This is the most complex of the 7SC challenge cards. If you came here first you might find Dribbling or Shooting a better vehicle to clarify the methodology.

The 7SC

The 7SC defines the skills of goalkeeping as;

• Positioning - Limit the shooting options
• Handling - Get hold of the ball
• Distribution - Give it to the best team mate available

The concept of sweeper keeper is dealt with by the other 6SC developing the players ball skills.

Positioning starts as Rush - touching the goal post on the same side that the ball is attacking then rushing toward the attacker from the goal line in a butterfly position. This is later followed by the zones of shooting probability and the relevant pitch starting position.

Handling is taught as 3 hands: left hand, right hand and the chest 'hand'. If the Keeper does not have three hands on the ball it is not safe. In training the keeper gives away a penalty if they use their feet to save a shot. Thus keepers must find ways to get three hands on a ball that is on the ground, bouncing, or in the air.

Distribution comes in the form of rolling, bowling (cricket), drop kicking, and place kicking.

Unlike the other challenges, players have not succeeded until they both achieve the challenge AND demonstrate the skills in a competitive match. This is due to the tendency of some young players to be very unforgiving of others mistakes. I find sharing the pain lessens the blame.

White Grade

This is the most proscriptive of the 7SC. Keepers must know the rules of the game. At white grade I teach Long Barrier, Belly Catch, Jumping Catch and Heel Punch, to deal with ball on the ground, bouncing, in the air and Too hard to catch. Players must demonstrate each in a competitive game, as well as the four forms of distribution. Clean sheets are irrelevant at this level.

Subsequent Colour Grades

From Orange onward the keeper can use any techniques to get the ball into three hands. Preventing goals is now the priority

Challenge Game

World Cup. See here