Every team needs a goalkeeper, and the best ones love the job. If your child keeps volunteering to go in net, here's how to help them grow.
When should kids specialise?
Most coaches recommend that young players try goal and play outfield until around U11 or U12. Playing outfield builds footwork and comfort on the ball, which modern keepers need. Specialised goalkeeper training can start earlier, alongside regular team play.
The core skills
- Ready position: balanced, on the toes, hands ready
- Handling: catching cleanly, with hands behind the ball
- Footwork: shuffling and setting before the shot
- Diving: safe technique, learned on soft ground first
- Distribution: throwing, rolling and kicking to start attacks
- Communication: organising the defence in front of them
Gloves and gear
Choose gloves sized to the hand: too big and the ball slips. Padded goalkeeper shirts or pants help on hard ground. Wash gloves gently with water and let them air-dry.
Supporting a young keeper
Goalkeepers make mistakes that everyone sees. Praise brave decisions and good positioning, not just saves. Remind them that every great keeper has let in goals they would rather forget.
Our Goalkeeper Academy and goalkeeper clinics give keepers specialist sessions alongside their team training.
