Pure and Simple training

Advanced goalkeepers in particular require training sessions that make sense within the context of the game. More experienced and more focused keepers will not respond to a bells-and-whistles approach to training. Exercises that are popular at goalkeeper camps that force keepers to perform tasks that aren’t required during the game won’t get the best performance from keepers during a match. Training for agility and athleticism doesn’t require doing gymnastics maneuvers before making a save. The more closely a keeper’s training simulates what happens in a game, the more likely it is that the keeper will be able to draw on that training during competition.

Keepers need exercises that either maintain their form or help them regain it. Practical exercises that require keepers to perform the exact techniques that they will need to use in the game are the most beneficial in this regard. A coach who cannot or does not put together a session of this type will lose the confidence of the keepers. Keepers count on the coach to help them feel fully prepared for the match.

A smart goalkeeper coach anticipates and listens to the needs of the goalkeeper.

Keeper coaches should avoid the gymnastics-type exercises that force the keepers to make movements they wouldn’t make in a game. In all my years of watching and playing this beautiful game, I have yet to see keepers perform a forward roll or a cartwheel before saving a shot. The more correct repetitions of a particular skill that the keeper performs, the better he will become at it. Practical repetition develops strong technique.