Who Plays Goalkeeper?
- Every player should try goalkeeping at this age
- Rotate GK each game or half; no one player should play more than 50% of total game time in goal
- Some kids love it, some hate it; both reactions are fine
- Never force a reluctant player; ask for volunteers first
The Ready Position (Set Position)
- Feet shoulder-width apart, weight on the balls of the feet
- Knees slightly bent, body leaning slightly forward
- Hands at waist height, palms facing forward
- Eyes on the ball at all times
- "Bouncy" stance; ready to move in any direction
Say this
“Be a coiled spring; ready to explode in any direction.”
The W Catch (Diamond Hands)
- Thumbs almost touching behind the ball, fingers spread wide
- Hands form a "W" shape when viewed from behind
- Catch the ball in front of your face, not at your chest
- "Squeeze" the ball into your body after catching
- For low balls: get your body behind the ball, scoop with hands underneath
Say this
“Make a W with your thumbs; now catch it in front of your nose.”
When to Come Out
- Come out when the ball is loose and you can get there first
- Stay on your line when the attacker has control
- "Make yourself big" when coming out 1v1 (spread arms and legs)
- Shout "KEEPER!" loudly when coming to claim the ball
Say this
“If you're going, go early and loud. Half-measures get you hurt.”
Low Saves & Diving
- Getting down safely is the first skill
- Land on your hip and shoulder, never your wrist
- Start with rolling saves before progressing to diving
- Use crash mats or soft grass for first sessions
Say this
“Hip first, then shoulder. Keep your wrists out of it.”
Footwork & Positioning
- Good goalkeepers move before the shot
- Shuffle across the goal to stay centered on the ball
- Cut down the angle by stepping forward
- Small steps, stay on your toes, never cross your feet
Say this
“Stay between the ball and the center of the goal, always.”
Distribution (Getting the Ball Out)
- Roll: safest option; use for short passes to nearby defenders
- Throw: overarm for longer distances, underarm for close accuracy
- Kick from hands: only after the build-out line clears — no punting before Grade 5
- Goal kick: place ball on edge of goal area, kick to the nearest defender
Remind them
“Roll it or throw it first. Kicking is a last resort at this age.”
Coach Resources — GK Session Videos
- Start with catching: throw balls gently for them to catch in the W position
- Progress to low saves: roll balls to either side so they practice diving and scooping
- Keep it fun: "how many catches in a row?" challenges build confidence without pressure
- Never blame the goalkeeper for goals; praise effort and positioning, not outcomes
- Warm up the GK separately for 5 minutes before the scrimmage begins
7 Fun Goalkeeper Training Drills for Kids
U10 Goalkeeper Training Session