FCArmstrong

There is training to play and training to improve. If you want to be the best goalkeeper on the field during any given day, you need to find time to focus on the basic skill of catching and reacting to kicked balls every time you step on the field. Basic goalkeeping practice is the equivalent of infield practice in baseball, except a goalkeeper is also an outfielder, catcher and pitcher. Having good hands, vision and the ability the throw with strength and accuracy makes the goalkeeper an attacker as well as a shot stopper.

The best goalkeepers are all around soccer players who prevent shots and scoring chances through communication.

As a goalkeeper you are the only player who is allowed to use your hands. The safest place for any shot, cross, header or deflection is your hands. When you can’t cleanly catch a ball boxing and deflecting are options. However if you have time and proper footwork, catching is the best option.

• Hand Position- W or Diamond Window with thumbs behind the ball. Both hands move as a pair.
• Body Position- It’s always best practice to have your body behind the ball High or low.
• Cradle the ball to your body or the ground. Use the ball as your guide not your elbows or knees.
• Focus on the catch first- then worry about your distribution.
• Go to the ball, don’t wait for it. Catch it in the air instead of waiting for a safe bounce. Run to it and scoop it if rolling. Waiting for a ball leads to not getting the ball.

Levels to catch the ball?

• Balls at your feet.
  • Standing and Scoop
    • Hands
      • Reverse palms into a scooping basket
      • Fingers, Palms Forearms, Biceps, Chest Cradle
    • Body
      • Bend at the waist
      • Keep feet together, do not open legs.
    • Focus
      • Keep eye on ball into hands
  • Kneeling Barrier (shortstop) side movement.
    • Bend the trail knees, parallel to the goal line
    • Same for Hands and Focus
• Bouncing balls with turf, dirt, grass.
• Balls at your waist.
• Balls overhead.
• Catching Crosses