⚽ Pre-Season · Goalkeeping
Pre-Season GK Integration
Goalkeepers are often the last players considered in pre-season planning.
Pre-Season GK Integration — full pitch view
The one cue that matters
GK organising the defence with voice — calling for the ball, calling KEEPER, calling positional instructions
◆Why this drill works
Goalkeepers are often the last players considered in pre-season planning. A GK who starts the competitive season without specific preparation is more likely to make basic errors and more likely to be undermined in confidence. This session integrates GK work with outfield preparation: while the outfield players do possession work, the GK works through shot-stopping, distribution, and 1v1 technique.
▦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
- Outfield: 5v2 rondo possession. GK simultaneously: 10 saves from 12 yards, various positions.
- GK distribution drill: coach shoots, GK saves, distributes to a free defender within 3 seconds. 10 reps.
- 1v1 GK angles: striker runs from halfway with a through-ball. GK sets angle and makes decision. 8 reps.
- Combine: full 7v7 or 9v9. GK plays normally. Coach observes distribution decisions specifically.
- End with a GK-specific debrief: distribution went well/didn't, why? Any positioning adjustment needed?
✓Equipment checklist
- Balls8
- Cones12
- Bibs10
✦Coaching points
Praise when you see
- GK organising the defence with voice — calling for the ball, calling KEEPER, calling positional instructions
- Distribution decisions made before the ball is saved — GK already knows who they are throwing to
Correct when you see
- GK staying on the line when a forward pass is available — 'push up, communicate'
- Slow distribution after a save — target under 3 seconds consistently
★Kit for this drill — top picks compared
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?Frequently asked questions
What age group is Pre-Season GK Integration suitable for?
This drill suits U11–adult. Build the intensity progressively and scale the workload to the group.
How many players do I need for Pre-Season GK Integration?
This drill works well with around 14 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 Pre-Season GK Integration take?
Allow around 5 minutes to set up and 18 minutes to run it — about 23 minutes in total. It fits well as the technical or main block of a session, leaving time for a warm-up and a game.