Goalkeeping Tips & Drills for Youth Soccer

To become a good soccer goalkeeper for a youth soccer club, it is important at an early age to practice the fundamentals over and over through goalkeeping drills customized to improve the specific skills and athleticism needed. A few youth goalkeeper drills are listed below but you can find many more free youth goalkeeping drills for soccer online at websites like Weplay.com.

A soccer goalkeeper needs to be quick on his feet to effectively cover the goal line, which is why learning proper footwork is the main key for goalkeeping success. As the last line of defense, the soccer goaltender must be able to read the play and react quickly to the shot. Their job is to catch or deflect the soccer ball to remove the danger. They are also responsible for launching a counterattack once the save has been made. Additionally, to be an effective soccer goalkeeper, one must learn how to position themselves in the net and reduce the open angle for the shooter. It's not an easy position to play, so we'll go over some strategies and drills to train as a youth soccer goalkeeper below.

Soccer Goalkeeping Drills & Tips:

• Goalkeeper Stance - A soccer goaltender should always stay square to the ball with hips and shoulders turned toward the shooter. In the event of a loose ball, always keep it in front of you and be ready to react.
  
  
• When a shot is taken, the soccer goalkeeper should be square to the shooter with the knees bent slightly and on the balls of the feet. Arms should be at their sides with the hands outstretched and the torso should be leaning forward ready to spring into action.
  
  
• Goalkeeping Footwork - A good soccer goalkeeper is always moving. They should be shuffling or bouncing on the balls of their feet, ready to spring into action. A soccer goalkeeper who plays "flat on their feet" is going to get beat more often, so always be in the "ready" position.
  
  Use the shuffle step to move back and forth in the crease. This will keep the goalkeeper square to the ball and help prevent tripping. The key here is not to cross your feet as you move from side to side.
  
  
• Goalkeeper Positioning - Keep an eye out as to how you are positioned in the net. Occasionally glance to each post and adjust your position accordingly. Depending on the pressure you're under, you'll want to give the shooter the least amount of open net to shoot at.
  
  
• Goalkeeping Recovery - A successful soccer goalkeeper recovers quickly from a save. They get on their feet and keep their hands free to be prepared for another save. Practice getting up quickly without the use of the hands.

Goalkeepers have one of the most exciting positions on the field. Every block and every score that passes is a critical moment in the game. There are plenty of drills to practice your footwork, positioning, and recovery, but the most valuable experience is taking many shots on goal.