California Bears

Post2Post

Building Better Goalies

Building Better Goalies: The Bears Launch Post2Post Program

This season, the Bears proudly introduced the Post2Post Goaltending Program, a groundbreaking initiative led by veteran coach Dan Tamkin. Designed to elevate goalie development from basic technique to strategic mastery, Post2Post shifts the focus from what a goalie does to why they do it -- empowering young netminders to make smarter, faster decisions under pressure.

Head

Program Highlights

  • Program Highlights
    • Weekly Clinics split by age and skill level
      • 10BB and younger goalies
      • 10A and older goalies, coached by Rob Kucheraway and Dan Tamkin
    • Bi‑weekly Zoom sessions focused on decision‑making, accountability, and game analysis
    • Enhanced coach communication to create a feedback loop between goalies and staff

    From Technique to Tactics

    The older clinic features multi‑station drills that blend fundamentals with game‑like scenarios. One example: a low scissor exchange leading to a give‑and‑go attack. These drills require goalies to:

    • Integrate overlap to RVH post coverage
    • Read recovery options based on puck carrier decisions
    • Make real‑time choices -- stand and skate, push off the post, or prioritize square, angle, and depth

    By simulating real game pressure, goalies internalize not just the mechanics, but the why behind every move.

    Zoom Sessions: Learning Through Analysis

    Every other Sunday night, goalies gather online to:

    • Reflect on recent games and personal goals
    • Dive into topics like breakaways, positioning, mental skills, and communication
    • Analyze NHL and youth clips to learn from others’ decisions -- and mistakes

           As Coach Tamkin reminds us: “Even NHL goalies make mistakes. The fastest way to learn is by studying them.”

         Spotlight on Breakaways

Breakaways were the program’s first focus -- and perhaps the most relatable moment for parents. The goalie alone against the attacker is a scenario everyone understands. In this session, coaches introduced a repeatable process for handling breakaways, teaching goalies how to stay composed and make confident decisions under pressure.

Looking Ahead

With strong momentum and growing enrollment, the Bears will expand Post2Post into the Spring season, continuing to build a culture of thoughtful, confident goaltending. By combining technical drills, tactical analysis, and a focus on decision‑making, Post2Post is shaping the next generation of goalies -- one smart save at a time.