I am now apart of the Chesterfield FC U14’s Academy. I am on my way back from my meeting with their team. My official signing day is on Friday 24th July. We play our first match on 30th August against West Brom Academy and start training on Monday 10th August.

Beach training is going well 2 weeks to go before our tournament. We did try some goggles to help with the sane but they were a bit pointless and Wilson felt silly in them 🤦‍♀️☺️ some great catching again from him

What’s everyone’s football schedules this week? Any trainings? Games? 1-2-1’s? Pre season for myself and honestly didn’t realise how much I missed putting the mitts on 🤣 What gloves are people wearing? Looking through the range and there’s a good selection on there!

First things first…im old “skool”! I liked the front drop kick and was only ever taught this. But I get more often than not “can you teach me the side volley method of distribution” My answer is “yes….But….it takes a lot and I mean A LOT of practice. The side volley has become the preferred distribution technique for many modern goalkeepers, opinion suggests it can provide greater accuracy, consistency, and speed of play compared with a traditional front facing drop kick. While the side volley can provide these, it is more difficult to execute consistently under pressure and often results in less control over the ball's flight and landing area. So, the science bit…. striking the ball from the hand at a lower point of contact, the side volley allows goalkeepers to generate a flatter, more controlled trajectory, making it easier for teammates to receive the ball while maintaining possession. It also enables goalkeepers to distribute quickly into wide areas, exploit spaces behind the opposition, and initiate counter-attacks with precision. In addition, the side volley requires fewer preparatory movements than a forward drop kick, allowing faster execution when the opposition is transitioning. From a tactical perspective, the side volley supports the modern game's emphasis on building attacks from the goalkeeper and retaining possession rather than simply clearing the ball long. It can give goalkeepers greater control over where the ball is delivered, helping teams play through or around the opposition's press. In comparison, the traditional drop kick remains useful when maximum distance or field position is required, such as under heavy defensive pressure or in the closing stages of a match. However, for teams that prioritise controlled build-up, quick transitions, and accurate distribution, the side volley offers significant technical and tactical advantages, making it the preferred choice for many elite goalkeepers in the modern game. Just remember its all about practice, practice, PRACTICE!!!

Jack just arrived in Nottingham for a trial day. Not sure what to expect but by the end of the day he’ll know what he needs to do if he’s serious about being a goalkeeper.