Goalie Clinic 2025-2026

SYHA 2025-2026 Season Goalie Skills, instructed by Luke Opilka.

Luke Opilka, Illinois native, was selected 146th overall in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft by the St. Louis Blues. He developed his early goaltending career with the St. Louis AAA Blues before advancing to junior hockey with the U.S. National Team Development Program (USNTDP), competing in the USHL. While representing the red, white, and blue, Opilka earned gold medals at both the U-17 World Hockey Championship and the U-18 World Junior Championship.

In 2013, he was drafted by the Kitchener Rangers of the OHL, where he played two seasons and continued to refine his game at an elite level.

Unfortunately, after multiple hip surgeries, Opilka retired from playing in 2018. Determined to stay connected to the sport, he transitioned into coaching and now brings his extensive experience and deep understanding of the position to the Maryville University coaching staff.

Coaching philosophy: “At the collegiate level, I feel like it is important to let goalies continue to do what has made them successful and what has got them to the collegiate level. I like to act as a ‘sounding board’ and help goalies develop and enhance their own style. I believe it is important for everyone to be as efficient as possible and make sure they are using the most effective methods for themselves.”