Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): Shot stopping and positioning

Shot stopping (30 mins)

Set-up

2-4 keepers
1 goal

6 flat markers + 1 cone (center of goal)

3 mannequins

Objective

Move into right position for save - check on angles - visualise the ball - keep looking forward - quick feet - reactions

Focus on physical and agility - awareness - decision making

Key coaching points - general

Quick movement into set position.

Ensure that keeper is on balls of feet to react;

Position in goal - off line

GK needs to visually see where to stand and what angle allows them the best chance to save the ball. 

Start from left side (A)

1. Coach calls out either 1 or 2

2. GK move into into goal to receive shot from the relevant number.

CP - GK should get into position quickly, ideal position is line from striker through GK legs to centre of goal

3. Server shoots for low shot. No rebounds at this stage

4. After save, GK retreats back to side of goal for shot from other number.

GK take 3 shots from each server then rotate with servers.

Repeat on right (B) side.

CP - For first few saves, let GK get going and limit coaching points. This will build confidence in GK. Take notes during this stage - how quick were they to get into position, were they in the right position. Look at their save technique - were they ready and taking ball forwards. If low, check body position - side on. Hand behind ball, hand on top. Feedback to keeper as they move to server. 

Progression

1. Server to throw bounce ball in for save. Introduce rebounds, if ball is spilled server can take follow up shot. Continue for 3 from each server. Repeat both sides.

CP - how quick is keeper to react. Can they get to the ball to smother. Do they go for block shot - check body position - spread out.
2. Server to take higher shots - again, have rebounds in play. Is keeper now working harder to hold onto the ball?

3. This time, coach is not the trigger for movement. Server takes four steps back. Trigger point for GK is to moves into position when server starts their shot.

CP - Is GK alert to movement. If they cannot get into position, what decision do they make - block shot whilst moving? 

With 2-4 keepers, they will have 6 intensive physical saves, then rest whilst serving. With both sides to be covered and 4 transitions will cover around 30 mins.