The object of the dive is to get your hand or fist into the path of the ball. You want to catch the ball or to fist it away from the goal.
When to Dive for the Ball
The ball is coming towards the goal. You are too far away to catch or kick the ball. Go for it -make a dive.
1. You should be in a ready position to dive. To get good balance have your weight on the balls of your feet. This will allow you to go forward, backward, or to the right or left.
2. When you dive, extend your arms on the side from which the ball is approaching . Thrust at the ball with your body following. The side of your body should be below and parallel to the ground.
3. Once you have the ball, pull the ball back into midstream, draw up your knees and tuck your head to protect the ball and you.
Coach Mark Hint
Always be in your ready position. A goalkeeper should stand in the center of the goal. In your mind form a triangle between the side post of the goal and the center of the goal. You should be in ready position at the center of the triangle.
