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Matthew Wheeler
Goalie of the Week: May 5, 2003
Matthew Wheeler, a sophomore at Wesleyan University,
is Goalie Nation's Goalie of the Week. In the NESCAC
tournament semi-final game against Tufts, Matt played the best game of
his career with 26 saves.
This season, Matt played 890 minutes, made 172 saves, allowed 134 goals,
has a 9.0 goals allowed average, and a save percentage of .562%.
Learn more about goalie Matthew Wheeler in our Who's
Hot in College profile.
Interview about the Game
GN: What was I thinking about during the game?
MW: First, we had lost to tufts the week before. It was a weekday game
and as a team, we were not ready for the game. Going into the game, I
made sure that I was ready physically and mentally to compete against
a very good team.
GN: How did I feel after the game?
MW: Obviously, I was disappointed. Our defense played very well and allowed
me to see the kind of shots that I need to see, meaning six yards or further.
Making 26 saves, you would hope you win, but it was not our day.
GN: Before the game began, did I know that this was your day
to excel?
MW: In the off season, I worked really hard so that I could be in the
position to play for the league championship. I knew I was ready and it
was only a matter of execution.
GN: How did I mentally prepare for the game?
MW: I have ONE piece of advice for any young goalie, purchase the book
"Thinking Body, Dancing Mind" by Jerry Lynch. It is a book about
the mental side of life, especially athletics. Every night I read this
book and it puts me in the right place mentally to compete. Put some time
into reading this book and you will improve, I guarantee it.
GN: Did I have a memorable save, whether from this game or another
game?
MW: I think starting out fast is key for a goalie's performance. I made
three saves in the first possession and that really got me going. At the
same time, if I had let in a goal early, it is key to figure out what
you did wrong and correct the problem. If you dwell on an earlier goal,
you are not going to perform to your potential for the remainder of the
game.
GN: Have I gelled with the defense?
MW: I am sure every goalie has heard this a million times but the goalie
is the quarterback of the defense. It is more than this I believe. A goalie
must gain his defense's respect. The defense needs to know that their
goalie is behind them and prepared to lead. If the defense is not confident
about their goalie's leadership, there can be problems.
Goalie of the Week: Archive
2003 SEASON
Carissa Medeiros
- May 12, 2003
Matthew Wheeler
- May 5, 2003
Andrew Goldstein
- April 28, 2003
Meg Dentler
- April 21, 2003
Tillman Johnson
- April 14, 2003
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