When it comes to being a goalie in any sport, whether it is lacrosse, hockey, field hockey, or soccer, we all share similar experiences. From the bruises, the goals stopped, and the goals let in, playing the position of goalie can be very hard and taxing, but it does have rewards. Here is a list of the common pros and cons that come with the position of being the last line of defense and the first line of offense.
1. PRO: You don’t run/move as much.
While your teammates are running or skating back and forth numerous times, you can sit back and relax. For you, it’s all about the explosive movements to the ball/puck. Sometimes, this means only a step or lunge out or it could mean a dive. This comes in handy when it is very hot outside (this does not pertain to ice hockey goalies, clearly) and conditioning is helpful, but not incredibly mandatory.
2. CON: Bruises
Whether it is from a ball or a puck, getting hit anywhere with no protection hurts and those bruises seem to last longer. The ones that aren’t visible through their color usually hurt the most. Getting a bruise typically means making the save, but it sucks the most when it comes from a teammate.
3. PRO: You can get all of the glory.
Making that last minute save, stopping the other team from scoring, and taking control is a sweet feeling. You can really change the tempo of the game and keep your team in it with every stop that you make. Sometimes, it even feels like your saves need a highlight reel.
4. CON: You can take all of the blame.
A lot is riding on your shoulders to make the stop and be the best, especially when your team fails to do their job (the ball/puck has to go through so many players to get to you). It is not the same as missing a shot on goal like field players experience, it is much worse. You let the other team get ahead. It hurts the most when you let in the one goal that puts the opponents above your team.
5. PRO: You look cool.
Not all goalies apply to this pro, but most of the time they do. We have special gear that sets us apart and makes us unique. Since there are so few of us, we tend to be the odd ones out, but people notice us more.
6. CON: It is always hot.
Either your hands are sweating in those gloves or that helmet is keeping you nice and toasty, especially when you don’t want to be. You stand or squat and pray for that nice breeze that hits you right, but sometimes it never comes. Also, you stink. Face it, sweating in that equipment that you wear every day with little time to clean it means it is not only sweaty, but it’s smelly and sweating. Do you and your team a favor and clean it up or at least febreeze it.
7. PRO: You have a special place in your heart for other goalies.
You can pick them out of a team just by one look. We all share a special bond. Going from goalie camp to goalie camp and figuring out that you are all pretty much the same makes you feel a little better about yourself. We are all crazy together.
8. CON: We are all insane.
While many see us as crazy for sacrificing our bodies to save a ball/puck, we see it as something fun to do when nothing else can match our level of crazy. We tell stories of bruises, of crazy habits and or superstitions, and are happy when we are in front of the goal. However, people will always single us out because it is a lonely spot.
9. PRO: You always have your team's back and they have yours.
As a goalie, you automatically become a leader on the field or rink. You are the first line of offense and the last line of defense. While the world may be crashing onto you at points, the best feeling is when you and your team are on a roll. When your defense makes the stop, your offense scores, or you make that save that translates into a fast break, nothing feels better than being a part of a team.
