Tips on Judging High Balls
 

This is another contribution by Joe DeMay.

Here is a little trick we goalkeepers (GK) have that is sometimes overlooked by we GK trainers and sometimes not known by non-GK savvy coaches.

Question: how many times have you seen have you seen a high, lofted ball that could be easily dealt with by the GK to right over their head into the goal?

Answer: probably more times than you'd like to remember.

Well, there's a reason beyond mere positioning you'll see experienced GKs go back into their goals to catch a ball. The problem with those lofted balls coming straight at you is that they can be terribly difficult to judge. By backing into the goal--no more than a yard--the GK is able to use the crossbar to help gauge where the ball will come down. Using the crossbar for a guide, the GK can now make a decision: is the ball going over? is it short (if it is, the GK now has the distinct advantage of running forward toward the ball rather than backpedaling or drop stepping to try and get in position)? is it coming right at goal? can I catch it? should I box it out? should I tip it over the bar and concede a corner? With the crossbar as a frame of reference, the GK will find that handling a high ball is much easier. It also give the GK a point of reference, that is, rather than continuing to back up and try and judge where the ball can be taken, the simply run back to the point inside the goal and make their decision based on what the crossbar tells them.

Obviously setting up a drill for this is very simply. Have the GK stand at the top of the 6 yard box, penalty spot, and PA and serve high balls toward goal to him or her. Stress to them they must try and get to the point inside the goal (unless it is blatantly obvious that the ball will be short), start with the drop step and run with the body turned more toward goal while the head stays fixed on the ball (very important not to take your eyes off of that ball), make your decision based on what the crossbar tells you, it will not lie.:)
That's my version of goalkeeping 101 for today...hope somebody out there cared:)).

later,
Joe

 

Copyright 1996-2002 ©Les Sparks

Les Sparks had the Goalkeeper's Corner website for the Carolina United Soccer Club from 1996 - 2002.

Created: 12/20/99
Last Updated: 06/04/03

Since February 24, 1999
FastCounter by LinkExchange

  Web Administrator    Ken Gamble