Goalkeeping Tips, Tidbits and Random Thoughts

An athlete talking to themsleves during competition is hardly a new phenomenon.... The talk does not have to be vocal. By merely thinking you are talking to yourself and sending a message.
-- Tony DiCicco, Goalkeeper Soccer Training Manual

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The next level

What are the things that separate the top goalkeepers from the rest of the pack? Here are a few:

Handling crosses. This is a key and not easily mastered technique. Timing and judgement are everything.
Ability to play with feet. When I see players in a game without keepers, I shouldn't be able to tell who the goalkeeper is.
Communication skill. Is the goalkeeper specific, commanding and organized?

And, most important of all:

Mental toughness and attitude.

It is mentality that separates the best from the rest. How hard you work, how you handle failure, and how determined you are.

Outstanding athletes? A dime a dozen. Good shot stoppers? Everywhere. There are incredibly talented players everywhere who never made it anywhere.

"How hard you work has a lot more to do with success than we ordinarily imagine. Ability cannot be separated from effort."
� Malcolm Gladwell

Labels: Psychology

Posted on Thursday, June 26, 2008 | Permalink