Goalkeepers at all levels are required not only to handle the ball, but to handle all routine shoots and crosses successfully. Yet in every game, regardless of the level, we see mishandled shots or crosses.
HANDLING TECHNIQUES
WARM-UP(Fig. A)
Setup
Using cones, mark out two shoulder-width goals facing each other, about 10 yards apart. Then mark out a larger goal two yards in front of each of these.
GK2 and GK3 stand in the smaller goals. GK1 has a ball and stands in the larger goal in front of GK3.
Sequence
On GK1's command, GK2 steps forward and handles a ball delivered by GK1.
Players rotate positions after each serve.
Train each technique in two- or three-minute intervals.
Variations
Foot distribution: Off the ground, half volley, and volley should be used for intermediate- to high-level goalkeepers.
Coach serves; goalkeepers rotate through the exercise.
Coaching points
To train basic handling techniques, maximize repetitions by varying your hand distribution:
1. Basket catch: Throw an overhand skipped ball.
2. Contour catch: Sling the ball toward the chest/head
3. Side contour catch: Toss the ball just outside the frame of the body.
4. High contour catch: Toss the ball into the air in front of the keeper.
PHASE 1(Fig. B)
Setup
Place two cones three yards in front of the goal line, marking the middle third of the goal.
GK1 stands in the goal with the ball, between the cones. GK2 and GK3 stand outside the goal at the posts. Coach serves from 14 to 16 yards away.
Sequence
GK1 bowls the ball to the coach, then reacts to the shot using proper handling technique.
After making the save, GK1 exits the goal toward GK2, who enters the exercise and continues the sequence.
Variations
Coach has the soccer balls; GK1 faces the goal. On command, GK1 turns to handle a shot from the coach.
GK1 starts outside the cones. On command, GK1 shuffles and sets between the cones to handle a shot from the coach.
Coach serves volleys and drop kicks.
Incorporate agility: Start goalkeepers on their stomach or sides.
Have goalkeepers face the flank outside the cones. This forces them to use a drop step and/or crossover step.
Have goalkeepers shuffle and touch the cones or footwork around them.
Coaching points
Emphasizing the middle third of the goal forces keepers to use proper footwork, which should eliminate diving and reinforce usage of basic techniques.
Focus on setting feet and using proper position to handle shots.
Utilize proper techniques to catch the ball.
Emphasize footwork and getting the body behind the ball.
Maximize the number of repetitions to train technique.
