Being a goalie at one of the biggest schools in the state is often misunderstood, the pressure that comes along with this position demands more than just quick reflexes. “The hardest part about being a goalie that people don’t understand is the concentration for the entire game.” Senior goalie Riley Bedics said, “Forwards can make mistakes, but if they score one goal, they are praised. In goal, one mistake can cost your team the game.” Every other position is always moving and roaming the field, but goalies must maintain intense focus throughout the whole game. One slip up can determine the whole game. This unique weight makes it one of the toughest positions in any sport.

Bedics admits pressure can be at its highest in the biggest moments. “The game I felt the most pressure in so far this year was the Mudsock game vs Fishers. As a senior it was my last chance to try to win back the Mudsock trophy.” Then Bedics reminds himself, “I’m not the only one feeling that pressure on either team and I understand it’s my responsibility to lead by example.”

For Bedics, learning to shake off mistakes is part of the job. “After a mistake, I normally try to find something physical to help me reset. It could be something like tightening my glove or fixing my shin guards. This helps me mentally move on.” Bedics said.

Bedics shares that his preparation is very important to him and that he always needs to be “locked in.” So to stay locked in, Bedics follows the exact same warmup before every game in the same order. “Mentally I try to be game focused by the time I arrive at the field, and then during the game, talking and staying engaged helps me feel in control of the game for an entire 80 minutes.” Bedics said.

As a player in a very important position in the game, Bedics handles a lot of pressure but Coach White and the coaching staff has his back in these situations. “Something we have worked on is trying to give constructive feedback if things aren’t going our way, rather than complaining and pointing fingers.” Says Bedics.

Ultimately, in a position where the smallest slip up can feel like the world is coming to an end, Riley Bedics shows  focus, determination, and confidence in whatever challenge comes his way.