What's in a Name?

Goalkeepers have a saying: "Any save is a good save." This is in reference to some move that is ugly, accidental, or just plain wrong from a training standpoint, but which prevents a goal nonetheless.

Similarly, goalkeepers probably could care less what you call them. The joy of goalkeeping is in the work, not the title.

The most common name used to describe the position is Goalkeeper. In casual conversation, the term Keeper is often used. When the keeper wants the ball, he/she may yell, "Keep! Keep!" But, Keep is rarely used to actually describe the position. Goalie seems to be a common name in youth soccer, particularly at the very youngest ages. At the older ages, it becomes just a little too cute. Goaltender is appropriate in ice hockey, but is rarely heard in reference to soccer.