Eisern!

Goalkeeper Training in Oliva

The Women's Training Camp Day Seven

Fri, 17. January 2025
Goalkeeper Training in Oliva

The rain pours down on the pitch in Oliva as the goalkeepers of 1. FC Union Berlin prepare intensively for tomorrow's game against Bundesliga side Bayer 04 Leverkusen. It is the seventh day of the training camp presented by and goalkeeping coach Dr Laura von Zadow has a variety of exercises on the agenda for Cara Bösl, Melanie Wagner and Sarah Hornschuch.

Split-second decisions - when reflexes become an art

Today's training focussed on reaction speed, jumping ability and anticipation - all key elements in goalkeeping. Despite the slippery conditions, they initially worked on short, intensive exercises in a small space. Balls from close range that had to be parried at lightning speed or precise shots into the bottom corners that required full concentration.

In addition to the technical sequences, the programme also included match-related scenarios. The coaches repeatedly simulated match situations in which the goalkeepers had to make quick decisions, be it when running out, taking up positions in the box or in one-on-one situations.

Balancing act on wet ground

‘Today's weather is particularly challenging for the goalkeepers,’ explained von Zadow on the sidelines of the training session. ‘Small inaccuracies when picking up the ball can quickly lead to unpleasant rebounds and balls that touch the ground become as quick as an arrow. It is therefore important to adapt your decisions to external factors such as the weather. On a sunny day, I can easily hold on to some balls. If everything is wet and slippery, I might decide to deliberately punch the ball rather than allow a dangerous rebound forwards.

We want to give every goalkeeper the best possible support in their individual development,’ says von Zadow. ‘Reading the game, making clear decisions and reacting quickly and with conviction - that's what we work towards in every session.’

Looking ahead to tomorrow's friendly against Bundesliga side Bayer 04 Leverkusen, the coach emphasised that ‘it's precisely games like this that are important for the goalkeepers to put what they've learned into practice against strong, fast opponents and make the right decisions under pressure.’

Quote of the day: ‘Golf is not a team sport’ - a media employee to his colleague when he asked for too many tips while playing golf on the Nintendo Switch.

The diary entries at a glance: