Hi, I'm Bill_CIA, and I'm a newbie (goalie).

[Bill_CIA]

Howdy doody,

I've really really wanted to get into roller hockey for quite a few years. Unfortunately other crap gets in the way, and I can't partake in the fun. I can honestly say that I've never played roller hockey in my life. It sucks, I know.

I've always wanted to play goalie. Whenever I've played some little rinky-dinky street/floor hockey game, that's where I'm at and I'm quite content with being there.

So, I need some help. Hopefully there's at least a small demand for goalies, so I won't have a hard time finding a team ONCE I become proficient enough to be on one... Anyways, how hard is it to become a decent roller goalie? How much time does it take to learn? I hope I can find some pick up games and whatnot to learn so I don't spend money in vain. Also, whats some good equipment to start out with? I've been studying goalie techniques for years, so I don't think I'll have too much of a problem learning them per say, but it's more of a matter of putting the stuff I've learned into action. Is it hard?

I'm currently in north-eastern PA, but by early summer '08 I should be moving to the Savannah, GA area.

Thanks a bunch for the help, I greatly appreciate it.

[RichardGraham]

Hi Bill,

I'm not a goalie, so I can't help you with how to play, but I definitely think you should give the game a try. I think there's always a need for goalies, as they are very flaky creatures and often wander off alone, muttering to themselves. ;)

Seriously, though, if you don't already have it, buy some used equipment at Play It Again Sports and give it a shot. What do you have to lose?

[quick_dry]

best way to learn is to get stuck into it. If you've been studying the solid technique of goalies (versus the flashy - 'throw yourself about and try to do the splits as often as possible' style) then you shouldn't have too much trouble. If you can get into your basic stance and play angles you'll be saving plenty.

Don't sit back in your net, do get familiar with your angles.
(Do do exercises to strengthen your inner thighs, it'll come in handy. Goalies who are late-night-TV informercial junkies could get something out of:
http://www.globalshopdirect.com.au/prod2134.htm
there are thousands of similar products, its not bad for rebuilding/rehabilitating weak inner thighs)

[DannyG]

Congratulations on your determination to play the game...

Make yourself skate for a minimum of 7 hours weekly, even if you must get up an hour earlier each day....find a flat surface, get a decent pair of skates, and go skate.

Do not be one of those people who becomes a goalie, so (they think) they don't really have to learn how to skate well..that is a myth, and it doesn't work anyway.

if you practice your skating, even with hard wheels on a tennis court, although a sport surface rink is obviously best, you will be okay to play in about three weeks...then the real process of learning the position will begin.

Hopefully, you will be in luck and find a team who will cherish you as a newbie goalie, and help you every way they can, and be greatful for your playing with them...these teams are out there, and with a little luck, you will be okay.