GoalkeepingHandlingFootworkSet Position
GK Handling & Set Position
Get set, hands ready, catch clean — the foundation of every save a goalkeeper makes.
Theme
Goalkeeping
Difficulty
Foundation
Duration
16 min
Players (min–rec–max)
2–3–6
Area
12 × 10 yards
Session phase
Main
Age groups
U11, U12, U13, U14, U15, U16, U18, Adult
Equipment
goal, balls, cones
Objective
Build core goalkeeping technique: a balanced set position, quick feet to get behind the ball, and clean, secure handling.
Set-up
Keeper in goal, a server in front with a supply of balls; cones to mark the set-position spot.
How it runs
- Server throws or strikes balls at varying heights; the keeper sets, then handles.
- Reset to the set position between every serve.
- Mix it up: chest, waist, low, and to either side.
- Build to firmer serves as the technique holds up.
Coaching points
- Set position: balanced, weight forward, hands ready out in front.
- Get the body behind the ball — make a second barrier.
- Catch with a 'W' hands for high, scoop with the body for low.
- Secure it to the chest — no spills, no parries when you can catch.
Common mistakes
- The keeper sets too late and saves off balance — set before the strike, every rep.
- Hands are apart on the W catch — thumbs together, strong wrists, catch in front of the eyes.
- Keepers parry catchable balls when tired — catch first; parry is the backup decision.
Progressions
- Add a quick reset and a second serve.
- Serve from different angles.
- Firmer, more awkward heights.
Regressions
- Softer, slower serves.
- Throws only.
- One height at a time.
Constraints
- Must return to set position before each serve.
Tags
goalkeepinghandlingset-positiontechnique