Goalkeeping Curriculum and Methodology

Our vision is to develop a confident goalkeeper that is prepared for any situation within a soccer game. Preparation comes from education, discipline, and perseverance. There is a direct correlation between the way one trains and their performance in a match. As a result, it is essential that goalie training mirrors situations in the soccer game.

Above is our goalkeeper school's model. We have developed a comprehensive 8-week program to meet the specific needs of each one of our goalkeepers. This model is the same for all ages; however, the intensity, complexity, and tactics are very different. The four components of the model our school focuses on are shot-stopping, crosses, communication, and distribution. There are many situations and techniques for each element. While the goalkeeper position is complicated, it was best to focus on the four key attributes most critical to success. The three elements of each component develop the complete goalkeeper.

Ages 8 and under (Grades 2 and below)

At this age, goalkeepers can not be pushed into the goalie position. Rather, they must be introduced. It is crucial at this level to develop hand-eye coordination and not neglect foot skills. The goalkeeper position is often at times physiologically challenging for any child. An introduction of ball handling, wearing gloves, and bright color jersey will bring love to this fantastic position. At this level, coaches refrain from choosing a goalkeeper and allow them the opportunity to explore the aspects of the position. In our goalkeeper training program, we introduce the basic fundamentals and build a foundation of love for the goalie position.

Ages 9 to 11 (Grades 3 -5)

From ages 9 to 11, proper technique, decision making, and learning to compete must be emphasized. The implementation of a positive training environment in combination with building skills and confidence is essential to success at this level. The goalkeeper basics include foot skills, footwork patterns, ready position, catching techniques, distribution, communication, and leadership skills. At this age, we provide feedback using guided questioning. By using guided questioning, the goalkeeper will think and learn how to problem-solve.

Ages 12 to 13 (Grades 6 - 8)

Quality repetition is essential in combination with positive feedback at this level. Although bad habits at this age maybe hard to break, it is vital that goalies understand "why" they are doing something incorrectly and rectify their respective misunderstandings. At this phase, the goal is to drive the participant to understand a broader view of the game as a whole, and not just hyper focus on the entertaining aspects of the position. This philosophy allows our students to understand the game of soccer and the goalkeeper position as part of a collective entity. At the David Pekarek Goalkeeper Training School, we want our goalkeepers to be leaders, problem-solvers, great decision-makers, and the "rock" of every soccer team.

Ages 14 -16 (Grades 9-10)

When developing goalkeepers at this age group, we emphasize the importance of mastering skills and technique. The development of key skills and crucial techniques are relevant to success. At this level, formulating a deeper understanding of both the attacking and defensive principles of the soccer game are communicated on a consistent basis. As a result, the goalkeeper begins to view the position as both a defensive entity, and a means of attack. In our goalkeeper training sessions, we emphasize the development of a strong mindset that understands all aspects of field play. Goalkeepers often tend to be perfectionists, and we want our students to view mistakes as learning opportunities. Often from errors, the best learning takes place.   

Ages 17 to Adult (Grades 11 to Collegiate)

Goalkeepers at this level often display a mastery of skills and techniques. They can apply what they have learned directly into gameplay and can anticipate specific scenarios and situations before they occur. The game experience is one of the best teachers at this level. As a result, we implement game situations in all of our training exercises with the intention of the pushing the goalkeeper to recognize key moments of the game. We believe strongly in developing leadership, decision making, organization, and problem-solving skills. The goalkeeper can be one of the most stressful positions on the field and our school builds the knowledge, confidence, and skills necessary to achieve success.