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I totally agree that communication is one of the aspects of the goaltender's game that is often overlooked. Many goalies are simply there in net in body but not contributing at all verbally to the play. The short phrases are key, as they convey a quick message that is easily understandable. I remember a goalie who would always be talking, but he talked so much, much of it was lost in translation and didn't really help the team. I have also seen a team excellent on the PK simply because their goalie was reading the other team so well and talking to his teammates. I think this skill should be emphasized at a younger age because when goalies start to get older, then the skill can be refined instead of just being taught.
In regards to off ice communication, I think that also the body language and confidence level of the goalie directly affects the team. If a goalie is not focused in the dressing room then the whole team will likely follow suit. Often though, goalies can get a team focussed when they are clowning around before the game. When players see how seriously their goaltender is taking the game, I find it tends to rub off on them. If a goalie is fiercely competitive and is prepared for the other team by giving information and strategies, it works to focus the entire group. This is why the goalie can be a true leader on the team even though they do not wear a "C" or an "A".
CT
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