60+ Goalies Take Over the Kraken Iceplex

Over the weekend at the Kraken’s practice facility a local hockey genius, Kyle Sorenson, organized the second event for the "OOPS! All Goalies," league.  A unique 5-on-5 hockey game featuring over 60 goalies. The event was designed to unite and introduce other goaltenders to each other.

Sorenson, a lifelong hockey player from a hockey-oriented family, saw it as an opportunity for goalies to bond, develop new skills, experience the game from a different perspective, and exchange friendly banter on the bench.

“Goalies spend the entire game alone. On top of that, most goalies don’t know the other goalies around them. It’s just you, the crease, and pucks flying at you. I thought this would be a great way for some goalies to get together and become friends, learn new skills, see the other side of the game, and get some bench chirps in.”

The goalies were divided into four teams playing on two adjacent rinks in the Kraken Iceplex. At the conclusion of the games, goalies lined up for a shoot out and ended with a giant group photo.

An all goalie game does come with some challenges, for instance trying to fit them all on the bench.

Born into a hockey-loving family where his father coached and his brother excelled in the ECHL, Sorenson himself has a versatile hockey background, but has always gravitated towards playing goalie.

“My dad was an amazing player and coach and all my brothers and sisters know how to skate and play hockey. One of my brothers has gone as far as the ECHL and is just an amazing player, brother, father, and husband. I can play any position, but goalie is where I stay.”

The first OOPS! game was held in Bellingham, WA in February 2024 and interest surrounding the event was so massive Sorenson opened up the next event to players of all ages and skill sets.

“Originally this was a beer league thing, so 21 and over. However, a few teenagers did make their way into this 2nd event and they were amazing. We had a great time with them, and they seemed to really enjoy it."

Several goalies wore costumes while other participants chose to wear their local hockey league jerseys.

It's not every day you can see a goalie in a hotdog costume skating on the Kraken's practice ice, but Seattle likes to keep things weird.

Currently there is no information on a third goalie game, but interest is already creating chatter in the Seattle hockey community. We'll make sure to let you know if they do!