Football/Soccer Session (Beginner): Goalkeeper W5 Diving

Diving 1 (15 mins)

Organization

3 cones are set up 3 yards apart

The player moves around the cones and makes a collapse dive in front of the cone 

3 Sets on each side

Progression - the ball can be served hip high

Coaching Points

Collapse Dive

When the goalkeeper cannot get their body behind the flight of the ball, these dives are normally below hip height or on the ground and to the goalkeeper’s side and close to their legs. They simply collapse to the side and the hands are positioned behind and on top of the ball and using the ground to make the catch/save

When the ball is away from the body and the goalkeeper must use footwork to attack the ball. The goalkeeper must use proper footwork, leg push, and attack the ball at roughly a 45-degree angle. Upon catching the ball, the body weight of the goalkeeper is absorbed into the ground at the side of the body and shoulders

*For catches along the ground ensure one hand is behind the ball and one hand is on top of the ball

Diving 3 (15 mins)

Organization

The Player starts on the post

On the coach's command, the player moves around the pole. As soon as the player gets around the pole the coach strikes the ball. 

5 ground balls (5 left, 5 right) 

5 Hip height (5 left, 5 right)

5 Head height (5 left, 5 right)

Coaching Points

Collapse Dive

When the goalkeeper cannot get their body behind the flight of the ball, these dives are normally below hip height or on the ground and to the goalkeeper’s side and close to their legs. They simply collapse to the side and the hands are positioned behind and on top of the ball and using the ground to make the catch/save

When the ball is away from the body and the goalkeeper must use footwork to attack the ball. The goalkeeper must use proper footwork, leg push, and attack the ball at roughly a 45-degree angle. Upon catching the ball, the body weight of the goalkeeper is absorbed into the ground at the side of the body and shoulders

High Dive

Using the same technique as above can considering the ball is traveling above head height use the following step in order to be as successful as possible in completing the save.

Jump off the foot nearest the goal.

Drive the other knee up for lift and protection.  

Bring the hands and arms through the middle of the body.

Extend the arms fully (highest point).

Thumbs in ‘W’ shape, fingers forming a basket.

Tip the head back to watch the ball all the way into the gloves.