This drill is for kids who want to play goalkeeper. Diving is the signature keeper move. At 11-12, they can handle the impact. Keeper pushes off their feet and extends to cover space.
What you need: A goal. A soccer ball. Soft ground or mat preferred.
Setup: Keeper in the goal. You stand 8 feet away with the ball.
How to run it:
- You shoot a gentle shot toward one corner of the goal.
- Keeper pushes off their feet and dives sideways.
- Keeper extends their arms and body to block the shot.
- Keeper lands on their side, not their stomach.
- Do 3 dives to each side (6 total).
What to watch: Do they push off hard? Or just fall? A good dive starts with a strong push.
If they’re struggling: Start with no shot. Just have them practice the diving motion without a ball.
If they’ve got it: Shoot with more pace and accuracy. The keeper has to react faster and extend farther.