A Quick Guide:

Basics of GK in 5 mins

As a player, a coach, or a parent, you want the playing experience to be a positive one for you or your player. Whether they have little experience or none at all, here are some simple tips to help them get ready for their turn in the spotlight.

Remember, the goalkeeper's role is crucial, and with practice and guidance, you or your player can excel in this position!

1. Basic Catching and Blocking:

The first thing to focus on is catching and blocking the ball.

• GKs need to keep their eye on the ball until they have securely caught or blocked it.

  • ***Common mistake to not watch the ball all the way into their hands.

• Catching technique - a few tips

  • Focus on catching towards the middle of the ball. Not under the ball. Not on top of the ball.

  • If you aren’t comfortable catching the ball, blocking the ball is okay.

  • Timing of your catch

    • Don’t get your hands there too early

2. Basic Positioning -3 Set Positions:

• Positioning is key for a goalkeeper. Here are 3 basics positioning spots for the goalkeeper that will put them in a relatively good spot to block shots without having to learn all of the ins and outs of positioning.

• Being in the right position is important, but so is getting ‘set’ or ready for the shot to be hit at you. Here are a few tips to help you get ‘set’:

  • When the shooter’s plant leg is down, make sure to stop moving. That way you can react which ever way the ball goes

  • GK should be ‘square’ to the shooter

  • Focused in on the shooter — Don’t be too tight (tense) or too loose

• Link to 3 Set Positions video (no sound)

3. Breakaways - 1 on 1 - Think Like a Defender:

• When an opponent is on a breakaway (1 vs. 1), GKs should close down the space like a defender would — and stay patient!

• GKs don’t want to run out of the goal to leave it exposed, but they also don’t want to stand on the line, leaving the goal also very exposed.

4. Basic Rules for Goalkeepers:

Ensure the GK understands the basic rules that apply to their position.

• Remind players where they can use their hands (inside the penalty area)

• What to do when they have the ball in their hands (and how much time) and what to do when a goalkick occurs.

• (Don’t pick it up) if it is passed back intentionally by a teammate using their feet.

Gloves — To Wear or Not to Wear:

• Gloves are not absolutely necessary, especially at the younger ages, but they can be helpful. If your GK chooses to wear them, invest in a decent pair that provides a good grip. (Click here for more information on Gloves)
  

These simple tips will help prepare players to go in goal, even if it is last minute. If you have some time at home or before the game, practice catching the ball with increasing difficulty (making sure the GKs are still having success) is very helpful.

Remember, it's all about the challenge, fun, learning, and building valuable skills that will benefit individuals on and off the pitch.