Goalkeeping Basic Handling

What is the session about?

This session works on the goalkeeper hand position and showing the goalkeeper the correct technique. In the session we are mostly concentrating on the W grip which is used mostly for high catches or when the ball is outside the line of the body of the goalkeeper.

How will this benefit a coach and their players?

The session allows the coach to check the hand position of the goalkeepers. Getting the hands to work together is a common fault of younger goalkeepers. If goalkeepers work on this technique they are more likely to catch more balls rather than parrying the ball into dangerous areas.

What key skills will be worked on in this session?

The session works on receiving the ball into hands mostly in line with the GK?s body. We work on the W grip catching technique but also briefly look at the M grip or scooping the ball up from a low shot around the body.

Is there a specific age group for this session to be aimed at? If so, what age group and why?

The session is aimed at younger goalkeepers and to work on the fundamentals of goalkeeping and catching.

Can you name an exercise which is particularly key to this session?

The drill where the goalkeeper is working from their knees is a good way of isolating the correct position of the hands when in the set position. Although this is a static drill you can see if the elbows are away from the body to act as a shock absorber. It also allows the coach to get up close and analyse what is happening to the goalkeepers hands when the ball impacts their gloves.