How to Play Field Hockey Goalie

Hockey is a wonderfully aggressive and challenging sport. The position of goalie is both a coveted and highly stressful position. The goalie can make or break or the game. The following are some very general but necessary tips on how to be a successful goalie.

Things You'll Need

  • Goalie stick
  • Goalie glove
  • Field hockey padding
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Instructions

    • 1

      Before the game and between periods, be sure to stretch. Goalies must be flexible and limber to stop shots on goal.

    • 2

      Always know where the puck/hockey ball is at all times.

    • 3

      Always be prepared to fend off the puck/hockey ball and defend the goal. You may see the ball on the other side of the field but a play can change in a matter of seconds and be coming straight for you.

    • 4

      The best place to wait for the puck/hockey ball to return to your side of the field is in the middle of the goal right before the goal line.

    • 5

      When the puck is on your side of the field, stand in front of the net facing the action and using as much of your body to shield the net. For example, if the action is occurring to your left, stand in front of the net at the left corner.

    • 6

      Be aware of where any opposing team members are as the puck/hockey ball can quickly be passed and a shot on goal may occur. For example, the play may be happening to your right, but if there is a winger on your left, the puck/hockey ball can quickly be passed to that player and shot at an open part of the goal.

    • 7

      One mistake that many goalies make is trying to get involved in the action to get the puck/hockey ball to the other side of the field. This is not your job as goalie. That is what defensive players do.

    • 8

      Only leave the net when there are no other players to retrieve the puck/hockey ball from both teams. When you make this play, hit the puck/hockey ball hard and fast to an open area or a teammate and return to the net immediately.

    • 9

      As a goalie, you are allowed to use your stick, hands or body to block a shot. Do not be afraid of the puck and do what you need to do to block the shot on goal.

    • 10

      When there is a lot of action in front of your net, try to stop the play by covering the puck/hockey ball with your goalie mitt in the goalie circle. This move on your part will result in a face-off and a chance to regain control of the puck.

    • 11

      Enjoy yourself. This is a game, after all.