Lauren Pritchett

Lauren’s own journey began on Calgary’s neighborhood rinks, but it wasn’t until halfway through her first season that she discovered a love for goaltending—a switch she’s never regretted. In 2019 she joined Hockey Canada’s First Shift initiative, where she guides newcomers through small-area games and fundamental drills, helping them experience hockey’s thrills firsthand. It was here that Lauren realized her gift for coaching: fostering confidence in skaters and goalies alike, and celebrating every milestone, from a first successful save to mastering a new turn.

Her coaching philosophy centers on player-centered development and mental resilience. Lauren believes the most crucial skill a young athlete can build is a strong mindset—learning to “never give up, even if your goals seem so far away”—so each practice weaves in exercises on positive self-talk, focused breathing, and bouncing back after errors. On-ice sessions follow a clear progression: dynamic warm-ups, position-specific technique (for goalies: stance work, rebound control), and small-area competition to simulate real-game pressure. Every drill concludes with brief one-on-one feedback, ensuring each player knows not just how they performed, but why it matters.

Off the ice, Lauren fuels her energy with chicken Alfredo and broccoli, and dreams of coaching alongside Jessica Campbell with the Seattle Kraken—drawing inspiration from Carey Price’s composure and grace under fire. She kicks off warm-ups to “Danza Kuduro” by Lucenzo and reminds her athletes to work on all aspects of off-ice training—mobility, strength, nutrition, and rest—because true performance starts long before you lace up. Her favorite coaching moment so far? Watching twin sisters beam as they showed off the shot they’d practiced at home—a reminder that patience, encouragement, and belief in every player unlocks their greatest potential.