GK Wall Drill 5

Steps:

1. Start with the goalkeeper facing the wall (6 yards away) and two players with balls behind the goalkeeper. One player should be behind and to the side of the goalkeeper, and the other player should be 6 yards directly behind the goalkeeper.
2. The drill begins when the player with the ball (behind and to the side of the goalkeeper) 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, then the goalkeeper immediately turns and facing the other player with the ball who is 6 yards behind him/her kicking/throwing the ball at the goalkeeper. 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, then readjusting and reacting to the second player playing kicking/throwing the ball at him/her.

Setup:

• 1 flat wall
• 3 players (2 Field Players, 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
2. Feet should be shoulder width apart o 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
3. Extend your arms, elbows slightly bent
4. 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.