I’m a new hockey parent this year, and am quite enjoying it.  Having never played hockey myself I nonetheless find myself rooting for the players and trying to figure out the nuances of the game. One thing I don’t quite understand, however, is why someone would ever WANT to be a goalie.  Pucks come flying at you, you don’t get to skate around the ice much and there is tremendous pressure to stop every shot that comes your way.  Every week I watch Sam play with determination and focus. In the regular season he was tied in the #2 spot for shutouts.  Sam was kind enough to let me interview him.
 
Sam, I understand that you've only been playing hockey for two years.  What drew you toward being a goalie? 
 
Sam: I wanted to play hockey and watching other goalies made me curious about the position. So when I started hockey I decided to be a goalie.


What are the aspects of being a goalie that you enjoy most/least?  Why?
 
The thing I like most is helping the team win and making a good save. I would rather stop goals then score them.  The thing I like the least is losing, the added pressure on the goalie and letting in a bad goal.


Its been said that the goalie is unique he/she is part of a team but has a lot more added pressure than any other individual player.  What are you thoughts on this? 
 
The pressure can drive you to play better or the pressure can make the game harder
 
Do you have any suggestions to offer your teammates in terms of defensive strategies or tips? What is the most helpful thing they can do for you?
 
Don't screen your goalie or deflect shots. Let your goalie see the puck and make the save. Keep the play out of the danger zone.


A large part of goaltending is mental. Even though you are not skating the length of the ice like your teammates, is it also tiring?  Do you find yourself exhausted after a game, or does it take some time for you to relax?  
 
Ya, a lot of the time I feel tired mentally and physically after a game. Depending on the game it can take a long time to relax after.


What advice would you have for anyone who is thinking of becoming a goalie in the future?  
 
Try your hardest and always think positive. Goalie is a hard position to learn but it is really fun. 
 
Thanks for the interview, Sam!  Best of luck in the post-season.  Go Wild!