Gunners Goalkeeping Philosophy
Toni Schumacher and Oliver Kahn: two great German goalkeepers who epitomize to me, the way a goalkeeper should play the position.
They were feared, they demanded respect and they commanded their box. They were gonna knock your head off if you tried to challenge them in the box. They changed the way opposing teams attacked them because of their demeanour and presence in the net. They epitomized what it was to be an Offensive Goalkeeper.
While I want my goalkeepers to have very sound fundamentals, (doing the basics very well), I want every keeper I train to also have this "don't mess with me" attitude as well. I don't advocate dirty play at all, but I'm all about being physical as a keeper. As much as I'm trying to improve their technical abilities (catching, diving, footwork, etc.), I'm also trying to get inside their head to develop an attitude and a mind set. I want my keepers to own their box and act like it!
The last area of the game I try to focus on with the all my keepers is the tactical side of goalkeeping. This is a side of the game often over looked. A keeper, through years of experience, needs to be able to read the game, become a vocal leader on the field and understand their positioning on the field as the game is being played in real time (which is constantly changing).
Whether you're a goalkeeper that is just starting out or very experienced and looking to play in college, I can help and tailor my training appropriately no matter the age. I will improve your level of play, that much I can promise!
I look forward to working with you all!
-Chris Bauer
