You’ve always dreamed about being a hockey goalie, playing in front of a crowd and feeling the rush of the game. Now, you can make your dream come true! There are a few ways to become a hockey goalie, and we will discuss the most common one; school. However, before you begin your journey, it is important to know what you’re getting into. Ahead, we’ll discuss the daily life of a hockey goalie, what you can expect once you’ve started, and how to ensure you make the right choice. So, let’s get into it!
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The Rewards Of Being A Hockey Goalie
First off, let’s discuss the rewards of being a hockey goalie. You’ll find that being behind the mask is a rewarding experience, especially when you’re playing in front of a crowd. The rush of the game, the feeling of being in control, and the thrill of stopping a puck – it’s all there, and it’s an experience you’ll never forget. As for the salary, well, it’s not an easy job, but you can expect to make a decent living from it. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary of a professional hockey goalie is around $70,000, with a higher range of $80,000-$82,000 being typical. Furthermore, there are a few hockey goalie superstitions you should know and follow.
Superstitions Of A Hockey Goalie
One of the things you’ll notice about professional hockey goalies is they have a few superstitions. For instance, they don’t like to leave the ice after a game, as they feel the need to stay on the ice and walk it off. In addition, they’re very protective of their equipment and rarely, if ever, wear the same pair of gear twice. And, finally, they never look at the puck when they’re in the middle of a game, as they feel this could hinder their performance. If you want to become a hockey goalie, you should know and follow these superstitions, because, to these superstitions, you will be indebted.
The Daily Life Of A Hockey Goalie
Now, let’s discuss the daily life of a hockey goalie. Most hockey goalies spend their time between practices, games, and travelling to and from games. Practices start early in the morning, and the schedule is usually hectic, packed with games. However, things slow down after the All-Star break, and you’ll usually find your schedule filled with nothing but rest and relaxation. Depending on where you are in your training, you’ll either be spending a lot of time in the gym or on the ice, and going to school is even more of an essential part of your day. As for the travel between games, it’s not uncommon for hockey goalies to spend a lot of time on the road, and this can become monotonous, as there’s not a lot of variety in the places they visit. Overall, the schedule of a hockey goalie is usually hectic, but there are times you’ll feel like you’re not getting anywhere, especially later in your career when you’re trying to make it as a full-time professional.
Choosing A School
First off, choose a school that has a good reputation. A good school will provide you with an excellent education, and they’ll give you the opportunity to play at a high level right from the beginning. However, you should look for more than just a good reputation, as you’ll have the chance to learn from expert teachers who can take you to the next level. Once you’ve selected the school, it’s time to decide whether you want to pursue classical liberal arts, business, or engineering studies. If you’re looking for a flexible education that allows you to study in a manner that suits you, then choose an online university. This way, you can take your studies, where and when you want. Classical liberal arts and business studies are both suitable for becoming a hockey goalie, and you should apply for admission to the one that best suits your needs. Once you’re in, you’ll be able to follow the structured classes that will help you prepare for the exam that will allow you to become a licensed professional.
The Exams
Once you’ve completed your studies, it’s time for the hard part: getting the required exams. In order to qualify as a professional hockey goalie, you’ll need to get your hands on some regulation equipment, practice with it, and take a few exams. The first is the standard high school diploma, which you’ll need in order to gain employment, and then there’s the licensing exam, which you’ll have to take in order to become a licensed professional. A few good books on coaching basketball and hockey will provide you with the knowledge you need to pass the exams, and, once you’ve done that, you can begin your adventure to the pros!
Ultimately, becoming a hockey goalie isn’t as hard as you’d think, but it does take a lot of dedication and a good education. Make sure you’re ready for the rigors of the profession before you begin your studies, and enjoy your time playing in the NHL!