Hockey goalie resources

How to Find More Ice Time as a Hockey Goalie

Last updated September 2026

One of the advantages of playing goalie is that somebody, somewhere, usually needs one.

Adult hockey teams regularly need substitute goalies because of work schedules, injuries, travel, family commitments, and last-minute cancellations.

The problem isn't always finding teams that need a goalie. It's finding those opportunities at the right rink, at the right level, on a night you're available.

That's what EmptyNet is designed to do.

EmptyNet connects goalies looking for more ice time with managers who need goalies for upcoming games.

It's free for goalies to join.

Join the EmptyNet Goalie Network

Start by creating your goalie profile on EmptyNet.

Your profile helps EmptyNet determine which game opportunities are relevant to you rather than sending you every game that gets posted.

Once you're part of the network, managers can post games and EmptyNet can notify goalies who match what they're looking for.

That means less time searching for games and more opportunities to get on the ice.

Choose the Rinks Where You Want to Play

Not every goalie wants to drive across town for a 10:45 PM game.

EmptyNet lets you choose your favorite rinks so you can receive relevant opportunities at places where you’re actually willing to play.

Want more opportunities?

Add more rinks.

If there are several rinks within a reasonable drive, selecting the ones you’re willing to play at can increase the number of games that match your profile.

You stay in control of where you want to play.

Select the Skill Levels You’re Willing to Play

Adult hockey includes a wide range of skill levels.

EmptyNet allows you to select the levels you’re comfortable playing rather than limiting yourself to a single level.

If you're comfortable playing across multiple divisions, select them.

That helps EmptyNet match you with more appropriate game opportunities while giving managers a better chance of finding a goalie who fits their game.

League eligibility rules still apply, so always make sure you’re eligible for the game you’re accepting.

Keep Your Availability Current

Your schedule changes.

EmptyNet lets you set your availability so the network has a better idea of when you’re interested in playing.

Keeping your availability current can help you receive more relevant game opportunities instead of seeing games on nights when you normally can't play.

Get Notified When a Game Matches

This is where EmptyNet changes the traditional substitute-goalie search.

You don't have to constantly check social media posts or wait for someone you know to text you.

When a manager posts a game that matches your rink, skill level, availability, and other applicable criteria, EmptyNet can notify you about the opportunity.

Review the game.

Check the rink, time, level, pay, and other details.

If it works for you, accept it.

Paid or Volunteer — You Choose

Not every goalie is looking for the same thing.

Sometimes you just want another skate.

Other times, a manager may offer goalie pay for the game.

EmptyNet supports both paid and volunteer goalie opportunities.

The game posting shows what the manager is offering so you can decide whether the opportunity works for you before accepting.

Build Your Goalie Reputation

Getting the first game is only the beginning.

Being dependable can lead to more opportunities.

Show up when you say you will. Arrive on time. Communicate clearly. Play at an appropriate level. Follow through when you accept a game.

EmptyNet's Goalie Reputation system recognizes activity and reliability within the network as you complete games.

A strong reputation can help managers feel more confident when you’re stepping into the crease for their team.

Going Somewhere? Take EmptyNet With You

Travel doesn’t necessarily mean taking a break from hockey.

With EmptyNet’s Travel Mode, goalies can temporarily change their location and look for opportunities around another area.

If you’re traveling somewhere with an active EmptyNet network, you may be able to pick up a game and get some unexpected ice time.

More Games. More Ice. One Goalie Network.

Whether you’re looking for an occasional extra skate or want to play several nights a week, EmptyNet gives you another way to connect with teams that need a goalie.

Choose your rinks.

Select your levels.

Set your availability.

Get notified about matching games.

Find more games. Get more ice time.

EmptyNet

Join the EmptyNet Goalie Network

It's free for goalies to join. Set up your profile and start receiving opportunities for games that match where and when you want to play.

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Never leave an empty net

Connect the local hockey community.

Whether you need a goalie or want more ice time, EmptyNet helps connect the local hockey community.