Colchester Utd visit Sept.13

Having spent all my playing days in local football, the only taster I got of what it may be like to be a professional goalkeeper was when I attended pro lead goalkeeping schools by Mick Payne (artofsaving.com) and Simon Smith (England FA Development GK Coach).  The levels of coaching were far and above anything I'd come across and despite being flooded with information in short spaces of time, these courses really benefitted my own playing and understanding of the position if only in a small way.

Following on from my own coaching badge I've wanted to explore more within the professional game and thanks to a friend and a chance meeting I got the opportunity to spend some time with Ademole 'George' Bankole and the Colchester United goalkeepers late last summer.

George had a decent career as a lower league goalkeeper and joined up with Colchester as GK coach in 2008 following Aidan Davison's decision to retire and relocate to the U.S.A.  

Firstly I have to say the facilities at Colchesters new training facilities Florence Park, were superb with in house gym, catering, media facilities, physiotherapy dept. and five training pitches.  Compared to what I've been used to this was a world away, and I'm fairly confident there aren't many lower league sides with facilities as good as this with the players well looked after and catered for all in house.

Florence Park - Colchester Utd's new training ground
(www.renewableenergyinstaller.co.uk)

Training for the GK's started earlier than the outfield players with George taking a short but intensive gym session of around 45 mins.  The focus of the gym session was to build strength and explosive power which is a key area for the pro goalkeeper's game, but the session was also to get their bodies warm and prepared for the training session once we'd moved outside for the football side of the days training.  

The session started with a range of exercises involving the swiss ball to build and maintain the goalkeepers core strength.  Following on from this they went into a more circuit based routine using free weights and Olympic style dead lifts.  At the time of my visit the U's squad had just undertaken their first yoga session as part of their new training regime.



My mentor for the day - George Bankole
(www.gazette-news.co.uk)

Out on to training field, we were again out before the main squad allowing George to get his goalkeeping work done before the goalkeepers re-joined the main squad to go through their paces ahead of the weekends game.

Again the session was quite intensive and the pace of the session surprised me with all 3 goalkeepers being worked hard with very few breaks. Many of the drills were focused around the goalkeepers moving quickly around the drills.  An example of this was a coned triangle set up requiring the gk's to step and dive making a catch, recover and up back onto their feet, move around the corner of the triangle and repeat. George also did a variety of drills within the goal where the U's keepers would face a variety of quick fire deliveries. 

Being new to coaching officially, naively I'd expected more technical input from George, although on reflection the session was not a technical session and the reality is these guys are well drilled compared to what I had dealt with and were unlikely to need a lot of correcting, where minor faults occurred George reminded them of the correct techniques and the session moved on.

Once the main goalkeepers Walker and Cousins had joined up with the U's squad to prepare for the Saturday game, Bankole did a more leisurely session with young 1st year pro Shaun Phillips, before wrapping up and going to watch the two goalkeepers in the training match before the mornings training ended.

I thought this was my very enjoyable morning done, but after lunch George took me back out onto the training field to watch the afternoon session with the U's scholars.  Shaun Phillips was involved again with u18's goalkeeper James Bransgrove.  During the drills it was plain to see the major differences between these younger guys and the two senior goalkeepers and there was more in the way of coaching for these two than there was in the morning session with George stepping in with both demonstrations and delivering technical information.  

I found the whole day very rewarding and enlightening,  the contrast between the three levels from where I coach at grass roots, to the U's scholars and up to the first team was huge.  The level that the first team goalkeepers work at surpassed my expectations and I have a new found respect for how strong they are and how hard they work to become league goalkeepers.  The morning session also showed me the benefits of working at high intensity and the speed required for goalkeepers to move around their goal.

Unfortunately this blog has been written many months after when I wanted to write up the day spent at Florence Park, and I've tried to be honest and write about how I felt at that time watching on. 

 

Sept.13 - Spending time with the U's Goalkeepers

 

   












 

Glove Review - Zapkam EVA+ IMF TG

Zapkam are a small sports company based in Gloucestershire, so moving onto a new pair of gloves I thought I'd give the local company a whirl.  Zapkam have a good range of gloves ranging from £20 - £40 with a variety of cuts and styles including a design it yourself option.  I know a few local goalkeepers who wear these and they all seem pretty pleased with the ZK range.  Stevenage goalkeeper Chris Day is also listed as an endorsee.

 

After trying a few pairs on, I opted for the clunky titled EVA+ IMF TG (pictured below) for a mid priced £29.95.  The gloves feature roll fingers and a padded are to the back of the hand, the latex foam is 4mm in thickness and is included on the wrist strap.  

 

The snazzy Zapkam EVA+IMF TG

 

Style

The Zapkam range is quite eye catching and the model purchased is no different with it's bold green swirl on the back hand contrasting against the white glove.   The embossing of the back hand protection looks good and fits in well with the rest of the glove. 

Performance

The gloves robustness has been quite impressive, the stitching has lasted well and the foam has also stood the test of time with only the heel of the palms showing any real sign of wear.  I've wore this glove during pre season training and in approx. 10 matches on both grass and 3g astro turf.  The grip on this glove has also been quite impressive in differing weather conditions and leaves the wearer very confident that when making a catch, the glove is going to provide adequate grip in many conditions, whilst the 4mm foam will take some of the sting away also.  The added foam on the wrist strap and roll fingers also allows for a bigger gripped surface area when catching. 

Comfort

The glove itself is very comfortable but was a little tight on the tip of my middle fingers when I made a fist. The glove however meets my preference of being well padded on the front and back of the glove.  The protection on the back hand easily allows for the making of a fist, but unlike some other branded finger protected models doesn't leave your fingers in that permanent bent position.  Only downside with the Zapkam is that it only offers whole sizes, I'd have preferred the extra 0.5 to allow my middle finger that extra bit of room when making a fist.

Summary

I've been rather impressed with this glove for the money I have spent on them,  the grip has been excellent and the gloves manufacturing has obviously been of good quality. The styling is eye catching with nice bold colours and for the price I've paid and the amount I've used them - I can't help but be seriously impressed with the Zapkams. 

The only downsides to the Zapkam is the model pictured is no longer in stock as Zapkam look to launch their next generation models and there no half sizes available.  I think anyone buying gloves from the company will probably make a second purchase though as the Zapkam glove is clearly a good value for money purchase.

To see more visit www.Zapkam.com     

 

10 Questions for ... Sam Walker (Chelsea FC)

(Photo cu-fc.com) - Sam Walker

The first interview to grace my blog pages comes from young Chelsea goalkeeper Sam Walker. The Gravesend born stopper despite being only 22 has clocked up over 100 football league appearances having spent time on loan at Barnet, Northampton Town, Yeovil Town & Bristol Rovers. For the most part of 2013, Sam has been on loan with NPower League 1 Side Colchester United. 

1). Who has been the greatest influence on your career ?

I've been blessed to have worked with some great coaches and people in my short career. I'm also lucky to have a very supportive family around me. 

Since I was 16, I've worked with Mark Beeney at Chelsea and continue to, to this day. So he's obviously been a huge influence to me. I've also spent time on loan working with great coaches including Tim Flowers, Dave Beasant and currently Georgey Bankole. Each of whom I've developed my game under and taken many bits of advice on board from them. 

They've all got superb experience and I've picked up invaluable tips from them all.

Chelsea Academy Goalkeeper Coach
Mark Beeney has shaped Walker's game
(photo:chelseafc.com) 

2). You've been on loan at several lower league clubs now, how does the experience differ to your experiences at Chelsea ?

As a young very raw 15 year old through until about 19 years of age, Chelsea was exactly what I needed to develop myself in all aspects of the game. 

To learn the correct techniques, build my physique and develop my all round game. Chelsea's youth teams are all about development rather than results. They accept mistakes because you're a developing player. But every young player (especially Gk's), will come to a point where 

they need to go out, on loan and play, whatever level that is at, to actually learn the game. 

You can't match the pressure of going to win 3 points on a Saturday afternoon. Peoples jobs, careers and livelihoods on the line every week. I cannot say enough positives about the loan system for young players. Every player should go through it. It is an unrivalled experience.

3). Who are your 3 all time favourite goalkeepers in your lifetime and what qualities did you most admire about them ?

I've never been a big one for idols. Growing up I didn't have a specific idol. As I've grown up and taken notice of goalkeepers a lot more, I realise just how sensational Schmeichel was. His aggressive manner and bravery were 2 of my favourites traits. He would defend that goal with his life. Saving it any which way possible, I love that. 

(Photo: google images) Walker with Petr Cech 

Coming into the modern era a little more, I love the self-belief of Joe Hart. Some say its arrogance. Not for me, he has an unwavering belief in his ability and although he's going through a tough time at the moment, I'm sure he'll come out the other side even stronger. 

The 3rd goalkeeper and my favourite if I had to pick one, is Petr Cech. I count myself incredibly fortunate to have spent a fair amount of time around this man. He has many superb talents and is a consistently top class performer. His calmness and command of his back four, his excellent distribution. To name just a few of his skills. He's also a great man. As I find most Gk's are!


4). Do you feel that the current thoughts behind coaching for goalkeepers is relevant to the modern professional game ?

I do. In my experience certainly. I'm unsure of the exact stat but I heard it was around 90% of a Gk's touches in a match are with their feet now. We're expected to be just as good on the ball as the central midfielder! Of course, it's still vitally important to work the other aspects a lot of the time. But nowadays it is equally important to work your distribution and touch, as many coaches do now.

 

(Photo: Chelmsford Weekly News)

5). Which types of training sessions do you enjoy the most ? Technical or match based scenarios ?

I enjoy all aspects of goalkeeping. As a big guy, I've always found getting up off the ground quickly a challenge. But a challenge I enjoy. I like to think I've got better at it over the years. 

My favourite types of sessions are one's that include game related instances. Shots from the edge of the box, footwork across the goal to deal with a cut back or stood up cross etc. Game related training for me is my favourite. There are a million and one footwork drills or drills using high hurdles etc. These are needed at times for power, speed etc. But my favourite is good old fashioned game based training.


6). Describe a typical training day in the life of a pro goalkeeper ?

I hear it all the time.. 'Being a goalie is easy, anyone could do it' 'ahh, you boys don't do anything in a game' I'm adamant goalkeepers are the hardest workers. Always have been sure of that. We do all our hard work during the week to give ourselves the best chance of being ready for whatever Saturday brings. 

(Photo: Green 'Un 24)
 Sam in training with Chelsea

A typical day for me at the moment will consist of a 45 minute gym session before training. Working on making sure we are strong and powerful. I've always thought a good strong core and glutes mean the rest of the body will work just fine around that. 

The reason for gym before is it stops the body stiffening up because we're straight out moving and loosening the muscles again, as opposed to going home after the gym and sitting on the sofa! 

The players usually come out to train at 11 but we will always be out early. It varies between 45 mins to 15 mins early but we'll be out first. To make sure that we get the right amount of Gk work in before the team need us for their training. 

Usually we do around an hours GK work a session then over with the team for whatever they require us for. Often crossing and finishing or a small sided game. Then it's usually in for lunch and then it depends. If there's a 2nd session we're out again, mirroring the morning session by being out early. If there's no 2nd session then we are pretty much done as our gym work has been completed before training.


7). If you could offer one piece of advice to a young goalkeeper what would it be ?

To be prepared mentally. I think the biggest part of goalkeeping is the mental aspect. You have to be the strongest player on the pitch mentally. 

Confidence in your ability is a must. Mistakes will happen, understand that first, but also understand that it's imperative to free them from your mind immediately in a game. 

Goalkeepers make mistakes. It costs goals more often than not. But the best goalies, react immediately and get on with the game. If you can nail the mental side, the rest will come.



8). What exercises are most beneficial to a young goalkeeper to practice ?

As a young goalkeeper, it's all about trying to get the right techniques, alongside having good hands and fast feet. You cannot get enough Hands and Feet as a young GK. Every day you can do footwork exercises. It's easy and so beneficial to your all round game.


9). What would a team mate describe as your 3 biggest strengths as a goalkeeper ?

(Photo: Football365.com)
Walker in action on loan at N'hampton Town

I would like to think they'd say my commanding of my area. I like to come and claim as many crosses as I can and sweep up any through balls that come through. 

Hopefully my shot stopping would get a mention, I like to think that when faced up to me, I'm a tough opponent to beat. 

Thirdly, I hope that my calmness would be recognised. I like to be a calming influence to my back 4. Making them feel comfortable that everything behind them is solid and ready.

10). Any pre-match rituals that you have to do every game ?

I'm not big on superstitions. I've tried a few things over the 4/5 years I've been playing but there's only one that has stuck. 

Before a game, after the handshakes, I'll run to my goal, touch the middle of the bar, the left corner of the bar and then the right corner of the bar. Don't ask how its come about or why it’s stuck but it has! I suppose it makes me feel 100% ready for the game. I do it now without fail.

(Photo: EADT.com) Sam Walker acknowledges Colchester fans
after his man of the match v MK Dons on New Years Day

**Update** 
On the 21st January 2014 after two highly successful loan spells,  Sam Walker signed an 18 month contract to become a Colchester United player.