Page:Hockey, Canada's Royal Winter Game.djvu/81

 the effect is only negative; a point or cover-point man may make a mistake, but there is usually an assistant around to help him; but when the goal-minder makes a blunder, the whistle is blown and a point is placed to the credit of his opponents.

Mr. F. S. Stocking, goal-keeper of the Quebec team, and generally recognized throughout Canada as the peer of his position, has kindly contributed the following hints on goal-minding:

"Goal-keeping is one of the easiest and at the same time one of the most difficult positions to fill successfully on the team.

"It is simple because it is not altogether essential to be an expert skater or stick handler. It is difficult because it requires a quick and true eye together with agility of motion and good judgment.

"Besides keeping his eye on the puck, he must have a good idea where his opponents are placed so as to be prepared to stop a shot resulting from a sudden pass in front of goals.

"I am of the opinion that the goaler should only leave his goal under the following conditions:&mdash;First, when he is quite sure that he can reach the puck before an opponent, and when none of his own team are near enough to secure it instead; secondly, when one of the