Do You Step Up in Big Games?
By Shaun Smith – Absolute Mental Training

Every goaltender trains hard all year long to make it to the playoffs or final tournament, but when it comes to the big games it’s almost always a select few that excel. The elite goalies always come out on top during big games. Elite goalies raise their play to a level of performance that we have never seen out of them before. I’m sure you are also aware of those goalies that have great seasons, but when the game is on the line they crumble or choke.

These goaltenders allow the pressure to cause them to tighten up and they make mental errors which cause them to make mistakes that are unlike their character. These goalies don’t want to lose or choke when the pressure is on the line, but they are overwhelmed with fear or anxiety about not playing well, which leads to poor performances.

So why is it that some goaltenders are able to perform at their best when it matters, while other goalies never seem to be able to do anything right during those big games? Well, the answer can often be complicated, but the good news is that all goaltenders can learn how to overcome their fears or worries and play at their best even in the big games.

Click here to read the rest of Shaun’s latest column!