Photo by Michael Caples/MiHockey

Lerg: A Future Pro goaltending chat with OHL netminder Mike Giugovaz

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By Jeff Lerg (head director at Future Pro USA Goaltending) –

Future Pro students are having a remarkable amount of success this season.  This month, we are featuring Mike Giugovaz of the OHL’s London Knights.  Mike has attended Future Pro USA’s Prospect Camp over the last two summers and also worked a handful of our summer camps.  Mike has started the year with a record of 11-4-0-1.  Future Pro recently sat down to catch up with him.

Future Pro: Congrats on a great start to the season so far.  What would you contribute your recent success to?

Mike Giugovaz: I would say that my recent success is due to the hard training I did in the off season and continuing to work hard in practices. I continue to work on the little things because I can always get better.  It also helps that the team is playing well.

FP: During the past few summers, you’ve attended the Future Pro Top Prospects Camp coached by Jeff Lerg, Dave DeSander, George Bosak, and Erik Schardt.  Share your thoughts on the coaching and experience you had at the Top Prospect Camp?

MG: I had a blast to say the least.  The coaching was top notch with state of the art drills.  The coaches were always there to help me with my game and the guest speakers really helped clarify things post minor hockey and junior hockey.

FP: In what ways did having a goalie coach in Juniors help your development?

MG: Having a goalie coach in Junior was a big help because they can help me with the little things and are always there to help me get better whether on ice or through video sessions.  They really have helped get me to the top of my game.

FP:  You had to make a few stops with different teams in your junior career before landing with the London Knights. (Michael has played on three teams in three seasons).  How did this help or hurt your development into a top OHL goalie?

MG: I think being traded is tough, but it is a part of junior hockey.  I have grown so much by being traded because each team has something different to offer and experience.  You meet many life long friends when being traded.  London has been the perfect spot for me, as I was able to come in and fit in right away.

FP: Many coaches that you’ve played for say your compete level and focus in practice is some of the best they’ve seen. You have a good work ethic yet goofy, laid back attitude.  Where does this come from and how has it translated to your success so far?

MG: My work ethic is from my desire to succeed at the highest level possible.  I also look at it as having fun, and if you are having fun it does not feel like you are working as hard.  I always say if you are having fun you will enjoy whatever you are doing.

FP: What are your team and personal goals for your season in London?

MG: My personal goals this year with the London Knights are to be a top goalie in the OHL and to play the best I can every time I get in the net.  I would really like to help them with the OHL and the Memorial Cup.

FP: Final question, how have the coaching and training sessions with Future Pro Coaches Jeff Lerg, Dave DeSaunder, and Erik Schardt helped you get back to your top form in the OHL?

MG: Their coaching has had a big influence on my game by helping me with the little things on and off the ice.  They are always available should I have any questions regarding my game.  They have taught me how to be a pro.

We wish Mike continued success in his final year of Junior hockey!

Jeff Lerg is the head director at Future Pro USA Goaltending.