Soccer goalkeeping is a challenging, unique position and requires a specific skill set. Numerous repetitions and focused keeper drills are the best ways to improve your skills as a successful soccer goalkeeper. Good footwork, handling, agility, shot stopping and distribution are vital aspects of becoming a good soccer goalkeeper.
Footwork
Good footwork is crucial for a goalkeeper during a soccer game. Reaction drills such as follow the leader are good ways to introduce agility into your goal keeping practice. Place two goals approximately 6 yards apart and directly facing each other. The leader moves side to side quickly, while the opposing keeper mirrors his movement. Techniques to focus on include staying on your toes, keeping shoulders and hips facing forward as you move side to side, and a quick, explosive first step.
High Balls
As a soccer goalkeeper, you should always try to catch a crossed or high ball at the highest point during a soccer game. This avoids opposing attackers being able to head the ball. Have a partner face you and throw balls high directly in the air, focus on jumping and catching the ball while in the air, catching the ball above your head, and raising your knees to add thrust to your jump, and to protect yourself from on rushing forwards. Have servers throw or kick balls to you from out wide to simulate crosses during a game. Add progressions to the practice by varying the angle and distance ball comes from, and adding an attacker.
Shot Stopping
Shot stopping should be practiced with shots coming at a range of heights and angles. You should always aim to provide your body as a barrier behind a saved shot, unless a diving, full stretch save is required. When diving, make your first step to the direction of the ball and use the plant leg to propel your body quickly to the spot of the save. Practice with a server shooting from 10 to 15 yards out, and vary the angle and height of the shots.
One on Ones
When a one-on-one breakaway occurs, a keeper should immediately come off his line and pressure the attacking player, also narrowing the angle available to shoot on target. Cues to look for are a heavy touch allowing you to pounce on the ball, the ball being close enough for you to gain possession or the player's body language showing you a shot is coming. Practice one on ones by having an attacker run at you from different angles. Keep score by awarding a point to the attacker for a goal, and a point to the goalkeeper for a save or miss.
Distribution
Punting, kicking or throwing are forms of distribution for a goalkeeper during a game. Practice distribution by having a target 20 to 40 yards away and aiming for it. Progress the practice by increasing the distance or adding defenders to the drill and aiming for a teammate moving to be open.
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