Goalkeeper – Specific Attributes Tactical Excellent handling Skills Makes good decisions, knowing when to catch, deflect or parry Has the composure to pass and receive with both feet Can pass over varied distances using many passing techniques Confident in dealing with crosses, especially in congested areas Psychological Has the courage to dive at the feet of opponents and smother the ball Demonstrates good powers of concentration and is alert when called into action Able to cope with errors and criticism Makes positive decisions and plays with presence Physical Has flexibility, agility and athleticism to move around the pitch/goal with speed, balance and co-ordination Quick reactions, both in thought and movement Has the power and strength needed to deal with physical contact situations Tactical Understands the principles of a good start position, both in and out of possession Effective communicator Has an appreciation of the state of the game and adopts a no risk mentality Initiates counter-attack opportunities for the team Good game understanding and decision making

Dealing with 1 v 1 Organisation Half the group have a ball. 2 Goalkeepers are in a square 5ydsx 5. Object of the game For dribblers to win a point, they must dribble through the squares without the GK getting the ball. If successful, the dribbler passes to a player on the outside of the playing area. GK gets a point by smothering the ball and then passing/throwing the ball to a player on the outside Goalkeepers will develop: In 1 v 1 situations Agility, Balance, Co-ordination Distribution skills

Shot Stopping Organisation In a 4 v 4 game, play starts with a GK distributing the ball to the opposing goalkeeper (as if he is playing to a CF) by either kicking or throwing. Once received the GK can play to his team who will then try and score. Attackers can shoot from distant or try and build play into opponents half. If defenders win it they can also score. Once attack finishes, practice starts again with roles reversed. Goalkeepers will develop: Shot stopping Distribution Communication to players

Dealing with Back-passes in a Game Organisation Within a match set a rule that both teams have to have their goalkeeper touch the ball before they score (although unrealistic this rule will allow your goalkeeper to have plenty of variations of back passes and will also help your players improve possession). Alternatively Play 1 point if you score in open play, or 3 points if you score after your GK has touched the ball Goalkeepers will develop: Receiving and passing Angles of support Distribution skills & all other area of the game

Notes to remember.. Goalkeepers should be included as much as you can within your practices Don’t forget them when planning your session Goalkeepers play with a 7:1 ratio of feet to hands. Therefore, allow them to play outfield to practice using their feet. Need some more

Quotes about Goalkeeping “To be able to work well in the box, I believe you have to be able to think outside the box” (Brad Friedel)