Ideal goalie size

[Gunit]

I know reflexes and form are the most important characteristics of a good goalie, but what would you say the ideal size and body type for a goalie is (height, weight, etc.)?

[somrandomguy]

In short: there isn't one.

Goalies can come in all shapes and sizes; as you said, the most important characteristics of a good goalie are quickness, reflexes, and good form. That being said, if I personally was to be my ideal for goalie, I'd be about 6'1" or 6'2" and weight about 170, with a lot of that hopefully being muscle.

[E-Crosse]

team told me i was ideal for defence or goalie. Im 6ft. 170lbs. But, we have a goalie that plays varsity and hes im guessing 6'1" and 190. We also have a little asian kid, about 5'7" and i can throw him 20 feet down the feild, and hes pretty damn good.

[checklax]

I'd say if you can choose between: A short/little goalie with just as good reflexes/quickness/speed as a Bigger/taller goalie, youd have to go with the bigger guy.

[AttackMan17]

I agree with somrandomguy. Our varsity has 2 goalies one is probably 6'2" 190ish, and the other is like 5'5" 140 or so.
Then Our JV has one goalie who's like 5'8"-5'9" probably 130 or so, and then me...5'4" about 115

[LaxDman62]

I would say whichever size that allows the perosn to be agile. I usually see an ideal goalie as medium or semi small not very tall.

[kcgoalie39]

i'm 6'2" 205.. and im deffinatly not fat by any means. but the goalie last year was like half my size. he was also the coaches son but he was really good.

[scarsdalelax08]

we have two on varsity one is like 6'1''-6'2'' like 190 give or take some poundage but damn he can move has great reaction speed, and our second one is like 5'4''-5'5'' like 110 good reaction speed just missing the size on the varsity level

[washjeff]

^^^ same size as me... gotta love the big guys!

[EHSLAX12]

so im still smaller than most...im like 5'6" and around 185 in goal (im a big boy) and our other goalie is like 6' and about the same weight...so there isnt really a big advantageous size. there was a kid i saw play once that was only 5' and he was incredible...jumped around the goal but was playing with an atk shaft and was doing well. size doesnt really matter,..its your skill that matters.

[bpercival]

Doesnt matter look at Matt Russel he was short. Peter Collochini is a monster. Im in 8th and 5'5-5'6 and 120

[goalie1215]

mike gvozden stands at a mighty 3 feet tall or so in his stance, and look at him, hes playing at hopkins. all coaches care about are:

can he stop the ball?
can he throw extremely accurate frozen rope clears?
can he lead the defense?

size does not matter.

[LAXBEAST#26]

well i'm 5' 6" 145lbs. and the only disatvantage i really have is on 1 on 1s people have more room to shoot but that usually doesn't matter
i'd have to agree with a lot of you and say size doesn't matter except that 1 on 1 thing
however, as an attackman i would much rather be shooting on a short skinny guy than a big strong dude
i guess that stuff might be an intimidation factor
and a loud goalie would also intimidate more

[Gunit]

Maybe a better framing of my question would be the following: if you had Madden-like powers to design a goalie for your team (within reason), what dimensions would you give him?

I think I would have mine about 6' tall so that he wouldn't get beat by a bounce shot over the head and his stick's head would rest at about top corner level. Also, he would be kind of wide to block more angle on the pipe.

[TheLaxLife]

Easy question, simple answer: 6' tall and 6' wide. :lol:

[LAXBEAST#26]

ummmmm... if it was a stupid madden game they would care how fat he was he would still have the same reaction why not make him as big as you can
6'x6' lol

[Hoochlacrosse]

ummmmm... if it was a stupid madden game they would care how fat he was he would still have the same reaction why not make him as big as you can
6'x6' lol

Huh? :WTF: :crazy: :thinking:

I'm 5"9-5"10 and 136lbs
Im expecting a weight gain, due to me getting a Personal trainer from December - end of january.

[EHSLAX12]

mike gvozden stands at a mighty 3 feet tall or so in his stance, and look at him, hes playing at hopkins. all coaches care about are:

can he stop the ball?
can he throw extremely accurate frozen rope clears?
can he lead the defense?

size does not matter.

thats my point...it really doesnt matter. as long as you have balls of steel, have fast reflexs(sp?), and can command your defense you are golden.


okay, maybe not fast reflexs, but if you can use your stick well, your golden.

[3rdPersonPlural]

I know reflexes and form are the most important characteristics of a good goalie, but what would you say the ideal size and body type for a goalie is (height, weight, etc.)?

six by six, ideally. In college one of our middie's roomates came out for lax. He was almost spherical, six feet tall, and had reflexes that would have made him a point guard if he could push away from the table.

I'm still friends with some of the guys who tried to score on him. They could never find a piece of net to shoot at, so they just threw the ball at his feet hoping for a freak bounce.

We won a lot that year.....

[nylax65]

6' 3" 172ish, lets just say im ideal

[3rdPersonPlural]

6' 3" 172ish, lets just say im ideal

"....and starting in goal for his 3000th straight season -- Narcissus!!"

(Zoolander, is that YOU??)

[3rdPersonPlural]

I still say that a 6x6 keeper who fits in the cage like a cork in a bottle is the only dimension that is any better than any other.

Eclipse agrees.

Next topic -- Ideal shoe size for a keeper.

[EHSLAX12]

wow, my friend just read this thread and asked me if someone like spongebob squarepants (since hes square, just make him 6 x 6) would be the best goale.

that is a good question inside of that one...if you were square is that an advantage or a disadvantage to being round...ill post my thoughts later.

[3rdPersonPlural]

Why put a guy in net though, at that point? You might as well get a mason out there and have him build a wall in front of the net and just have an extra defender. We're talking realistically here, not in the fantasy world where short, fat unathletic kids dream of playing quarterback for their favorite pro team.

Realistically, there is no height or weight that is any part of an equation for a keeper. Handspeed, footspeed, leadership, aggression, balance, peripheral vision and an eye for the field factor prominently. Height and weight are non issues.

The only case in which the topic of this thread is relevant is in the realm of the absurd. Reducto ad Absurdum, and a 6X6 goalie actually has a height and width advantage that cannot be compromised by the apparent lack of mobility such a physique would confer. Who knows how he'd clear, but if he fills the cage like a wine cork, he can just keep rolling the ball out into the crease until the attack exhausts itself trying to shoot through him.

Absurd solution, sure, but the only response to an equally silly question.

.....and EHS, you should send your friend home and go to bed...... :WTF:

[MAGOALIE1]

best example of size not being of the utmost importance is the Delaware goalie. If you watch a lot of the videos on e-lacrosse.com you'll know what i'm talking about. From what i can tell in the videos this guy is like 5'7'' and an absolute beast in the net. Not oly is he small to begin with ut when he hunkers down into his stance he gets even smaller. Just another example for all the short goalies out there.
By the way I think the goalies name is Tommy Scherr.

[Gunit]

While some may call this thread silly, I think we can all agree that it has exposed a prevalent goalie insecurity regarding their size. While you guys keep stressing that reaction speed, athleticism, etc. are the most important characteristics of a goalie, which is true, with all of these things being equal, I feel that there is an optimal size. This is much like comparing two quarterbacks who are evenly matched in size, arm strength, speed, etc. and only separated by their height. I would take the taller one because this is functionally advantageous.

Also, we just had to bust out the 6'x6' goalie ...

[OldGoalie]

While some may call this thread silly, I think we can all agree that it has exposed a prevalent goalie insecurity regarding their size. While you guys keep stressing that reaction speed, athleticism, etc. are the most important characteristics of a goalie, which is true, with all of these things being equal, I feel that there is an optimal size. This is much like comparing two quarterbacks who are evenly matched in size, arm strength, speed, etc. and only separated by their height. I would take the taller one because this is functionally advantageous.

So what, then, is the optimal size IYHO?

There is a big difference between being a QB and being a goalie. A QB has to be functionally taller to see over tree-like offensive and defensive linemen, and to see downfield to complete a pass. A goalie doesn't have those problems. Yes, he has to throw a clearing pass, but there's not a group of 8-10 huge linemen standing in front of him as there is in football. Most attackmen aren't that big, and while some D-poles are, they tend to be more spread out on clears, leaving the goalie's vision less obstructed, and there's more time to make a pass.

As for saving the ball, it then becomes an odds question. If you believe that more low and bounce shots are taken, then you might believe you need a shorter goalie who can eat up those bouncers more easily, and vice-versa a tall goalie for high shots. Given that you can't predict which kind of shot will be more prevalent, you go with who's the most versatile and best all around. Which is another way of saying...there is no ideal size.

[3rdPersonPlural]

OG, Gunit is putting voice to the rhetorical question that haunts many goalies. Since saves are made or missed by inches, it is not unreasonable to wonder whether a longer arm or a shorter thigh might have made a difference.

I still hold that it's a silly thing to worry about, but this board is not just for practical issues. Superstitions and irrational fears have a place as well.

[OldGoalie]

Sure we can debate it all day long, but if it's a rhetorical question, then an answer is not really expected or possible.

I can't say I've ever really been haunted by the question...I am what I am, and I play with what I've got. I've never wondered if my body parts were bigger would it have made a difference; I wonder whether my technique or reaction time would have made a difference. And it's fine to talk about the irrational fears all you want, but unless someone can produce some meanigful statistical data showing me the "ideal" size for a goalie, they remain just that - irrational.

[nylax65]

i was just kidding by the way, you guys take forums too seriously

[3rdPersonPlural]

Sure we can debate it all day long, but if it's a rhetorical question, then an answer is not really expected or possible.

I can't say I've ever really been haunted by the question...I am what I am, and I play with what I've got. I've never wondered if my body parts were bigger would it have made a difference; I wonder whether my technique or reaction time would have made a difference. And it's fine to talk about the irrational fears all you want, but unless someone can produce some meanigful statistical data showing me the "ideal" size for a goalie, they remain just that - irrational.

OG, you, of all people, should know of the demons that haunt the souls of goalies and the superstitions that are built around quelling those demons.

There is a large mental cabinet within each experienced keeper that is filled with 'stuff' that is both irrational and of considerable personal value to the sanity of each.

[OldGoalie]

OG, you, of all people, should know of the demons that haunt the souls of goalies and the superstitions that are built around quelling those demons.

There is a large mental cabinet within each experienced keeper that is filled with 'stuff' that is both irrational and of considerable personal value to the sanity of each.

Sure, susperstitions and demons are a part of a goalie's makeup, but I guess I have always taken a somewhat analytical approach to anything I do. Aside from certain rituals (wearing the same boxers on game days when I was in HS and college, tapping the left pipe first, etc.) and being a bit crazy as all of us goalies are, I can't say I'm the type that's ever dwelled on demons. If something isn't going well, I try to figure out what's causing it, and try to work on that weakness. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. I've got too much else to worry about than my height and width (well, OK, perhaps my width is worth worrying about). But at 6', 175, I think I'm OK.

[3rdPersonPlural]

But at 6', 175, I think I'm OK.

You're a skinny little runt. :lol:


I'll drop ship you some of my cholesterol.

[OldGoalie]

You're a skinny little runt. :lol:


I'll drop ship you some of my cholesterol.

Hopefully not COD, please.

Actually, I'm fortunate to have a pretty quick metabolism, and I have to work out regularly to keep up with the twenty-somethings who play in the ALL...otherwise I'd have no hope :agree:

[joobs]

team told me i was ideal for defence or goalie. Im 6ft. 170lbs. But, we have a goalie that plays varsity and hes im guessing 6'1" and 190. We also have a little asian kid, about 5'7" and i can throw him 20 feet down the feild, and hes pretty damn good.
is his name brian?

[hankooklax]

the proto athlete is 6 ft 180 lbs. Goalies can deviate and usually are smaller than that. I would say they are averaging 5'8-5'10 and about 175 lbs.

[Gunit]

Just to continue beating a dead horse, isn't it disadvantageous to hold the pipe and have goal showing over the top of your head if you are a short goalie?

[OldGoalie]

Just to continue beating a dead horse, isn't it disadvantageous to hold the pipe and have goal showing over the top of your head if you are a short goalie?

Only if you don't hold your stick up high, which you should be anyway. Remember, Eye-Thumb-Ball. Doing that will place the stick head above your own head.

[EHSLAX12]

the eye thumb ball works for most...i have my stick high and i use more of the elbow technique, where i keep the ball in the corner of my elbow...like we always say, whatever works.

[hurst022]

well i am about 5'8 and with my helmet about 5 10 so that leaves 5 inches between my head and the top post when im in my stance.......i am also very broad.....i have a big upperbody so i take up al ot of room but im pretty quick.....i can still get low and perfet for high.....

[Golekeepr]

I think width with shoulder and insome cases is important but as Gunit said reflexes are most important and littl people can do better over bigger goalies in some cases

[EHSLAX12]

Realistically, there is no height or weight that is any part of an equation for a keeper. Handspeed, footspeed, leadership, aggression, balance, peripheral vision and an eye for the field factor prominently. Height and weight are non issues.

The only case in which the topic of this thread is relevant is in the realm of the absurd. Reducto ad Absurdum, and a 6X6 goalie actually has a height and width advantage that cannot be compromised by the apparent lack of mobility such a physique would confer. Who knows how he'd clear, but if he fills the cage like a wine cork, he can just keep rolling the ball out into the crease until the attack exhausts itself trying to shoot through him.

Absurd solution, sure, but the only response to an equally silly question.

.....and EHS, you should send your friend home and go to bed...... :WTF:

i know, i know...

i thought about it, and being square is actualy worse because it takes the stick and clearing possibilities out of your arsenal. you cant twist your upperbody and throw like you would be able to if you were round or "human" shaped like some people refer to. yes, this was a random post.....

[HVTLaxGoalie15]

5'11 - 150 lbs. im a sophmore..jv or varsity

[L4X_M4ST3R]

5'11 - 150 lbs. im a sophmore..jv or varsity



Cough Lying Cough ....... :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:

It all depends i mean i would rather shoot on a HUGE goalie b/c they seem slower at first glance which boosts your confidence as an attack

[HVTLaxGoalie15]

yeah well i might...we'll see..i mean i hear jasons not doing to good*...and a new coach..

[bmxinspired]

yea goalies can be any size as long as there good..
seeing as how im only 5'4" and 115(freshmen, starting jv,)
and my backup is about two of me he like 190 5'5"

[BrickHouse24]

I'm only 5'4"...and although I'm a girl, I also play in a guys summer league, and a majority of the goalies are under 6'. As its been said before: it doesn't matter size & weight...as long as you know what you're getting yourself into and can stop the ball.

[laxgoalie409]

Hahaha, man, according to these, I don't sound like a goalie at all, Im 6'2 and about 270 (definitely not all fat). I was told that after I graduated and went to club ball, my coach laid down the rule that he didn't want anymore "fat" goalies, I still don't know what his problem was with me, I racked up a couple shutouts and took us to a 13-2 season. As for the foot size thing a bunch of posts up, I got 16s and man have they come in handy on some of those low shots!

[laxgoalie2011]

im in 8th grade, 6' 1", 150 lbs, and i like it. sometimes i bang my head on te cage, but hey, thats what a helmet is for. if i had a choice iwould put on a little more muscle, which i am in the middle of trying to do. playing tennis 8 times a week makes it hard to find time though. but there is no tight height and weight for a goalie.

[Laxdawg14]

i mean when i started i was tiny and weighed under 100 lbs.... now im older and not as small so i dont think there is an ideal size

[LAX_Conejo]

Ideal: fast, strong, not afraid to hit or be hit. Even though you want the goalie to be the QB, one built like a linebacker is perfect. Over 5'6", less and 6'3", over 170lbs and can run the 40 in less than 5.0

[UVALAXR2011]

best attributes are quick hands and feet, loud , clear, and good leadership when directing the defense

size doesnt matter, im 5'9 180...the stance can make a huge difference in makin thesave or lettin the ball in...my G coach, rodeny rullman, had me stand up more in the cage and it makes a huge difference...because im athletic enough to get down, i dont need to have a stance low and simaler to kip turner of UVA...because of rodney ive become a better goalie already through 2 weeks and who knows how god ill be after 4 years workin with him

peace

[UVAlaxer432]

UVALAXR2011

You copied my username...

[Iamagoalie]

I'm like eh, 5'2-5'4, and if anything, that makes me sick at low shots and bounce shots, which often are harder then just a wing at the top right. but i think each size has its pros and cons. just dont assume that having a treetrunk in your goal is the only option, you can have a small person who is just as or more agile

[rynolax]

I play 12 year old lax, and I play goalie. You could say I'm small, 4'3".(OK so I'm very small.) I do Ok i guess.

[akalata]

im 5'9 300..

[Pdoherty]

im 6 foot 135 pounds...

skinny kid, but fast :D and strong

[m2daRizzle]

Im 6'4" and weigh 225 and I never had a hard time making saves. I dont think your body size really matters as long as you have a focused mind and have fast reflexes/hands

[bplaxg33]

6'4 235lbs only advantage to size is i take up more net on a 1 on 1

[hurst022]

im 5-8 175 an its perfect. i can get low quick and still cover top pipe....

[KMLax46]

im a junior, and im only 6 foot, 156 lbs. i dont take up much area, but my reflex's have gotten really fast. ive seen big goalies who are just terrible and slow, and ive seen small goalies who we couldnt get anything by.

[laxgoalie2011]

6x6. definately.

[EricL]

team told me i was ideal for defence or goalie. Im 6ft. 170lbs. But, we have a goalie that plays varsity and hes im guessing 6'1" and 190. We also have a little asian kid, about 5'7" and i can throw him 20 feet down the feild, and hes pretty damn good.
Lol thanks bill. Im 5'9 , 155 pounds. My mad reflaxes make up for my lack of body.

[Hatch]

In short: there isn't one.

Goalies can come in all shapes and sizes; as you said, the most important characteristics of a good goalie are quickness, reflexes, and good form. That being said, if I personally was to be my ideal for goalie, I'd be about 6'1" or 6'2" and weight about 170, with a lot of that hopefully being muscle.

ha well if dat true, i WAY WAY over, i 6'3, 245 pounds. But i also play Offensive Line Right Tackle and Defensive Line Tackle and Nose Guard so yeah. Lol

I a VERY Big Goalie.
Im 6 foot three inches
I weight 245 pounds, about 65 percent Muscle
But take into thought, i also play Offensive and Defensive Line for my High School Football team, so i need to be big. Most my saves are off body and that wat my coaches want cause it easier for me.

[Lacrosse4life31]

5'11 - 150 lbs. im a sophmore..jv or varsity

wow... we are like the same im 5'11" and weigh 152 pounds, cept imma freshman

[goalie diez]

i am 5'11" and 160 punds and i wanna get to 6 feet like 175 or 180 but it seems like in collge there a lot of sub 6' goalies

[lakevilleLAX17]

besides me (5ft 6 in 140 lbs) we have a 5ft 4in kid who is fat as h*ll they cant score cause he takes up the whole bottom half of the net