The reluctance to go in goal is almost universal at U7–U11 and still common at U12–U14. The root cause is almost always one of: fear of being blamed for goals, fear of the ball (especially in younger age groups), or simply finding goalkeeping boring compared to outfield play. All three are addressable.
Rotation as the default
From U7 to U11, every player should rotate through the GK position. This removes the stigma (everyone does it), gives every player GK experience, and naturally reveals who enjoys the position. Use the Everyone Keeps Goal drill as a session starter — it frames GK as a normal and enjoyable role rather than a punishment or sacrifice.
Making the GK role exciting
The GK who wins the ball and immediately plays forward to create an attack is the most exciting player on the pitch — that's the frame. Run the GK Save and Distribute Fast drill and praise the quick distribution loudly. "That GK just started a counter-attack. That's goalkeeping."
The fear of blame
Create a cultural rule: goals conceded are never blamed on the GK during the session. The team's defensive shape led to the shot; the GK's job was the save. If a goal goes in, the conversation is about the defensive shape before the shot, not the GK's positioning. This removes the primary fear.
Finding the keeper
The player who enjoys the position and is naturally suited to it almost always emerges through rotation and positive experience. Never assign a player to goal as a punishment, and never keep the same player in goal for a full match at U7–U11. The GK you need is in your squad — the rotation will find them.