Which of the following is the best reason for a goalie to NOT remain on their goal line throughout the game?

• A. Coming off the line allows a goalie to stay alert.
• B. Coming off the line allows a goalie to cut off the shooting angle of the attackers.
• C. Coming off the line reduces the effective length of the field.
• D. Coming off the line allows a goalie to be quicker.

Answer: (B)

The key idea is how goalie positioning changes shooting angles. When a goalie stays on the goal line, shooters have a larger target and more angles to aim for. By stepping off the line, the goalie can cut off the attackers’ angles, forcing shots to be taken from less favorable spots and making it easier to challenge or stop the shot. That direct impact on limiting where shots can go is the strongest reason to come off the line.

Other options describe potential side effects of moving, like increased alertness or speed, but they don’t address why stepping off the line most effectively reduces scoring chances. And the notion that moving off the line shortens the field isn’t accurate—the length of the field isn’t changed by the goalie’s position.