Goalkeeper Training – The Forgotten Man? (Part 1)
In grassroots football the goalkeeper is generally the forgotten man. Simply the training they receive is in group format or via a shooting drill. Obviously at this level resources are limited but to find someone to do a little work is better than forgetting about one of the most important people on the pitch. Below I will share a copy of my session plan notes specifically for our keepers. This is the first of a 3 part series so please check back soon for part 2!
We will focus on how a goalkeeper should warm up & I've also included details on agility & goal line sessions during part 1.
Warm Up & Ball Handling Sessions
1. Bounce ball, on command carry out:
- Roll ball in front & dive on it.
- Throw ball into air & jump & catch it.
- Put ball in between legs & dive & catch.
2. Goalkeeper 1 kicks ball into hands of goalkeeper 3 who catches & kicks ball back, same then with goalkeeper 2. Rotate so that each goalkeeper is working. Coaching points are - stance, handling & speed.
3. Develop by serving the ball high in the air so that goalkeeper 3 can take short steps & jump high to catch the ball finishing with stretch.
4. Operate sessions 2 & 3 again but vary starting position so goalkeepers can work on foot work & turning.
5. Goalkeeper 1 throws to goalkeeper 2 who dives to right, catches & throws back while getting straight back up to dive again - carry out 10 times. Coaching points are - foot work, handling, speed, return ball & get back up in one motion.
Agility & Goal Line Sessions
The following sessions should be operated in sets of 12 developing to 20. Although please adapt to suit the age & fitness of goalkeeper.
1. Goalkeeper sits on bum with legs bent & loose, partner then serves ball so goalkeeper can stretch & catch ball over head & return. Coaching points is speed & technique, i.e. operate session like sit up.
2. Rowing, feet off ground, partner throws ball goalkeeper catches with knees up to chest & returns with legs out. Coaching point is co-ordination, i.e. operate session like rowing machine.
3. Goalkeeper on bum, partner throws ball to left & right so goalkeeper can catch & throw back. Coaching points include agility, service, catching & to keep loose.
4. Develop above session, dive from left to right - keep ball off the ground. Main coaching point is to keep ball in front of body line.
Every club should allocate some time & personnel to work with the goalkeepers. Whether that be to bring the goalkeeper in early of have a keeper group night it is essential that the last man in defense is not forgotten about. Join us next month for part 2.
