Curtis Sanford’s Path to Professional Hockey: What We Can Learn from His Career

Curtis Sanford’s journey to professional hockey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and a relentless work ethic. Unlike highly-touted prospects who take a direct route to the NHL, Sanford took the long road, playing at nearly every level of junior and professional hockey before carving out a long and successful career. His path offers valuable lessons for players, coaches, and parents about perseverance, development, and seizing opportunities.

The Unconventional Path to the NHL

Sanford’s hockey journey began in Owen Sound, Ontario, where he progressed through every level of junior hockey, playing in Junior C, Junior B, Junior A, and Major Junior A in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). This gradual climb through the ranks underscores the reality that development takes time, and there is no single "correct" path to professional hockey.

Sanford made a significant mark during his time with the Owen Sound Platers (now Owen Sound Attack) in the OHL. He held the franchise record for most career wins until he was overtaken by Team Canada standout and Stanley Cup champion Jordan Binnington.

However, Sanford still holds the franchise record for most career playoff wins, demonstrating his ability to perform in high-pressure situations.

Despite his strong play in junior hockey, Sanford went undrafted in the NHL Entry Draft.

However, rather than letting that discourage him, he stayed focused on his development and worked his way up through all three major professional leagues in North America:

• ECHL – Peoria Rivermen

• AHL – Worcester IceCats, Peoria Rivermen, Hamilton Bulldogs

• NHL – St. Louis Blues, Columbus Blue Jackets, Vancouver Canucks

His persistence paid off, leading to a 14-year professional career spanning North America and later Europe, where he became one of the top goaltenders in the KHL. After retiring as a player, Sanford transitioned into coaching, serving as a goaltending consultant in the AHL for Vancouver’s affiliate teams before becoming the goaltending coach for the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Key Career Achievements

Sanford’s career was filled with individual accolades that highlight his skill, consistency, and adaptability:

OHL (Owen Sound Platers/Attack)

• Franchise record for most career playoff wins

• Former record holder for most career wins (later surpassed by Jordan Binnington)

ECHL (2000-2001)

• Best Goals Against Average (GAA) – 1.91

• ECHL Second All-Star Team

AHL (2009-2011)

• 2009-2010: Best Goaltending Duo (Harry Holmes Memorial Award)

• 2010-2011: AHL All-Star Game selection

• 2010-2011: Best GAA – 1.93

• 2010-2011: AHL Second All-Star Team

KHL (2012-2014)

• 2012-2013 KHL Playoffs: Best Save Percentage – .944

• 2013-2014: KHL First All-Star Team

• 2013-2014: KHL Goaltender of the Month (March)

Sanford wasn’t just a player who worked his way up—he excelled at every level, proving that commitment to improvement and adaptability can lead to success, even without early NHL recognition.

Lessons for Players: The Power of Perseverance and Adaptability

1. Being Undrafted Is Not the End of the Road

   Many young players believe that if they aren’t drafted into the NHL, their career is over. Sanford’s story proves otherwise. Hard work and persistence can open doors at all levels of professional hockey.

2. There’s No Single Path to Success

   Unlike players who go straight from junior hockey to the NHL, Sanford played at every level of junior hockey and all three major professional leagues in North America before establishing himself. Players should stay open to different routes instead of fixating on one specific pathway.

3. Adapt and Improve Your Game

   Sanford constantly refined his skills, adjusting to different levels of play. Players should adopt the same mindset—continuously working on their fundamentals and being willing to change aspects of their game to stay competitive.

4. Embrace the Minor Leagues

   Sanford played in the ECHL and AHL before making it to the NHL. Rather than viewing these leagues as a failure, players should recognize them as opportunities for development.

5. A Career Isn’t Just About NHL Games

   While Sanford played 144 NHL games, his long career included success in the AHL and KHL. Players should understand that professional hockey offers many rewarding paths beyond just the NHL.

Lessons for Coaches: Developing Resilient and Adaptable Players

1. Teach Players How to Handle Adversity

   Sanford was undrafted and played in multiple leagues before reaching the NHL. Coaches must prepare players for setbacks and teach them how to respond positively to challenges.

2. Focus on Long-Term Development

   Too often, coaches prioritize winning over skill development. Sanford’s career is proof that steady improvement matters more than short-term success. Coaches should develop players for the long run, not just for immediate results.

3. Help Players Find the Right Opportunities

   Every player’s path is different. Some may need more junior development, while others might benefit from exploring college or European options. Coaches should help players find the best fit for their growth.

4. Instill a Strong Work Ethic

   Sanford was known for his work ethic and professionalism, two traits that set him apart. Coaches should reinforce the importance of preparation, consistency, and attention to detail.

5. Adapt Coaching Methods to Different Development Curves

   Not all players peak at the same time. Some, like Sanford, need extra time to develop. Coaches should be patient and tailor their guidance based on individual growth trajectories.

Lessons for Parents: Supporting a Long-Term Hockey Journey

1. Success Takes Time

   Sanford played at every level of junior hockey before going pro. Parents should not rush their child's development but instead encourage steady progress.

2. The NHL Draft Isn’t Everything

   Many parents stress over their child getting drafted, but Sanford's story proves that undrafted players can still have long professional careers. Development matters more than early recognition.

3. Support Without Overstepping

   Parents should provide emotional and financial support without interfering in coaching decisions. Letting players take responsibility for their own development is crucial.

4. Be Open to Different Career Paths

   Not every player will take the same route to professional hockey. Parents should help their child explore all potential opportunities, including minor leagues, college, and overseas options.

5. Encourage Mental Toughness

   Hockey is full of setbacks. Parents should teach resilience by helping players navigate disappointment and refocus on long-term goals.

Final Thoughts: The Bigger Picture

Curtis Sanford’s hockey journey proves that perseverance, adaptability, and mental toughness are just as important as raw talent. His path teaches players that being undrafted isn’t the end, coaches that development matters more than quick success, and parents that patience and support are key.

For players, the message is clear:

• Work hard and improve every day.

• Stay open to different leagues and opportunities.

• Handle setbacks with resilience and confidence.

For coaches, the takeaway is to develop players for the long-term, not just short-term wins. And for parents, the key is to support without pressuring, allowing their child to grow at their own pace.

Sanford’s path proves that a successful hockey career isn’t just about talent—it’s about grit, determination, and making the most of every opportunity.

Ed Garinger is a seasoned hockey coach, mentor, and educator with over two decades of experience. A native of the Bruce Peninsula, he played minor and junior hockey before earning his BA and BEd from Nipissing University, where he also competed in varsity volleyball and extramural hockey.

Coaching since age 14, Ed has balanced his teaching career with an extensive coaching and development portfolio, working with players at all levels. He has coached in the Provincial Junior Hockey League, led youth and high school teams, and served as a learning facilitator for the OMHA. His experience includes elite programs like the OHL/OHF U15 and U16 camps, U17 Regional Camps, and Hockey Canada’s Skills Academy.

A Hockey Canada HP1-certified coach, USA Hockey-certified coach, and Chartered Professional Coach (ChPC), Ed is committed to ongoing professional development and continually seeks to expand his knowledge to better serve players and coaches. Now based in Orillia, he enjoys passing on his passion for hockey to the next generation.