times that the goalkeeper is training with older players , so it is extremely important to prepare them for those challenges and be patient with their ability to adapt to this level of play .
Additionally , as Brett Ledbetter suggests in “ What Drives Winning ” ( 2015 ), learning to convert pressure into opportunity is crucial . He writes , “ I learned how to convert the pressure that comes with goals ( from a threat ) into an opportunity . How did I do that ? I began to use the energy pressure creates as an opportunity to grow into a better player and , most importantly , a stronger person .”
Another key element that I implement in the academy is having a strong relationship with all goalkeepers to create one unit . In the academy teams , every goalkeeper is important , but not everyone will be able to train up ; however , we all create one unit . For that reason , everyone needs to know each other within the academy setting . In order to build these strong relationships , I needed to establish a culture of collective meetings and use travel times effectively . In our environment , I like to meet with all goalkeepers either in person or virtually , watch the game clips , or simply talk about some objectives or challenges / lessons they faced / learned recently .
Additionally , when extra goalkeeper sessions are available , having all goalkeepers training together ( U14-U20 ) is another culture highlight that has been implemented at Charlotte FC . This process helps with building stronger relationships within the club on and off the field , and when the time comes , everyone should have a stronger determination to support each other during the positive and challenging moments .
One of the final steps for me is to hold goalkeepers accountable to desired standards and outcomes . In the real world , there is always something that comes up ; in addition , school plays a big part in their progress in the professional world as well . One of the most important details is winning and growth mindset . Goalkeepers must be able to accept the feedback and learn from it . It is great when you only invest your time in the field-related situations ; however , it is important to remember that in the youth set-up , the off-field portion plays a big role and those goalkeepers are still learning professional behaviors , and we , as their mentors , must help them with guidance toward the desired outcomes .
As Brett Ledbetter emphasizes in “ What Drives Winning Teams ” ( 2019 ), prioritizing growth over outcome can lead to a sense of progression toward mastery . He writes , “ What if you prioritized growth over outcome ? For some , winning isn ’ t enough . They need to feel like they ’ re progressing toward mastery of their craft .” This mindset shift encourages goalkeepers to focus on continuous improvement and development , rather than solely on winning matches .
One of the key phrases that our goalkeepers hear in the academy is “ do your best to leave the field satisfied .” When adversity comes , we need to guide them to find the desired reaction and see the response from each goalkeeper .
The final step for me is to have full staff support in the academy setting . When everyone fully embraces the culture , multiple individual and collective meetings contribute to sustaining the desired atmosphere throughout the entire season . To build the successful goalkeeping culture in the academy or any other setting , you also need the entire staff to support the goalkeeping development pathways . Daily meetings with other coaches , monitoring / discussing the progress of each goalkeeper with other staff members , educating them individually and collectively about the importance of education , nutrition and well-being makes a big difference with long-term goals and development of everyone . In other words , building strong relationships between players and staff helps with building the academy goalkeeping culture . While this process takes time , I strongly believe it is one of the key elements for establishing a successful goalkeeper pathway in any setting .
In conclusion , building a goalkeeper culture in the academy setting requires a complex approach that prioritizes both individual and collective development . As Brett
Ledbetter highlights in “ What Drives Winning ” ( 2015 ), “ Championship coaches understand that character is the foundation of success . They focus on the process rather than just the results , recognizing that character drives the process , which ultimately leads to the desired outcomes . To illustrate it simply : Character > Process > Result .” By setting high standards , promoting leadership and mentorship , fostering strong relationships and embracing continuous improvement , we create an environment where goalkeepers can grow both on and off the field . With dedication , collaboration and a commitment to learn , we lay the groundwork for the next generation of goalkeeping talent to thrive and take the next steps in their careers . n
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