goalie

A goalie, short for goaltender or goalkeeper, is a player whose primary responsibility is to prevent the opposing team from scoring by guarding a goal. The position exists in several goal-line sports, including association football (soccer), ice hockey, field hockey, lacrosse, and water polo. The exact role and rules vary by sport, but the core aim is the same: to reduce the opponent's scoring opportunities and to organize the defense from the back line.

In most games, the goalie lines up in front of the goal and must quickly react to shots, track attackers, and use positioning to cover the goal area. Goalies also initiate plays and distribute the ball or puck to teammates after making a save. They often communicate with defenders to coordinate coverage and line up saves along the crease or crease-like zones.

Equipment and rules differ by sport. In soccer, the goalkeeper wears gloves, uses hands within the penalty area, and is subject to rules about handling the ball. In ice hockey, the goaltender wears a mask, chest protector, leg pads, a catching glove, a blocker, and a specialized stick, adopting a crouched or butterfly style. Field hockey and lacrosse goalies wear protective pads, helmets, and a stick or specialized equipment to stop the ball or shot.

Typical skills include reflexes, agility, shot-stopping, decision-making, communication, and mental composure. Training emphasizes positioning, angles, rebound control, and handling or clearing skills. The goalie’s performance is often a key factor in a team's defensive strength.

The term goalie is informal; synonyms include goalkeeper or goaltender, depending on sport and region.