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The American Hockey League
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summer camps

Your best source of information on GDI programming is to review our website. Select Camps and Services from the top menu and then navigate through. You can also download a PDF brochure or request a GDI Information CDROM.

In addition, there are a series of common questions below, which may further assist you.

1. What is unique about GDI camps?
GDI is a unique experience for the developing goaltender. The following bullets highlight some of the attributes which hallmark the programs:

In addition, GDI does not dictate style. Instead, we believe every goaltender can and should have a unique approach to the position. Yes, there are ingredients that are universal to all approaches and these fundamentals are critical to performance consistency and success regardless of style. At GDI, we work to implement these fundamentals, expose participating athletes to progressive and sophisticated skill content while, at the same time, allowing athletes the latitude to explore and hone their own approach.

Athletic performance is impacted by three inputs - physiology, technique and psychology. Each day at GDI, athletes are challenged in all three of these disciplines. The great goaltender must forge strength and balance across this spectrum of inputs.

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2. What are the age requirements for GDI camps?
Age is vital at GDI for a number of reasons. Not only do we pre-define age brackets but we also limit them to, typically, a two-year band. This allows us to tailor our programs to meet the needs of a narrow age and skill-specific group.

GDI uses a birth-year, age-determination system. This means that we are not concerned about a goalie's age, relative to birthday, but rather birth year. How does this work? It's simple. Take your son or daughter's birth year, subtract it from the current year and you have the age for GDI purposes. For example, your son is born on November 23, 1989. We will assume the current date is January 12, 2004. You are registering your son for camp and trying to select the proper age bracket. Take the current year, 2004, and subtract the birth year 1989 to get 15 years old - for GDI purposes.

In another example, if you were registering on November 30, 2004, you would subtract 1989 from 2005 since the next camps will be held in the summer of 2005. Whenever a birthday occurs after the summer use the next year in determining age since the camp will be held in the following calendar year.

Our Advanced (ADV) progression begins at age 10. We offer a 10, 11 bracket a 12, 13 bracket and a 14+ bracket. Our High Performance (HP) progression begins at age 13. We offer a 13, 14 bracket, a 15, 16 bracket and a 17+ bracket.

Our Prospect (P3) progression begins at age 15. We offer a 15, 16 bracket, a 17 bracket and an 18+ bracket. We do, at times, make exceptions, provided the skill of the said athlete is of an exceptional quality (relative to age). In addition, they must meet the physical standards of the requested progression. These are called "bye" athletes. GDI Camp Director, Ian Clark, must approve all "bye" athletes.

3. What level of competition does my son/daughter need to be playing in order to qualify for GDI?
Given the unique and advanced curriculum taught at GDI, our programs are not suited for beginner-level goaltenders. We require attending participants to be fluent in the areas of basic positioning, goaltender specific movement (forward/backward sculling, shuffling, t-glide etc) and save execution/recovery in order to get the maximum benefit from our progressions. Based on these requirements, most attendee's, at a minimum, compete at a Rep/Travel Team level within their specific region. Since the quality of minor hockey programs varies, we also factor in the individuals past development experience (other goaltending camps, instruction etc), as well as duration at the position.

4. What are GDI's coach/athlete ratios?
At GDI, low student/instructor ratios are essential. This allows goaltenders to receive superior instruction and, more importantly, allows instructors and students to forge more effective relationships. We feel this is important so that students are able to build a level of two-way communication with their coaches, which allows them to confidently analyze and discover vital opportunities for growth.

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5. How does GDI recruit its instructional staff?
GDI has built many relationships over its years of operation. Many of the relations with active goalies began when these players were students and progressed up to an instructional role. We believe the individuals that know our programs and teaching philosophies the best, are those who have participated over the years. Therefore, a large portion of our instructional staff consists of past participants who have matured into Junior A, Major Junior, NCAA, Minor Pro and NHL levels of play. Of course, not everyone makes it to those elite levels, however that does not mean they are any less knowledgeable about the position. All GDI staff members, from head on-ice instructor to assistant group leaders, undergo intense training so the level of instruction is superior within the goaltender development industry.

6. Does my son/daughter share sleeping quarters with another student?
Participants will share sleeping quarters in all of our camp locations. In our US location [Shattuck's St. Mary's (Faribault, MN)] athletes will be situated in a university-dorm type setting with 2-4 people per room. Participants will be roomed with an individual who is a member of their specified camp/group. Male and female students will be located on different floors. In our Canadian location (Airdrie Alberta), students will be grouped together in a large, dorm-style auditorium. Females attending this location will be situated in a different dorm area. In all cases, GDI's staff stays in the dorms for supervisory purposes.

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7. How many students are in each camp?
Unlike most goaltending camps, GDI predefines the number of students per camp and progression. By doing this, we can maintain the quality of our program that has made GDI a global leader in the development field. The following is a breakdown of the numbers:

Under no circumstances will GDI deviate from these established numbers. Due to the limited enrollment, it is recommended that you register early. GDI is sold out every year with many individuals left on wait lists.

8. Are the athletes supervised throughout the course of the day?
From wake-up until lights out, qualified staff members supervise participating athletes. Each camp is assigned a full-time group leader. This individual is responsible for fulfilling each component of the camp's schedule. In most cases, an assistant group leader will also be assigned to aid the group leader. During select components of the camp (lectures, nightly review etc), the group leader will be relieved by the Camp Director, Manger of Camp Operations or Assistant Camp Manager in order to prepare for the following days events. Group leaders also sleep on the same floor of the dormitory as their assigned group, ensuring they are available for any emergency responses.

In addition to the group leaders and senior staff noted above, GDI has numerous on-ice and off-ice staff to fulfill the program requirements.

9. Does GDI supply gear for participants that do not have any?
GDI does not supply gear to attending athletes. We ask that each participant be fully outfitted with the necessary goaltending equipment (goaltending skates included). If any athlete comes to camp without the required equipment, they will not be allowed to attend the on-ice portion of the camp. Once again, it is important to distinguish that GDI's camp are NOT designed for beginner-level goalies.

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10. Will my son/daughter be given an evaluation of their performance at the conclusion of the camp?
At GDI we not only believe in attaining at-camp growth but also feel that it is important to equip participating athletes with a broad action plan. Dramatic, at-camp development will occur, however, it is our belief that the real development must occur after the camp. Therefore, GDI trains attending athletes to be more proactive in their own development. This is achieved through extensive, at-camp training and review, a comprehensive evaluation and mandatory journal taking during the camp.
The evaluation details every aspect of the program and includes an on-ice and off-ice analysis. Each technical area covered throughout the specified Progression will be documented, allowing GDI to define weaknesses and single out areas that require continued attention. They will also receive an assessment as to where they rank with regards to the other participants within their group. Also included in the evaluation is a fitness assessment, again, showing strengths and weaknesses.

11. How many hours of ice time will my son/daughter receive over the course of the week?
Attending participants of GDI will receive anywhere from 3- 41/2 hrs of ice time a day depending on what Progression they are attending. One benefit to GDI's structure as opposed to other goaltending camps is the small number of Camp participants, which ensures each student receives ample time in the net.
A hallmark of GDI programming is the ability to fully utilize the ice allotment. Goaltenders DO NOT stand around waiting to get into the net. Only four possible activities are tolerated on a GDI ice surface. These include:

12. What topics are covered in the GDI lecture series?
GDI's lecture series covers a broad range of topics pertaining to the game and position. Along with leading goaltending educator Ian Clark, students will hear lectures from other professionals that specialize in the areas of psychology and physiology. Sample lecture topics include:

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Each progression's lecture series is different and subject to change.

13. Are parents allowed to view the camp?
GDI maintains an open-door policy on most aspects of the camp, from both an on-ice and off-ice perspective. There are certain portions of the program that are designed, specifically for the participants and we ask that parents respect this and refrain from infringing on these areas. We are proud of the quality and structure that GDI has built and enjoy being able to demonstrate it first hand to the parents of participating athletes. With this said, these are residential programs and there is no free time in the camp. Participants will NOT be available for visitation purposes. The curriculum runs from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. The entire day is structured activity so parents should not infringe on the regimented schedule. Furthermore, parents should be aware that very few parents do attend. While welcome, parents should respect the space of their son/daughter as they participate and build in the comraderie of the group.

14. Why does GDI endorse a residential format?
It is GDI's belief that athletes are impacted in a more significant and productive manner when they are totally immersed into a development environment. Through our residential format, participants receive approximately 100 hours of goaltender-specific programming per week. This ensures that athletes are gaining the maximum benefit possible from attending our program. The results from this format are clear. GDI is one of the major streams that goaltenders travel en route to major junior, college and pro hockey. It is for this reason that GDI is considered a global leader in goaltender development.

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1. Is GDI's online application process secure?
GDI uses secure encryption techniques to ensure your online safety and security.

2. Can I register offline?
We encourage individuals to register online, however, you can register by any of the following methods:

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3. What progression is best suited for my son/daughter?
We believe that development of the "great" goalkeeper takes many years. It is for this reason that GDI offers three, distinct programs. This series of progressions, Advanced (ADV2), High Performance (HP3) and Prospect (P4), allows the GDI participant to closely match a program with their growing needs over the course of a career.

You have a number of options available to assist in the selection process:

  1. Review the online brochure
  2. Jump to the Camp Decision Wizard - (this tool will walk you through a series of questions resulting in a progression determination or advising you to contact GDI for further assistance)
  3. Contact GDI's Camp Administrator, Nicole Brennan, via email
  4. Contact GDI's administrative office toll free at 1-800-667-9044

4. Is there a refund if I choose to cancel?
We strongly urge registering athletes/parents to review our cancellation/refund policy. It is laid out below for review. GDI camps have pre-defined, registration numbers and, as a result, we offer refunds ONLY prior to February 1 of a given year. Injury cancellations are treated differently via our Camp Credit policy (also outlined below).

The refund and cancellation policy is very strict and if you are not in agreement with it please DO NOT REGISTER. We have this strictness for a very good reason. Due to the limited enrollment, we end up placing people onto our wait lists, essentially turning down, an enrollment. We do this because our camps are full and we will not overbook the programs. It is this integrity in programming, along with many other traits, which makes GDI one of the Premier development experiences in the world. As we turn people away, to protect your camp experience, we are foregoing potential revenue. If, at the last minute, you cancel and we are unable to fill the spot due to the late nature of the cancellation, we have turned away revenue, which we cannot recoup.

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REFUND AND CANCELLATION POLICY

The purpose of this statement is to educate potential registrants on the GDI refund policy prior to registration and submission of a deposit.

Since GDI camps are based upon limited enrollment and strict coach/athlete ratios, no moneys deposited shall be refunded after February 1.

INJURY CANCELLATIONS

In the event of serious injury, GDI will issue a camp credit valid for the next summer only. Under no circumstances will this be converted to a cash refund. The camp credit will be available for the next summer less a $100 administrative fee. If the athlete does not take advantage of the credit within one year, the credit will expire. The onus will be placed upon the athlete to utilize this credit since there is no formal document presented to reflect the camp credit.

Serious injury, for the purpose of GDI, means injury, or sickness, serious enough to prevent participation. Minor ailments like a cold will not result in a credit of any sort. The medical condition must prevent participation. All injury/sickness credit requests must be made formally by letter and accompanied by a formal letter from the attending doctor.

AT-CAMP INJURIES

GDI does not provide refunds or credits for lost participation due to injury at camp. Athletes attending are expected to be in superior, athletic condition in order to mitigate this risk.

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5. How does the Camp Credit process work?
In order to receive a Camp Credit for the following year, athletes must miss a program due to a medical issue. GDI requires that the individual submit documentation from the treating physician, outlining the injury or condition. No Camp Credits will be issued for minor injury or ailment. Camp Credits are issued for serious injury or medical conditions ONLY. The onus is on the individual to provide documentation to support their claim. Camp Credits are valid for the next year only.

6. Are discounts available on multi-camp bookings?
GDI does offer discounts on multi-camp bookings for those planning to attend more than one week, or are coming with another family member. Ten percent will be deducted off the highest camp price for the second booking.

If you have a Group of five or more students, please contact our Camp Administrator, Nicole Brennan, at 1-800-667-9044 to discuss further discounts.

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1. Where are GDI's camp locations?
GDI currently offers two camp locations. These are based in the US and Canada. Our US-based location is Shattuck St. Mary's Prep School (Faribault, Minnesota). All three progressions (ADV2, HP3, P4) are available at our Shattuck St.Mary's campus. Our Canadian camp is held in Calgary, Alberta (Airdrie Twin Rinks). All three progressions are available at this location (ADV, HP, P3). Click here to see a complete list of the dates for each location

2. Where can I find a full camp listing?
GDI's camp listing can be found here.

3. Can you provide directions to the camp?
We have printable maps for our Minnesota location (click here) and our Alberta location (click here).

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1. What items are my son/daughter required to bring?
It is important that each individual student brings the required items. Click here to download a Camp Checklist PDF.

 PDF documentation requires Acrobat Reader.
If you require this free software download click here.

2. Does my son/daughter need additional spending money?
We do ask that each student bring some additional spending money. We have a planned evening activity one night during the camp (usually a movie) that gives the participants a break from their rigorous, camp schedule. We do offer to hold money for students in our onsite safe. They will have access to these funds at scheduled times throughout the week. They may also require funds for skate sharpening, tape or sticks.

3. What time is check-in on the first day GDI camps?
Participants will check in at 3:00 p.m. on the first day of their session. Campers will not be allowed to enter the facility or check in prior to this time, as GDI staff will be in the process of setting up. After getting checked in, goaltenders (and parents) will take part in an orientation session, which will give a brief overview of the camp structure and curriculum as well a chance to ask questions.

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4. What time of day do GDI camps end on the final day?
Checkout will occur after a closing ceremony following the morning ice session of the last day (typically around 1:00 p.m.). If individuals are required to leave early, they must inform GDI prior to the beginning of the Camp.

5. Can my son/daughter be picked up at the airport?
GDI does offer transportation for participants who are traveling by air. These arrangements must be made through our Camp Administrator in advance. A Transportation Request Form is included in your Final Information Package (or Click here to download). On this form, you may enter all pertinent information regarding arrival and/or departure time. Our administrative office will contact you within 72 hours of arrival time to ensure the accuracy of our information. This service is offered free of charge if individuals are arriving between 9 AM and 1 PM on the opening day of camp and departing between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM on the closing day. If an individual should happen to arrive/depart outside of these hours, a fee will be assessed. If the participant is planning on coming in a day prior to the camp or staying an additional night, a pickup/drop-off fee and an overnight charge will be assessed. Prices for these services are:

Under no circumstances will additional nights be allowed on the final day of each location. We rapidly tear down camp so that we move on to our next location.
For more information on these services, please contact GDI's Administration Office at 1-800-667-9044

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6. My son/daughter will be flying as an unaccompanied minor - what is GDI's process to handle these situations?
This is not a problem. However, it is important for you to understand the guidelines for your carrier. Each airline is different and, therefore, beyond the scope of this FAQ. Please discuss the issue with your carrier, identify the requirements and, then, should you require assistance or input from us, please contact our administrative office (1-800-667-9044).

7. Can my son or daughter buy equipment, tape or get their skates sharpened over the course of the week?
We do not sell equipment directly at our camp, but do offer participants the opportunity to try (once) our demo gear, supplied to us by our Official Equipment Supplier - Vaughn Goaltending Equipment (www.vaughnhockey.com). In order to be eligible, athletes must fill out the necessary application that is sent out in your Final GDI Information Package (arrives April/May). We also do not sell accessories such as tape or skate laces. We ask that athletes bring these items in case they are needed over the course of the week.

We do offer participating athletes a skate sharpening service. The price of this service varies from location to location, ranging from $3.00 (US) to $5.00 (US). Athletes will inform their group leader that they need this service performed, and will be billed at the conclusion of the camp.

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8. Who do I notify if my son or daughter has any allergies or medical conditions?
In your Final Information Package, you will find a Sample Menu (Click here to preview), which includes space to identify food-associated allergies or conditions. This package arrives in April/May with a series of inserts including this Sample Menu. You may notate on this Sample Menu and return it to our administrative offices in the included return envelope.

In addition, you should make note, on the GDI Application, allergic or medical conditions that you believe GDI should be made aware of.

 
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