We would most likely be in
agreement that we short change
our keepers by limiting their
technical and physical training
to kicking a few balls at them
followed by a shooting practice
where field players blaze the
ball wide or over the goal.
There are very few clubs or
teams that are fortunate enough
to have specific keeper training
personnel, yet that the goal
keeper is the only true
specialist on the team that
requires special training to
properly do their job.
Therefore, the head coach needs
to still take the time to help
the players wishing to play this
position by setting up practice
sessions that allow them to be
the main focal point, as well as
setting up some extra training
sessions that you can work with
them individually or assign them
some work that they can do
during their own time. In my
position I do have the luxury of
turning to coaching colleagues
who have plenty of expertise in
the position, and I have asked
them to share their thoughts and
opinions on how we can keep
developing our youth
goalkeepers.
Continuously educating yourself
about the game is important so
even if you are one of those
lucky coaches who can rely on a
specialized coach to help your
keepers you still need to take
the time to learn about the ways
you can help your #1 player.
Enjoy, see you
at the Far Post!