Goalkeeper Warm-up Drill
Attackers Defenders Neutral Goalkeeper Pass Run Dribble Shot
Every keeper deserves better than a few lazy shots before kickoff. This goalkeeper warm-up drill gives U9–U16 keepers a rapid sequence of sprint-outs, high claims, and post-to-post saves that switches on feet, hands, and decision-making in minutes. All you need is one goal, six balls, and a server.
This drill pairs well with others in the goalkeeping category, and you can find age-matched sessions under U13 drills.
Setup
- Gather six balls next to the goal, about 7 yards out and slightly to one side - this is where the coach or server stands.
- Make sure the keeper has already jogged and stretched; this drill starts at match tempo.
- Keeper begins on the goal line, ready to move.
How It Works
- On your call, the keeper sprints out and touches the ball in your hands, then quickly retreats toward goal.
- As the keeper backpedals, loft a high ball toward the goal - the keeper must catch it cleanly or punch it over the crossbar.
- Serve the next ball toward the near post; the keeper reacts and either catches it or pushes it wide of the post.
- Serve the following ball to the far post for the same catch-or-parry decision.
- Keep the sequence rolling until all six balls are used, then reset and repeat.
Coaching Points
- Demand quick, choppy steps on every recovery run - no long, slow strides.
- Keep the keeper's shoulders square to the ball, especially on angled serves.
- On post serves, the keeper should step off the line to cut down the shooting angle.
- Coach the judgment on high balls: catch when clean, punch over when stretched or under pressure.
Variations
- Move the keeper back 3–4 yards and drive every serve along the ground like a real shot.
- Serve high balls over the keeper's head so they must retreat toward their own goal to claim them.