Goalkeeper troubles

Our (new this season) girls U10's team has one goalkeeper. When she can't make the match, or we want a game in training, none of the other girls are willing to play in goal. Does anyone have any tips for encouraging the girls to try out the position for the good of the team?

Parents
  • When without a keeper we get 2 players, half each in goal and other half in their preferred position, no sub time for them in the game.

    If no volunteers, names in a hat. Previous volunteers don't go in.

  • Consider playing some small sided handball games - throw, catch and score by throwing a ball into the net or through a gate. Consider playing the old Level 1 game "Robin Hood" sometimes called 'Robbing The Nest' but instead of using it as a Running With The Ball or Dribbling exercise, have players use their hands and start by rolling the ball underarm along the ground and then progress to a 'javelin style' pass and then overarm bowl for longer distances. If all players have a chance to throw and catch the ball they will be less wary of facing shots in games. When practicing shot stopping start with players on their knees, in pairs, with a ball each. Roll the ball to the side and have them practice diving to the side (try to land on ribs rather than elbow to avoid longer issue injuries) with the ball just in reach. Go both sides. One serves, one saves then the saver serves back to their partner. Gradually progress to a standing dive. Hope that helps

Reply
  • Consider playing some small sided handball games - throw, catch and score by throwing a ball into the net or through a gate. Consider playing the old Level 1 game "Robin Hood" sometimes called 'Robbing The Nest' but instead of using it as a Running With The Ball or Dribbling exercise, have players use their hands and start by rolling the ball underarm along the ground and then progress to a 'javelin style' pass and then overarm bowl for longer distances. If all players have a chance to throw and catch the ball they will be less wary of facing shots in games. When practicing shot stopping start with players on their knees, in pairs, with a ball each. Roll the ball to the side and have them practice diving to the side (try to land on ribs rather than elbow to avoid longer issue injuries) with the ball just in reach. Go both sides. One serves, one saves then the saver serves back to their partner. Gradually progress to a standing dive. Hope that helps

Children
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