An Introductory Guide to Goalkeeper Development

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Introduction

Goal Keeping Introduction: Goalkeepers are an integral part of the team, but often-limited time is dedicated to their development and quite often overlooked or incorporated into team play. Basic techniques are core for the development of any Goalkeeper and the earlier these fundamental techniques and skills are established (in line with the principles of LTPD) the better the relationship between the Goalkeeper and the ball. The attached sessions are designed to give the coach some basic progressive practices, which have been designed by current England Womens Goalkeeping Coach Keith Rees. Each session has been broken down sequentially. These practices have been designed to work with all ages with specific references to the younger age group in a bid to assist in their long term development.

Hope Powell Senior National Womens Coach

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development
The Goalkeeping development guide has been designed so that the Goalkeeping coach can use the practices to help in the development of young Goalkeepers. Each practice can be modified to suit the age and ability of the young players by reducing the intensity, service and repetition of the practice. A few examples have been included to assist the coach in the development of the young Goalkeeper. Section 1 Warm up Warm up drills Warm up games Section 2 Basic Handling Techniques Set Position Scoop Technique Cup Technique W Technique Section 3 Shot Stopping Low Diving Save Save at Shoulder Height Section 4 Footwork and Co-ordination Section 5 Narrowing the Angle Moving into line Section 6 Dealing with 1v1 Situations When the attacker is through on goal Section 7 Passing, Receiving Distribution Receiving the ball to feet Distribution Techniques Dealing with a back pass Section 8 Dealing with crosses

Key to session plans

Direction of player. Direction of ball Position of Footballs Small cone Disc S A GK C Server Attacker Goalkeeper Coach

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Section 1 Warm Up

Warm Up

In section 1 we look at the Goalkeepers warm up. Before the start of each session players should take part in an organised warm up. The warm up will prepare players for the session by raising body temperature, prepare them psychologically and introduce them to static and dynamic stretching with and without a ball. The same warm up drills can be used with various age groups by adjusting the intensity to suit the age and technical ability of the Goalkeeper. The warm up should start with low intensity activity and be structured so that the Goalkeepers have a chance to practice their technical and coordination skills within the practice, again this should be age appropriate. Younger players require less time for the warm up and the emphasis should be on fun with a football being introduced as early as possible. When working with older age groups the warm should concentrate on preparing the Goalkeeper for the specific topic to be coached in the main session together with coordination and technical aspects. Outcomes Agility, balance, coordination and speed Communication Various handling techniques Throwing techniques Distribution skills, volley, half volley Opposed practice Team activity Understanding rules

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 1

Warm Up Drills

GK1 GK3

Set up A square is set up using discs (size of square will depend on age and numbers of GKs) 2 cones are used to from a small goal 4yds wide. All GKs are given a number and have a ball each they must dribble around the area using feet only. When C (coach) shouts stop! GK must stop the ball using left foot only. After all GKs have stopped the ball they then continue dribbling around the square. Progression Stop with right foot Stop with left/right knee Stop ball by sitting on it GK bounce the ball around the area Right hand Left hand Both hands Coach shouts a number - 4 GK4 throws their ball to C and must move into the small goal to make a save from C

GK2 GK4

GK3 GK1 Set up Poles or cones are used to form 2 small goals 6yds wide 4yds apart with a disc placed 6yds behind each goal. The Goalkeepers start on the discs behind the small goals GK3 and GK4 have a ball each. GK1 and GK2 move at the same time in direction 1 as both Goalkeepers arrive in the small goals they receive a shot from GK3 and GK4. GK1 and GK2 keep the ball and change places with GK3 and GK4 who move through the poles. Progression GKs vary movement through poles option 2 Gks move in figure of eight option 3 Vary service from Goalkeepers with the ball

1 3 2

GK2 GK4

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 1

Warm Up Games

Set up

Y Y X X

Area size will depend on age and numbers of GKs discs are used to set up an end zone 1yd from the back line. 3 balls are placed in the end zone. Two teams X and Ys must knock the ball out of their opponents end zone to score, the first team to knock out all three balls are the winners. No players are allowed in the end zones Teams must pass the ball by throwing to each other A player cannot run with the ball when in possession If a player drops the ball possession is given to opposite team Team without the ball must intercept a pass to gain possession or can dive to intercept a rolled pass
Variations

Use different sized footballs in end zone (smaller) Give each ball a value e.g. Centre ball 2 points wide ball 1 point First team to score 3 points wins Vary type of pass for each team, Xs roll, Ys throw

C1

X Y Y X X Y X Y

Set up Size of area will depend on age and numbers of GKs. Poles or cones are used to make 2 small goals 4yd 6yds wide at either end of the area. C1 and C2 start at the side of the goal team X and team Y must throw the ball between them (as above) you can only score after receiving the ball from C1 or C2 who must set the ball with a throw. Goals can on be scored by heading or volleying the ball into the goal any opposing team member can save in goal Teams must pass the ball by throwing A player cannot run with the ball when in possession If a player drops the ball possession is given to opposite team Team without the ball must intercept a pass to gain possession or can dive to intercept a rolled pass Variation C1 and C2 can move either side of the goal Each player on your team must catch and pass the ball once before they can score

C2

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 1

Agility and Coordination

GK3 GK1 GK4 GK2

3 2

Set up 8 discs are used to form 3 squares 6yd x 6yds. All GKs have a ball each GK1 and GK2 start the practice by jogging and bouncing their ball down the outside of the discs (1). As they reach the blue disc then GK3 and GK4 do the same. When the Goalkeepers reach the end of the course they keep hold of the football and change sides to jog back to the start, 4 repetitions. Progression GKs carry the ball moving forward to the first cone (correct body position) when they reach the first cone they place the ball next to the cone then switch position with their partner (2) and pick up their football then continue forward to next disc repeat the practice. As first progression but this time GKs move diagonally to the first cone (3) GKs bounce the ball while moving to the cones Goalkeepers must bounce the ball with left/both hands

GK2 GK1

GK4

GK3

Set up Discs are used to set up the slalom course as shown all Gks start with a ball each and move at the same time. GK1 throws their ball to S who throws back for GK to catch and then move to position GK2. GK2 moves around slalom and around the back of S to position GK3. GK3 move forwards and backward through discs to position GK4. GK4 follows GK1 by throwing their ball to S to receive a catch. Progression Vary service from S e.g. volley, half volley, strike from ground Vary footwork of Goalkeeper through slalom Vary running style as Goalkeeper moves around the back of S

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Section 2 Basic Handling

Basic Handling

Good technique is one of the most important fundamental aspects of Goalkeeping. Therefore it is important that the young Goalkeepers practice the correct basic techniques at every session. In this section we look at the basic handling techniques of Goalkeeping and where specific techniques should be applied when the Goalkeeper is required to make a save. The key points for each individual technique are illustrated within the section, all young Goalkeepers will use these basic techniques in virtually every session throughout their development and it is important that these skills are practiced correctly and understood from an early age. Section contents Set Position Scoop Technique Cup Technique W Technique Outcomes Agility, balance, coordination and speed Various catching/handling techniques Hand and eye coordination Hand to feet coordination Directional movement Awareness Problem solving

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 2

The Goalkeepers Set Position

The first basic stance for the Goalkeeper to learn is the set position. It is important that the Goalkeeper is comfortable in their set position. They should be alert and ready to move into the line of the ball, balanced, with the body weight forward on the ball of the foot nose over toes.

Key Points Feet shoulder width apart Knees slightly bent Weight on the ball of the foot Hands at waist height Elbows tucked in Hands in the ready position Shoulder forward Nose over toes Balanced Head steady eyes on the ball Common Problems Feet too wide apart/too close together Weight on the heels/tip toes Goalkeeper off balance Knees are bent too much Bouncing as ball is struck

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 2

The Scoop Technique

The scoop technique is used when the Goalkeeper is dealing with a driven shot along the ground or if the ball is bouncing in front of the Goalkeeper. The Goalkeeper must lead with the hands so that the body weight is going forward towards the ball. The knee collapses to form the K position. This will provide a second barrier behind the ball.

Key Points Set position as ball is struck Collapse the leg and bend knee K position to throw body weight forward Elbows tucked in Shoulders forward Palms of the hand towards the ball little fingers touching Lead with the hands Soft hands strong wrists to take pace off the shot Hand and arms form a ramp for the ball to be taken into the body and secured Head steady eyes on the ball Common Problems Goalkeeper in the set position as ball is struck Hands at the side of the ball Body weight on heels Feet too wide apart no second barrier Both knees are on the ground

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 2

Cup Technique Save At Waist Height

When catching the ball at waist height, the Goalkeeper should allow the ball to come into the body, and then bring the shoulders down and around the ball. The hands secure the ball into the body and knees are slightly bent to help absorb the impact of the shot. Body weight is forward, head steady eyes watch the ball into the body.

Key Points Feet shoulder width apart Knees slightly bent Allow the ball come into the body Hands wrap around the ball Shoulders come down and around the ball Body weight forward Head steady eyes on the ball Common Problems Feet too wide apart Body weight on the heels The Goalkeeper jumps as the catch is made Choice of catching technique

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 2

W Technique Catch At Head Height

The technique for catching the ball at head height is known as the W technique, fingers are spread at the side and the thumbs are at the back of the ball. The goalkeeper must be in the set position as the ball is struck and the ball should be caught approximately 15 (age specific) away from the body to allow room to cushion the ball. Elbows are flexed and act as shock absorbers, head steady and behind the ball and the Goalkeepers body weight is forward.

Key points Set position as the ball is struck Body weight forward Feet shoulder width apart knees slightly bent Hands W position Soft hands strong wrists Elbows tucked in Elbows flexed to cushion the ball shock absorbers Head steady eyes on the ball Common Problems Not in set position as ball is struck The elbows are not flexed which flattens the hand shape Body weight is on the heels Thumbs are not behind the ball and fingers are together Goalkeeper is bouncing as shot is taken

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 2

Basic Handling

GK

Scoop Technique Set up Discs are used to form a 10yd x 10yd square. Cones are used to from a small goal 4yds wide. Gk starts in the small goal S has a supply of footballs Progression S has one touch to the side and strikes the ball S strikes a half volley S hit a dipping volley

Set up as above for Save at waist height Cup technique Save at head height W technique

Collapsing Save GK Set up Discs are used to from a 10yd x 10yd square. Cones are used to form a small goal 6yds wide. The Goalkeeper starts in the small goal S has a supply of footballs. Progression S has one touch to the side and strikes the ball S strikes a half volley Set up as above for Low diving save High diving save Note For high diving save thrown service may be used for accuracy of service

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 2

Basic Handling and Shot Stopping

S1

GK

S3

Set up GK starts in the centre of the main goal facing S2. All S players have a ball. To start the drill the GK moves into line with S1 and receives a shot to practice the scoop technique GK saves and returns the ball to S1 moves back to centre then into line with S2 to save at head height using the W technique, back to centre into line with S3 scoop technique. Progression GK works from both sides Vary technique of S players so the Goalkeeper has chance to practice low diving save from S1 and S3 with the ball played towards the post

S2

GK1GK2

S1

S2

Set up 2 GKs work at the same time S1 and S2 have a supply of footballs. Both GKs move around the discs that are placed 2yds off the goal line and 1yd in off the post. S1 and S2 play the ball along the ground for the GKs to practice the scoop technique. The Goalkeeper saves and returns the ball to server then moves back to the centre of goal facing forward to repeat the practice on opposite side. Progression Vary the service from S1 and S2 to allow the GKs to practice all basic handling techniques S1 and S2 play the ball towards the GKs near post area to allow the GK to practice low diving save

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Section 3 Shot Stopping

Shot Stopping

In this section we look at shoots that are struck away from the Goalkeeper forcing them to dive outside the line of the body. The types of shots we look at are low diving save and saving the ball at shoulder height. It is important that young Goalkeepers lean the basics of diving and landing correctly so as to avoid injure or hurting themselves. Shot stopping sessions are often the most enjoyable for young Goalkeepers so not only can the Goalkeeper practice the detailed technical aspects in a session but also involvement in a structured shooting session with the outfield players will help in their development. When the Goalkeeper is working with the out field players in a shooting session it is important to monitor the intensity to allow time for recover or rotate Goalkeepers regularly. The Goalkeepers is A Part of the team not Apart from the team Section contents Low diving save Save at shoulder height Outcomes Agility, balance, coordination and speed Various catching techniques Hand and eye coordination Hand to feet coordination Directional movement Awareness Problem solving

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 3

Low Diving Save

From the set position the Goalkeeper must step with the leg nearest the ball this will transfer the body weight forward and help the Goalkeeper take the ball early. The head should finish behind the ball with the eyes looking through the back of the ball. The Goalkeepers leading hand (the left hand in this photo) is behind the ball and the right hand is on top to trap the ball.

Key points Starting position in relation to the ball Set position/Body position Step towards the line of the ball One hand behind one hand on top to secure the ball Hands move together Handcuffs on The head should finish behind the ball Hold or deflect into safe areas Common Problems Not in set position when the ball is struck To far down the line reducing reaction time to make the save The goalkeeper saves the ball behind them (late), which makes it difficult to save with both hands Rather than stepping the Goalkeeper simply falls sideways to save Goalkeeper dives flat (on stomach)

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 3

Save At Shoulder Height

When saving the ball at shoulder height from the set position the Goalkeeper must step towards the line of the ball with the foot nearest the ball. This will transfer the Goalkeepers body weight slightly forward towards the save. The Goalkeeper should make the save over the knee, hands are in the W shape and the head is behind the ball as the save is made.

Key Points Set position as ball is struck Positive step towards the ball Save over the knee Hands W position fingers spread Go to ground and trap the ball third barrier Save the ball in front of feet body line Secure the ball into the body Head steady eyes on the ball Hold or deflect The Goalkeeper should look to secure the ball when they go to ground. However at times the Goalkeeper will not hold on to the ball and the ball will need to be parried or deflected. It is important that the Goalkeeper deflects or parries the ball into safe areas wide of the goal between the dead ball line and the 6yd area and not into the path of any incoming striker. The Goalkeeper must then decide if they can make a recovery save and gather the ball or they must follow the recovery line and defend their goal. Common Problems Not in the set position as ball is struck Goalkeeper dives backwards Goalkeeper deflects the ball back towards the striker Incorrect hand position

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 3

Basic Handling and Shot Stopping

S2
GK

S3

S2(b)
Set up S2 and S3 are at the side of the goal GK starts at their near post at the same side as S2 who starts the practice. S2 and S3 have a supply of footballs and take turns to throw the ball the S1 who volleys for GK to catch and return to the thrower. This drill will give the servers an S2 and S3 an opportunity to practice their distribution techniques. Progressions S2 and S3 roll the ball to S1 to have one touch and shoot towards the Goalkeeper Rotate all players S1 moves to position (a) to receive the ball from S2 and S3 S2 and S3 move to the outside of 6yd area position S2(b) and receive the ball from S1 to shoot at an angle for Goalkeeper to save

S1

S1 (a)

GK

S1

S2

Set up 3 different coloured discs are placed in the 6yd area S1 and S2 have a supply of footballs Goalkeeper starts in the centre of the main goal. S1 shouts a colour (RED) and the Goalkeeper must touch that coloured disc then move into line with S1 to receive a shot. The Goalkeeper saves and returns the ball to S1 then moves back to the centre to restart the practice where S2 shouts the colour. Progression Move discs to different areas of the 6yd box Vary the type of service from S1 and S2 half volley, strike from ground, dipping volley

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Section 4 Footwork and Coordination

Footwork and Coordination

It is important that the young Goalkeepers practice footwork drills to help them develop their ABCs, Agility, Balance, Coordination and speed all requirements needed to become a Goalkeeper. Ideally the footwork drills used for the young Goalkeepers should replicate the movements encountered when in the goal. When the Goalkeepers practice their footwork it is also an opportunity for them to learn the importance of the set position shown in section 2 after movement into the line of the ball. It is also a chance to introduce the young goalkeepers to various basic handling techniques by changing the type of service they receive at the end of each sequence of footwork. Key points Body position Body weight forward Balanced Hands at waste height Palms towards the ball Avoid crossing the feet Short quick steps maintain balance Outcomes Develop agility, balance, coordination and speed Various catching techniques Hand and eye coordination Hand to feet coordination Directional movement Awareness

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Section 4 Footwork and Coordination

Footwork and Coordination

GK2

Set up 2 small squares 1 yd x 1 yd are set up 6 yds apart. GK2 and GK3 start with a ball each. GK1 moves laterally to their right around the disc then into the front of the square to receive a pass to feet from GK2. GK1 has one touch to their right and then dribbles the ball to the position of GK2. After passing the ball GK2 immediately performs the same movement and changes position with GK3, GK3 then moves in the same direction as GK1. Repeat the sequence 10 times. Progression Vary direction of first movement left and right Vary movement of GKs through the square right then diagonal across the square, right then forward and left (footwork can vary but GK must always finish at the front of the square). Vary service from GKs with the ball Ground for scoop, volley for catch at head height

GK1 GK3

GK

Set up 6 discs are used to set up the slalom. S1 and S2 has a supply of footballs GK starts on one of the back cones. GK receives a volley/throw from S1, catches and returns the ball then moves laterally into line with S2 to receive a second catch, then back into line with S1 and so on until they have made 6 catches. Progression Vary service from S1 and S2 so the goalkeeper catches the ball at various heights. Rotate GK with servers. GK catches at head height on the 2 back discs, a ground save in the centre and waist height at the front. GK moves backwards through the slalom repeating the same catching techniques (for young Goalkeepers the service can be thrown)

S1

S2

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 4

Footwork and Coordination

GK

Set up 4 cones are placed as shown to form a 2yd x 2yd square. The Goalkeeper starts in the centre of the square and a server starts 6 yds from the square with a supply of footballs. The Goalkeeper must move to each cone individually and return to centre to receive a shot from S. Progression Rotate GK with S after the Goalkeeper has made 8 catches Vary the service from S. GK moves in different directions. Each cone is given a number S shouts a number and the GK must go to that cone and back to the centre before receiving a shot.

GK2 GK1 GK1

S1

S2

Set up Poles or cones are used to form 2 small goals 3 yds wide as shown. A disc is placed behind the poles as a starting point for GKs. S1 and S2 have a supply of footballs. GK1 moves forward then into line with S1 to defend the small goal and receive a shot from S1. After the save GK1 returns the ball to S1 and moves back to the disc then GK2 moves to opposite side into line with S2 Goalkeepers move to opposite server on each occasion. Progression GKs work alternate sides Vary service from S1 and S2 volley/half volley Rotate S1 and S2 with GKs after 10 shots

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Section 5 Narrowing The Angle

Narrowing the Angle

When narrowing the angle the Goalkeeper should be in line with the ball and the centre of goal to give them the best chance of covering the goal and making the target area for the striker as small as possible. As well as being in line with the ball it is just as important for the young Goalkeeper to understand how far to come down the line of the ball. The Goalkeeper should move into line as the ball is transferred and be in the set position as the attacker is about to strike the ball. In this session there is also an opportunity for the Goalkeeper to practice the various handling and diving techniques after their movement into line. Key Points Starting position in relation to the ball Body position when moving into line with the ball Movement into line as ball is transferred Set position as player strikes the ball Prepare the hands early Decision on type of catch or save Key points of save ground, waist, head height, and collapse save Common Problems Not in line with the ball when striker shoots To far down the line Still on the move when the ball is struck. In this situation the Goalkeeper will find it difficult to save left or right when moving forward or off balance Inappropriate choice of technique to deal with shot Outcomes Agility, balance and coordination Handling techniques Technical development Awareness Footwork Decision making Problem solving

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 5

Narrowing The Angle/Moving into line

GK1 GK2

GK3

S1 S2

S3

Set up All S players have a supply of footballs GK starts in the main goal. GK starts in line with S1 to receive a shot, GK saves and returns the ball, GK then moves into line with S2 (position GK2) and S3 (position GK3). Progression GK works from both sides. GK starts in line with S2 who rolls the ball for S1 and S3 who have 1 touch to set then shoot (for younger GKs the service from S1 and S3 can be throw, catch and volley)

GK

S2

1 2 3

S3

Set up GK starts in the main goal 3 discs are placed at an angle to the main goal outside 6yd area S3 and S2 start on first disc. S1 has a supply of footballs. S1 throws/rolls the ball to S2 who catches/has one touch and shoots at goal. GK must move into line as the ball is transferred. After S2 has had a shot S1 plays the ball to S3 and repeats the practice. S2 then moves to the disc 2 to receive the ball from S1. Progression S2 and S3 can move to any cone before receiving the ball from S1 Rotate S players with GK after 6 shots Vary service from S players e.g. volley, shot, and dipping volley

S1

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Section 6 1v1

Dealing With 1v1

Dealing with a 1v1 situation when the attacker is through on goal the Goalkeeper has 2 main priorities (1) Defend their goal (2) Defend the space behind the defenders The Goalkeepers body position should be on the front foot in anticipation of the through ball. The Goalkeeper should look to advance when the ball is out of the attackers feet (shooting distance) putting the onus on the attacker while watching for miss control as their chance to attack the ball. By delaying and staying big for as long as possible will also give defenders a chance to recover towards the goal or even win the ball from the attacker. Remember Put the onus on the attacker

Key points Starting position in relation to the ball Assess the through ball Body position front foot Advance when ball is out of attackers feet positive move quickly, then carefully Delay, stay big, put onus an attacker Look to force the attacker wide Lead with the hands Look through the window Head should be tucked in behind the hands Outcomes Agility, balance and coordination Communication Decision making Technical aspects of Goalkeeping Angles and distance Problem solving
Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 6

Dealing With 1v1 Situations

GK

Set up Discs are used to form a 10yd x 20yd grid with a small goal 4yds wide. A (attacker) starts with the ball and must try to dribble around the Goalkeeper. The attacker must place his foot on the ball between the 2 cones to score Progression GK rolls the ball for A to control before starting the attack Attacker has 6 seconds to dribble around GK

GK Set up Area size is same as above but this time there are 3 attackers A1, A2 and A3. Each attacker takes on the Goalkeeper in turn and must dribble through the small goal. Progression GK throws the ball for A to control before starting their attack Attackers have 6 seconds to score after first touch

A1

A2

A3

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 6

Dealing With 1v1 Situations

GK

A3A1

A2

Set up 2 discs are placed 6yds apart 2yds outside penalty area. A1 and A2 start on a disc and pass a ball between them, on coaches command the player with the ball dribbles toward goal and must try to go around the GK into the main goal. A3 then works with the remaining attacker to repeat the practice. Progression Attackers have 6 seconds to score Attackers have the option to shoot or take on the Goalkeeper

GK

A1

A2

S Set up 2 squares 1yd x 1yd with an attacker in each. S has a supply of footballs and plays the ball to A1 who has 1 touch inside the square and then dribble towards the goal to take on the Goalkeeper. S then passes to A2 to repeat the practice.
Progression As above

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Section 7 Passing Receiving And Distribution

Passing Receiving and Distribution

In the modern game the Goalkeeper now has to deal more and more with a ball played to their feet so it important for young Goalkeepers to practice passing and receiving as often as possible. The Goalkeeper should be comfortable to receive the ball to either foot and have the ability to pass with accuracy and quality. Passing and receiving drills can be incorporated with in the Goalkeepers warm-up, also the Goalkeepers can be involved in sessions with outfield players to help improve their skills whenever possible.

Key points
Start position in relation to the ball Body position to receive pass Communication verbal/non verbal eye contact with player receiving Receive with the inside of the foot First touch out of feet Accuracy and weight of pass Communication and support Common Problems Poor communication First touch Accuracy and weight of pass No eye contact (head down) Body position to receive the ball Outcomes Balance and coordination Communication skills Outfield skills Judging angles and distance Agility

pass

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 7

Passing and Receiving

GK

Set up Discs are used to set up a small goal 6yd wide with another disc 1yd behind the goal. 2 further discs are place between 610yds (depending on age and ability of the Goalkeeper. S1 and S2 have a supply of footballs. The Goalkeeper starts on disc behind the goal and moves to disc 1 to receive a pass into feet from S1, GK has 1 touch then returns the ball to S1. The Goalkeeper must then move around the back disc to disc number 2 to receive a pass from S2 again the Goalkeeper has 1 touch and returns the ball to the server. Progression S1 passes for the Goalkeeper to receive then switch the ball to S2, move to disc 2 then receive from S2 and switch to S1 As before but this time S1 throws/volleys for the Goalkeeper to catch and throw to S2 S1 shoots for GK to scoop and roll to S2

S1

S2

GK1

Set up Area set up is 20yds x 6yds (distance will vary depending on age and ability of Goalkeeper) GK1 starts with a ball and passes to GK2 who has one touch and plays back to GK1, GK2 turns then receives the ball from GK3 and passes back to GK3 the Goalkeeper turns back to GK1 to restart the practice. Progression All goalkeepers rotate positions As above but this time GK1 and GK3 move to discs 1 and 2 and GK2 moves to disc 3 passes are now played at an angle for the Goalkeeper to receive GK1 passes to GK2 who then sets the ball back for GK1 to play long to GK3 both GKs then change position and GK3 passes to GK1 who sets back for GK3 to play long to GK2 = Indicates Progression

GK2

GK3
2

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 7

Dealing With Back Pass

GK2

GK

GK1

S2

S3

S1

Set up 3 discs are set up inside the penalty area 12yds from goal with a server at each disc. S1 and S2 have a ball each and the Goalkeeper starts in the main goal. S1 passes to GK who moves to position GK1 to receive and plays to S3. GK then move to position GK2 to receive a pass from S2 and plays the ball to S1 GK then receives a pass from S3 and plays to S2 The sequence then restarts Progression Rotate position of Goalkeeper and servers Increase distance of servers from the main goal

GK

S3

S2

S1 Set up 3 discs are set up outside the penalty area with a server at each, S1 starts with a ball. GK starts in the main goal and receives a pass from S1, GK can only pass to the player who does not have their arm raised. E.g. If S2 has their arm raised GK must pass to S3 if S3 and S2 both have their arms raised GK must pass back to S1. When the Goalkeeper passes to S2 or S3 they must pass back to the Goalkeeper and the ball is returned to S1 who restarts the practice.
Progression The Goalkeeper scoops and rolls the ball

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 7

Distribution Techniques
S1
GK2

S2

GK1 Set up This drill can be used for the Goalkeeper to practice various kicking/throwing techniques. S1 and S2 start with a supply of footballs S3 is outside the penalty area inside a rectangle 6yds x 4yds set up 2yds outside the penalty area. S1 and S2 chip the ball from alternate sides for GK1 who must catch the ball and try to score past GK by throwing the ball (encourage GK1 to throw low into corners of the goal). Progression GK1 can half volley GK1 can set and strike the ball

b 2 4 6

GK

5 3

S1 S3

S2

Set up S1 S2 start either side of the penalty area S3 is in the centre 2yds outside area S2 has a football and another football is placed on the 6yd line central to the main goal. GK starts in the main goal, on the shot GO GK moves into line with S2 position a to receive a shot (S2 must play the ball for GK to catch accurate pass) GK catches and throws the ball to S1, GK then passes the ball on 6yd area to S3 and moves into line with S1 position b to receive another shot from S1, GK catches and throws to S2. S3 completes the sequence by playing the ball to GK feet who controls and places the ball back on the 6 yd line to repeat the practice. Progression S2 half volleys for GK to catch Increase distance from goal of S players Rotate GK with S players

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 8

Dealing With Crosses

When dealing with a cross it is important the Goalkeeper takes up the correct starting position in relation to the ball and the goal. The body position should be an open stance in order to see the ball and to see position of attacking players inside the area. If the Goalkeepers decision is not to come for the cross their priority is to defend the goal. The Goalkeeper should practice catching crosses from different angles, distances and trajectory, introduce attackers/defenders only when the Goalkeeper is comfortable and confident in coming to catch the cross. Key points - Catching Starting position in relation to the ball Body position - positive Defend the goal defend the space behind the defenders Assess the flight of the ball Communication early, clear, and concise Attack the ball Late, hard and fast quickest and shortest route Take off inside leg Take ball at highest point, elbows flexed, watch the ball into the hands Key points Punching Punch through the bottom and middle of the ball Height, distance, width Recover to defend the goal Outcomes Agility balance coordination and speed Decision making Catching technique Communication Judging speed and trajectory of the ball Organisation skills Problem solving Positioning
Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 8

Dealing With Crosses

S1

S2
GK

Set up 6 discs are set up inside the penalty area as shown S1 and S2 have a supply of footballs GK starts in the main goal. S1 throws the ball for GK to catch and return, S1 then moves to disc 2, then disc 3. After 3 catches S2 moves through the same sequence and the Goalkeeper catches from the opposite side. Progression Vary service from S1 and S2 near post, far post. Vary trajectory of throw

S1
1

GK

S2

2 3

Set up 8 discs are set up as shown 4 each side of penalty area with a ball at discs 1-4. S1 starts with the ball at disc 1 and crosses for GK to catch and throw to the corresponding disc on opposite side (S2). S1 then crosses from disc 2, 3 and 4 the Goalkeeper throws to each corresponding disc on opposite side. S2 then repeats the practice. Progression When S1 crosses S2 can move to any cone so GK must make eye contact before throwing the ball S1 can cross from any disc

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 8

Dealing With Crosses

S1

S2
GK

Set up 6 discs are set up inside the penalty area as shown S1 and S2 have a supply of footballs GK starts in the main goal. S1 throws the ball for GK to catch and return, S1 then moves to disc 2, then disc 3. After 3 catches S2 moves through the same sequence and the Goalkeeper catches from the opposite side. Progression Vary service from S1 and S2 near post, far post. Vary trajectory of throw

S1
1

GK

S2

2 3

Set up 8 discs are set up as shown 4 each side of penalty area with a ball at discs 1-4. S1 starts with the ball at disc 1 and crosses for GK to catch and throw to the corresponding disc on opposite side (S2). S1 then crosses from disc 2, 3 and 4 the Goalkeeper throws to each corresponding disc on opposite side. S2 then repeats the practice. Progression When S1 crosses S2 can move to any cone so GK must make eye contact before throwing the ball S1 can cross from any disc

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach

Goalkeeper Development Section 8

Dealing With Crosses

GK1 GK2

S2 S1

Set up 2 Goalkeepers work at the same time GK1 is in the main goal GK2 starts with the ball S1 is outside the penalty area and S2 is to the right of GK1. GK2 rolls the ball to S1 who then plays the ball to S2 who has 1 touch and cross for GK1. After rolling the ball to S1 GK2 act as passive attacker to compete with GK1. GK1 and GK2 rotate after each cross. Progression Vary start position of S2 Work from both sides inswinger/outswinger Vary height and trajectory of the cross Rotate GKs with servers

GK
3 2

D A

D A

Set up S starts with the ball at disc 1 the Goalkeeper starts in the main goal 2 defenders and 2 attackers are introduced and take their position from the ball. S has one touch out of feet and crosses. GK must decide to come or stay, communication with defenders in this situation is vital. S repeats the practice from disc 2 and disc 3. Progression Work from both sides Rotate all players

Keith Rees Senior Womens Goalkeeping Coach