Coaching Corner

Basci Handling

Starting Position

The starting position and movement of a goalkeeper can be compared with a tennis player receiving a serve. Goalkeepers set themselves in a receiving position, then make a small jump, widening their stance; this movement tenses the muscles allowing goalkeepers to move quickly.

Matching Points

Feet should be shoulder width apart and knees slightly bent.

The head should be tilted forward and be steady, bringing the weight onto the balls of the feet.

Elbows should be tucked into the waist with the hands at waist height, shoulder width apart and pointing towards the ball with the fingers outstretched.

As the attacker begins to shoot, goalkeepers should widen their stance.

The hands move into a receiving position as the ball approaches.

For balls above the waist, the thumbs come together, fingers spread and the hands remain in front of the line of the body with the elbows tucked into the waist, giving a tighter grip on the ball.

For balls below the waist, the hands lower, the little fingers come together and the fingers spread. The hands remain in front of the body with the elbows tucked.

Practices