Transition Goalkeeper Handling Ladder

Objective

• -Build clean, repeatable handling
• -Set the feet before every save
• -Work through low, mid and high service

Setup

1. 1A goal with three service cones in an arc in front of it in a 24 x 18 yards area.
2. 2Mark a second target area at the opposite end so the practice can flip direction instantly.
3. 3A supply of balls at each service cone.

How to play

1. 1Server works through low, waist-height and high service in turn.
2. 2The keeper resets to the middle of the goal after every save.
3. 3Ten saves per set with a short rest between sets.
4. 4Coach serves a loose ball into the middle and both teams react to win it.
5. 5On every turnover the winning team has six seconds to attack the opposite target.

Progressions

• +Cut the counter window to four seconds
• +Raise the demand once the group is consistently successful

Regressions

• -Freeze the play for two seconds after each turnover to reset shape
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Coach can serve a second ball to force an instant re-transition
• -Run the practice on the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Handling with the arms out straight
• -Moving as the ball is struck
• -Stopping to appeal instead of reacting to the turnover