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Jacques Plante, the masked goalie of the world champion Montreal Canadiens January 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. (Photo by AP Photo)
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