Empowering Young Goalkeepers Aged 6-15 Through Technical Excellence and Tactical Intelligence
Introduction
Ballers SE Football Club in Sydenham is seeking a dedicated and passionate Goalkeeper Coach to join our thriving youth programme. The successful candidate will work with developing goalkeepers aged 6 to 15, guiding them through the intricacies of their role across mini-soccer, 9 aside, and 11 aside formats. This position requires a coach who is not only knowledgeable about the technical and tactical aspects of goalkeeping but also deeply committed to going above and beyond to support the next generation of players.
Key Responsibilities
· Deliver age-appropriate goalkeeper coaching sessions for children between 6 and 15 years old.
· Teach and reinforce the rules and responsibilities of goalkeepers, adapting instruction to the relevant game format (mini-soccer, 9 aside, 11 aside).
· Devise and implement tactics on decision-making, especially in recognising when to come off the line to intercept, sweep, or narrow angles.
· Foster an environment where goalkeepers feel confident, resilient, and empowered to take responsibility for their position.
· Track and report progress for each goalkeeper, providing constructive feedback to players and parents.
· Be able to demonstrate good communication with the team Manager to ensure the player is working on areas they need to improve.
· Demonstrate a willingness to go above and beyond, supporting players outside of regular sessions if needed.
· Work collaboratively with outfield coaches to ensure that all players understand the goalkeeper's role within the team.
· Stay up-to-date with best practices and rule changes in youth football to maintain coaching excellence.
· Use appropriate goals sizes and equipment to deliver the best possible training for that age goalkeeper
Coaching Focus Areas
Understanding Timing and Decision-Making
· Teach goalkeepers to read the game, judge through balls, and recognise when to leave their goal line to intercept or challenge.
· Use scenario-based exercises to practise decision-making, such as 1v1s, breakaways, and defending set pieces.
· Develop communication skills so goalkeepers can organise their defence and announce their intent when coming out.
· Analyse matches and training footage to help goalkeepers identify cues for leaving their line, such as attacker body language, defensive positioning, and ball speed.
· Emphasise risk assessment: balancing aggressive play with safeguarding against conceding goals.
Game Format Rules OverviewMini-Soccer (Ages 6-8)
· Smaller pitches and goals.
· Usually 5 or 7 aside; simplified rules.
· Goalkeepers may have more freedom to handle the ball, and the back-pass rule may be relaxed.
· Emphasis on participation and enjoyment, with less focus on competition.
· Coaching should centre on basic techniques and encouragement.
9 Aside (Ages 9-11)
· Mid-sized pitches and goals; transition between mini-soccer and 11 aside.
· The back-pass rule is enforced and goalkeepers must understand distribution options.
· Introduction to more positional play and team tactics.
· Penalty areas and goal kicks require more precision and planning.
· Coach must reinforce understanding of rules and nurture confidence.
11 Aside (Ages 12-15)
· Full-sized pitches and goals; all standard rules apply.
· Goalkeepers are expected to demonstrate advanced ball handling, positioning, and communication.
· Must fully understand the back-pass rule, six-second handling limit, offside, and penalty procedures.
· Coach should instil tactical intelligence and psychological resilience.
· Preparation for competitive youth matches and potential progression to higher levels.
Personal Qualities and Expectations
· Dedication to the holistic development of young players, both on and off the pitch.
· Patience, adaptability, and a nurturing approach to coaching.
· Strong communication and organisational skills.
· Ability to motivate and inspire children at all ability levels.
· Commitment to continuous professional development.
· Be able to adapt a session if need be.
Requirements and Qualifications
· FA Level 1 or higher coaching certificate (goalkeeping specialisation preferred).
· Experience working with children aged 6-15, ideally in a football setting.
· Comprehensive knowledge of the rules and formats for mini-soccer, 9 aside, and 11 aside football.
· Strong organisational and planning skills.
· Clear DBS check (required to work with minors).
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: £20.00-£25.00 per hour
Expected hours: 1.5 per week
Work Location: In person