Goalkeeping Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐งค
goalkeeping
[หษกoสlหkiหpษชล ]
Definition
sports position
Goalkeeping refers to the position in team sports, particularly soccer, where a player is tasked with preventing the opposing team from scoring by guarding the goal. This player, known as the goalkeeper, uses their entire body to block shots on goal and is the only player permitted to use their hands within the penalty area. Effective goalkeeping requires quick reflexes, strong judgment, and excellent communication with the defense.
Synonyms
goal guard, keeper, netminder.
Examples of usage
- The goalkeeper made an incredible save during the penalty shootout.
- The team's goalkeeping skills improved significantly after the new coach's training.
- She was praised for her goalkeeping performance during the championship match.
- Goalkeeping requires a unique combination of physical and mental resilience.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The role of the goalkeeper evolved from the early days of soccer, where anyone could use their hands, to a designated position in the late 19th century.
- In 1871, the first formal rules for goalkeeping were established, emphasizing the need for a player to defend the goal using their hands.
- Goalkeepers were once referred to as 'custodians,' reflecting their responsibility for protecting the goal.
Famous Goalkeepers
- Lev Yashin, known as the 'Black Spider,' is the only goalkeeper to have won the Ballon d'Or, awarded to the best male footballer in the world.
- Gianluigi Buffon is celebrated for his incredible longevity and consistency, having played at a professional level for over 25 years.
- Manuel Neuer is credited with revolutionizing the goalkeeper's role by incorporating advanced foot skills and playing as a sweeper-keeper.
Techniques
- Save techniques include the dive, block, and parryโeach tailored to different types of shots.
- Goalkeeping requires quick reflexes and agility, as the player often has mere seconds to react to an incoming shot.
- Positioning is key; effective goalkeepers anticipate where a shot will be placed and adjust their stance accordingly.
Psychology
- Mental resilience is vital for goalkeepers, as they must quickly recover from mistakes when an opponent scores.
- Visualization techniques are often used, with goalkeepers imagining successful saves before matches.
- Goalkeeping requires a unique mindset, where players often face intense scrutiny and must maintain focus under pressure.
Pop Culture
- Goalkeepers are often the heroes of dramatic matches, as seen in movies like 'Goal!' where one saves a crucial penalty kick.
- Many goalkeepers have cult followings, such as Tim Howard after his memorable performance at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
- Merchandise featuring famous goalkeepers, like jerseys and figurines, has become an integral part of sports culture.
Origin of 'goalkeeping'
The term 'goalkeeping' originates from the roots of the word 'goal,' which can be traced back to the Old English 'gฤol,' meaning 'a barrier or limit.' The practice of guarding the goal in sports dates back to ancient games, evolving over centuries into the formalized role seen in modern soccer and other team sports. The term gained popularity as the game itself professionalized, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when soccer began to take on organized forms. Goalkeeping as a specific position has unique techniques and strategies that have developed, leading to today's understanding of the role.