How to Train a Goalkeeper

The goalkeeper is one of the most important players on a soccer team. His performance can often be the difference between winning and losing, which is why good goalkeepers are so highly valued. College and professional teams typically employ goalie coaches to provide keepers with specialized training. Being a goalkeeper requires a combination of mental strength, bravery, agility and good hand-eye coordination.

Things You'll Need

  • Goal
  • Soccer balls
  • Rope
  • Wooden stake
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Instructions

    • 1

      Start by teaching a goalkeeper the basic footwork. Good footwork is central to everything a goalkeeper does, so have him shuffle from side to side and do crossovers to warm up. Stress the importance of bending the knees and being light on his toes.

    • 2

      Teach the goalkeeper how to position himself. Positioning and anticipation are key skills for a keeper. Attach one rope to a stake in the middle of the goal, another rope to the left-hand post and a third rope to the right-hand post. Place a ball near the edge of the penalty area and use the ropes to demonstrate how to cut down the angle. Move the ball to different positions to show the goalkeeper where to position himself depending on the location of the ball.

    • 3

      Work on catching the ball. Instruct the goalkeeper how to position his hands in the shape of a "W," with fingers up. Put the theory into practice by standing five yards away from the goalkeeper and throwing balls back and forth at shoulder height. Then, move onto basket catches and balls rolling along the ground. Make sure the goalkeeper catches the ball with his fingers up for balls above the waist and his fingers down when the ball is below the waist.

    • 4

      Work on diving. Make sure the goalkeeper uses proper technique while diving to reduce the risk of injury. Instruct the keeper to step toward the ball at an angle with the hands reaching the ball first to make the catch. Teach the goalkeeper to then take the ball to the ground, finish on his hip and shoulder and use a combination of the ball, his hands and top leg to protect himself. Help the goalkeeper perfect his technique by rolling balls to his left and right. Back up after each throw to ensure the goalkeeper moves forward with each dive.

    • 5

      Stress the importance of accurate distribution. Goalkeepers too often squander possession by kicking the ball aimlessly up the field rather than aiming for a teammate to start an attack. Pair up with the goalkeeper and have him work on rolling the ball out and making sidearm and overhand throws. Distance yourself farther from the goalkeeper as he progresses to sidearm and overhand throws. Simulate game situations by making runs across the pitch, giving the goalkeeper a moving target for which to aim.