what skills should a girls u14 soccer goalie have

3 min read 27-12-2024

what skills should a girls u14 soccer goalie have

The U14 age group is a crucial stage in a young soccer goalie's development. At this level, foundational skills are refined, and more advanced techniques begin to emerge. Becoming a top-tier goalie requires a combination of physical attributes, technical prowess, and mental fortitude. This article details the key skills a U14 girls' soccer goalie should possess.

Fundamental Skills: The Building Blocks of Goalkeeping

This section focuses on the core skills every U14 goalie needs to master.

1. Diving and Catching:

Diving Technique: Proper diving technique is vital for reaching shots across the goal. This includes efficient body positioning, proper hand placement, and safe landing techniques to minimize injury risk. Practice different types of dives (low, high, lateral) regularly.
Catching: Securely catching the ball is crucial to prevent rebounds. U14 goalies should practice catching with both hands, using their entire body to absorb the impact. Focus on soft hands and controlling the ball after the catch.

2. Footwork and Positioning:

Agility and Quickness: Goalies need to be agile and quick to react to shots from various angles. Drills focusing on quick lateral movements, shuffles, and rapid changes of direction are essential.
Goal Positioning: Correct positioning is key. A goalie should be centered in the goal, adjusting their position based on the attacker's location and shot trajectory. This minimizes the space the attacker can shoot at.

3. Throwing and Kicking:

Accurate Throws: Goalies need accurate throws to quickly distribute the ball to teammates after a save. Practice various throwing techniques, aiming for consistent accuracy and distance.
Powerful Kicks: A strong kick is essential for starting attacks quickly and effectively. Goalies should work on kicking power and accuracy, aiming for long, controlled kicks.

Advanced Skills: Elevating Your Game

As U14 goalies progress, these advanced skills become increasingly important.

4. Shot Stopping Techniques:

Reactionary Saves: The ability to react quickly to unexpected shots is crucial. Practice drills involving unpredictable shots to improve reaction time and hand-eye coordination.
Punching and Tipping: Sometimes catching isn't possible. Goalies should master punching and tipping to clear the ball safely, preventing rebounds and goals.

5. Communication and Leadership:

Vocal Communication: Effective communication with defenders is vital to organize the defense and prevent goals. U14 goalies should learn to communicate clearly and confidently.
Leadership Qualities: A confident goalie can positively influence the entire team's performance. Developing leadership qualities, such as encouragement and positive reinforcement, is highly beneficial.

6. Game Management:

Reading the Game: Anticipating the attacker's next move is crucial. Understanding the game's flow, opponents' tendencies, and reading body language enhances a goalie's ability to prepare for upcoming plays.
Decision Making under Pressure: Making quick, sound decisions under pressure is paramount. U14 goalies should develop the ability to react calmly and effectively even in stressful situations.

Mental Game: The Unsung Hero

The mental aspects are often overlooked but are equally as crucial as the physical skills.

1. Confidence: A confident goalie will perform better under pressure. Regular positive self-talk and visualization techniques can enhance confidence.

2. Focus: Maintaining focus throughout the game is key. Goalies should practice mindfulness exercises to improve concentration and reduce distractions.

3. Resilience: Setbacks are inevitable. Developing resilience enables goalies to bounce back from mistakes and maintain a positive attitude.

Training and Development: The Path to Success

Regular training and practice are essential to developing these skills.

Specific Goalie Training: U14 goalies should participate in specialized goalie training sessions to improve technical and tactical skills.
Team Training: Goalies should participate in team training sessions to work on teamwork, communication, and game strategy.
Match Play: Match play provides invaluable experience and helps goalies apply learned skills in real-game situations.
Video Analysis: Reviewing game footage can help identify areas for improvement and track progress.

By focusing on these skills, a U14 girls' soccer goalie can lay a strong foundation for future success. Remember that consistent effort, dedication, and a passion for the game are essential ingredients for development. Good luck!