I loved playing goalie in several sports.  Part of it is I don’t run all that well or long and my dribbling skills are somewhat lacking.  But it’s more than that.  A lot of it involves the rush of making a save, watching the disappointment of an attacking player, cutting down the angles for shots, getting to put on a mask.

I was fascinated with goalies – knew pretty much every NHL starter and a few backups.  My favorite Capitals player was Don Beaupre.  On the smaller side, but a lifesaver for a team that struggled to score.  I made my brother take shots at me so I could practice.  Also, many people don’t want to play the position – so bonus!  More practice.

While I never played ice hockey, I did the roller and floor versions, as well as indoor and outdoor soccer.  Even if I do say so myself, I made some nice stops – which people noticed.  I especially loved using my glove and rushing an attacker’s feet to shut them down.

I’m now a couch potato.  But I still remember standing in the net / goal as the last line of defense.