Classic League specialized goalkeeper training runs one night a week for almost the entire season, whether it be spring or fall.  The keeper training takes place at a designated site, desirably at Pratt Park by the wall.  ALWAYS FREE!!  Keepers are provided with the fundamental knowledge and technical training required to play the specialized keeper position.

News:  Celia Mosier, an Olympic Development Program (ODP) goalkeeper coach, has worked with the more experienced goalkeepers the last few seasons.  Celia introduced those keepers to the next level!  Celia will be at Smith Lake on Tuesday nights as set forth in the Classic professional training schedule.

Also, the Travel Division has invited intermediate and advanced Classic goalkeepers to attend goalkeeper training.  The Spring, 2009 site will be determined soon.  It is anticipated that the this training will be conducted Saturday mornings at Payne Field.  There is a fee associated with the Travel-provided training.

Keeper gloves are also made available to the attendees (and anyone that wants them) at reduced prices, generally $10.00 per pair for new gloves.  The gloves are purchased privately through eBAY auctions.  Many of the pairs of gloves available would cost 2 - 10 times more at a local sporting goods store.  Other goalkeeper wear has also been purchased and will be available at $10.00 or less to attendees (shirts, shorts, under-armor-type shorts.  Below ... our new logo ... Check out our adult coed team at the Field House!

Read below to read about the format and instructors!!!

The keeper training provides a complete program. It covers the critical fundamentals of the ready position, catching, footwork, positioning, communication and distribution. Also addressed will be diving, breakaways, punching, parrying, keeper equipment and laws of the game. Keepers receive fundamental repetition and hands-on instruction.

Toby Brown is the volunteer organizer for the sessions. He possesses the NSCAA National Goalkeeping Diploma and is D licensed through USSF. He receives help from Classic and Travel coaches whose players participate in the training.  Numerous parents and coaches have stepped in to help with the big crowd of young keepers. Their help is always appreciated!

Celia Mosier, one of the Classic professional trainers and an ODP goalkeeper coach, has worked with the more experienced goalkeepers!  Celia possesses the NSCAA National Goalkeeping Diploma and is B licensed through USSF.

Training Plans

In a continuing effort to provide the most effective training for the players, the Stafford Tsunami Goalkeeper Academy will continue with its modified training design.  The sessions are run (e.g., more activity, less lines) in an effort to help the kids take their skills from the practice field to the games. Many of the sessions have a lot of players and it is fairly tough to keep all of the players active.  The new sessions incorporated more activities that involved constant participation and repetition through wall work, for example, i.e., increased goalkeeper "touches" so to speak.  The plan for each season is to continue this training and to incorporate some foot skill work wherever possible.  Parents that attend will be asked to participate as ball servers in an effort to provide more consistent serves and thus more focused skills practice for the young keepers.  See you during the season!!