I need help please. My son is a goalkeeper in U10 team. He is very athletic. His coach said he is excellent with stopping the ball, dives and brave as a lion. BUT he is very slow with distribution, he is always hesitating to get the ball back into the game. He is not sure whether to pass, or throw or volley it. That could even result into moving him into less stronger team next year if he doesnt improve due to lowering number of teams from 4 now to 3 next year. That could be due to his personality and decision making, and a number of missed team trainings due to sickness. Could better distribution be trained ( at home, gk trainings) or it only becomes better in games with whole team? What can we do? How are you with distribution?

In our clubs winter programming we mix ages and the top 2 teams from those 2 ages, and host a mini World Cup. Judah was on a team that struggled to score and lost all 8 games. Club coaches and execs were impressed by his attitude during the games, having 25+ shots per game (started tracking this stat and more), making the stops he should and several he shouldn't per game, solid distribution, plus the only GK to earn assists. Big win for him! Playing a year up and finding success everywhere but the W column.

Its nice when goalkeepers get recognised for their efforts, I find a lot of time the get overlooked by the goal scorers

I thought I'd write something on Pass-backs. All part of the modern game, of course. Being the sweeper-keeper & an escape route for your defenders. My two have made me sweat over the years, with the casualness they have received the ball, stopped it, looked around (all whilst the striker is running at them, of course!) & popped it away, like nothing happened. All everyday play for them. Meanwhile, I'm having kittens just watching...! My top tips for practice would be; Being able to pass with deadly accuracy. Being able to pass with either foot. If possible, receiving the ball outside of your goal ( in-case you miss it - we've all seen the you tube videos, right?!) Announcing you're open, to whoever needs you. Use names & a simple word. We use 'home' or 'free' Those pop-up goals or marker cones are invaluable for practice, if a 2nd person isn't available. Its all about that favourite trio; Practice, practice & practice. 😎

As the goalkeeper coach for our club, which includes coaching my son, it's these tiny messages that have huge impact! In my experience, messages like this are rare from a head technical director and team coach. It came after a 3-3 draw playing an opponent 2 years our senior, and Judah making several critical saves, showing increased class in his distribution, and command of the box. How do you talk with your GKs and keep them proud of their efforts while focused on development? For us, after training sessions and games we answer: what about today were you most proud of, what area do you feel you need to improve, what did you do well today? No lengthy discussions. Just quick popcorn answers as part of reflecting on the match or sessions. I get to hear his heart and thoughts, and am careful not to judge them.