Modern Goaltending in the Modern Game: An Interview with Sean Moloney

Sean Moloney is a modern goaltending coach who has worked with some of the top goalies in the world, including NHL stars Carey Price and Marc-Andre Fleury. In this interview, Moloney shares his insights on the evolution of the goaltending position and the challenges faced by goalies today.

Modern Goaltending Modern Game

by Sean Moloney

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3677 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	170 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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The Evolution of Goaltending

The goaltending position has evolved dramatically over the years, thanks to new equipment and training methods. In the early days of hockey, goalies were often just the last line of defense, standing in front of the net and trying to stop the puck from going in. Today's goalies are expected to be much more active, moving around the crease and making saves all over the ice.

"The game has changed a lot over the years," said Moloney. "Goalies used to be able to just stand in one spot and wait for the puck to come to them. Now, they have to be much more mobile and athletic, able to make saves from all over the ice."

One of the biggest changes in goaltending has been the of the butterfly style. This style, which involves the goalie dropping to their knees and spreading their legs out to block the puck, has become the standard in the NHL.

"The butterfly style has made a huge difference in the game," said Moloney. "It allows goalies to cover more of the net and make saves that they couldn't have made in the past."

Another big change in goaltending has been the emphasis on puck-handling. In the past, goalies were expected to just stop the puck and let their defensemen worry about clearing it. Today's goalies are expected to be able to handle the puck and start the breakout.

"Puck-handling has become a very important part of the game," said Moloney. "Goalies need to be able to make quick decisions and get the puck out of their zone as quickly as possible."

The Challenges of Modern Goaltending

While the evolution of the goaltending position has led to some amazing saves, it has also created some new challenges for goalies.

One of the biggest challenges is the increase in the number of shots. In the early days of hockey, goalies faced an average of 20-30 shots per game. Today, they face an average of 30-40 shots per game.

"The increase in the number of shots has made it more difficult for goalies to stay focused and make saves," said Moloney. "They have to be able to block out the distractions and just focus on the puck."

Another challenge for modern goalies is the speed of the game. The NHL is a much faster game today than it was in the past, and goalies have to be able to react quickly to make saves.

"The speed of the game has made it more difficult for goalies to track the puck," said Moloney. "They have to be able to read the play and anticipate where the puck is going to go."

Finally, modern goalies have to deal with the pressure of the game. The NHL is a very competitive league, and goalies are expected to perform at a high level every night.

"The pressure of the game can be very difficult for goalies," said Moloney. "They have to be able to handle the expectations and not let the pressure get to them."

Advice for Young Goalies

For young goalies who are aspiring to play in the NHL, Moloney offers the following advice:

* Work hard and be dedicated to your training. * Be patient and don't get discouraged if you don't see results right away. * Find a good goaltending coach who can help you develop your skills. * Study the game and watch how the best goalies in the world play. * Most importantly, never give up on your dreams.

"If you have the passion and the drive, you can achieve anything you set your mind to," said Moloney.

Modern Goaltending Modern Game

by Sean Moloney

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3677 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	170 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE