Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): Goalkeeper Warm-Up

Screen 1 (20 mins)

Organisation:

- Set up exactly as shown in diagram

Equipment:

- Cones

- 4 markers

- At least 6 balls

- 2 larger cones (not essential)

- 1 goal

Description:

- Working on the GKs footwork, continuously pass the ball backwards and forwards between the GK and yourself as the coach. The GK should be shuffling between goal 1 and goal 2 between every pass as marked in the diagram. The GK should start off with two tocuhes with both feet, however, this can be progressed to just one touch passes for the GK only to really challenge him/her.

- Next step, the GK should now shuffle between the cones in the line showing quick feet. After every shuffle between each cone, the GK should catch the ball with an underarm scoop to start off with, with the coach serving the ball underarm. This process should be repeated for different types of catches, for example, the 'W' catch, overhead catch and high jumping catch.

- The third step is where the 2 goals come into play. The GK should shuffle around the first cone before then making a dive across goal 1 to catch the ball. The coach should continue to serve the ball underarm to allow the GK to catch the ball without too much of a challenge. This should be repeated alternatively between the 2 goals marked on the diagram until all 6 balls have been used.

- This process should then be repeated but the coach should serve the balls from the floor rather than throwing. The objective for the GK now is to either parry the ball away from danger or around the post. If he parries just in front of him/her then remind the GK that this should be parried away from danger, not into a striker's feet. Can also challenge the GK to catch/handle the ball if possible.

- Next step is in the bigger goal. The GK should shuffle over to the post from the middle of the goal. jump up to touch the crossbar and return to the markers in the middle. The GK then performs a 'two-step' on the markers before making a diving save/catch served from the coach. This should be underarm to start with but can be progressed to serving from the floor on the second or third set. All six balls should be used for each set.

- Can use any spare minutes to work on distribution of the ball. Some younger goalkeepers may struggle with distribution from goal kicks so practicing this as much as possible is vital. Talk them through the technique: lean back, strike with the laces underneath the ball, follow through towards target.