Jacques Plante, the masked goalie of the world champion Montreal Canadiens Jan. 30, 1960, said the eerie-looking face protector has ended a period of deep-rooted anxieties. ?I?m rarely tense before a game,? said the colorful French Canadian who is rated the outstanding Netminder in the National Hockey League. ?But before the mask it was always on my mind about getting hurt?or losing an eye or something. Now I know I won?t have to quit because of a facial injury. When I retire it will be because someone else is better. But I hope that with the mask I can play until I?m 40.? Plante, 31, his face marked by injuries, has been the Canadiens? regular goalie for the past six years. He is seeking a record fifth straight Vezina Trophy, awarded annually to the goalkeeper allowing the fewest goals. (AP Photo)
