Following a college GK coach on a recruiting trip
In this video, originally used for our Mentor program, we follow Yale women’s goalkeeper coach, Marty Walker as he recruits players from Surf Cup in San Diego.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=12&v=oz5B6tBeBT4
Takeaways from the video include:
- Marty looks at Goalkeepers two years ahead of the recruitment year
- Coaches have many players and games to watch – They are unlikely to stay for the whole game.
- Players playing for MLS teams get the attention of the coach
- The perception of the goalkeeper in warm-up is important to encourage coaches to stay and watch games
- Coaches viewing schedule is based on communication from prospective recruits prior to the tournament
- Although coaches dont just wonder the field in the hope to find someone, they may be at a game looking at someone else ( an outfield player perhaps ) and if you impress, they may inquire about you.
- The game may not allow you to shine. If you look good when not busy, the coach will make a point of seeing you in a different game.
- Marty was looking at the goalkeeper’s ability to communicate with defenders as well as show good technique, even with the easy saves.
- Distribution and starting positions are other areas in which coaches can judge your ability without even making a save.
- The Surf Cup is ideal for recruiting as it has many fields in the same area – Allowing goalkeepers to catch the eye of recruits not necessarily there to see you.
- Grades need to be as good as possible as certain grades are needed to get into schools
