Goalkeeping Tips for a Novice

[Suz145]

My six year old son has just been told that he will be goalkeeper for the team's next match as they don't have anyone else. The coach doesnt plan on giving a goalkeeper training session and is very much of the opinion that we just need a body in the goal and the midfield and defense will do their best to keep the ball away.

Does anyone have any tips I can pass on to my son that will make him a better keeper without much training?
I did a session with him this afternoon and we were focusing on standing in front of the goal line rather than on it or behind it. And also trying to get the ball in his hands and under control rather than just letting it rebound off random body parts back in to the game.

Anything else we can practice on a bit that is fairly easily implemented during the match?

Thank you

Six is so little, you want it to be fun and too much information will be overwhelming, so with that in mind…

Concentrate on the game so you always know where the ball is

Move sideways in front of your goal, small steps, face the ball

Keep your eye on the ball and you’ll catch it

A k block with his legs, there are videos on YouTube. To come out of the goal towards the ball as it narrows the available space for the striker. Oh and to jump with one arm reaching up, he’ll be able to jump higher at an angle, rather than with both hands the same height. Hope he enjoys it! My DS is nearly 13 and has always played in goal, he loves it. Also - tell him the ball shouldn’t get to him, the defenders should have stopped it so no pressure!