Quick reaction catching game
This is a good game to give your goalkeeper practice in catching the ball, but you can also use it with your other players, it gives them a break from working with their feet and helps with reaction and turning to react to the ball being thrown to them.
Split your team into pairs with one ball. The catcher - or player in the goalkeeper role - faces away from the thrower. They are on the balls of their feet and in position to react fast to any trigger.
The thrower shouts "GO" and passes the ball. The catcher reacts to the call, turning round to catch the ball. They stay on the balls of their feet throughout, retaining their balance.
The "GO" call should be made just before the ball is thrown to let the catcher get used to the game. Develop the game further with players throwing the ball simultaneously with the call.
As your players improve their skills, they can also make the passes progressively harder to catch.
How to advance the game
Vary the types of pass, so the player has to move to the ball, jump and crouch down to make an effective catch. Use different types of balls to make the game progressively harder. Miniature soccer balls, rugby balls, tennis balls or golf balls can be used to improve the catcher’s skills.
Always insist the ball is caught in two hands. Develop the skills covered, so that once the player has caught the ball, they have to give a pass either back to the starting player or to another player to their side.
Soccer coaching tips
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