JPL Advice... · Total Goalkeeping

JPL Advice...

Hi all,

Last week, Lewis trialled for a JPL regional talent centre. 90 minute session, fully focused around dribbling, passing and attack/defence (1v1, 3v3 situations). The final 10 minutes was a game, whereby he wasn't allowed to use his hands in goal until the final 5 minutes. Throughout the majority of the session, it was clear that Lewis wasn't overly impressed, as he was there with the expectation that he would be trialling in goal.

To his credit, he didn't look at all out of place (he started as a defender in U8 before moving into goal at U9), and on the drive home he said he'd like to go back and give it another shot, even though he has absolutely no interest in playing outfield.

As with most trials I've seen, it ends 1 of 3 ways: No place offered, extended trial/development squad or offered a spot.

To my surprise, he's been offered a spot!

My immediate thought is, how on earth can he get an invitation when they've not even seen him play in his position? Goes without saying, modern-day goalkeeping is a ball playing role, not just shot stopping, but for all they know he could be absolutely useless!

The team in question have a lot of kids at all ages - Easily 100+ from what I saw in 1 session. They've had a couple of players signed by pro clubs, they've had players go to the JPL nationals and win the top prize, so I don't think it's just a money grab, but I'm really struggling to see how he can be offered a place.

There must be people here with JPL experience (past or present), and I'd love to hear from as many of you as possible - Based on the above, what are your thoughts??? Any advice/guidance would be greatly appreciated 🙏

Note: The young man doesn't know about the offer yet - I don't want him to get caught up in the emotion of thinking this is something which it isn't. First and foremost I want him to be happy, but it needs to be the right environment to help him achieve his personal goals. I'm really concerned that this opportunity may not align with that for the upcoming season.

(Further info: His GK development training is every Friday, which would clash with 1 of the training days, so that would have to stop. The monthly cost would be £25 more than what it is currently for his GK training, so it's not a huge financial hole, and comes with the benefit of 2 sessions a week, whereas he's only doing 1 session a week dedicated GK training...)

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JPL Advice...