⚽ Goalkeeping · Aerial
High Ball Claiming
A GK who claims high balls confidently prevents corners, reduces aerial confusion, and dramatically lowers the number of headers the defence has to make under pressure.
High Ball Claiming — full pitch view
The one cue that matters
Calling KEEPER early enough that teammates step aside
◆Why this drill works
A GK who claims high balls confidently prevents corners, reduces aerial confusion, and dramatically lowers the number of headers the defence has to make under pressure. Most grassroots GKs are reluctant to come for crosses because they have never been taught when to come and how to take off. This drill builds both.
▦The drill in three phases
1Setup
Starting positions — players, zones and equipment in place.
2Action
Movement begins — players run, dribble and create the pattern.
3Finish
The end action — pass, shot or outcome the drill builds toward.
Ball carrierAttackersDefendersPass / dribbleShot
▶How to run it
- Coach serves high balls from various angles — initially without any attackers. GK practises calling KEEPER and taking off on the right foot.
- Technique focus: take-off on the foot nearest the ball side, two-handed high catch at the highest point, land on both feet, protect the ball.
- Add one passive attacker who runs toward the ball without jumping — GK must claim through contact.
- Progress: attacker is active and jumping for the ball. GK must call KEEPER early enough that the defender steps aside.
- Final progression: full crossing drill from wide positions. Coach serves, GK claims or stays — decision is theirs. Discuss each decision afterward.
✓Equipment checklist
- Balls8
- Cones8
- Bibs6
✦Coaching points
Praise when you see
- Calling KEEPER early enough that teammates step aside
- Taking off on one foot with two hands — not jumping on two feet which reduces height
Correct when you see
- Not calling and colliding with a defender — every claim needs a call
- Punching when catching was available — catch when you can, punch only when you can't
★Kit for this drill — top picks compared
| Pick | Product | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top pick | Goalkeeper Gloves (youth) | Grip and protection for keepers. | Check price → |
| Value | Training Footballs (6-pack) | Shot-stopping reps. | Check price → |
| Upgrade | Agility Ladder | Footwork and reactions. | Check price → |
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?Frequently asked questions
What age group is High Ball Claiming suitable for?
This drill suits U12–adult. Scale the power and distance of service to the keeper's age and ability.
How many players do I need for High Ball Claiming?
This drill works well with around 8 players. With fewer, reduce the groups or rotate players through; with more, set up multiple stations so everyone stays active rather than queuing.
How long does High Ball Claiming take?
Allow around 4 minutes to set up and 15 minutes to run it — about 19 minutes in total. It fits well as the technical or main block of a session, leaving time for a warm-up and a game.