Goalkeepers attend coaching session

NINETEEN local coaches attended a Scottish Football Association (SFA) level one goalkeeping coaching certificate last weekend at Clickimin.

It was the first time the course has taken place in Shetland and participants included coaches working with local teams, both at senior and junior levels, as well as goalkeepers.

The course covered basic skills including warm ups, handling, body shape and positioning, alongside catching, distribution and training routines.

The six-hour course was delivered by Gary Watt, goalkeeping coach to the Scottish under-19 girls’ team and the first team at Ross County Football Club.

He was accompanied by SFA regional manager for the north of Scotland Graeme Sutherland, who said: “Goalkeepers often don’t receive any specialist coaching for what is a crucial position in the game. The feedback from those who took part on the course was really positive. We both hope that this course will make a difference to the standard of goalkeeping in local football teams.”

The course was organised jointly through a partnership between the SIC sport and leisure service and the Scottish Football Association. It was the third SFA coach development course in Shetland this year with more planned for later in the year and early next season.

SIC sports development officer Bob Kerr said: “The SFA are to be commended for their strong commitment to Shetland, providing opportunities for local coaches to develop their skills and knowledge. I would encourage any local coaches to keep an eye out for any future courses.”