FOR BOYS AND GIRLS AGES 8-14

We offer Goalkeeper Training for those who want to specialize in between the posts. Instruction is provided by specialized GK coaches, Dave Kurzweil (New York SC), Javier Decima (Fairfield U and Beachside SC Academy) and Stuart Smith who holds the NSCAA State, Regional and National Goalkeeping Diploma’s. In 2020 our keeper camps involve 3 hours of integrated group training each morning, where over the week the focus is on developing the fundamental techniques of; diving, shot-stopping, distribution, passing, punching, set-position, stance, footwork and balance distribution, while developing tactical awareness in the latter segments of the morning and afternoon. Goal-Keepers spend more time in contact with the ball at their feet so it is paramount that they have the ability and willingness to receive the ball at their feet, be able to control and execute a pass or clearance and do this effectively. With COVID 19 group restrictions and the fact our keepers join their age group in the late morning, this year they will start with their group immediately, perform much of the field player technical exercises but receive some small group instruction as coaches rotate to them.

After specific training with our GK coach, the keepers are incorporated back into their age specific group for the shooting segment, which is where they receive a high volume of shots and scenarios to develop their game. In addition to the group coach offering advice, the GK coach will rotate around the groups to provide specific feedback and correction to the keepers game (known as individual reference and coaching in the flow), so that the game is not disrupted, but the GK receives immediate and pinpoint instruction. The afternoon features match play where the GK coach continues to focus on the technical aspects of the GK's performance, but is able to further work on the tactical aspects (starting positions, angles, movement, recognizing the visual cue of when to close space of the advancing offensive players and the decision-making required to deal with situations (crosses, 1v1, free-kick set-up).

Our Goalkeeper training is hard work but fun and GK's that have come through our camps over the years include: Julia Dohle (NYSC 2001 and US Girls National Team GK); Kevin Donahue (former Greenwich HS varsity Keeper and Denison University GK who holds the school shut-out record); Taylor Bucklin (former Louisville University GK), Liliana Khosrowshahi (incoming Trinity College GK) and Jimmy Johnson (4 year GK for Greenwich HS Varsity, NYSC and NSCAA All-New England).