#askEV
I recently had an evaluation meeting with a young GK at our Club here in TN (where Boys play High School Soccer in the Spring) who asked advice on how best to approach his Freshman (first year) season.
My advice was pretty simple, and pretty much the same thing I would say to GKs of any level entering a new playing environment.
1. Be early to training. You're the "new kid". Be there first. Carry out the balls and cones to the training session. Get your 'mentals going'....i.e., get your mind focused on the training session. (By the way, make sure you have ALL of your gear. Pack your bag early.)
2. Keep your eyes and ears open and your mouth closed. There's an old saying..."God gave us 2 eyes, 2 ears and 1 mouth, so we'd watch and listen more than we talk." This can help you significantly. You're a Freshman. That's a tough position on a team. Observe how the older players approach training and the team dynamic. Listen to what the Coaches tell you. Speak when you have a question, or are directing defenders.
3. Work hard. Be ready for most anything, and work hard. Don't fall into the trap of taking time off, or 'hiding' from the Coach. You're a GK. Work hard. Believe me, Coaches watch you...even when you think they aren't.
4. Stay after for extra work if players want to shoot. Be the first to pick up balls and cones. Be sure to thank your Coaches after each session (even if they yell at you). Review the training session in your mind, and try to learn from your mistakes, and build upon your good stuff!
At the end of the day, be sure to hydrate, eat well, and get enough sleep and get ready to do it all over again tomorrow!
May the ground beneath your dive be soft. May your goalposts be 3 feet wide. May the other team shoot everything right at you!
All the Best--EV
