River Flow Soccer Club

Our mission is to provide an environment where committed atheletes of all ages can develop a true understanding of the GoalKeeper position, as well as develop social and life skills such as leadership and communication. Our students will emerge as fundamentally sound, physically fit goalkeepers ready to meet personal and athletic challenges head on and with a positive attitude.

The program  will use a variety of techniques and Cross-Training methods to provide all participants with the following skills and concepts:

• Footwork: Good footwork is essential for solid GoalKeeping. Having quick feet allows the Keeper to get into proper position to make the save.   
• Catching: Catching technique is second only to proper footwork. Having "soft" hands and the confidence to use them is a major advantage over the other players on the pitch.
• Positioning: Along with footwork and good catching skills, positioning is the foundation of a solid GoalKeeper.  Being in proper position can make the difference between helping your team to win a game, while poor positioning can lead to disaster.
• Diving: In some cases the Keeper must dive to save a shot and knowing the proper form and techniques can ensure not only a highlight save, but also the safety of the keeper. 
• Distribution: The GoalKeeper is the last line of defense and the first line of attack.
• Psychology: Knowing how to play strong and confident is a tremendous asset to any athelete and the Keeper is no different. The position requires split second decision making, communication, leadership, etc.. being able to win the mental aspect of soccer is just as important as the physical.

There are a variety of skills and tactics that are covered in our practices, too many to list here. However, participants will learn:

- the importance of keeping their feet moving

-  how to stay square to the shooter and the ball

- how to properly position themselves between the posts

- proper movement within the 18 yard line

- the "W" method for catching the ball securely

- how to protect the ball properly once the secure catch has been made

- the correct way to dive forward to the ball, leading with the hands and how to land safely and securely with the ball

- communication

- how to read the field and know when to come off their line