Mindset

Having Confidence In Your Abilities

Every time you get into a game/competition environment, you need to have confidence in your preparation. I developed the mentality that everything I have prepared has gotten me to this exact point and that what happens is a reflection of that. Like when taking a test, you are not going to learn anything more. It is a time to execute and no amount of over-thinking or self-doubt will enhance your performance.

As well, if you get scored on, something happens, or you're otherwise down, you are still the same goalie you were two days ago when you were crushing it. You have not suddenly gotten worse. You still have the same capacity to perform at a high level. Do not go down the path of questioning your ability mid-game. Allow your training to guide you to saves and continue to grow outside of games.

Reformulating Your Job

Many incorrectly think your job is to not get scored on. *Wrong*. Your job is to make saves.

I often emphasize this small difference because in one job description, you can only fail, and in the other, you can only succeed. I always look to "find my next save" as opposed to "get the next one". If I miss the next shot, option A lets me keep the same goal while option B forces me to move the goal posts. Failure, no matter how small, can get your mind going in the wrong direction. Lack of success usually keeps you more level-headed.

Here are some simple adjustments to how you think and speak about your position

• Instead of "I'll get the next one" Try "I've got some saves coming"

• Instead of "I'll get a shutout" Try "I'll play tight and consistent / precise"
• Instead of "He won't get me there again" Try "It won't be easy next time he gets it"

The time for being critical is after the game when you watch film. Before then, you are only holding yourself back

Accountability Can be Freeing

Many think of getting scored on as a shameful thing. Why? Do you not respect the shooters of the other team? Do you have money on the game? Do you think you are letting down your teammates? Getting scored on is part of the game. Sometimes, yeah, you did miss that one. In those times, it's easy to say "Hey, that ones on me, you guys kept him in control and I'll be better". This keeps your defense up as it gives them positive feedback and will build that mutual trust you need. As well, you're mentally moving forward from it. It's already ancient history.

The Time for Reflection

Many times after we get scored on, we want to know what happened or why. Unless it is something mission critical, like you are a full step off, do not try to correct during the game. Games are not a time you should be trying new things out during. Have faith in your preparation and stick to your style. After the game, you will see more clearly than during the game.