MEET NICK ORRIS

My goalie coaching experience began in 2018 as a private goalie coach, helping youth goaltenders elevate their skills and IQ to the next level. I have been privileged to work with goalies at every level, from young beginners to elite level AAA goaltenders, and my coaching is centered around developing smarter, technically sound, and confident goaltenders.

Since 2018, I have earned a USA Hockey Goaltending Silver Certification and a USA Hockey Level 4 Coaching Certification. Additionally, my ongoing education in both Education and Sports Psychology ensures that I am able to address the mental game of goaltending, a critical aspect of peak performance for any goalie.

In my role as Director of Youth Hockey for the Omaha Lancers (2017-2020), I spent three years connecting with youth hockey players, operating tournaments, and trying to grow hockey in the place I’ve called home my entire life. Since becoming a private goalie coach in 2018, I have had the privilege to Coach for Goalies Inc. (2022-Present), Mitch Korn Goalie Camp (2022), NxtLevel Hockey Academy (2022-Present), and my own clients, many of which I have been coaching for several years now. I have had the opportunity to work directly with youth goalies in a variety of settings as well as learn from some of the greatest coaches on the planet. My experience as a Head Coach for the Nebraska Knights and Assistant Coach for local associations further strengthens my ability to integrate Goalie IQ with overall team play.

I am passionate about developing goalies not just technically, but also mentally, by teaching them how to read the game, make quick decisions, and build unshakable confidence. Through my Goalie IQ program, I work with goalies to develop these crucial skills, leading them to make difficult saves look routine and take control of their game with ease.

I believe that every goalie has unique strengths, and my goal is to help each one harness their potential, refine their weaknesses, and become a smarter, more effective goaltender that can reach their goals. I’m excited to help your goalie reach their full potential.

Degrees/Certifications/Experience

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science with Endorsement in Business Administration

  • Master’s Degree in Education (Secondary, Business Teacher)

  • Pursuing Master’s Degree in Sports Psychology (Est. 2026 Grad)

  • USA Hockey Level 4 Certified Coach

  • USA Hockey Goaltending Silver Certified

  • Director of Youth Hockey for Omaha Lancers (USHL): 2017-2020

  • President & Owner of Rising Stars Hockey: 2020-2024

  • Head Coach, Nebraska Knights: 2022-Present

  • Assistant Coach, Omaha Hockey: 2021-2023

  • Coach, Goalies Inc.: 2022-Present

  • Coach, Mitch Korn Goalie Camp: 2022

  • Goalie Coach, NxtLevel Hockey Academy: 2022-Present


What Goalie Parents Are Saying About Coach Nick

  • Nick has the quick and accurate ability to analyze players’ strengths and weaknesses which enables him to build effective strategies to improve the player. He has been working with my son, AJ, for over 3 years and you can see the progression in my son’s play. AJ said, “Nick can quickly analyze my play and works with me both on my technical skills and how to read the play.” Nick has the knack to be able to explain things to all levels of players, which is why he is so effective at multiple age groups. He also has an ability to adjust his approach to meet the kids where they are at mentally and skill wise to achieve the best results possible.

    April Miller, Mother of AJ Miller (2011)

    Omaha Mastery AAA

    Team Midwest AAA

    CCM Selects AAA

  • Nick has been working with Ryker since 2021 and has played an integral role in his development as a goalie. He meets young athletes where they are in their journey, helping them grow while encouraging a holistic understanding of the game. Each session with Nick reinforces the importance of playing with confidence and leveraging their strengths to maximize performance. Beyond working with the players, Nick is also tremendous support for the parents. As newcomers to youth hockey, we faced a steep learning curve-understanding gear, how to best support our child, and navigating the overall landscape of the sport. Nick's guidance and advice have been invaluable, and we are truly grateful.

    Nikki Cruickshank, Mother of Ryker Cruickshank (2012)

    Omaha Peewee AA

    Team Midwest AAA

  • Our son, Easton has been working with Nick for a couple years now. Nick is so good with Easton. After Easton suffered a stroke last September, he lost the ability to use his left side. After he recovered, working with Nick helped him regain his strength and coordination and now, Easton is back doing what he loves.

    Kati Newcomer, Mother of Easton Newcomer (2012)

    Omaha Hockey

    Team Midwest AAA