Academy GK One

Goalkeeping Part One
Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching
Goalkeeping Part 1
Goalkeeping Part One

No other aspect of football demands anywhere near as much specialist
training as the goalkeeper. Everything from the physical to the practical
through to the psychological aspect of goalkeeping is unique compared to
the rest of the squad. It is somewhat surprising then that in recreational and
in youth football the needs of a GK are often over looked when training
teams, yet when trained and developed properly this is the area that can
have more influence over your team winning or losing a game than any
other.
Goalkeeping Part 1
Contents
Session
Page No.
Basic Handling & Shot Stopping
4- 9
Dealing With Crosses
10-11
Reflexes
12
Quick Reactions
13-14
Last Minute Dives
15
Warm Up Footwork
16
Jumping / Collapsing
17
Quick Hands
18
Upper Body Rotation
19
The Alamo
20-21
The Complete Goalie Drill
22
Goalie Wars
23
Goalkeeper Squash
24
Drop Kicks
25
Quick Transition
26
Goalkeeper Soccer
27
Goalkeeping Part 1
Elite Academy Football Coaching

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
Playing in and around the penalty area, a goalkeeper and two defenders line up with the defenders
on each post. A server plays the ball into any of the three attackers at the edge of the area. The
defenders become live on attackers first touch. The attacking player who receives the ball cannot
shoot first time but must pass to a team mate. If the defenders win the ball they return it to the
server.
Progression
If a ball gets cleared behind the goals by defender or goalkeeper, the server can throw a ball in
for a header.
After three attacks, rotate positions
KEY FACTORS/COACHING POINTS

Starting position Communication
Movement into/down the line
Set position
Technique of save / recovery saves
Decision to hold, deflect or parry
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
Two goalkeepers work at the same time. GK1 moves into line with S1 and receives a shot. At the
same time GK2 moves into line and saves from S3. GK1 then moves to S2 and GK2 moves to S4. Each
goalkeeper performs drill twice.
Progression
Change angles of servers

Starting positions in relation to the ball
Set as player is about to shoot
Choice of save hold/deflect
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
Same set up as previous. S1 now plays to S2 who has one touch and shoots. GK1 must move into line
with S2 to make the save. GK2 does the same with S3 and S4. Change goalkeepers after six saves.
Progression
S1 serves for S4 to shoot
S2 serves for S1 to shoot
Staring position in relation to the ball
Into line as the pass is played
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
S1 plays the ball to either of the attacking players. On the first touch of attacker, the defender can
attack the ball. GK1 works with defender to make saves.
Progression
GK1 plays for four attacks the players change positions
S1 and D become attackers
Attackers become defenders and server
Goalkeepers rotate

Starting position in relation to the ball
Into line as the pass is played
Communication with defender
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
Goalkeeper lines up behind a small goal 4 yards wide with two balls a further 2 yards wide and
slightly in front. The server throws/volleys the ball at head height for GK to save. After making the
save the GK must move left or right and dive at ball.
Progression
Server now plays ball towards outer balls for GK to save before it hits the ball.
Starting position
Footwork into line
Set as server shoots
Technique take the ball early step towards the ball
Secure the ball
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
Six cones are placed one yard apart. Two flags are placed eight yards apart to form a small goal
between cone and flag. GK starts at the back of the cones and first moves into line with S1 to
receive a shot. He then side skips into line with S2 for second shot, then into line with S1 and so on.
Service should be to feet for a scoop save.
Progression
Vary height and pace of service
Make GK dive and save
Starting position
Footwork into line
Set as player shoots
Technique take the ball early
Choice of save/catch Secure the ball
Hold/ deflect safe areas
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
Dealing with Crosses
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
Two servers 18 yards apart with a ball each take it in turns to serve to the GK who stands
between them. They begin with throwing the ball.
Progression
Vary height and pace of delivery

Starting position
Assess flight of the ball
Communication needs to be loud and clear
Catch at highest, safest point
Landing
10
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
Dealing with Crosses
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
Same set up as previous but now the GK starts with the ball. The GK throws to S1 and then moves
towards him. The server then delivers the ball over the GKs head for him to move his feet
backwards to catch the ball. Repeat to S2.
Progression
Vary height and pace of delivery
Starting position
Assess flight of the ball
Communication
As GK retreats, adopt a side-on position with footwork becoming a lateral side stepping
movement
Take off one footed inside leg for take-off
Catch, punch or deflect the ball
11
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
Reflexes
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
Working in pairs. GK stands in goal with back to the attacker. The attacker shouts turn and throws
the ball at goal. GK has to spin and make reaction save.
Progression
Both players act as GK
Vary height and pace of throw
Increase distance apart and shoot with feet
GKs must be up on toes and in ready position
Attacker must shout then immediately release the ball
Vary shots make GK work on different saves
Make the Save
12
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
Quick Reactions
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
Same set up as previous but now facing each other. GK stands two feet in front of goal facing the
attacker who is three feet away. The attacker rolls the ball through GKs legs. GK has to spin and
make save so ball does not cross line.
Progression
Both players act as goalkeeper
Vary pace of roll
Shoot with feet
GKs must be up on toes and in ready position
Attackers passes must be of a sensible speed
Make GK work keep the passes coming
Make the save by collapsing on the ball protect rebounds
13
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
Quick Reactions
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
Working in groups of 3. GK stands in goal and X2 and X1 line up level with goalposts six yards from
goal. X2 throws at goal GK saves and shuffles across goal to make low shot save from X1.
Progression
Servers must have a supply of balls
X2 should try and hit the left corner and X1 should hit bottom right
Increase pace of shots and time between shots to test GKs ability
Allow for rebounds if GK is very good at saving
Increase distance if serve is good enough
Servers must be accurate
Serves should give GK a chance to get there in time
Really make the GK work
GKs must save and bounce up quickly for next save
Spring off nearest leg and save with nearest hand keep strong wrist
14
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
Last Minute Dives
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
Players form a line in front of the goal. Each player has a number. Coach shouts number and then
strikes at goal. All GKs dive out of the way except the number called.
Progressions
Rotate formation of line
Start with soft serves move to full volley shot
Increase distance between you and GKs
Players should stand strong for shot
Numbers not called maintain a solid dive
React quickly whatever
Try and make a proper save
React as a game situation
15
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
Warm-Up Footwork
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
GK stands in the middle of the 10 by 10 yard grid surrounded by red and green markers. GK has to
turn over as many alternate red then green markers in one minute.
Progression
Introduce more colours
Every player to practice
Reduce time of practice
Compete two players against each other
Players must shuffle sideways click heels
Keep low centre of gravity
Stay in ready position
Spring out of stride after turning over marker
Keep a steady pace
16
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
Jumping / Collapsing
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
Every player has a ball in a 20 by 20 yard grid. Players jog side shuffle etc around. On coaches
command players have to perform task set. (1) Collapse on the ball (2) High catch.
Progression
Players throw ball up for themselves at first
Players should exchange balls with someone else
Vary height and pace of serves into other players
Players must perform correct techniques
Collapse with hands on ball and body protecting spillages
High catches jump off one foot knee up to protect yourself
W hand shape
17
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
Quick Hands
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
Every player has a ball in a 20 by 20 yard grid. Players perform tasks set by the coach.
Bounce ball clap hands and catch ball
Bounce ball clap twice and catch ball
Bounce ball clap three times and catch ball
Progression
Increase number of claps to extortionate level!!!
Bring in a spin after claps and still catch ball
Bring in a spin and pose on one knee before catching ball

Concentrate on the ball
Clap quickly and keep eye on the ball
On the spin maintain balance and focus
Enjoy the drill
18
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
Upper Body Rotation
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
Working in pairs players stand back to back. X1 has ball in hands and turns to right and passes to X2.
X2 rotates upper body from left to right and hands ball back to X1. Repeat.
Progression
Limit time and count passes completed
Do over-under sequence. X1 through legs X2 over head etc
Sit players toe to toe make them sit up pass, lay back touch ball on ground over head
sit up, pass and repeat
Do with feet players lay head to head
All drills to be performed at high pace
Quick hands
Full rotation of the body
No throwing ball to catch breath must be passed
Maintain focus under pressure and when disorientated
19
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
The Alamo!!!
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
Two goalkeepers in the centre of box. Players on the outside pass the ball around and try to score
through any of the three goals in the centre triangle. Rotate the goalkeepers everyone three minutes
Progression
If GKs are very good allow them to play in the centre on their own
To speed shots up, play two touch on the outside or one touch if ability will allow
GKs should be up on their toes and shuffling from side to side heels clicking
Enforce good diving technique and correct handling
Try to catch shots and eliminate rebounds
Communication between both GKs is vital
20
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
The Alamo
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
One goalkeeper and six servers with a supply of balls positioned around in a semi-circle five yards
from the goal. Each server has a number and coach calls out one number at a time to strike the ball
at goal to beat the GK.
Progression
Servers should vary height and pace of each shot at goal and give GK adequate time to get in
position
Once GK has got the quick footwork move the servers back five yards and work on closing
down the angle around the semi-circle

Always be aware of your position in the goal
React quickly to the number of server called and shuffle with quick feet across goal into
saving position
Hands should always be in ready position
Handle each shot properly
21
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
The Complete Goalie Drill
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
One goalkeeper with five outfield positions with an equal number of players at each station. L starts
by lobbing a throw high for the GK to call for and claim. GK then distributes out to opposite side O. O
plays give and go with S and shoots at GK.
Progression
Repeat from opposite side with R starting and X finishing
Players rotate one position in sequence each time i.e. L to O O to S S to L etc.
Rotate GK as well
Allow S to shoot or lay off to keep GK guessing

Big shout for the ball jump correctly and turn and distribute quickly with an over arm throw
Get in position early for each stage and shuffle feet
Close down at correct angle for shot and make appropriate save
Be alert when S has option to shoot or lay off
22
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
Goalie Wars
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
Two teams of two GKs on a 30 by 15 yard game pitch with two full sized goals. Teams have to score
past the opposition by kicking, throwing, punching the ball in the oppositions goal. Players must stay
in their of the field. First team to score three goals wins.
Progression
Play the game like a world cup competition where all teams get to play each other once
Award two points for each victory
Team with the most points are the winners of Goalie Wars

This game should be fast and furious each team trying to catch the other team out of
position or not ready
Teams decide whether to defend and attack side by side or one in front of the other
Although for fun, correct-handling, shot stopping, throwing, punching, drop kicking should be
adhered to throughout
23
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
Goalkeeper Squash
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
Place two cones in front of a wall or use a kick back goal. One GK serves from the back line by
throwing the ball at the goal. The second GK has to catch the ball before it hits the floor. Each GK
takes it in turns to serve.
Progression
If the ball hits the ground the other player scores a point
Allow GKs to use half-volleys or drop kicks
Allow full volleys
Combination of all techniques

Try to throw/kick with power and at an angle
React to the opponents throw/kick quickly and anticipate the deflection off the wall
Catch and re-strike the ball as fast as you can to keep your opponent moving
All correct techniques
24
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
Drop Kicks
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
GKs in pairs stand in the centre of their grids facing each other 40 yards apart. GKs try and score by
drop-kicking the ball into the opponents grid. Players catch the ball and return it to opponents area.
Progression
If ball bounces in the grid player scores two points if from a full volley not a drop-kick one
point
If ball bounces outside of grid opponents get one point
This can be a 2v2 game in larger grids or singular in four grids
Rotate partners

Strike ball on the laces as it hits the floor
Follow toe through to target area
Get under flight of ball and catch at highest point with hands in correct W position
Try to catch opponent out quickly
Vary height and speed of kicks
25
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
Quick Transition
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
Two goals are placed on a field two thirds normal size. O1 begins by crossing into area for the GK to
come and claim. The GK calls and then claims the ball and immediately delivers up field for the
twos Xs. The two Xs go 2v2 against two Os and try to score past GK at opposite end of field. Play
until finish.
Progression
O1 should have supply of balls opposite end GK can practice distribution to O1 after finish
This drill can be built up with crosses coming from both sides, add in attackers pressing the
GK and then defenders and attackers, as you wish, to create more game-like situations

Big positive claim to begin the drill
Get head up before and after you catch and know who you are clearing it to
Select appropriate clearance long throw, drop-kick etc.
Communicate to player and distribute quickly and more important, accurately
26
Goalkeeping Part 1

Session Plan
Coach
Session Aim
Session Date
Goalkeeper Soccer
Session Planner
Timings
MAIN CONTENT
ORGANISATION
On a 25 by 40 yard game field two teams of equal number plus GKs. Normal Game except the team
in possession plays normal soccer and the defending team has to use GK techniques only i.e. diving,
catching etc to win the ball back.
Progression
Rotate the actual GK position for each team
Use larger or smaller field dimensions depending on age, ability and group size

Encourage quick transition players must switch mentalities when they lose possession
Utilize being able to use your hands stay up on feet and bide time to dive in for tackling
Reinforce good technique in every aspect of play
27
Goalkeeping Part 1

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Goalkeeping Part One

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Goalkeeping Part One

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Basic Handling & Shot Stopping

Dealing With Crosses

Last Minute Dives

Upper Body Rotation

The Complete Goalie Drill

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Elite Academy Football Coaching

KEY FACTORS/COACHING POINTS

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Elite Academy Football Coaching

KEY FACTORS/COACHING POINTS

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Elite Academy Football Coaching

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Elite Academy Football Coaching

KEY FACTORS/COACHING POINTS

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Elite Academy Football Coaching

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Elite Academy Football Coaching

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Elite Academy Football Coaching

KEY FACTORS/COACHING POINTS

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Elite Academy Football Coaching

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Elite Academy Football Coaching

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Elite Academy Football Coaching

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Elite Academy Football Coaching

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Elite Academy Football Coaching

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Elite Academy Football Coaching

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Elite Academy Football Coaching

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Elite Academy Football Coaching

KEY FACTORS/COACHING POINTS

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Elite Academy Football Coaching

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Elite Academy Football Coaching

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Elite Academy Football Coaching

KEY FACTORS/COACHING POINTS

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Elite Academy Football Coaching

KEY FACTORS/COACHING POINTS

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Elite Academy Football Coaching

KEY FACTORS/COACHING POINTS

Copyright Elite Academy Football Coaching

Elite Academy Football Coaching