What player position is responsible for stopping goals?

The player position responsible for stopping goals is the goalie. The goalie, also known as the goaltender, plays a crucial role in the game of hockey by guarding the net and preventing the opposing team from scoring. They are equipped with specialized protective gear and are trained to anticipate shots, maintain positioning, and communicate with their teammates about defensive strategies.

The goalie has the unique responsibility of being the last line of defense and is often involved in making critical saves that can determine the outcome of a game. Their ability to react quickly and make split-second decisions is essential for protecting the goal and contributing to the team's overall performance. Other players, while also important, have different roles; for instance, defensemen support the goalie by trying to block shots and hinder attacking players, while forwards focus on scoring goals rather than preventing them.