAILS

Dates: October 3rd to December 16th – Break – January 9th to March 30^th
Location: GDI Winnipeg Satellite Training Center Time: 7:00-8:00am (Mornings)

Group 1: Tuesdays – Goalies born in 2001,2000
Group 2: Thursdays – Goalies born in 1999, 1997
Group 3: Fridays – Goalies born in 1996 and Up

FEATURES AND BENEFITS

23 Tactical Sessions (1 hour duration each)

12 1v1 Sessions Bi-Weekly

1 Game Analysis and Feedback

Quarterly Evaluation Reports

Low Athlete: Coach Ratio (3:1)

Supplementary Off-Ice Component

Time and cost Effective

Unparalleled Goaltender Support

ACADEMY COST

$1930.00 + GST

*Deposit of $250 is due upon registration
*Payment Instalments are made monthly thereafter ($296.08 for 6 months)
*To start the application process please fill out an application form to the front office
*Goaltenders must apply for acceptance into the program before September 20th, 2011 in order to schedule a meeting to dictate

TO REGISTER

Fill out the GDI Prairies application form and request your Program Group. Please submit to our office no later than September 20th.  Registrations are on a first come, first serve basis if accepted.

1. Email to info@gdiprairies.com
2. Fax to (204) 487-3966
3. In Person at GDI Training Center (91 Lowson Cres.)

Booster Juice 3v3 Hockey Tourny @ The Rink

2011-07-06T10:32:00.006-05:00

July 6th - On opening night of the Booster Juice - 3v3 Hockey Tournament all teams faced off and felt the skilled experience of competing within The Rink's confined ice surface.

Goaltenders were peppered with rubber throughout each 50 minute game and the players dug up the ice skating the length of the ice countless times before a change.

Looking to see some of todays stars compete in a fast paced game? NHL, AHL, ECHL, and College players have all gathered to compete.

Facing off in the second game was GDI Head On-Ice Instructor Joe Calijuri and the young Junior Prospect Spencer Tremblay.

All teams are entering for a chance to sharpen up on their skills before heading into training camp... oh and of course to win some great prizes!!

Day 1 Results

Boyder's Boys W vs Falcons L

Walker's Rejects W vs ELITE L

Remaining Schedule

Thursday July 7th

6:00-6:30 ELITE vs Falcons

6:40-7:10 Falcons vs Walkers Rejects

7:20-7:50 ELITE vs Boyder's Boys

8:00-8:30 Boyder's Boys vs Walkers Rejects

Friday July 8th

7:00-7:30 1st Place vs 4th Place

7:40-8:10 2nd Place vs 3rd Place

8:20-8:50 FINALS

Booster Juice 3v3 Hockey Tourny @ The Rink

2011-07-06T10:32:00.004-05:00

Ian Clark - Helping the Pro's Work on Every Part of Their Game

2011-06-30T15:00:00.000-05:00

Less than a month after being the Blue Jackets' new goaltender coach, Ian Clark is trying to instill his philosophies into Columbus' younger netminders.

"Goaltenders play the most important role on the team and they have the biggest impact on team success," Clark said. "Their preparation has to be impeccable. My objective is to implant those seeds in the young guys."

While Clark is making his first appearance at development camp, Mathieu Corbeil, Allen York, and Martin Ouellette are all returning participants.

Clark said he spent Tuesday just watching the players and getting to know them while Wednesday he began to get more technical with the trio. (For the full news article Click Here)

In addition to a previous eight years with the Canucks organization, Clark was also a member of Team Canada's coaching staff at the World Junior Championships from 2003-06, winning silver medals in 2003 and 2004 and capturing gold in 2005 and 2006. He also served as the Florida Panthers goaltending consultant in 2001-02. Highlighting the list of goaltenders he has worked with includes Roberto Luongo, Cam Ward, Marc-Andre Fleury, Cory Schneider, Andrew Raycroft, Johan Hedberg and Mathieu Garon.

Clark, 45, is recognized as the leading educator of the goaltending position as his knowledge and innovative approach has attracted high-performance goaltenders at the NHL, minor pro, major junior and NCAA levels. He was the founder of GDI (the Goaltender Development Institute) and served as technical author of From the Crease – The Self Development Guide to Hockey Goaltending from 1998-2003 and The Goalie News from 2003-08.

GDI Technical Review: Backside Push - Extension

2011-06-30T08:11:00.002-05:00

One of the most forgotten technical areas of all lateral movement is the extension into a new space. Ultimately, any lateral movement is executed in order to establish new net coverage. Following the proper steps, a goaltender must consider why each step is used.

Completing the final stages of a backside push, it is important to have a flared lead-leg before pushing with the backside edge. This will initiate the coverage build and minimize resistance.

As the drive is made the body must come back together. The drive across allows the lead pad to build low, middle coverage rapidly. It is the body coming through which helps to build the coverage up. The goalie that re-compacts the body after the drive that begins to rebuild maximal net coverage.

Backside recovery is an important skill for all goaltenders and should be implemented as quickly as possible. However, with younger and beginner level goaltenders, driving to a new position while remaining down should not be attempted due to a lack of strength. Since there is more resistance when pushing a down body unit along the ice, power is a prerequisite to its success.

Brenna McNulty - GDI Prairies Goaltender, POE U18 - Top 40 Goaltender

Dreams Do Come True...

2011-06-29T08:04:00.000-05:00

Jason Kasdorf

The Jets added some local flavour to their draft by choosing goaltender Jason Kasdorf with their 157th overall pick. The Winnipeg native spent the last two seasons with the Portage Terriers of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, winning the Turnbull Cup and Anavet Cup last season, and earning a berth in the 2011 Royal Bank Cup.

“Getting drafted to my hometown team feels awesome, I’ve never been so excited in my life,” said Kasdorf. The 6’4 goaltender has committed to playing at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) of the NCAA next season. -NHL.com

Kasdorf has previously helped provide instruction to goaltenders at GDI Prairies Regional Summer Camps, along with having instruction himself at the GDI Winnipeg Training Center. A great athlete, and a great person, Kasdorf represents a humble goaltender that loves to compete. Due to a resilient career thus far, battling through making it to the next level through his younger years, he has moved into a new class due to his excellent work ethic.

GDI Prairies would like congratulate Kazzy on all his recent success over this past year, and wish him all the best for many years to come!

Congrats to Kazzy!

2011-06-26T08:37:00.001-05:00

GDI Prairies would like to congratulate Jason Kasdof. Kazzy was selected in the 6th round, 157th Overall to his hometown team - the Winnipeg Jets.

Where Do YOU Train?

2011-06-24T07:08:00.000-05:00

Don't Wait to Train!

With the partnership of EL1TE Performance, GDI Prairies has established many new prosperous training options that will lead to each goaltenders individual success.

EL1TE provides a world that incorporates every athletes desire. Along with a state of the art facility, featuring every platform to ones performance, EL1TE brings a professional and personal approach to each athlete that they train and rehabilitate. Rather than other companies who have preset routines and a one-size-fits-all-mentality, EL1TE uses a comprehensive evaluation to design a customized program, specific to the athlete, his or her sport, and often their position. From this approach, EL1TE guarantee's superior performance and results.

Becoming the link to your success, GDI Prairies, The Rink, and EL1TE, will provide you with the tools you need and the people to get you there.

Contact Elite and book your consultation today! Phone (204) 831-6758

Step Up Your Game! 3v3 Hockey Tourny!

2011-06-23T07:05:00.000-05:00

Time to Get Somewhere!

2011-06-22T07:13:00.004-05:00

"This athlete knows how to prepare. He knows where he wants to go and the process that it is going to take to get there."

One of the most looked upon qualities that is respected by coaches is preparation. An athlete that prepares for competition distills any notion of not being ready to perform. No matter what profession you are in, poor preparation is intolerable!

Think back to when you were scared to go to class... you receive your mark... and after a quick glance at the low grade you immediately turn over your paper. WHY?

During your second year of Midget you get called up. You step on the ice mid-way through your first Junior appearance in November. Your team is down 4-1. You end up lossing the game 7-4. WHY?

Unfortunately for many, first appearances have a large affect on some athletes. Fans, coaches, and scouts may view your performance for the first time... which could be the first and only time. The game that you had stepped in to play could have been that make it or break it game.

Questions soon start to arise. Will there be another chance? Will I get another opportunity?

To give it your all, and to produce a strong performance, you must prepare. Preparing properly starts in the off-season. This is the time to refine and critique your game. Compared to training during the season, you have the ability to create and organize a plan right down to each detail towards what you would like to work on and develop. No more 15 minutes of panic after practice or working out once every second week. This stress free environment is open for you!

Now...don't waste it! Your future plans depend on your present actions that you take today!

Don't wait and leave the chance for you to ask yourself the question WHY?

Luongo, Rinne, Thomas nominated for Vezina

2011-06-21T07:02:00.001-05:00

This years Vezina Trophy nominee's come to no surprise. The goaltenders placed in as the top-three finishers in goals-against average, top four in save percentage, and each had a dramatic influence on how well their team performed in this years Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Luongo of the Vancouver Canucks, Rinne from the Nashville Predators, and Thomas of the Boston Bruins stand as the class of 2011 for the Vezina, the annual award that is given to the goaltender who is judged to be the best at his position as voted by the general managers of all NHL clubs.

In the mind of many, Tim Thomas is the likely favorite for the award. A humble and honest athlete you know what you will get when you have Thomas on your team. Ask any coach, the goaltender you want in net is one who can steal games, well this guy did just that. Breaking the old mark set by Dominik Hasek, Thomas set a new standard with a .938 save percentage. His reliable partner Tuukka Rask helped balance the workload in net as Thomas played 57 games in the regular season. The 217th overall pick in the 1994 NHL draft also had the best Goals Against Average with 2.00. Hmm... did I forget to mention that he had 9 shutouts.

Vancouver hero, Roberto Luongo, finished first in the league in the wins category with 38 in 60 games. Helping his team win the President's Trophy and setting a franchise record in both victories and points, he also helped achieve a personal best of posting a career low 2.11 GAA. Corey Schnedier helped provide strong stability helping Luongo balance the load of games during the season, and the pressure that he has faced in seasons past. All in all, Luo has continued to show his ability to perform at the NHL stage by moving his team and himself to new heights.

Lastly, the large 6'5" Finnish netminder Pekka Rinne is also up for the award. Playing with a team that was known for their struggling offense Rinne finished with a 33-22-9 record through the regular season that helped push the Nashville Predators into 5th place. By seasons end he placed 2nd within the league in Save Percentage with .930 and had a 2.12 GAA to be ranked 3rd. With Rinne passing alumni Mike Dunham for second place on the franchise's all-time wins list the preds feel the value within their young netminder heading into future.

There is the run down on the 3 goalies up for this years Vezina. Let us know your pick! The 2011 Awards take place in Las Vegas, tomorrow on June 22nd.

Finding Motivation During The Summer

2011-06-20T07:48:00.001-05:00

Weather in Winnipeg is a determining factor in so much of our behavior throughout a given year. The changing of weather so infrequently from hot and sticky to cold and rainy! From the cold windy winters to the hot heat for the odd summer days it can determine ones mood, level of activity and in some cases even inspire us.

Spring/summer months are often described as the off season for many sports so it can become increasingly difficult to stay motivated to train when the weather becomes increasingly hotter. Because so much evidence exists around the importance of consistent and focused practice, help in motivation may be needed.

Justin Johnson, psychological sport performance coach out of Minnesota, describes Clarity and Creativity as 2 factors that may largely help one stay truly motivated.

Johnson says, "it is nearly impossible to be truly motivated towards a goal if you lack the clarity of what the goal is and or how to get there. Many athletes struggle with clarity because they feel that "getting better" is enough of a direction."

Unfortunately, such a well-intended, yet vague, direction is exactly what robs us of motivation. Instead find a specific action or skill you wish to develop with your time and energy. This will increase your clarity and motivation to follow through. For some having clarity is all they need to sustain prolonged periods of motivation to train. For others they need little doses of creativity to catapult them into consistent and focused training. Dr. Saul L. Miller describes clarity as providing direction and order, and it reducing uncertainty, which many people find stressful. Having a plan set in mind for how to reach your goal(s) will help keep you self motivated and directed.

Creativity, when looking for motivation, is to think about what typically inspires you, and then package it in a new way. For example, many of us enjoy competition so perhaps you pick someone in the weight room (maybe without them even knowing it) and say to yourself "I'm going to stay longer than that person", or "I'm going to out work harder". When it comes to creativity in motivation you can be as odd and unrealistic as you wish because it's just a mind game between you and your training. No matter the circumstances, ran or shine, use that sense of creativity to create a strong performance - motivational attitude.

Remember, the motivation to do anything will always be inside you. Most often all you need is either the clarity or the creativity to tap into it. Once you do you will be equipped with desire and a will that will push you further.... even on the most beautiful summer day!

The one's that continue to prepare are taking the steps towards success.

1v1 Competition Champions: Hoger & Kleinsteuber

2011-06-16T21:16:00.005-05:00

The night after the Boston Bruins won the Stanley Cup another team of champions were born.

GDI crowned Instructor Derek Kleinsteuber and Zach Hoger champions after a hard fought battle that heated up for a full 25 minutes.

After a tough loss within the first round opponents Tyler Brown and Dan Ferguson were determined to tie up the series. The second round may go down in the record books as the longest in GDI history. After several missed opportunities on their part Team Kleinsteuber started to falter and allowed the first goal. Hoger was resilient in tight thereafter with several goal line stops that were within inches from going in.

The final goal to win the championship may have had a fair amount of controversy with a possible interference call still pending, but either way the battle was hard fought.

No Words

2011-06-16T08:40:00.000-05:00

The moments that only come as rare occasions. These aren't holidays that you have been waiting for. They are of grueling significance, moments that are made through unity between every individual involved, and who have gone through the ups and down from hell and back.

If you haven't seen this video, take a quick look. If you have been there in the past I'm sure you can relate.

With YOUR season now approaching don't let more days pass. Get in gear and start to make YOUR future moments.

For your interest, all GDI Prairies programs can be found here.

Well Deserved Playoff Champion and MVP

2011-06-16T07:46:00.000-05:00

VANCOUVER -- Tim Thomas is bringing the Stanley Cup back to his blue-collar hometown of Flint, Mich. And he'll have the Conn Smythe Trophy in tow, too.

The 37-year-old became the oldest player to be named playoff MVP after allowing just eight goals over his final eight games, seven of which came in the pressure-packed Stanley Cup final against the Vancouver Canucks.

Thomas capped that run with another masterful performance, making 37 saves Wednesday for his fourth shutout of the playoffs as the Bruins were crowned champions after winning Game 7 on the road 4-0 at Rogers Arena.

"Tim Thomas, in these playoffs, just totally dominated," Bruins coach Claude Julien said. "He was on top of his game from start to finish, especially in this final round.

"I know everyone expected him to have an average game at some point. Never came. He was in the zone, he was focused, never let anything rattle him or even question his style of play. And what's happening to him right now is so deserving."

"Anybody that knows the story of Tim Thomas, he's taken a real bumpy road to get to the NHL," Julien said. "He's had so many obstacles in front of him that he's overcome, it makes him a battler, it makes him the perfect goaltender for our organization because that's what we are, we're a blue-collar team that goes out and works hard and earns every inch of the ice that you can get."

For more on this article Click Here.

Schneider a Piece to the Puzzle for Game 7

2011-06-15T08:59:00.003-05:00

Cory Schneider may have not expected to hit the ice when heading into the Stanley Cup finals, but now after game six he has tallied up 65 minutes of play and has faced a fair amount of rubber within the time in goal, holding out 39 shots.

Being in net is known to be one of the toughest positions to play in hockey. A position where it has been evident in how success can fall on a goalies shoulders due to how they perform. Looking for success, goaltenders prepare meticulously day in and day, going through repetition in practice and analyzing video and critiquing tendencies of opponents.

Now, for a backup goaltender this is a whole different story. A goalie is now asked to play a supportive role to the starting goaltender. The bench becomes a separate home to the crease where the number two encourages teammates and discusses everything tactical for the team. Holding their job, several coaches resort to having their backup recording stats and the oppositions motives during games. Ice time in practices has to be fought for at times, and is pressured in to go beyond the sixty minutes of practice time for extra ice.

Looking to this years playoffs a rare occasion was presented to Cory Schneider. Heading into the post-season he was settled in knowing that he was looked upon to play a supporting role to starting goaltender Roberto Luongo. Displaying his ability to adapt when called upon through the Vancouver Canucks playoff run, Schneider has presented his incredible mental focus through being emotionally flexible.

Continually owning and developing his skills with great effort during practice and through off-ice training he has prepared himself for every opportunity to play, even if his chance of playing is minimal. As a backup through the playoffs there has never been an instance where he has stopped caring or working hard, knowing that in doing this he would only set himself up for failure.

Heading to Vancouver for game 7 of the Stanley Cup playoffs, this will be the last deciding game and end to the 2011 cup run. With the series dead locked at 3-3 tie, the President Trophy recipients have received the right to hold the game back home. Holding in his pride, Schnedier has been a strong value to the final chapter as he went 16-4-2 when called upon during the season. Previously in his goaltending career with the Manitoba Moose in the AHL he was known as the teams starting goaltender and was represented as the teams backbone holding the team in numerous games throughout both the season and the playoffs. In 2007 he was named the league's Goaltender of the Year following his second season. Previously before his professional career, he backstopped Boston College to a record setting sixth Lamoriello Trophy in team history as East Champions.

Stepping into his first full season on an NHL roster, Schnedier has resisted the urge to stop caring and be disheartened. Known as a competitor he has always put in a full effort battling to challenge his teammates in practice, setting a standard for the character of he he wants to be known.

Young goaltenders moving forward through their hockey career can learn a lot through past experiences such as contributing to the team unit in a more supportive role. Too often, when a goaltender is placed as a backup through a playoff run they layer and allow frustration and disappointment to set in. Becoming so highly focused on the present will cause a goaltender to eventually give up. Contrary for both Vancouver Canucks goaltenders, both have overcome many challenges to get to where they have climbed to get to today.

Schneider will be noticed for his emotional control and ability to adapt throughout the season and playoffs...no matter how game 7 ends.

Previously training with GDI National Consulting Camps and being under mentorship from NHL Goaltending Consultant Ian Clark, Cory Schnedier displays an impeccable technical foundation. Quickly acquiring read and anticipatory skills over the course of his full NHL season he has started to settle into a promising career. Below is a past video of Schnedier being put through the paces in a repetitive post-save recovery drill.

Timmy T Looks for Win Number 16

2011-06-14T08:59:00.000-05:00

Adding to his 35 wins over the course of the regular season, Tim Thomas looks forward to Wednesday hoping to get to 16 wins in the playoffs and claim the Stanley Cup.

Looking at the numbers, Thomas has been absolutely outstanding this year with a Vezina candidate season, leading into a long playoff run that is heading into game 7. Fitting in his run, Tim Thomas ties Kirk McLean with 761 saves recorded within the playoffs.

Among past greats Ron Hextal and John Vanbiesbrouck, Thomas looks to top the history charts in game 7 with the most saves recorded. This past game Thomas shut the door on Vancouver and went 35 saves on 36 shots in the game.

Goaltending Creating a New Look

2011-06-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

Controversy was at an all time high with every goaltending critic debating whether Roberto Luongo should start or not in Game 5 of the Stanley Cup finals.

Quieting the debate, a 31 save performance helped hold the Vancouver Canucks in the low scoring affair.

On the other hand, looking back, the goal differential between both team sits with the Vancouver allowing 14 and Boston cutting the total over half with a low of 6. Also, a total of 3 shutouts within the five games creates a very different look compared to last years Stanley Cup Finals.

Last years playoffs had Antti Niemi allowing one goal against with a 2-1 victory in game two to cap the lowest goals against among the games played in the best of seven final. More outstanding was the goals against ratio at the end of the series which was 22 for Chicago and 25 for Philadelphia.

Turning back to the present matchup of Luongo and Thomas in their battle to be the best, it is nearly impossible to guess how each game will turn out. The beauty of it is that both goaltenders have showed resilience to the critics and naysayers out there, and have ultimately shown both themselves and their team that they can perform under pressure.

As the 09/10 Stanley Cup Champions the Chicago Blackhawks captured the cup in six games, the Canucks have an almost similar approach as they too were up two games to none in the series, allowed the series to be tied at two a piece, and then took the lead. No matter what the result, lets hope on Monday night fans are glued to their seats due to both goaltenders proving their worth for the full 60 minutes!

Mental Training: Focus on Your Own Game

2011-06-12T19:00:00.001-05:00

Following Game 5 in Vancouver, Roberto Luongo was asked to describe how the goal was scored on Tim Thomas, and how hard the goal was for a goaltender. Luongo responded, cutting off the media personnel that asked the question and put down Thomas by saying, “It’s not hard when you’re playing in the paint, so it’s an easy save for me. But if you’re wandering out and aggressive like he is, then that’s going to happen. So he might make some saves that I won’t, but in cases like that we want to make sure we’re in good positions and bury those.”

Luongo’s response was one of a goaltender who is struggling to understand how he has been outplayed by the other goaltender thus far in the series. This is clear in his body language and his inability to look up while speaking to the media. Thomas has been the better goaltender and Luongo knows this.

My first thought of this situation was the typical, “Well there goes Luongo again, giving the other team some bulletin board material.” When he struggled through Games 3 and 4, Thomas smartly and discreetly deferred from answering any questions. He didn’t want to give the other team any extra motivation to perform at their best, but Thomas has played great through the entire series and has the confidence to do this.

Instead, Luongo felt the need to put down Thomas for how he played the situation and in his voice expressed frustrations in how Thomas plays. The advice which Luongo gives to Thomas would not be effective for Thomas, and Luongo knows this.

Each goalie is completely different. Luongo is the bigger of the two goalies, but while Thomas is smaller in size, he makes up for his size through his athletic ability and stop the puck at all-expenses style. It would be crazy to think that Thomas should play deep in his net like Luongo, as he would open up holes and vice versa. But each goalie plays within their size restraints and athletics ability.

Why we compare ourselves to the

other goaltender can vary, but we’ll all do it from time to time. I can personally remember playing against goaltenders that were revolutionizing goaltending through what is now referred to as the blocking style. In one instance, I was not playing great. I had allowed a couple of early goals and the other goaltender was standing on his head. Trying to replicate what the other goaltender was doing, I slid over with my shoulders high gloves above my pads and watched the puck fly right in the net. This was not a technique that at the time I had been taught. So instead of making an athletic save, I watched the puck go right into the net.

The cause of why we compare ourselves to the other goaltender can vary from the above example where the other goaltender was having a big game to media influences. Some of us worry about the other goaltender because they worry too much about other people’s opinions of their performances. For example, you

may worry too much about what your team thinks about your technique when the other goaltender is getting the job done and you’re not consistently.

Others may become caught up in the other goaltender’s play because of a lack in confidence. With little confidence in your own ability and game you may even abandon your game plan to begin to play like the other goaltender. No matter why we are focused on comparing our game to the other goaltenders the results are seldom to ever be positive for the goaltender.

When you become overcome by th

oughts about the opposing goaltender what should you do? Should you be respectful and take your licking or should you try to take your game up a notch and make some big saves? Neither. Remember that goaltending is a game of percentages. There are no guarantees, only probabilities. You have to put yourself in a position to have the best odds. That won’t happen if you are preoccupied with your opponent’s game. Concentrate on your game plan and believe it will be good enough. If it’s not working, then make small adjustments. But these adjustments need to be within the realm o

f your abilities. Don’t try new techniques you don’t own.

From the mental side look at this as a challenge, a chance to really test your skills against the opposing goaltender. He or she may be good but you’re good too! Don’t short-change yourself. So-called lesser goaltenders defeat so-called better goalies all the time. This will only happen if the lesser goalie truly believes he or she has a chance, puts themselves in a position to win and then follows through for the victory.

Luongo should have respectfully declined to answer the question or said that it was a great play by his team instead of putting down the other goaltender. To learn more about how a mental training program works and how it can help you to perform at your best when it counts, contact me at any time.

Shaun Smith is the founder of Absolute Mental Training and provides The Goalie Guild with a column every week. If you have any questions or comments, contact him at ssmith@absolutementaltraining.com!

Train Like The Pros Contest!

2011-06-09T08:50:00.000-05:00

NHL and NFL fans, the time has come!

Win a training session with Winnipeg's own 3 time Stanley Cup Champion Mike Keane on ice at The Rink, and CFL All-Star and Blue Bomber Doug Brown with Elite Performance!

Contest draw date is June 30th.

For full information Click Here.

Columbus Blue Jackets Name Ian Clark Goaltending Coach

2011-06-08T08:22:00.002-05:00

COLUMBUS, OHIO – The Columbus Blue Jackets announced June 6 that Ian Clark has joined the organization as goaltending coach. Clark most recently served as the Vancouver Canucks goaltending coach and consultant from 2002-10.

"We are very pleased to welcome Ian to our coaching staff," said Blue Jackets Vice President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Scott Howson. "He has a tremendous amount of experience working with NHL goaltenders and helping them improve their level of play. We look forward to him working with all of our goaltenders and strengthening that position throughout our organization."

"Having worked with Ian in the past, I believe his work ethic, knowledge of the goaltending position and the way he communicates with players will make him an excellent addition to our staff," said Blue Jackets head coach Scott Arniel. “He has worked with a number of very successful NHL goaltenders and will be a great resource for our players at this very important position."

In addition to his eight years with the Canucks organization, Clark was also a member of Team Canada's coaching staff at the World Junior Championships from 2003-06, winning silver medals in 2003 and 2004 and capturing gold in 2005 and 2006. He also served as the Florida Panthers goaltending consultant in 2001-02. The list of goaltenders he has worked with includes Roberto Luongo, Cam Ward, Marc-Andre Fleury, Cory Schneider, Andrew Raycroft, Johan Hedberg and Mathieu Garon.

Clark, 45, is recognized as a leading educator of the goaltending position as his knowledge and innovative approach has attracted high-performance goaltenders at the NHL, minor pro, major junior and NCAA levels. He was the founder of the Goaltender Development Institute and served as technical author of From the Crease – The Self Development Guide to Hockey Goaltending from 1998-2003 and The Goalie News from 2003-08.

For more on the article Click Here.

GDI Pre-Season Tune-Up

2011-06-07T14:46:00.006-05:00

Winnipeg, MB (The Rink Training Center) August 8^th - 12^th, 2011

As the hockey season approaches a goaltender must reacquire their technical and tactical game in a manner to construct and prepare for evaluations and training camp. Structure is above all a standpoint at GDI Prairies camps as we guide each goaltender to utilize and maintain their strengths and move forward with pin pointing specific weaknesses. GDI Prairies Pre-Season Tune Up is put forth to drive each goaltenders dedication to the next level, raising their standards before heading into the season.

AGES:

Group 1: 8 -11 yrs.

Group 2: 12 yrs. and up

MAXIMUM STUDENTS PER GROUP: 9

DAILY STRUCTURE:

. Five Days in length

. 1.25 hour technical/tactical skills session

. 30 minutes of flexibility and hand eye training daily

. 30 minute goaltender specific lecture following ice session

COST: $399+GST

DAILY HOURS: 7:30am-11:00 am

REGISTER: Please call 204-489-7465

MJHL 2011 Goaltenders Drafted

2011-06-05T12:46:00.008-05:00

Congrats to the following goaltenders selected today in the MJHL draft.
Keep training hard-the best will come!
For more on the draft Click Here.

Goaltender

Team

Round

Overall

Hometown

Brady Plett

Neepawa Natives

Protected List

Arden, MB

Connor Shaw

Dauphin Kings

Protected List

Dauphin, MB

Ty Edmonds

Winnipeg Saints

5

48

Winnipeg, MB

Derek Davies

Swan Valley

5

50

Stonewall, MB

Zac Robidoux

Portage

5

55

Morden, MB

Bronson Ammeter

Waywayseecappo

6

60

Starbuck, MB

Kyle McHolm

Selkirk

6

63

East St. Paul, MB

Driedger and Pickard Invited to Hockey Canada POE Goalie Camp

2011-06-04T15:46:00.005-05:00

CALGARY, Alta. - Hockey Canada, in partnership with the Canadian Hockey League, announced that 16 goaltenders will attend the sixth-annual Program of Excellence goaltending camp at Norma Bush Arena in Calgary from June 9-12.

Sixteen goaltenders - 10 in the under-20 age category (candidates for the National Junior Team) and six in the under-18 category (candidates for the National Men's Summer Under-18 Team) - will get the opportunity to work with a number of instructors during the four-day camp.

From Manitoba goaltenders Chris Driedger (Tri-City Americans, Under-18) and Calvin Pickard (Seattle Thunderbirds, Under-20) were selected to attend the annual camp in early June.

For more information on the camp Click Here.

Mental Training: Character

2011-06-03T08:05:00.004-05:00

Shaun Smith is the founder of Absolute Mental Training and provides The Goalie Guild with a column every week. If you have any questions or comments, contact him at ssmith@absolutementaltraining.com

After the Boston Bruins finally put away the Tampa Bay Lightning and clinched the Eastern Conference, Tim Thomas attributed his team’s success to character. Yet how many people truly understand what it means to be a goaltender of character?

Character has become one of those overused words by the media in recent years and this has caused some confusion within goaltenders if they possess the appropriate character or not.

Being a goaltender of character means that the goalie has the combination of qualities or features that distinguish them from another goalie. The problem with this definition of character is that being a goaltender of character over another goalie may not mean that you have the most desired attributes but that you are better than the goaltender you are facing.

Goalies can also be quickly deceived into believing that they have the character to be an elite goalie when in fact they don’t have the necessary qualities. These athletes become self-deceived by experiencing success through the mastery of techniques and skills apart from the development of character. It is not until they enter higher levels of competition that they realize that they do not have the necessary character to be a winner at the next level.

Character is hard to measure for the everyday goaltender and during a recent group presentation for GDI Alberta on character and I broke character down into the following characteristics that I hope better defines character for you:

Respect: A goaltender of character respects their coaches, can take correction as a compliment and consistently is seeking new information. When your coach is talking you should be listening carefully to what your coach is teaching you and how it can be applied to specific game situations.
Work Ethic: A goaltender of character has a strong work ethic and commits to continuous improvement and demonstrates an ability to keep focused on improving their overall game through dedication and perseverance.
Confidence: A goaltender of character believes in their abilities to perform at their best based on their preparedness to compete. These goalies are not cocky or arrogant but believe that when the game is on the line they can compete with the best.
Pride: A goaltender of character is proud of the work that they put in and their accomplishments as a team. These goalies don’t need any extra attention from the team or coaching staff and go about their work because they want to be their best (versus working hard to get the approval of others).
Responsibility: A goaltender of character shows responsibility for both their sport and their school or work. I am always amazed by how many goaltenders fail to understand the importance of school in measuring their character as an athlete. Getting good grades shows that the athlete is accountable and disciplined on the task at hand.
Consistency: A goaltender of character is dependable and someone that the team can trust. The players and coaching staff will always have confidence in a goalie with confidence and know that their goaltender can be counted on by teammates and coaches.
Competitive: A goaltender of character is one who is competitive and can demonstrate the will to win. These goaltenders can quickly recover from mistakes or bad luck and never quits on a play or game.
Mental Toughness: A goaltender of character has the inner strength to be able to control their emotions and remain focused when the game is on the line. They always stay positive and nothing breaks their spirit to compete.
Integrity: A goaltender of character will act according to the values, beliefs and principles they claim to hold. They are consistent in all situations and fulfill expectations with appropriate actions.
Leadership: A goaltender of character is a team player and serves the greater good of the team. They are selfless in their actions and accept their role on the team. They display a love for the game to the rest of the team which motivates everybody to do their best.
Sportsmanship: A goaltender of character respects their teammates, coaches, officials, opponents and themselves. They respect the rules of the game and play within them.

A goaltender of character is and will always be a necessary component of elite level goaltenders. It is not enough to focus on your physical and technical skills because when the game is on the line your true character will be revealed.

Character can be improved and should be a lifelong development. If you are committed to being the best athlete you can be then you should spend some time working improving your character.

MJHL Bantam Draft Approaches

2011-06-02T08:32:00.000-05:00

The MJHL Bantam Draft (players in their 15th year) will take place in Russell on Sunday, June 5, 2011 at the Russell Inn & Conference Centre.

GDI Prairies looks forward to helping each goaltender pursue their dreams of playing at the Junior hockey level.

To view this past 2010 MJHL Bantam Draft goaltender selections Click Here.

For the full rules and order of this years draft Click Here.

Luongo Heads into Cup Final

2011-06-01T08:24:00.000-05:00

In years past, the fact that Olympic gold was not enough to shut up his naysayers would have eaten at him. Even if he wasn't on top of his game for Team Canada, it was good enough.

Not in the minds of some observers, however.

No matter. This is a different Roberto Luongo, a guy who no longer seems to take every barb to heart.

And you can point to a moment last month as a key in this change of attitude, one that brought clarity to the Vancouver Canucks goaltender.

Back in late April, hours before Game 7 of the first-round series between the Canucks and Chicago Blackhawks, Luongo, wearing a hoody and headphones, walked along the sea wall that separates Vancouver from the Pacific. With the hoody pulled up, passers-by had no clue it was him.

This was his way, he admits now, "of clearing my head, of putting things into perspective."

Asked what was playing on his headphones at the time, Luongo replied: "Well, it wasn't Celine Dion."

What it was, was a motivational tape, something he needed at that point. For more on this article by Wike Zeisberger Click Here.

Featured on CBC - Hockey Night in Canada - Roberto Luongo and his two younger brothers share the memories of their childhood, draft, olympics and the round one series against the Blackhawks.

NHL Set to Return to Winnipeg

2011-05-31T16:22:00.004-05:00

After an eventful few weeks of rumors going back an fourth, the wait has come to an end! The National Hockey League is now set to return to Winnipeg.

True North Sports & Entertainment has reached an agreement with Atlanta Spirit LCC with purpose of purchasing the Atlanta Thrashers Hockey Club.

Whats Next? The building blocks are being set in place and now the next brick to be put in place is to have a drive of 13,000 season tickets sold. This will help the purpose of the National Hockey League Board of Governors approval at a Board meeting to be held on June 21st. The approval of the transaction by the Board will consider the level of support generated in the Winnipeg community, directed by the amount of season tickets sold.

Be a piece in the puzzle and go to Drive to 13,000 now and look into purchasing season tickets! The sale of tickets goes forth on Saturday, June 4th at 12:00 pm.

WHL Spring Training Camps

2011-05-29T15:58:00.005-05:00

Over the end of May, leading into June, each team in the Western Hockey League will be holding their Spring Training Camps.

With the process being done to help each athlete become accustomed to the teams atmosphere and level of expectations, it is also a chance for many individuals to make a strong first impression and to get that first glimpse of what to expect heading into fall training camp.

With numerous goaltenders from GDI Prairies heading off to teams across Western Canada, we would like to wish each goaltender the best towards enjoying the experience and pushing themselves for their best.

P.O.E Approaches

2011-05-25T08:26:00.007-05:00

GDI Prairies would like to notice the following goaltenders and wish them each the best as they head into this upcoming weekend for the Program of Excellence Top 40 Selection Camp.

Male Under 16

Ty Edmonds - Winnipeg Warriors - Bantam 1
Evan Johnson - Winnipeg Monarchs - Bantam 1

Male Under 17

Alex Moodie - Winnipeg Warriors - City Midget
Adam Vander Linden - Winnipeg Monarchs - City Midget
Austin Lotz - Eastman Selects - City Midget

Female Under 18

Brenna McNulty - St. Vital Victorias - AA Midget
Samantha Goodbrandson - Fort Garry Twins - AA Midget

Playing With a Smile

2011-05-24T08:13:00.000-05:00

“I think some players do mature when they go through the WHL,” says head coach Kris Knoblauch, “and sometimes it never happens. But for [Lieuwen], I think this summer he wanted to take his game to another level.”

Cardinal saw that other level in Kootenay’s 7-5 win over the Portland Winterhawks in Game 2 of the WHL final.

“We had a big lead and started to give up some goals, but he made about seven or eight big saves,” Cardinal says. “Sometimes there are goalies that will show body language that they’re down. He had a smile on his face.”

Lieuwen smiles because he is trying to live a different life than most junior hockey players. He does not dream of big contracts or Stanley Cups. The moment is more important than the destination.

“I’m told I’m always smiling and that’s because I’m enjoying it,” he says. “And I’m making sure that as serious as I am about my hockey I’m having fun with it and being who I am.”

For more on this article Click Here.

Willows Heads to CIS

2011-05-23T08:49:00.000-05:00

The Dauphin Kings are pleased to announce that Brett Willows will be playing in the CIS starting this fall.

Brett Willows, 21, will be playing with the Varsity Blues which play in the OUA east and attending school on a scholarship.

Willows had several teams interested at the CIS and NCAA Div 3 level but chose Toronto after a fly down to the states.

“Brett’s a very good goaltender and an excellent kid. We are very happy for him. He will fit in well to a great program and get an education out of it. Wild Bill will enjoy the city of Toronto!” – comments Gm/Head Coach Marlin Murray.

For more info Click Here.

Streeeetch!

2011-05-20T08:24:00.000-05:00

Wondering what to work on over the course of the summer? An on-going goal throughout your career, along with being a simple process, should be to increase and maintain your flexibility and range of motion.

A goaltender that pays attention to their flexibility and is able to bend and distort their limbs in different directions will always have a distinct advantage over the goaltender that refuses to stretch.

Over this summer make the right choice and stretch... every day!

Take a look at a quick click of Antti Niemi as he is able to cut across the crease and shut down Vancouver on an in tight feed.

U18 Feature Goaltender: Samantha Goodbranson

2011-05-19T08:10:00.001-05:00

GDI Prairies would like to recognize one of Manitoba's Top Female U-18 Prospect - Sam Goodbrandson.

Sam was most recently selected by Hockey Manitoba to attend the Program of Excellence Top 40 Camp at the end of May. Heading into the selection camp she brings a work ethic that goes above and beyond what many expect from a goaltender.

Key areas to note from her game include:

- Has the ability to maintain balance on her feet and react as she goes down
- Is active outside of the net communicating with her defense and transitioning the puck up ice
- Strong stick usage on all low shots
- Competes down low by using a spread that covers all low areas of the net, covering from the ice up

The Under-18 players who have been selected to attend the Program of Excellence (POE) TOP-40 Camp, held May 26-29, 2011 in Winnipeg. The players selected to attend the POE TOP-40 Camp have advanced from the pool of 102 players who competed at the POE Spring Tournament which was held April 15-17, 2011 at Max Bell Centre in Winnipeg.

The POE TOP-40 Camp is the third phase of the Program of Excellence which is the selection process for the U-18 Team Manitoba roster that will compete at the 2011 National U-18 Women's Championships in Saguenay, Que this November.

For more information Click Here.

Mem Cup Action Starts Up Friday

2011-05-18T08:57:00.000-05:00

The 2011 MasterCard Memorial Cup festivities will get underway on Thursday, May 19, while the action on the ice will start on Friday, May 20. The host Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors will host the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League in the opening game.

With the Kootney Ice crowned as the WHL champions, they will represent the West at the Memorial Cup. In the cage will be Nathan Lieuwen, who received this years playoff MVP award.

A total of 10 players from the Prairies region will help lead Kootney to the Memorial Cup Championship. Cody Eakin, James Martin, and Luke Paulsen will hit the ice from Manitoba. Jesse Ismond, Drew Czerwonka, Brock Montgomery, Brayden McNabb, Joey Leach, and John Neibrandt will be cheered on from the Saskatchewan area.

The nine day Canadian Hockey League tournament starts up on May 20th through to the 29th.

2011 MasterCard Memorial Cup Schedule :

Round-Robin Game 1 – QMJHL vs. Mississauga on Friday May 20, 2011 at 7:00 pm

Round-Robin Game 2 – OHL vs. WHL on Saturday May 21, 2011 at 7:00 pm

Round-Robin Game 3 – Mississauga vs. WHL on Sunday May 22, 2011 at 7:00 pm

Round-Robin Game 4 – OHL vs. QMJHL on Monday May 23, 2011 at 7:00 pm

Round-Robin Game 5 – WHL vs. QMJHL on Tuesday May 24, 2011 at 7:00 pm

Round-Robin Game 6 – Mississauga vs. OHL on Wednesday May 25, 2011 at 7:00 pm

Tie-Breaker (if necessary) – Thursday May 26, 2011 at 7:00 pm

Semi-Final – Friday May 27, 2011 at 7:00 pm

Championship Final – Sunday May 29, 2011 at 7:00 pm

U18 Feature Goaltender: Brenna McNulty

2011-05-17T08:10:00.002-05:00

GDI Prairies would like to recognize one of Manitoba's Top Female U-18 Prospect - Brenna McNulty.

Brenna was most recently slected by Hockey Manitoba to attend the Program of Excellence Top 40 Camp at the end of May. Brenna brings a wall of confidence to her game, along with a intimidating presence as she presents a challenging frame that pressures her opposition.

Key areas to note from her game include:

- Absorbing and corralling pucks with her body
- Locking up holes by her posts and maintaining a compact position off of nearside attacks.
- Minimal post-save delay off of directed pucks from limbs
- Competitive mindset and will allow herself to get out a technical and tense style to battle for pucks in tight.

The Under-18 players who have been selected to attend the Program of Excellence (POE) TOP-40 Camp, held May 26-29, 2011 in Winnipeg. The players selected to attend the POE TOP-40 Camp have advanced from the pool of 102 players who competed at the POE Spring Tournament which was held April 15-17, 2011 at Max Bell Centre in Winnipeg.

The POE TOP-40 Camp is the third phase of the Program of Excellence which is the selection process for the U-18 Team Manitoba roster that will compete at the 2011 National U-18 Women's Championships in Saguenay, Que this November.

For more information Click Here.

Ignite the Flame to YOUR Future SUCCESS

2011-05-16T10:47:00.002-05:00

The Summer is HEATING UP!

GDI Prairies will be holding an INFO session The Rink this upcoming Thursday - May 19th - 7:00PM. Looking to make it to the next level? Looking for a program that fits YOUR personal on and off ice needs? Look no further, Gdi Prairies is your one stop shop for SUCCESS.

Reply back to info@gdiprairies.com to RSVP for Thursday night! Looking forward to seeing everyone there!

Sundays Coaches Corner: May 15

2011-05-16T09:00:00.001-05:00

If you happened to be out and about Sunday night and missed Coaches Corner then you didn't see Don's rant on the importance of warming up your own teams goaltender.

Before puck drop for Game 1 of Vancouver vs San Jose, Luongo was hit in the head by teammate Raffie Torres. Whether or not, who knows if this may have had an affect on Luongo.

We have all seen it before where a goaltender is focused and relaxed and then takes a puck in the head and immediately their mood changes to a tight and tense state. For a goaltender that knows how to "Click the Switch" or "Change Channels" to a different frame of mind this then shouldn't be the case.

On the other hand, the whole concept of warming up your goaltender is to do just that - keep them warmed up. Every goaltender is different in their own. Some like to simulate game specifics in warm-up and put emphasize on every shot that they face in the net. Some prefer to allow the puck to just hit them. I would highly suggest that goaltenders treat their warm-up for what it is, a warm-up. For the one's that over energize their physical ability, and more importantly their mental thought process, they are usually draining their positive energy. This can easily be detrimental to a goaltender, and can cause a weak performance, even before the game begins.

Areas that goaltenders should be taking into importance when going through their 15 minutes on the ice in pre-game are:

Position Specific Movements
Understanding and developing a comfort for the ice surface and arena
Movement coordination with ice landmarks
Visually tracking the puck throughout the save process
Developing a rhythm for responding to a players release
Taking time to stretch and relax
Monitoring and conserving their energy

The area of a goaltenders on-ice pre-game routine is rarely explored, by goaltenders and coaches. For coaches: Take some time during the season to understand your goaltenders and how they would like to go through warm-up, and take into consideration if there are any preferences that they have. For goaltenders: Again, treat your pre-game on ice for what it is - simply a warm-up. Don't overdue or over-think anything. Keeping a simple frame of mind heading into the game is at up-most importance. For players: Your goaltender simply wants to be relaxed in net, before and during the game. Help them do this, and keep pucks away from their head!

For more on the Coaches Corner episode from May 15 Click Here.

Kootney Heads to Memorial Cup

2011-05-15T08:06:00.000-05:00

The Kootney Ice have captured the Ed Chynoweth Cup with a Game 5 win over the Portland Winterhawks.

GDI Prairies would like to congratulate goaltenders Nathan Lieuwen, who was named Playoff MVP, along with his partner Brett Tesky and 1994 born Mackenzie Skapski. Success comes from all angles and is made through small increments that all make a difference in how a team performs.

We would also like to notice all the hard work that Justin Cardinal (Kootney Ice Goaltending Coach - GDI Alberta Assistant Regional Manager) has put in to the team over the course of the last several year to help the team and goaltenders progress to where they are today. The teaching of technical and tactical aspects of the game always make a difference in preparation. The dedication to each goaltender and personal mentorship from a goaltending coach is what gives the impact of being success driven day in day out.

The Kootney Ice head into the Memorial Cup starting May 20th.

Stand On Guard for Thee

2011-05-15T07:05:00.000-05:00

Answering the calls since being benched in Game 6 of the first round series against the Chicago Blackhawks, Canada's Roberto Luongo has moved one step closer to hockey's holy grail.

Looking forward to the Western conferences semi-final matchup of Vancouver vs. San Jose, goaltending is to be, as usual, a decision point for who will move on to the Championship Final.

During the season Luongo was 1-0-1 with a 0.96 GAA and .975 save percentage in two starts against San Jose in the regular season.

"I've waited my whole life to be in a situation like this and just going to take advantage of it and enjoy the moment," the 32-year-old said Saturday. "It's going to be exciting. Conference final for the first time for me against a team that has some skill up front, it's a fun time for me to be playing hockey.

"I've been waiting a long time to be in this position and I'm just going to go out there and have fun." - Roberto Luongo, Dhiren Mahiban of NHL.com.

To read more on Roberto Luongo's playoff run Click Here.

Kootney Hits the Ice Hungry for Mem. Cup Birth

2011-05-13T15:36:00.003-05:00

During the pre-game skate with the Kootney Ice Justin Cardinal provides mentorship to both goaltenders as the team heads into game 5. With a victory Kootney will become the 2011 WHL Champions and will have awarded a birth into the Memorial Cup.

GDI Prairies staff would like to wish GDI Alberta Assistant Regional Managers - Justin Cardinal the best of luck as he helps the Ice in their championship playoff run.

GDI Information Session

2011-05-13T13:10:00.000-05:00

GDI Prairies will be holding an information session for more information on summer training options on Thursday, May 19th at 7:00 pm at The RINK Training Centre.

Information on new revolutionized training will be featured on options such as the Total GDI Academy, Prospect Clinics, and Intro to Goaltending.

Also, take a tour of The RINK facility to see all the new structural changes, including the addition of Elite Performance Centre.

GDI Intro to Goaltending

2011-05-13T13:07:00.002-05:00

This program has been designed by GDI to introduce and lay a foundation for young goaltenders. The emphasis of the INTRO progression is to build a strong technical foundation securing each of the three primary fundamental skill groups. These skill groups include: position specific movement, basic positioning, and a goalie’s initial save assets.

JOIN THE REVOLUTION.

GDI Intro Progression is designed to layer a foundation of each goaltenders game and gradually progress each athlete to maintain motor skills and abilities. Each on-ice session will have a strong focus on a goalie’s movement game. This emphasis is due to the importance of this fundamental group. Strong movement leads to greater positional efficiency, which, in turn, leads to more controlled and consistent save response. This progressive, downstream effect is the primary objective of this program.

A further impact of this fundamental focus is the increase in confidence that the younger/ beginner-level goaltender receives from growth in these areas. While movement is the focus, the goalie will build strong basic positioning and the ability to execute key save moves.

DATES:

Intro 1: July (3,10,17,24) 1:30pm-2:30pm
Intro2: August (7,14,21,28) 1:30pm-2:30pm

LOCATION:

The RINK Training Centre

PROGRAM COST: $200 +GST/ 4 sessions

REGISTER PLEASE CONTACT US AT 489-7465

GDI Prospect Prep Clincs

2011-05-13T13:02:00.002-05:00

PROSPECT SPECIALTY PREP CLINICS

This program has been designed by GDI to amplify each goaltenders training through game simulation. As prospect camps and evaluations approach it is crucial to prepare through competitive performance. Leading into the home stretch to junior camps, GDI Prospect Training is what you need to restore your competitive mindset.

JOIN THE REVOLUTION.

GDI Prospect Training is designed for the Elite level Athlete looking to take their game to the next level. Each goaltender that attends must have had previously been to GDI Prairies camps or personal training sessions. All goaltenders that register must have previously competed at the AAA Bantam, Midget, or Junior level. Shooters that attend each session are of Junior or College hockey caliber.

ON ICE COMPENENT:

This area is designed to have each goaltender in realistic game activity. Through game simulated drills goaltenders will improve performance due to the variability of situational characteristics involved. Compared to a blocked context of training where goaltenders have a pre-determined notion what is about to happen, the variability in these sessions will create success based on ones adaptability to change within a goaltenders technical and tactical mindset.

BREAK DOWN:

One 1.5 hour ice time (Saturday)

· Two 1 hour ice times (Sunday)

· One Educational lecture (Sunday)

CLINIC DATES:

August 6-7 (The Rink Training Centre)
August 13-14 (The Rink Training Centre)

GROUPS:

Group 1: Age 13-14 (6 Goaltenders)
Group 2: Age 15-up (6 Goaltenders)

PROGRAM COST: $225/Clinic

TO REGISTER PLEASE CONTACT US AT 489-7465

GDI Goaltending Academy

2011-05-13T12:53:00.003-05:00

JOIN THE REVOLUTION

With a goaltenders performance on the ice being the main area critiqued and evaluated across Western Canada, GDI Prairies has created a goaltending academy that incorporates all on-ice aspects that will take the aspiring athlete to new heights. Through this academy goaltenders will be able to advance their potential, year by year, through each level of the program eventually leading them into the pro ranks.

ON ICE COMPENENTS:

1v1 Private Lesson:

The most efficient way to maintain and enhance the technical and tactical aspect of your game is 1v1 instruction. 1v1 sessions are 1 hour in length and consist of 15 minutes position specific movement and 45 minutes of TECHNICAL teaching. These are training sessions that are correlated to each goaltenders own personal developmental needs.

8 lessons Scheduled by client within GDI Business Hours

Goaltender Specific On-Ice Conditioning Session:

GDI Prairies is introducing a new circuit based training system that allows goalies to train specifically for their position. Each session is 50 minutes long and will be structured as a confined space movement circuit working through intervals of 30 seconds on and 45 seconds off and 15 seconds on 25 seconds off.

8 Weeks – Movement Circuits Tuesdays 7am (15-up and Females) Thursday 7am (11-14)

Goaltender Tactical Performance Session:

This area of the summer academy is designed to have each goaltender in realistic game activity. Through game simulated drills goaltenders will improve performance due to the variability of situational characteristics involved. Compared to a blocked context of training where goaltenders have a pre-determined notion what is about to happen, the variability in these sessions will create success based on ones adaptability to change within a goaltenders technical and tactical mindset.

These sessions are based in July and August to prepare goaltenders for training camps the approach.

8 Sunday Sessions

3pm 11-12 AA

4pm 13-14 AAA

5pm 15-up Prospect

6pm Female Female .

OFF ICE CONDITIONG SESSION

Offered by Elite Performance Centre’s Athletes will get 3 conditioning sessions per week executed by an Elite Professional.

ACADEMY BREAK DOWN:

· One On ice goaltender conditioning sessions/week (8 total)

· One 1v1 Private lesson/week (8 total)

· One Tactical Performance ice session/week (8 total)

· Three conditioning sessions/week (24 total)

This Academy is designed for athletes that are dedicated and passionate about their game. GDI Prairies has catered this academy to individuals that are looking to become professionals within the goaltending domain.

As this is an invite only Academy that you have been chosen, the on ice ratio is low. Be sure to secure your spot as space is limited. Please Register ASAP to Reserve your spot.

Academy Dates:

June 28^th – August 21^st

Academy Cost:

Full Academy $1560 + GST= $1638 or 2 payments of $819

On Ice Academy $1080 + GST = $1134 or 2 payments of $567

On Ice Conditioning only $240 + GST= $252

Tactical Performance Sessions only $ 480 + GST= $505

1v1 lessons only $515 + GST= $540.75

Off Ice conditioning $480 + GST= $504

TO REGISTER PLEASE CONTACT US AT 489-7465

Lieuwy Takes Game 3 in OT; Awarded Games 1st Star

2011-05-11T09:43:00.001-05:00

Nathan Lieuwen & the Kootenay Ice take Game 3 in overtime versus the Portland Winterhawks 3-2 to take a 2-1 series lead Lieuwy gets 1st star.

Game 4 of the series goes tonight. With two out of the past three games going into overtime, this one should be another barn burner as both teams fight to claw their way into the Memorial Cup.

Sporting a crested GDI logo on the back of his helmet, Nathan Lieuwen has evolved into a consistent stand-point within the team with aided help from GDI Alberta's Justin Cardinal. Reliable in the backend for his team, this has been evident as he shut down Portland with 38 stops in game 3.

For more on this series Click Here.

Terriers Hold Head Up High

2011-05-11T08:28:00.001-05:00

The Portage Terriers capped off their 2011 season as the West representative at the RBC Cup - National Junior Championships.

Jason Kasdorf helped the Terriers to their only win at the RBC Cup. Kasdorf shut down the Eastern representative, and eventual RBC National Champions - the Pembroke Lumbar Kings - with 29 saves, and was awarded with the Player of the Game.

Previous to the tournament, Portage competed against the SJHL champion, the La Ronge Ice Wolves, in a best of seven battle of the ages. The 4-0 win in the seventh game of the Anavet Cup interprovincial junior hockey championship was in front of a crowd of 1,805 in the PCU Arena. Backed by goaltender Jason Kasdorf's 19-save shutout, the Terriers won the best-of-seven series 4-3.

Before the Anavet Cup, Manitoba's Terriers triumphed over the Selkirk Steelers with a 4 games to 1 series win to take the MJHL Turnbull Championship.

Through a long and treacherous season, the Terriers were a strong force within the Canadian Hockey Junior League as they represented Manitoba and the West Region with pride, teamwork, and a relentless commitment to success.

Pushka Recieves George Allard Scholarship

2011-05-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

The 97th annual Hockey Manitoba Awards Luncheon was held on May 7th.

GDI goaltender, Amanda Pushka, was the recipient of one of Hockey Manitoba's highest scholarships. The George Allard Scholarship.

Amanda played for both the AA Female Assiniboine Park Rangers and the Oak Park Raiders Highschool Hockey team. Having a successful season, Amanda won the Provincial Championship for Oak Park Highschool and was a finalist with the Rangers.

Along with competing on the ice, she was also the captain for the high school volleyball team. She is a member of the Outdoors Club and traveled to Guatemala with the Mission Team. She has spent time volunteering at Winnipeg Harvest, Siloam Mission and the Habitat for Humanity Restore. She also coaches youth basketball and softball. Looking to the future, Amanda sets her sights on attending the University of Manitoba to study Civil Engineering.

Dola and Glesmann Take Gold in Shootout Win

2011-05-09T08:14:00.001-05:00

GDI Prairies would like to notice the '97 born Manitoba Moose spring team who recently won a tournament this past weekend in Duluth.

Longtime GDI goaltenders, Hayden Dola and Andrew Glesmann, helped defend the net for the Moose. Hayden Dola backstopped the team in the championship final and was stellar in net to hold on for a 3-2 shootout win to capture the gold.

Both goaltenders will head into their second year of Bantam hockey this winter, and look to take the next step in their development as their draft year approaches.

Pred's Rinne Has Some Fun in Elimination Games

2011-05-08T23:58:00.003-05:00

VANCOUVER -- Nashville Predators goalie Pekka Rinne has been around the organization long enough to know what is a signature moment in franchise history.

He knew going into Rogers Arena on Saturday that Game 5 against the Canucks was a big one because it was the first time in Predators' history that they were facing elimination in the second round. Following the 4-3 win, which was backed by his 31 saves and two goals apiece for Joel Ward and David Legwand, Rinne called it the biggest game in franchise history.

He also had several other things to say about the Predators staving off elimination and forcing Game 6 Monday in Nashville:

Q: What does this win say about your team's resiliency?

A: That's the way we are. We've done this during the regular season many times, but obviously this is the biggest game so far for us probably in the Preds' history. For the organization it's the biggest game ever, and we did a great job. We battled hard, came really strong in the third period, got two big goals from Joel Ward and at the end showed a lot of character, blocking shots, doing the little things, just playing for the team.

Q: How does it feel to know you're playing another game?

A: It's so much fun right now. These are the games you live for. You practice hard all year long and we still get to play -- it feels great. It's the best time of the year, for sure.

For the full interview by NHL.com Click Here.

Move Your Hockey Training Experience to The Next Level!

2011-05-08T08:32:00.001-05:00

The arrival of ELITE Performance is here.

ELITE, Canada's strength and conditioning leaders, have joined GDI PRAIRIES and THE RINK - Training Centre to create a full new training experience that hasn't been seen before.

This upcoming week on May 10th and 12th at 7:00 PM there will be an information session held at The Rink with staff available to update clients on new programs and development changes taken place to the facility.

With the partnership of ELITE Performance, GDI Prairies has established many new prosperous training options that will lead to each goaltenders individual success.

ELITE provides a world that incorporates every athletes desire. Along with a state of the art facility, featuring every platform to ones performance, ELITE brings a professional and personal approach to each athlete that they train and rehabilitate. Rather than other companies who have preset routines and a one-size-fits-all-mentality, ELITE uses a comprehensive evaluation to design a customized program, specific to the athlete, his or her sport, and often their position. From this approach, ELITE guarantee's superior performance and results.

Becoming the link to your success, GDI Prairies, The Rink, and Elite, will provide you with the tools you need and the people to get you there.

National Midget Champions Awarded by Mayor Sam Katz

2011-05-07T08:09:00.005-05:00

Mayor Sam Katz presented Outstanding Achievement Award medals to the 2011 national midget hockey champion - Winnipeg Thrashers - this morning in a special ceremony at City Hall.

Backstopped by goaltenders Teagan Sacher and Alex Henry, the Thrashers prided their season on strong goaltending.

WINNIPEG -- The mighty Winnipeg Thrashers stickhandled their way to another historic victory.

Mayor Sam Katz presented Outstanding Achievement Award medals to the 2011 National Midget Hockey Champions on the morning of Thursday, May 5th, in a special ceremony at City Hall.

The medal ceremony was set to honour the Thrashers, who captured the 2011 Telus Cup Midget AAA national championship last month with a 3-1 victory over the London Jr. Knights in St. John’s, N.L.

The Thrashers are the first Winnipeg team to win the coveted Telus Cup, while the Brandon Wheat Kings won it in 2004. In 2008, the Thrashers came up short after a strong season and won silver.

The Thrashers, outshot 32-18, and got goals from Justin Derlago, Corey Petrash, and Connor Lockhart who scored the game-winning goal in the third period on April 24 and was named the player of the game for the Thrashers, while goaltender Teagan Sacher had a stellar performance in net, making 31 saves, and was selected as the days 1st star.

On May 7th the Thrashers team members also received an Order of Sport Excellence award at this years Hockey Manitoba Awards Luncheon.

For more on the ceremony Click Here.

WHL Bantam Draft Wrap Up: 4 GDI Goalies Selected

2011-05-06T09:30:00.002-05:00

Overall 4 GDI goalies were selected in this years Western Hockey League Bantam Draft.

Two goaltenders from GDI Prairies:
Zac Robidoux, Medicine Hat Tigers - 124 Overall and Ty Edmonds, Prince George Cougars - 186th Overall.

Two goaltenders from GDI Alberta:
Payton Lee, Vancouver Giants - 28th Overall and Derek Mazil, Edmonton Oil Kings - 68th Overall.

While the WHL Bantam Draft is the first opportunity for teams to select graduating Bantam players, it is not the last chance for a player to be listed or recruited by a WHL Club. After the Drafft is completed, all remaining Bantam players become eligible to be listed by WHL Clubs, and many will be added as spots become available on each WHL teams Protected Player List, or as player development improves at a higher level of hockey.

With this said, for the long list of goaltenders that dream to play at the Major Junior level, it is important that you stick to your training regimen. Don't sit back and relax!

All athletes have the capability of creating a perspective of how others view them. To progress and create future opportunities take into consideration: the actions that you show, the habits that you maintain, and the character that you represent on the ice.

Edmonds and Robidoux Selected in Bantam Draft

2011-05-06T00:02:00.009-05:00

GDI Prairies would like to congratulate the following goaltenders for being selected in the 2011 WHL Bantam Draft.

Both goalies have been dedicated students of the game and have trained with GDI over the course of the year leading the selections.

Zach Robidoux - Morden Manitoba - 124th Overall - Medicine Hat Tigers

Ty Edmonds - Winnipeg Manitoba - 186th Overall - Prince George Cougars

For the full list of results from the draft Click Here.

Stanley Cup Playoff Report: Unbeatable...Undeniable!

2011-05-03T00:28:00.005-05:00

Game 2 of the Boston vs. Philidelpia series having the games announcers close to loosing their voice due to the array of breakaway stops and goal line pad saves. Playoff hockey is the time where goaltenders prove their wealth by making those "winning" stops, the ones that hold the momentum and life for their team.

Tuesday night features Dwayne Roloson looking to steal another game for the Lightning to take a 3 games to none series lead, along with Vezina nominees Luongo and Rinne dueling between the pipes to challenge each other for taking a lead in the series.

Quick Tip: Use each game! After being on the ice for a 1v1 session, review how your game compares to the goaltenders in the NHL. Critique a goaltenders game while watching. What do you love about their game. What would you fix? A high percentage of athletes are visual learners, along with being kinestheticly engaged, and are able to connect aspects that they have viewed and incorporate that into their learning.

Watch some of Pekka Rinne's amazing saves from this weekends past Predator's Game 2 overtime win over the Canucks.

Stanly Cup Playoff Report: Howard Enduring a Spring Blizzard

2011-05-02T08:00:00.001-05:00

SAN JOSE, Calif. – Through the first two games of Detroit's Western Conference Semifinal Jimmy Howard has been enduring his own private blizzard.

In Game 1, Howard was the recipient of a Joe Pavelski snow shower, and when he retaliated with a poke at the Sharks center, both players were assessed roughing minors.

It was even snowier during the Red Wings' 2-1 loss to the Sharks at HP Pavilion on Sunday. Howard was snowed under four times, including a return engagement by Pavelski and a whiteout courtesy of Joe Thornton.

Captain Nicklas Lidstrom, in fact, said an unsportsmanlike-conduct penalty was merited and probably would put an end to the barrage of snowflakes that keeps landing on Howard.

Lidstrom said as much to the officials.

"We mentioned it several times to them," he said after Sunday's loss. "I don't know why they keep allowing them to do it. We keep telling the refs. It's up to the refs. They could stop it right away by calling it and it's pretty obvious that they're trying to do it. It's really easy for the refs to do something about that."

For more on this article Click Here.

U 16 Top 40 Announced

2011-04-30T10:56:00.005-05:00

The U-16 players selected to attend the POE Top-40 have advanced from the pool of 136 players who competed at the POE Spring Tournament which was held April 1-3, 2011.The POE Top-40 Camp is the third phase of the Program of Excellence which is the selection process for the U-16 Team Manitoba roster that will compete at the 2011 Western Canada U-16 Challenge Cup in Swift Current, SK.

GDI trained goaltenders that have advanced into the final 40 selections are:

Ty Edmonds - Bantam 1 Wpg Warriors

Evan Johnson - Bantam 1 Wpg Monarchs

For the full roster of selections Click Here.

NHL Playoff Report: Luongo and Rinne Return

2011-04-29T09:48:00.002-05:00

VANCOUVER - After shaky starts to the Stanley Cup playoffs, goaltenders Roberto Luongo and Pekka Rinne seem to have returned to their stingy selves.

Luongo made 20 saves Thursday to backstop the Vancouver Canucks to a 1-0 win over the Nashville Predators in the opening game of their Western Conference semifinal. At the other end, a busier Rinne made several spectacular stops to give his team a chance to win as Nashville was outshot 26-11 in the first two periods.

"He was unbelievable," teammate Mike Fisher said of Rinne, who like Luongo is a finalist for the Vezina Trophy, the award that goes to the league's top goalie. "On their goal, he almost made the save there too.

"That's what we're kind of accustomed to and hopefully we won't have to rely on him as much on Saturday."

That's when the best-of-seven series will continue before shifting to Nashville on Tuesday and Thursday. It could be a low-scoring match-up as the two clubs combined for only 14 goals in four regular-season games.

Both goalies entered this series after sub-par performances in opening-round wins.

For more on this article Click Here.

Winnipeg Takes First Telus Cup - National Championship

2011-04-25T14:12:00.008-05:00

The Winnipeg Thrashers won the TELUS Cup with a 3-1 victory over the London Jr. Knights on Sunday night at Mile One Centre.

The national championship is the first for the Thrashers and just the second for a team from Manitoba –the Brandon Wheat Kings, in 2004, won the first.

GDI Prairies goaltender Teagan Sacher built up a strong resume after his first outing in the tournament. Rebounding after a tough loss in game one of the tournament, Sacher took to the next six games day by day, focusing on one game at a time. By the end of it, all the steps led to his teams name being engraved on this years Telus Cup. In his last six games Sacher allowed only 11 goals and also captured a shutout in his second game against Team Quebec. Within all goaltenders statistics he finished with the most minutes played at 370:00, the tournaments best save percentage at .919, and second in goals against averages at 2.59.

The Thrashers claimed a birth into the National Championships after winning the Western Regional Qualifying tournament, beating Prince Albert in the finals. Hours after, an ecstatic Teagan Sacher was interviewed by the Winnipeg Sun and proclaimed that "the other teams better be careful because we're going to win." The article posted the next day was titled Date with Destiny. Now, after the Telus Cup win, Sacher has been stared on the nights TSN Honor Roll for his heroic first period glove save in tight to deny the London Jr. Knights and hold the lead for the Thrashers.

After Day 7 of the tournament, Teagan Sacher was named the first star of the day, along with Connor Lockhart being named the second star who scored the championship game winner.

Again GDI Prairies would like to congratulate the Winnipeg Thrashers, along with goaltenders Teagan Sacher and Alex Henry, for there success throughout the season and for claiming the National AAA Midget Championship title.

For full results and news on the tournament Click Here.

Sacher Named Day 6 3rd Star

2011-04-24T10:41:00.002-05:00

Teagan Sacher was awarded the 3rd Star for Day 6 with his horoic semi-final performance in net against Team Quebec.

The Winnipeg Thrashers netminder allowed an early goal to Lac St-Louis’ Patrick Walsh but settled down after that, making 25 of his 43 saves in the third period and overtime and giving Brendyn Illchuk the opportunity to score the overtime winner, sending the Thrashers to Sunday’s gold medal game against London.

Teagan Sacher's calm and controlled manner in net has helped the team get to where they are now, competing as one of the top two teams across the country for a national championship.

Thrash Head to Gold Medal Game

2011-04-24T08:15:00.001-05:00

ST. JOHN’S, N.L. – Brendyn Illchuk was the overtime hero, scoring 10:16 into the second extra period, asthe Winnipeg Thrashers advanced to the gold medal game at the 2011 TELUS Cup with a 4-3 semifinal win overthe Lions du Lac St-Louis on Saturday afternoon.

Illchuk picked up the puck off a won face-off by Regan Stire and slipped a shot through the legs ofFrançois Brassard to send the Thrashers to the final (Sunday, 4 p.m. NT) for the second time in four years –they lost the 2008 gold medal game to the Sudbury Nickel Capital Wolves.

It’s also the eighth consecutive year that the West Region champions will play for TELUS Cup gold, datingback to 2004. Six of the first seven teams won the national title, all except the ’08 Thrashers.

GDI Prairies goaltender Teagan Sacher shut down every Quebec attack from the midway point of the game on. Keeping his game simple, Sacher was a wall in net. Quebec's frustrated offense fired 25 pucks on net from every angle within the third and overtime periods before the Thrashers put the game away.

Sundays afternoon game should be a game for the ages as the Thrashers take on the London Jr. Knights.

Thrashers Sacher Takes Control in Telus

2011-04-23T10:00:00.001-05:00

The Winnipeg Thrashers have slowly made there way up through the rankings and have placed a semi-final birth in this years Telus Cup - National Championships.

As it has been known through the ages, goaltending does win games. Thrasher goalie Teagan Sacher has became a backbone for the team as he has had four consecutive undefeated games, shutting down the opposition in the most opportunistic times. Allowing a low seven goals within his past four starts, Sacher has led his strong performance on many foundational aspects of the position. This in mind, maintaining the basics can help any goaltender succeed, rather than thinking beyond expectations and complicating the position.

Heading into the Semi-Finals Sacher looks to maintain his calming presence in the backend and continue his control that has created a sense of ease for his defensemen.

The Semi-Final match-up between the Winnipeg Thrashers (Team West) and Lions du Lac St. Louis (Team Québec) takes place Saturday afternoon at 11:30 central time. For full information from Hockey Canada on the game Click Here.

Proceeding on Sunday, the 2011 Telus Cup National Championship Final will be broadcast on TSN live at 7:30 PM central time.

Summer Training Hours Announcement

2011-04-23T07:30:00.001-05:00

GDI Prairies has announced a new schedule during the summer for 1v1 training hours.

During the months of July leading into September there will be 10 hours available each day, creating a wide spread availability for each goaltender to be able to enhance their on ice performance.

From July 4th to September 7th training hours are from Monday to Friday are 10:30am to 3:30pm and 4:30pm to 9:30pm. On Saturdays training hours are 10:00am to 3:00pm.

For more information on GDI Programs Click Here.

Wpg AAA Banquet Award Recipients

2011-04-22T14:40:00.005-05:00

GDI Prairies would like to congratulate the following GDI trained goaltenders for the awards that they received at this years Wpg AAA awards banquet night.

League Goaltender of the Year

Bantam 2 - Troy Martyniuk
Bantam 1 - Evan Johnson
Midget City - Brendan Fiebelkorn
Provincial - Spencer Tremblay

AAA Goaltender of the Year

Spencer Tremblay

AAA Provincial MVP

Teagan Sacher

For more info on the AAA Awards for the 2010/2011 season Click Here.

Winnipeg Provincial Goaltenders Bring Home Hardware

2011-04-21T08:48:00.000-05:00

GDI Prairies would like to congratulate goaltenders Teagan Sacher and Spencer Tremblay for the awards and success that they have each had throughout the 2010/2011 Manitoba Provincial season.

Teagan Sacher was awarded this years MVP honors within the MBAAA Provincial League, while Spencer Tremblay accepted this years Goaltender of the Year award.

Both goaltenders entered their second year of Midget and first year of playing at the provincial level, and both goalies never looked back as they took the year in full stride. Congrats again Teagan and Spencer, and best of luck in both of your future endeavors!

Sacher Stymies Quebec's Opposition

2011-04-19T15:20:00.005-05:00

After suffering a devasting loss on the opening day of the Telus Cup, the Winnipeg Thrashers approached game 2 with a sense of pride within Team West. By the games end, Thrashers goaltender Teagan Sacher posted the tournament's first shutout and helped the Team West representative record their first win Tuesday at the 2011 Telus Cup national midget hockey championship in St. John's, Nfld.

Facing a total of 23 shots throughout the game, Sacher held the fort down while defending the net through several screened attempts along with managing the traffic in front of the net. In the second frame there were two consecutive near breakaways, along with a couple battles where he was pushed back. Helping solidify the Thrashers 2-0 lead in the third with two minutes left, Sacher pushed away a quick post to post transition that saw a quick scoring chance in the slot.

Sacher, who was pulled after allowing five goals during Winnipeg's 12-5 loss on Monday, was named the Thrashers' player of the game after his second game victory and also was credited with the 3rd Star of the Day for Day 2 of the Telus Cup. With the Thrashers first victory at the Telus Cup, this was Winnipeg's second shutout ever within the Telus Cup history.

The Winnipeg Thrashers look ahead now to Game 3, set for 3:30 against Team Central, the London Jr. Knights. For the full schedule/results of the Telus Cup Click Here.

GDI Junior Goalie Climbs to the Top

2011-04-18T14:48:00.004-05:00

La Ronge Ice Wolves goaltender Myles Hovdebo celebrates as his team captures the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League championship.

The Ice Wolves arrived back home today as they are down 2 games to none against the MJHL's Portage Terriers as both teams compete for the Anavet Cup in hopes of advancing to the RBC Championships.

Six Teams Hit the Ice on The Rock

2011-04-16T08:15:00.005-05:00

The road to the Telus Cup has six teams facing off for the Nations AAA Midget title this upcoming week.

After nearly two months of grueling playoff hockey and competitive battles between provinces, six teams across Canada will now hit the ice in St. Johns Newfoundland.

The Breakdown from the West

The Thrashers are back at the TELUS Cup for the third time in four years, having lost in the gold medal game in 2008 before finishing fourth as the host team one year later. Winnipeg was the class of Manitoba this season, winning the league’s regular season and playoff titles, losing just two of 11 games in series wins over Pembina Valley, Brandon and Southwest.

Manitoba Midget League

Goaltending statistics by seasons end had GDI goaltenders placing in the top 5 within the MBAAA Midget League. Provincial Champions (Teagan Sacher, Alex Henry) placed 2nd and 3rd respectively. Teagan Sacher prided himself on consistency through the long season and finished with a 1.88 GAA in 25 games, and 0.923 Save Percentage. Alex Henry capped of the season with a seven game span of allowing only two goals against or less, which included two shutouts. By seasons end Henry finished with 5 perfect games, a 1.90 GAA, and a 90.69 Save Percentage.

Winnipeg's south end team, the Winnipeg Wild, were backstopped by a league newcomer and highly touted junior prospect, Spencer Tremblay. Heading into the unknown as he entered his first season of AAA in the province of Manitoba after moving back home from Notre Dame, Tremblay became comfortable quickly. Within his first seven games he notched four shutouts. Finishing the league in first within all goaltender statistical categories, Tremblay had an outstanding season. His partner between the pipes, Cory Nygaard, completed his last year of midget hockey as a veteran in the league. Nygaard was resilient throughout the season as he came up with many strong outings in pressure filled games, including a playoff win against Norman where he allowed one goal against on 34 shots fired his way.

Also noted within the MBAAA Midget League was playoff finalist Gage Murray. The Southwest Cougars rookie finished the year with a 14-1-1 record. As Murray stands as a monster in net with his 6'3'' - 171 lbs fame, he looks on for a durable future in net.

Brendan Edie, Tyler Oswald, and Justin Holder all had personal success stories throughout the season.

Edie was called up to the MJHL's Steinbach Pistons in the middle of February and blanked the OCN Blizzard with a 3-0 win and was credited for recording the franchises first shutout.Oswald was recalled late in the season to the Saskatoon Blades and saw action against the Brandon Wheat Kings where he made 15 stops mid-way through the game. Besides being called up to his Major Junior squad, Oswald also recieved his fair share of hardware as he was awarded the MBAAA Goaltender of the Month for January and also received the All-Star Defensive Player of the Game award for the league All-Star game. Not to mention, he also saw his fair share of rubber with 1018 shots against and kept up a .903 Save Percentage. The Brandon Wheat Kings Justin Holder helped his team battle to beat the Eastman Selects in their second round series and kept many games against the Winnipeg Thrashers close in the teams semi-final playoff series.

Sasktachewan Midget League

The Saskatchewan Midget Hockey League also had many long runs for GDI goaltenders leading past playoffs.

Longtime GDI goalie, Andy Desautels, stood tall in net over the season and maintained a 90.24 Save Percentage. While playing on the Regina Pat Canadians Desautels was also selected to play on this years U-17 Team West where he shared goaltending duties with Tri-City American - Chris Dreidger. After his playoff run with the Canadians, Desautels was recalled to his Major Junior team, Everett Silvertips, and served as the teams backup for the remaining eight games of the season. Desautels shared duties through the season with goaltender Casey Parker.

Moose Jaw Generals goaltender Travis Pelletier entered his first season in the league and finished the year off with a 2.84 GAA, and shared duties with Matt Gibney between the pipes at this years Western Regionals as the host team.

Tisdale Trojans veteran Josh Switzer had a .895 Save Percentage by seasons end as he played on a middle of the pack team that had a tough playoff run against the highly favored Saskatoon Contacts. Towards the end of January Switzer saw success against the leagues top team as he allowed only one goal on 34 shots to help his team to victory, and then went on to win his next two games allowing only one goal.

Young 1995 born goaltender Spencer Bomboir entered into the league on a .500 record team and held his own throughout his Bantam year as a rookie goaltender for the Yorkton Harvest. Sharing duties in net was Kale Thomson who finished the year off with a .904 Save Percentage.

Heading Into the Telus Cup National Championships

In Moose Jaw, Sask., for the West Regional, the Winnipeg Thrashers did something they couldn’t do in their previous trip in 2008 – beat the Saskatchewan champions in the round robin. A 3-1 victory over Prince Albert kicked off an unbeaten preliminary round for Winnipeg, which beat Thunder Bay 6-5 to clinch a spot in the final before settling for a 2-2 tie with the host Generals. Matched up with the Mintos in the championship game, the Thrashers allowed the game’s first goal before scoring four unanswered and booking their TELUS Cup ticket.

Winnipeg is following in big footsteps in St. John’s – the West Region champion has won six of the last seven national titles. The only West team not to take home the top prize in that span? The Thrashers, in 2008.

For the full 2011 Telus Cup schedule and results Click Here.

To view past National Champions Click Here.

GDI Goalies Head to NHL Entry Draft

2011-04-15T08:23:00.000-05:00

GDI goaltenders around the globe look to make the next step from junior to pro at the end of June in this years NHL Entry Draft.

Taking center stage at this years draft among North American goaltenders is long-time GDI National Camp student Laurent Broissoit who is ranked 7th. From the European rankings, Stefan Steen of Sweeden who spent time at GDI Alberta's Training Center in the summer is ranked 9th overall.

Jason Kasdorf from the Portage Terriers was ranked 10th among all the prospects and had previously trained at GDI Prairies Training Center, along with Corbin Boes from the Brandon Wheat Kings who is placed 20th.

GDI trained Jan Obernesser of the AJHL Brooks Bandits was also ranked 22nd.

For the full list of this years North American eligible goaltenders for the draft Click Here. For European goaltender rankings Click Here.

Freeze Heads to St. Scholastica

2011-04-14T08:30:00.001-05:00

Currently completing her last year playing Senior Prep at the Ontario Hockey Academy, Sheridan Friesen has committed with Division 2 St. Scholastica for her first year of College.

Leading to her on-ice preparation, Friesen has trained with GDI over the past five years.

GDI Prairies would like to recognize Sheridan's success and commitment to the position as she heads into her years playing with the St. Scholastica Saints.

History Takes Every Last Second

2011-04-13T08:56:00.002-05:00

When the game is on the line. When every last ounce of sweat is dropping from your forehead. Your socks, gloves, chest protector, and pads are soaked from the past 59 minutes and 53.5 seconds. To you, the crowd that packs the endless stands is mute. Your mind focuses on setting up for the final face-off and readying in your stance.

Your pursuit to glory comes down to the last 6.5 seconds.

2009 Stanley Cup Champion, Marc Andre Fleury spent his two Team Canada World Junior experiences teamed up with GDI Founder Ian Clark. Clark was Team Canada's Goaltending Consultant for four years garnering two gold medals and two silver medals during this stretch.

History Finds Us A Hero

2011-04-11T08:31:00.002-05:00

With this years NHL playoffs right around the corner the NHL has started up their “History Will be Made” campaign.

Last season’s History Will Be Made campaign was one of the most successful campaigns in NHL history, driving more than 302 million TV viewers for the 2010 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the most watched in 36 years. The campaign also received three Sports Media Marketing Awards, including top prizes for Best Television Promotion and Best Live Sporting Event Spot.

Starting April 14 through the conclusion of the Stanley Cup Final, a new spot will be produced each day, highlighting a key moment from the previous night’s games.

For all those hockey fans that relive those memories when they see them, ponder their past success stories, and get goosebumps from the thrill, here's to another exciting NHL playoffs!

Cam Ward has a connection with GDI that goes back to his teenage years. Ward spent five years training at GDI's Pro Consulting camp before breaking into the NHL and going on to be the Conn Smythe Trophy winner and Stanley Cup Champion in his rookie season.

Terriers MJ Champs - Head to Anavet Cup

2011-04-10T08:31:00.001-05:00

For the third time in four seasons, the Portage Terriers are Manitoba Junior Hockey League champions.

Portage wins the best-of-seven MJHL championship series 4-1.

Riding momentum in the series thanks to three straight wins prior to Saturday, the Terriers rode that emotion and the energy of a sold-out crowd right off the bat by scoring two shell shocking goals in the first minute frame. The Terriers scored 18 seconds and then 45 seconds into the game to hold a two goal lead after the first period. Entering the second they potted a third goal just under five minutes in. With a 4-2 lead heading into the third, the game slowly raveled down to the Terriers claiming Manitoba's Junior Championship.

Portage now moves on to the ANAVET Cup, where they’ll face the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League champion. La Ronge leads that best-of-seven series 3-2 over the Yorkton Terriers, with Game 6 scheduled to go Sunday night.

For the full recap of the game Click Here.

Ryplanski Commits to Niagara University

2011-04-08T08:15:00.000-05:00

This years Female U-18 Team Manitoba goaltender Abby Ryplanski is continuing to build up her resume in hockey. Most recently Ryplanski has commited to Niagara University.

This season Ryplanski compiled a 2.16 GAA and a .937 Save Percentage over 18 games played with Balmoral Hall.

GDI Prairies would like to recognize Abby for both having a very successful season and for committing to Niagara University, furthering her future career with hockey.

For a full list of 2011-2012 NCAA National College commitments Click Here.

Goaltending Remains a Strong Point for Terriers

2011-04-08T07:54:00.001-05:00

In most recent MJHL news Terriers GM, Blake Spiller, discusses several reasons for how the Portage Terriers have matured into a winning organization.

With all their hard work to build a winning team and consistently succeed, the Terriers are grateful for the opportunity to compete in another MJHL final, and are hoping to take home the championship.

“We went through two tough playoff series to get where we are now, and we’re fortunate to be where we are in the finals,” says Spiller, “We’ve had our breaks (in the finals) here and there, but our goaltending has been steady in the regular season and in the playoffs.

We’re happy to be in the finals. We want to put our best foot forward and have some success.”

For more on this article by Lorelei Leona Click Here.

Game 4 of the MJHL Final takes place Friday night in Selkirk. Start time is 7:30 PM. For the full schedule Click Here.

Keeping the Fun Between the Pipes

2011-04-07T08:55:00.002-05:00

P.K. Subban's overtime winner leads to a big celebration with teammate Carey Price.

After watching this video, this leads into the discussion about what type of actions are accepted in hockey. Better yet, how should players represent themselves on and off the ice?

Picture back to when Theo Fleury celebrated his game winning goal in game 6 overtime in the 1991 playoffs. Taking things to the extreme, this is a player that leaves it all out on the ice. Similar to Subban's overtime winner, this emotion and excitement left on the ice illustrates what the game of hockey is all about. Different from other sports where game scores can reach double digits for teams, "our game" has teams and fans on the edge of their seats waiting for their team to take the lead, tie the game up, or in this case with Montreal to score the game winner.

Many hockey "experts" will proclaim that hockey should be represented as a game of class, and for players to want more and show less on the ice. At the same time, there are many players in the dressing room that do just this. When this happens the game starts to become "less fun" and more stressful.

At times throughout the year there are many distractions that can cause pressure, along with situations around the game that can create stressors. It is important to find ways around this, and to find ways that can maintain the "fun" and enjoyable aspects of the sport.

When relating to goaltenders, here are a couple keys:

When times are tough, remember WHY you love the game.
When training and putting in all the time on and off the ice, remember WHAT you are doing it for.
In practice, rather than thinking to stop every puck, have objectives set aside for improvement and daily goals for what you would like to maintain. Ex) Controlling all low shots to corners for the whole hour to improve on ice rebound control.
Show emotion. There are various times in the game when teams do need that spark from their goaltender to help ignite a flame and instill motivation. At times, that big save and flash of the leather does help. Other instances, in the dressing room those words of disgust or encouragement also go a long way to giving your team a boost.
Keep practices entertaining. When playing small area games against teammates try throwing in a pad stack or a diving poke check. Do something you wouldn't normally do to get outside of your technical mindset. Technique can always be instilled, but your competitive side is more instinctive. Build your instincts by competing!
Keep things simple. Beyond all the tactics and technique that goes into the position, your job goes down to stopping the puck. Heading into a big game don't over complicate things and think about more than you need to. Control what you can control within the game.
Organize your time. People work 8 hours for 5 days a week. The other 128 hours are open for ones own leisure. An athlete has no reason to be at the rink or on the ice day in and day out for hours on end. Allow yourself to have time with family and friends, school, and time to relax.

Ultimately, the game of hockey is about fun! Ask anyone involved in the sport and that will be one of the main reasons why they started playing. Next time your on the ice and you make that big save don't be afraid to show some excitement. Competing on the ice, playing the sport you love, is all about the rush and the celebration.

MMJHL Finals Start Friday

2011-04-07T07:05:00.000-05:00

Game one of the MMJHL Championship
Final between the Charleswood Hawks and Fort Garry starts Friday at Eric Coy arena. The opening puck drop is at 7:30pm.

February's MMJHL Goaltender of the Month was awarded to GDI trained goaltender - Dan Cloutier. Through this season Cloutier has collected a statistical high with having his save percentage at .929 and his goals against average at 1.65. Through playoffs, both GDI goaltenders playing with the Charleswood Hawks (Cloutier and Mitch David) have had strong outings, which has amounted into a Championship Final birth. The Hawks went undefeated in the first two rounds playing against the St. Boniface Riels and Seven Oaks Junior Raiders.

GDI Goalies Protect the Hawks Net at Westerns

2011-04-06T08:00:00.003-05:00

The Bantam 1 Hawks are the 2011 provincial representative for Manitoba at the Western Canadian Bantam Championships (WCBC) that takes place on April 7th- 10th.

Longtime GDI goaltenders Zach Hoger and Reid Pennington look forward to the task of helping lead the Hawks to the their second consecutive championship for the organization. Both goaltenders have had a very successful season.

Hoger finished the season with a 2.34 GAA and accomplished the feat of winning his second consecutive AAA Bantam championship.

Pennington has continually turned heads as he has climbed the ladder to move higher year after year. Making his first year of AA during his Minor Bantam year, this year he moved forward to being placed on the Hawks and has helped the team capture the league and provincial championship heading into the Western Bantam Championships.

Heading into the weekend, GDI Prairies would like to wish both goaltenders luck!

The Sharks, who finished second after the Winnipeg AAA Bantam I playoffs, will enter the WCBC as the host team. Game one of the WCBC will see both Winnipeg AAA teams face off against each other at 1:00pm on Thursday April 7th.

Wheat Kings Recognize Thrashers

2011-04-04T20:40:00.001-05:00

Winnipeg, MB. – The Brandon Wheat Kings have announced plans to recognize this year’s Provincial Midget Champion Winnipeg Thrashers before Monday night’s Western Hockey League Playoff game at the MTS Centre.

After winning the Manitoba AAA Midget League title last month against the Southwest Cougars, the Thrashers beat Prince Albert 4-1 Sunday to capture the West Regional Title in Moose Jaw.

Wheat Kings’ prospect Dylan Kuczek, Morgan Winchar, Corey Petrash and Regan Stire scored for the Thrashers, who will now advance to the National Championships later this month in St. John’s Newfoundland.

“You know what, everybody just needed to settle into the game — the first 10 minutes were a little bit slow but the guys knew what was at stake and emotions were running high for a little bit,” Thrashers head coach Dan Eliasson told the Winnipeg Sun on Sunday night. “There were feelings of elation and pride. It’s nice to see these things come together and to see all of the sacrifices pay off.”

Besides Eliasson, the Thrashers are coached by Royce Manary, Anthony Knapp and Dan Ferguson.

As for Monday’s WHL playoff game, the Wheat Kings trail the best of seven opening round series three games to two following Saturday’s 9-5 loss in Alberta. A Brandon victory on Monday night will force a seventh and deciding game on Wednesday night in Medicine Hat.

For more on this article by the Brandon Wheat Kings Click Here.

Thrashers Advance to Telus Cup Nationals

2011-04-04T18:59:00.007-05:00

By 5:30 on Sunday afternoon the Winnipeg Thrashers had a team full of pride and excitement as they capped off a 4-1 win in the championship final game of the Western Regionals. With the victory the Thrashers advance to the Telus Cup National Championships and will represent the Western Region in the tournament.

With the Thrashers carrying the momentum through the first two periods of the final game the Prince Albert Mintos applied a full offensive pursuit in the final frame to attempt a comeback. The Mintos fired thirteen shots against Teagan Sacher and had nothing to show for it as they were all turned away. Sacher kept his workload to a minimum as he controlled a strong percentage of the scoring attempts by collecting loose pucks and controlling many direct shots on net. With the Thrashers being shorthanded in the dieing minutes of the game the Mintos went up 6 on 4 and put everything low and on net - keeping the crowd on edge till the buzzer went. At the games end, with the Thrashers coming out as the Western Telus Cup representatives, Sacher was awarded the games MVP award for the team.

The Thrashers finished the Western Regionals with an undefeated record of 3-0-1, and with a strong defensive core from the back end up only allowed a total of 9 goals against in the four games played.

Winnipeg Sun Article - Featuring WPG Thrasher/ GDI Goaltender - Teagan Sacher

With the honor of representing team West, the Winnipeg Thrashers now take the long trek to Newfoundland for the Telus Cup National Championships. The tournament takes place starting April 18th and leads into the final game on the 25th. For more information on the Telus Cup and the tournaments past champions Click Here.


Goaltender	Team	Round	Overall	Hometown
Brady Plett	Neepawa Natives	Protected List		Arden, MB
Connor Shaw	Dauphin Kings	Protected List		Dauphin, MB
Ty Edmonds	Winnipeg Saints	5	48	Winnipeg, MB
Derek Davies	Swan Valley	5	50	Stonewall, MB
Zac Robidoux	Portage	5	55	Morden, MB
Bronson Ammeter	Waywayseecappo	6	60	Starbuck, MB
Kyle McHolm	Selkirk	6	63	East St. Paul, MB