Guarding The Post: Delhi Wizards Goalkeeper Kamaldeep Singh

We pass the puck to Delhi Wizards’ Kamaldeep Singh and get him to answer everything you ever wanted to ask a hockey goalkeeper…

Vitals: Kamaldeep Singh. Age: 30. Born: Punjab. Kamaldeep started his career playing centre-half in 1995 at the Nehru Cup.

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Do you fear a fast approaching ball?

There’s no room for fear. If you fear a fast approaching ball, you’ll never even be considered for the job in first place.

Which areas are left exposed even after wearing the full kit?

The elbow and groin. If I completely shield my elbow and groin with guards, then I wouldn’t be able to move freely, so we have to keep them free. New goalkeepers are at risk, but once you have solid experience, you will know how to protect yourself.

You will never be able to hit a goal… Does that feel bad?

Am I supposed to hit a goal? No! So why should I feel bad? But it hurts when the team wins and only the guy who hit the maximum goals is applauded. They should do more for us.

Is it at times boring to be a goalkeeper?

No it’s not, because I’m thoroughly involved in the game. I have to constantly direct my teammates on the best on-field positions. If my body cools down, my reflexes would slow down too, so I have to move constantly.

Have you ever felt like taking off the helmet?

Initially I did, but after being in the game for over 15 years, I’m used to it. A match gets over in 90 minutes, but practice games stretch to two hours or even more at times, so we are trained to wear the heavy helmet for long hours.

What is the weight of your kit?

The imported ones are around 5-7 kgs, but Indian ones are heavier by 10-15 kilos.

Do you ever feel like playing at the front?

Only during practice matches.

What hurts the most – the ball or the stick?

The ball because it comes at the speed of over 200 kmph. Though the pad absorbs 70 percent of the force, the body still has to suffer the remaining 30 percent, and it’s still pretty harsh. The stick hardly hurts.

When the ball is not on your side, what do you do? Look in the crowd?

I can’t do that. If you try looking into the stands, the floodlights will blind you for at least 8 seconds, while it takes just a second to hit a goal.

What does the coach tell you before the game starts?

Firstly, if the opponent is too close, tempt him into a foul. Secondly, dodge when the area near your post is too crowded and lastly, do everything to save a goal.

What kind of player do you fear the most?

Every player has his strengths and weaknesses and I usually know what these are.

What are some of the on-field distractions?

I can hardly see anything beyond the ground because of the flashlights.

What is the kind of skill set that a goalkeeper needs?

Firstly, he should be daring because then he wouldn’t fear the ball. A player who can anticipate well is apt for protecting the post. A height of over and above 5’8’’ is preferable too.

Players practice target shooting, what do you do?

They hit, I save. Simple.

From the April 2012 issue of FHM India.