GK Wall Drill 1

Steps:

1. Start with the goalkeeper facing the wall (6 yards away) and a player with a ball in their hands, behind the goalkeeper on either side of them.
2. The drill begins when the player with the ball either throws or kicks the ball against the wall so that the goalkeeper has to catch the ball out of the air as it bounces off the wall toward him/her. The idea behind the drill is that the goalkeeper must be quick to react and catch the ball without being able to see it until it hits the wall.

Setup:

• 1 flat wall
• 2 players (1 Field Player 1 Goalkeeper)

Variations:

• When the goalkeeper feels comfortable, kick/throw the ball a bit harder against the wall to make it more difficult for the keeper.

Tips:

Catching the ball waist high:

Step 1:

1. Your body needs to be directly in line with the ball Feet should be shoulder width apart
2. Knees slightly bent and stay on your toes
3. Head up and eyes on the ball

Step 2:

1. Bend from the waist as the ball approaches
2. Extend your arms with a slight bend
3. Palms should face upward

Step 3:

1. Once the ball makes contact with your hands and forearms, absorb the impact of the ball.  

Catching the ball at head height:

Step 1: 

1. Your body needs to be directly in line with the ball 
2. Keep your eyes on the ball at all times o Extend your arms, elbows slightly bent
3. With both arms extended your fingers should be evenly spread

Step 2

1. Once the ball makes contact with your hands, absorb the impact of the ball.