How Often Do You Train?

Most teams will train 2-3 times a week depending on level and age. This schedule is highly accepted because in order to improve we must revisit our skill set to continue to build our tool kit. Some players choose to add an extra training session each week to gain even more knowledge. So the majority of players are spending at least 3-6 hours a week of instructional learning with the ball at their feet. On the flip side goalkeepers are lucky if they get one session a week of specific training time.

When a goalkeeper stands in goal for their team sessions and balls are flying towards them, is not goalkeeper training. First most of these drills are designed to help develop the player or team attacking the goal. Second there is very little to no feedback given to goalkeepers to help them identify and fix mistakes. This should not be mistaken for goalkeeper specific training. 


Goalkeeper specific training should consist of keeper footwork and movement, repetitive catching and emphasis on holding ball, dive technique and safe landing, dealing with all types of balls being played into the box and shot stopping. Just name a few topics. Please note none of these should require the player to just figure it out on their own. It's helpful to complete these techniques in a controlled environment that promotes success and confidence. Constructive feedback and guidance should always be given as it relates to the position.   


Many clubs offer free or paid academy goalkeeper sessions once a week for their players. This is fantastic and should be taken advantage of. But as stated above these skills need to be reinforced in order for young keepers to reach their full potential. One session a week isn't enough for field players, why should it be enough for goalkeepers?


KeeperTec supports all training and encourages parents to find suitable goalkeeper specific training for their son or daughter. All goalkeepers should be playing as a field player once a week and take part in goalkeeper specific training twice a week. 


If you have any questions or are looking for a place for your young goalkeeper to build their tool kit please contact us about our various goalkeeping programs.