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Physicists, mechanical engineers and exercise scientists might define balance as an even distribution of weight allowing an object or person to remain upright and steady. They would be correct. Investment bankers and accountants may define a balanced portfolio as one that has an even distribution of wealth for the purpose of minimizing risk and providing stability to the individual or company. They too would be correct. Economists would define balance as the result of supply matching demand. Right again. For the deer-like Himalayan tahr, found in the most remote regions of the world’s highest mountain range, balance is the ability to survive on sparse vegetation at rocky heights of up to 15,000 feet – an example of nature’s balanced perfection. But what is balance to the developing goaltender? If we go with the scientific definition, we might say balance is the ability to meet the physical demands of the position. It means staying steady on your skates, staying in position, anticipating the play, and maneuvering your body accordingly. It also means developing the muscle tone, flexibility, strength and speed to stop the puck at all costs. Goaltending, at its very core, is the ultimate test of physical stamina, focus and of course, balance. If we apply the investment banker’s perspective on balance, we might argue that the goaltender is the single element of stability on any team. With his unique ability to make split-second decisions on the ice, the goaltender has the power to either slow down or speed up a play. Cover the puck. Clear the puck. Make a spectacular save that defies the laws of science. All of these determine the pace of the game, the energy of the skaters, the mood of the crowd and what the sports writers say in the next morning’s game recap. A balanced goalie also allows his teammates to take risks. With his command of the game, he provides his skaters with the foundation they need to perform on the ice. A confident goalie will often instill confidence in the rest of the team, a relaxed goalie has the power to relax the rest of his teammates, and a goalie that manages the puck well can clean up an otherwise messy game in his own zone. Like the economy, the game of hockey is ever-changing and subject to all sorts of influences, including politics, media, regulations, rules and restrictions. For any team to be successful, it first must establish an atmosphere of balance. The physical requirements of the game must be balanced with the ability to effectively analyze and break apart its cognitive components. This in turn must be weighed against the need for rest and rejuvenation. Each player’s energy stores physical, emotional and mental components, which are microcosms of the larger team. When each player’s energy supply meets the demands of the game, teams experience greater success. Like a balanced economy, a balanced team thrives. Balance is found in nature as well. In the above example, the Himalayan tahr survives and thrives because it fills a unique ecological niche. It has adapted to its environment and developed the characteristics and abilities necessary for the conditions in which it must live. When a goaltender recognizes that he must develop his own unique skill set, he fills his own version of an ecological niche. No other member of his team can do what he does. No other player can fill this singular, integral and essential role. For the goaltender, it is this journey of development and his attitude towards it that ultimately determines whether or not he – and in turn his team – will be successful. If he embraces the journey, he will reap the rewards. The Himalayan tahr did not develop its ability to survive in remote mountain regions in a year, or even a decade. Centuries upon centuries of evolution had to transpire in order for it to become the species it is today. Similarly, the goaltender must be patient with the process and remain focused in order to develop his niche in an effective manner. He must trust that the process is unfolding before him, within him, and around him. He must remain balanced in mind, body and spirit. He must draw his energy from the strength of his character and his confidence in his abilities. He will achieve and maintain equilibrium through focused concentration, enduring commitment, constant mindfulness and steadfast faith that his story between the pipes is written one game, one save, one moment at a time. Balance, in this case, is neither a state to be attained nor a goal to strive towards. Rather, it is a way of being and a state of mind. It is the manifestation of a world view that values growth over superficial success, process over product and spirit over ego. Being in balance means we ride each wave in the ocean of life with courage and commitment and an even-keeled approach. The balanced goaltender shows up every day. He puts his best foot forward. He gives it all he’s got at all times, with all people, and in every moment. When a goaltender can say without hesitation that he is strong yet flexible, confident yet humble and knowledgeable yet still learning, he can then affirm: “I am Balance.”