The goalie is like the last shield, stopping the opposing team from scoring.
To be a great goalie, you need to be alert, use proper techniques, and move swiftly.
Our step-by-step guide will show you how to train yourself to excel in these areas and become the best goalie you can be!
Key Points to Remember:
• Keep your weight on the balls of your feet, bend your knees, and stay relaxed for swift reactions.
• Maintain communication with your teammates as you have a clear view of the field. Assertively give instructions when necessary.
• Focus on your opponents’ feet, not their gaze, to anticipate where they will kick the ball.
Now, let’s take a look at our step-by-step guide on How to Be a Good Goalie
Step 1: Proper Body Positioning
Always face your hips towards the ball and maintain eye contact with it. This ensures you’re ready for any shot. Avoid turning your back to the field at all times.
Step 2: Use the “W” Technique
Position both hands together with thumbs touching to form a “W” shape. Employ this method for catching high balls as it’s more efficient. Ensure your hands stay above the ball upon catching, allowing it to drop towards your feet if you can’t maintain grip. It’s preferable to have the ball loose at your feet than letting it slip through your hands into the net.
Step 3: Vocalise!
Communication is key for your teammates to understand whether they should depend on you or offer assistance. It’s also beneficial for addressing situations when a teammate isn’t fulfilling their role.
Step 4: Stay Relaxed
Being tense increases the pain if you get hit by the ball compared to when you’re relaxed.
Read More: 15 Tips and Skills to Transform You into a Successful Footballer
Step 5: Position Yourself Correctly
Maintain a position a few feet ahead of the goal line at all times. This reduces the space available for the opposing team to shoot into.
Step 6: Maintain Balance
Remain on your toes with slightly bent knees and distribute your weight evenly to stay balanced. When facing a shot while in the goal, always position yourself in front of the ball as it approaches.
Step 7: Stay Vigilant
Remain attentive to everything happening on the field. Be prepared to swiftly move towards the ball when required, staying on your toes. When advancing towards an attacker, dive horizontally towards their feet, ensuring to cover all angles. Never hesitate to engage with the ball.
Step 8: Focus on Opponents’ Feet, Not Their Eyes
Observing how their feet are positioned before kicking reveals their intended direction. This advance information helps you anticipate and prepare for a potential save.
Step 9: Be Ready for Corner Kicks
Stay prepared as corner kicks can happen swiftly. Be prepared to quickly move out and punch the ball out of the air.
Conclusion
Becoming an excellent goalie requires a combination of alertness, proper technique, and quick reflexes. By following our step-by-step guide, you can enhance these skills and become the best goalie you can be!
FAQs
Q. Why is it important to maintain communication with teammates as a goalie?
Ans: Communication ensures that teammates know whether to depend on the goalie or offer assistance, leading to better coordination and teamwork on the field.
Q. What is the significance of the “W” technique in goalkeeping?
Ans: The “W” technique helps goalies catch high balls more efficiently, reducing the risk of the ball slipping through their hands into the net.
Q. Why is it essential to stay relaxed as a goalie?
Ans: Being relaxed reduces the pain if the goalie gets hit by the ball, enabling better focus and performance during the game.
Q. Why should goalies focus on opponents’ feet rather than their eyes?
Ans: Observing opponents’ feet helps goalies anticipate where they will kick the ball, allowing for quicker reactions and better positioning to make a save.
Q. How can goalies prepare for corner kicks?
Ans: Goalies should stay prepared for corner kicks by being ready to quickly move out and punch the ball out of the air, minimising the opposing team’s scoring opportunities.
This video can also help you to be a good goalie