Dusty Nickel
Senior Coach
Dusty played 4 years of Collegiate Hockey with the MRU Cougars (CIS) where he was named CIS All-Canadian Academic-Athlete for four consecutive years.
With over 15 years of dedicated experience in coaching and developing goaltenders, Dusty has established himself as a prominent figure in the world of hockey. His extensive background encompasses a wide spectrum of athletes, ranging from enthusiastic beginners who are just discovering the fundamentals of the game to seasoned professionals and Olympic-level goalies who are striving for excellence at the highest echelons of the sport. This diverse experience has equipped Dusty with a unique understanding of the various skill sets, mental fortitude, and physical demands required at different levels of play.
Dusty's commitment to the sport extends far beyond individual coaching sessions; he is deeply embedded in the Calgary minor hockey community. His involvement is characterized by a passionate dedication to fostering young talent and nurturing the next generation of goaltenders. He actively collaborates with local teams, offering his expertise to help goalies refine their skills and enhance their performance on the ice. Dusty's approach is holistic, focusing on both the technical aspects of goaltending, as well as the psychological components that are critical for success.
In addition to his hands-on coaching, Dusty leads various goaltending development programs throughout Calgary, aimed at providing structured training and resources for aspiring goalies. These programs are designed to cater to different age groups and skill levels, ensuring that each participant receives personalized attention and guidance tailored to their individual needs. Dusty's reputation as a mentor is built on his ability to inspire confidence and resilience in his athletes, encouraging them to push their limits and achieve their personal bests.
Dusty is also the Emergency Goaltender for the Calgary Flames (NHL).
“My coaching style is high energy, high intensity, and fun. I believe in doing the simple things right, quality repetition, and not allowing bad habits to creep in your game through laziness, and then learning to apply these habits in dynamic situations. I believe each goalie is different in their learning style and I try to adapt to that by understanding goalies on a personal level. Each and every goalie is unique and what might work for one goalie, may not work for another. It's about developing tools and finding the best ones for each goalie. I seek to find ways for goalies to be efficient, smart and athletic. I also don’t believe in excuses. Find a way. Get the job done. And then do it again”