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In the world of competitive sports, especially at elite levels, identity isn’t optional, it’s everything. For goalkeepers, it can make the difference between getting overlooked and getting recruited. Between being just another player on the roster and being the one coaches remember. Your GK identity isn’t just about your style of play. It’s your personal brand. It’s how you show up on and off the pitch, how you’re perceived, and what sets you apart.At top programs and clubs, everyone is talented. Everyone has impressive stats. Everyone has highlight reels and rankings on recruiting forums. That’s why it’s more important than ever, especially with new NCAA roster caps and most programs now only taking 3 GKs instead of 4, to find what makes you stand out.Ask yourself:What’s your GK identity?What’s your GK presence?What’s your GK voice and style of communication?What’s your GK look?What’s your GK mentality, on and off the pitch?Recruiters and coaches are now looking and watching everything:How you walk in with your team.How you act when benched.How you interact with your coach and parents after a tough loss.How you warm up.How you bounce back after conceding.How you communicate with your back line.How you carry yourself off the pitch.How you treat other GKs, especially those you split time with or compete against.&nbsp;This last one is huge. I’ve seen top GKs miss out on opportunities because they didn’t align with the unspoken but powerful “GK union” code that most keepers live by. Every one of these moments feeds into your GK identity.Building your GK identity isn’t about putting on a fake persona either when top college coaches or programs are around. It’s about turning up the volume on who you already are. Your personal style, your mindset, your values, packaged with intention.Whatever your GK edge is, own it. Don’t copy others. Everyone’s development and path are different. Trust yourself. Sharpen your personal brand. Then show it.Because the reality is coaches from top programs don’t remember average. They remember impact. When they’re going through highlight reels, player stats, and scanning social profiles, your emails, you need to make them stop. Your GK identity is the hook. It’s what makes them want to see more.And today, your GK identity isn’t just your performance on the pitch. It’s what you post and share. What you say. How you engage. The story you tell both visually and verbally.For me, I stay focused on the core of my GK foundation. My biggest strength is mentality, how I handle pressure, setbacks, and the leadership role. Then there’s my GK communication and presence on the pitch: loud, direct, encouraging, strategic. My footwork and confidence with the ball at my feet are also standout traits, based on consistent feedback from college coaches.Off the field, I’m known for my advocacy work, which has helped build a digital footprint that aligns with how I want to grow in soccer and use my platform to make an impactSo the take away I hope those reading this walk away with is that too many student-athletes and GK athletes rely on talent alone and hope someone takes notices. But in today’s game, being good is no longer good enough. You have to be memorable. That starts with knowing who you are, then turning that identity into your signature.<blockquote>Because the truth is, if you don’t define your identity, someone else will. And it might not be the version that gets you further in your career where you want to go.</blockquote>

Goalkeeper Identity

<blockquote>My name is Drew Novaes and I am a goalkeeper at the University of Pacific. I played on a very competitive ECNL team while I was in high school and that was when I realized I wanted to play soccer at the next level.</blockquote><figure id="figure-5fnpcyo2dcmbfgzakh"><img id="5fnpcyo2dcmbfgzakh" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1ejLx99QV3nEgXeyzowf79r9qKbaIUc4u2vBERzFrxT1O3ZfdfI6daV7ZWFaDhGN.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 40% 15%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="40%" data-positiony="15%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1ejLx99QV3nEgXeyzowf79r9qKbaIUc4u2vBERzFrxT1O3ZfdfI6daV7ZWFaDhGN.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 40% 15%;"></figure>&nbsp;I began my recruiting process pretty early. I attended my first ID camps the summer after my eighth grade year in order to get noticed early and begin making connections with schools. Throughout high school, I attended more ID camps and went to college showcases with my ECNL team, which helped tremendously with exposure to college coaches. I began connecting with a couple of schools but San Jose State continued to stand out to me throughout the whole process. I eventually committed my junior year of high school because I felt that San Jose State met my athletic and academic goals and the coaching staff was welcoming. My freshman year was quite humbling to say the least and I struggled mentally and physically. The transition from living at home with your parents and playing club to living alone and playing collegiate soccer isn’t something that anyone can prepare you for until you live it. Having to manage your school work and sport while still prioritizing your mental and physical health is very challenging, but also rewarding. I ended up redshirting my freshman year but I learned so much about myself and enjoyed meeting new people along the way. I got to travel during my sophomore year and loved every second of it. I was finally getting the hang of what Division I collegiate soccer was like—but deep down, I still wasn’t as happy as I knew I could be. I started considering the idea of transferring, especially as changes in the coaching staff took place. I wanted to be somewhere I felt valued and appreciated for the player and person that I am. I decided to enter the transfer portal and at first it was scary, but I kept telling myself that everything happens for a reason and that I will end up in a better place. A couple weeks after being in the portal, I finally found my new home. I committed to the University of Pacific and I was beyond excited for this new journey.<blockquote>I’m sharing my story for a couple of important reasons—most of all, to help young athletes recognize their worth. You are more than just a player in the game; you are a whole person, navigating life beyond the sport. I’m sharing my story to help athletes understand that failing—again and again—is a part of the journey. What matters most is how you respond. At the end of the day, you only have so many years of eligibility, so make them count. Choose environments that support your growth, prioritize your well-being, and allow you to enjoy the game you love.&nbsp;</blockquote><figure id="figure-dzuhf0tzombfhele3"><img id="dzuhf0tzombfhele3" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/26p58aMLB1TFP5sT3P2tQe7Q8tsUHTtqjrYqCUpHyPgMl9lN2EJeNMhSrwxTAN3N.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 35%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="35%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/26p58aMLB1TFP5sT3P2tQe7Q8tsUHTtqjrYqCUpHyPgMl9lN2EJeNMhSrwxTAN3N.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 35%;"></figure><h3>Choosing My First D1 Program</h3>Initially, I was drawn to San Jose State (SJSU) because of the appealing culture and great facilities. I believed that it was the perfect distance from home and that I would be challenged academically and athletically. I committed pretty early in the recruiting process, so I was able to develop a relationship with my future teammates early on. I visited the school many times and also got a bit more understanding of the coaches’ style of play. I was young and naive, and had no idea what was to come. Everything seemed great.&nbsp;During the recruiting process, my main goal was to play division one soccer. My whole life up to this point was centered around soccer, so I knew nothing else. I worked my butt off in order to get noticed by coaches, so once I finally began talking to coaches my junior year, all of my goals and expectations of playing at the next level seemed to be falling into place. In all honesty, I don’t think I truly knew what I wanted and valued in a program because I hadn’t been in an environment that challenged me to think about what I truly needed to thrive. I made my decision to commit to SJSU solely based on what felt right at the time.&nbsp;Looking back on my junior and senior years of high school, I wish I had been given more information and felt better prepared to decide where I wanted to spend the next four years. In my opinion, the recruiting process and collegiate sports were completely sugar-coated, and I wish I had known what I was truly walking into—beyond the phone calls and campus tours.<figure id="figure-pb9aiez2hwmbfhioih"><img id="pb9aiez2hwmbfhioih" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/29fgTlW7lvnbG1InV2AUkuePJGHipE3D2zyRpekfRKiGrAzENHlWkLcRG1UTUIWT.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 90% 25%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="90%" data-positiony="25%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/29fgTlW7lvnbG1InV2AUkuePJGHipE3D2zyRpekfRKiGrAzENHlWkLcRG1UTUIWT.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 90% 25%;"></figure><h3>The Reality of D1 Soccer</h3>The transition from club level soccer to D1 collegiate soccer was a change for me, but I adjusted pretty quickly. I would say the most challenging aspect was the lifestyle change and learning to live independently while also prioritizing my academics. Being a college athlete at any division is very challenging but once you learn how to organize your academics, develop a routine, and manage your time effectively, it becomes easier to handle the demands and actually enjoy the experience. Soccer wise, the speed of play was quicker than the club level of play that I was used to, but it doesn’t take much time to adjust if your coach sets you up to succeed.&nbsp;Certain strategies that helped me succeed academically included planning each day and keeping a to-do list of everything I needed to complete. I also maintained a separate digital planner on my computer with all my classes, homework assignments, and due dates. In addition, it’s important to build strong connections with your professors so you feel comfortable asking for help, staying on top of missed work due to travel, and showing them that you’re committed both in the classroom and on the field.I came from a very competitive club team where everyone contributed to the team’s success and training involved the entire squad—regardless of who played the previous weekend—so, college soccer was very different in that sense. It’s more difficult to break through and play, especially as a freshman, so coming in mentally and physically ready will set you apart from the rest and eventually lead to success. However, even if you come in prepared, ready to compete and deserving of a chance, playing time is still not guaranteed—and that was something I didn’t fully understand at the time. When you aren’t given a chance to compete and prove to your coaches and team that you deserve to play, overtime, it begins to wear on your mental health and causes you to question if you even want to play anymore. At this point in my career, I had little to no confidence in myself anymore, but I’ve always had high expectations for myself, so I kept working hard.At this point, I relied on my why. Why did I keep showing up for myself, for my teammates, and for the game I loved, even when things felt heavy or when I felt overlooked. Holding onto that purpose kept me grounded and reminded me that my journey mattered.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-0o5j1hid57mbfhw3do"><img id="0o5j1hid57mbfhw3do" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/31Qt3NfQzH5C5ZrZFhpcfMAnd8pu20ayM20Mcl2MlJO2yeURrYUtQ2pX5dOmuiFi.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 70% 10%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="70%" data-positiony="10%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/31Qt3NfQzH5C5ZrZFhpcfMAnd8pu20ayM20Mcl2MlJO2yeURrYUtQ2pX5dOmuiFi.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 70% 10%;"></figure><h3>Making my Decision to Tranfer</h3>My two years at SJSU taught me a lot about what I truly value in a program and what kind of environment I need in order to succeed. As I began reflecting on my time there, I realized I didn’t feel like the best version of myself. The environment didn’t feel as professional as I had hoped, and something was missing. I wanted to be held to high standards, but I also craved a strong sense of culture and connection within my team—both of which were lacking.At first, I almost didn’t want to admit I was even considering transferring. I didn’t want to be seen as someone who walks away when things get tough. But over time, I came to understand that my situation was different. If I truly wanted to enjoy my college experience, I couldn’t just wait around and hope things would change.To make things more complicated, a coaching change happened halfway through the spring semester, which was a tough transition for the entire team. That period made it even clearer that my time at SJSU was coming to an end. And while the idea of starting over somewhere new was scary, I knew deep down that it was a necessary step if I wanted to grow—not just as a player, but as a person.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-drzkny0wwgmbfixsjh"><img id="drzkny0wwgmbfixsjh" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/13RvoYk1QPknqgjIzEWHnIrkbu2SvkHjz9aouZnD1gLJiBLrHlKlMMuUVAWAAn5V.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/13RvoYk1QPknqgjIzEWHnIrkbu2SvkHjz9aouZnD1gLJiBLrHlKlMMuUVAWAAn5V.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Navigating The Transfer Process</h3>Once I entered the transfer portal, things moved quickly—I started receiving emails from coaches and reaching out to programs. But this time around, I knew I had to dig deeper and figure out what I truly valued in a school and athletic program. I took a step back and asked myself important questions: Would I still want to attend this school if I wasn’t playing soccer there? Did I care more about the facilities or about genuinely enjoying my experience? I focused on long-term goals—how the school could benefit me after graduation or prepare me for post grad—and whether it offered the academic programs I was passionate about. To narrow down my options, I listed the pros and cons of each school, considered how each place made me feel, and ultimately chose the one that felt like the best personal and academic fit. I knew I had to visit these schools in order to make a confident decision, so I took about a week to visit the schools that I was interested in and I really went off the vibes of the school and coaching staff. In order to feel confident in my decision, after each visit I mentally told myself I was going to attend that school to see how it truly felt—emotionally, academically, and athletically—before comparing it to my other options. Thankfully, at the end of my visits I knew which school was right for me because of my preparation going into each visit. Making sure to ask the important questions and truly getting an idea of what going to school there would be like is so important in order to feel confident in your decision. &nbsp;I also learned not to fall for surface-level appeal; some programs sound perfect on paper because coaches are trained to sell them, but it's crucial to talk to current or former players and ask hard questions about their actual experiences. Don't get swayed by the most well-known Division I name or other people’s opinions—go where you feel you belong. Keep your options open too, even if that means considering junior colleges. Overall, prioritize what matters most to you—not just now, but for your future.<blockquote>My biggest piece of advice for anyone looking to commit to a college or transfer to another program is to think long term and consider whether each school aligns with your future goals. </blockquote>Also, I know it’s hard being in high school and not necessarily having much information on what college sports is really like or what it will be like to move away from home/live independently, but that’s why it’s so important to ask questions, do your research, and talk to current or former players to get a real sense of what to expect. There’s no strict timeline or rush to commit to a college early just for the sake of it—make sure it’s truly the best fit for you academically, athletically, and socially.<figure id="figure-y41cpigxkfmbfij7d6"><img id="y41cpigxkfmbfij7d6" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/9TNDuhFWVVeJrQ1JiOM5JlADSDpUMYd9ubk7Vmc5sRfrW4YfuBewxqK3BAzeFUoY.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/9TNDuhFWVVeJrQ1JiOM5JlADSDpUMYd9ubk7Vmc5sRfrW4YfuBewxqK3BAzeFUoY.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>My Experience at My New D1 Program</h3><blockquote>If you are processing the idea of transferring, I would sit down and be honest with yourself about whether you believe you are truly happy where you are. There are obviously many factors that contribute to being happy at a school—social life, athletics, academics, and location all play a role. You might be enjoying some aspects but not others, and that’s completely normal. The key is figuring out what matters most to you. Being clear about your priorities when choosing a program will help guide you toward a better fit and set you up for success.If you’re thinking about transferring, my biggest advice is to be honest with yourself, ask the hard questions, and think long term. Don’t make a decision based on pressure or outside opinions. Talk to current or former players, do your research, and focus on what you want—not just for now, but for your future. Transferring can feel overwhelming, but it can also be the best decision you make for your personal and athletic growth.</blockquote>

My D1 Journey: Transferring and Growing as a College Goalkeeper

I was listening to a podcast the other day and a topic came up that I think a lot of goalkeepers can relate to: when someone says a GK has “good footwork,” what exactly are they talking about?Because the more I’ve talked with different coaches, the more I’ve realized: it really depends on who you ask.I’ve had to start being specific when I tell people footwork is one of my strengths. Not everyone sees the same picture when they hear that word. Some coaches immediately think of distribution, clean passes, solid punts, accurate goal kicks. Others picture sharp lateral movement and quick resets around the box. And some think of how comfortable a keeper is under pressure when the ball is at their feet.For me, it’s all of that, but it’s also more.Most of my footage comes from Veo, and that kind of video doesn’t always show the full range of footwork of a goalkeeper unless a coach is watching in person. So I’ve had to get better at describing what I bring to the table.My footwork foundation comes from futsal and being included in field player drills during training. I’ve spent years developing comfort with the ball in tight spaces. I like drawing attackers in, creating space with quick, controlled movements, things like hold-off turns, side-to-side drags, step-over cuts, La Croqueta feints. These aren’t just flashy touches. They help me stay composed, shift defenders, and open up play. I’m also confident stepping out of the 18 when it’s on, staying calm under pressure, breaking lines, keeping play alive.<figure id="figure-bv5u6qn0fdm9x20dlu"><img id="bv5u6qn0fdm9x20dlu" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/53pO8b2Bj617NV7coQ0BStCfFy0L3wYDlJgv22rnCPv646zj1O9AkclNjVMRE6t8.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/53pO8b2Bj617NV7coQ0BStCfFy0L3wYDlJgv22rnCPv646zj1O9AkclNjVMRE6t8.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>I won’t lie, sometimes it doesn’t work perfectly. There are risks, and I’ve made mistakes. Last year during a tournament I was a little too confident and kind of showy and got scored on. But I grow from each one. That’s part of what makes goalkeeping exciting for me. I want to bring something unique to the position. I’m not trying to copy someone else’s style, I’m building my own.And yes, I’ve got the distribution side too, kicks, passes, clipped balls into space. But that’s just one layer. Footwork, to me, is a full skill set. It’s a mindset. It’s a way of reading the game and expressing your style.So when we talk about goalkeepers with “good footwork,” I think we need to get more specific. Because it’s not just one thing. It’s a whole toolkit. And every keeper uses it a little differently.

What Does “Good Footwork” Really Mean for a Goalkeeper?

My name is David Sweeney I currently play for The Town FC the affiliate club with the San Jose Earthquakes. We play in MLS Next Pro, which is a third division league in the United States made up of both clubs affiliated with and not affiliated with MLS first teams. Before playing for the Town I played club soccer at De Anza Force for the Development Academy. After high school I then went to college at my home town university San Jose State (SJSU). At SJSU I earned the opportunity to have my first start versus University of San Francisco and from there I took the spot and did not look back. Over my 5 seasons at SJSU I played in over 70 games. In those 70+ games I made 281 saves and kept 20 clean sheets leading the school record books in both categories.<figure id="figure-hrcoxo9dfam9hxifcw"><img id="hrcoxo9dfam9hxifcw" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/29WqwZkCuMmbDlGkVwZipcoUwkQZusF6ZlUXkplvA2CnlItOJRqYXiUSaXoQ6xkn.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/29WqwZkCuMmbDlGkVwZipcoUwkQZusF6ZlUXkplvA2CnlItOJRqYXiUSaXoQ6xkn.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>From College Fields to Pro Aspirations</h3>Before the school records and signing my first pro contract I started playing Goalkeeper when I was 13 years old. In this day and age that seems kind of late but at the time I was splitting my time between goalkeeper and center back. But near the end of the spring season our starting goalkeeper decided to quit playing soccer so I then became the full time guy. Over the next year I spent extra hours trying to improve at the weakness I had. My coach at the time would spend extra time with me to help me improve the basics. Near the end of my 8th grade year after lots of success with my current team I got the opportunity to try out for De Anza Force. I got the spot and spent the 4 years improving as a goalkeeper and as a human because driving everyday forty five minutes there and back to training took lots of commitment and focus on and off the field.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-isa096enyem9hxizk8"><img id="isa096enyem9hxizk8" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/2b3vyAZnZNw4x2kg2LZWHnvpOdS7i65GdpWzqAk6fkC4yFbSYmeZPFTgFqDCmZ4v.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 20%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="20%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/2b3vyAZnZNw4x2kg2LZWHnvpOdS7i65GdpWzqAk6fkC4yFbSYmeZPFTgFqDCmZ4v.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 20%;"></figure><h3>Embracing the Professional Challenge</h3>During the days at De Anza Force playing pro soccer was always in the back of my mind. But it wasn’t until my junior year in college did I see it as a reality. During that year my team and I lead the league with the most clean sheets and I lead the league in all goalkeeping statistics. From this time I truly believed I could make it pro. Before this realization I had already put into place a strict regime of how I slept, ate, and did extra training. When I realized playing pro was a possibility I doubled down on this process and did more work. &nbsp;After my senior year I got a trial for The Town. I played very well in the scrimmages I was invited to as well as the initial two week preseason invite I had received from those scrimmages.<figure id="figure-pygvz422ynm9hxjadc"><img id="pygvz422ynm9hxjadc" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/cp8Ilwo1WKecFfecwxvdWGrYgOtcEA0dpdlXaA5E1oDiy5vJks8IL1bDxPIPZarE.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/cp8Ilwo1WKecFfecwxvdWGrYgOtcEA0dpdlXaA5E1oDiy5vJks8IL1bDxPIPZarE.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Consistency &amp; Commitment: Lessons on the Pro Stage</h3>After the two week period the staff of The Town told me they were not going to sign me but said I could stick around and be a training player and hope that something changes and a spot opens up. Now at this time my perception of professional soccer had been turned on its head. As I grew up I always thought of pro soccer as a glamorous lifestyle that if you were good enough you made it and when you made it there was plenty of money and no more worries. I was completely wrong. As the months went by and I continued to train with the team a couple key factors stuck out to me that differentiated college soccer and professional soccer. First, you must perform everyday. What I mean by this is you must be ready to train physically and mentally at your 100% every single day. In college there were days where the team may have been doing an easy day or not training at all but at the professional level you must be switched on all the time. Second, consistency is your key to success. During my first two weeks at preseason with The Town I killed it. I was the best goalkeeper out there including the one they had already signed. But the third week rolled around and my performance had dropped. Then the fourth week the same thing. The goalkeeper coach pulled me aside and asked if everything was ok. I told him yes and he told me I need to get it together or I’m out. This was a wake up call for me. I had to analyze everything I was doing on and off the field that was holding me back from performing at my best. As the year went on I started to figure out my process of how I can be more consistent. To this day I am still trying to master the skill of consistency. After about seven months of training with The Town circumstances changed and I was able to secure a contract. That next weekend I played and got a shutout. It was a great feeling but I knew consistency was the key. I played well over the next five games and earned Goalkeeper of the month for all of MLS Next Pro.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-o3n1ttyx2m9hx75q6" class=""><iframe id="o3n1ttyx2m9hx75q6" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nPHAERG5bbE" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nPHAERG5bbE" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nPHAERG5bbE" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>From my journey there are a couple key takeaways. <blockquote>First, focus on consistency and the only way to have consistency when playing goalkeeper is focusing on “Your Process.” </blockquote>If you focus on your process no matter the result of training or games you will always have the process to focus on. The more you focus on giving your 100% to “Your Process” the more likely you are to succeed. <blockquote>Second, be intentional with your process. For me anyone can show up everyday and go through each task with minimum effort. But if you want to improve you must go into every training, film session, gym session, recovery period with intent. </blockquote>Without intent nothing will be achieved. Moving forward, a big goal of mine is to play a larger role in the success of The Town this year. Last year I got the chance to play 5 games and this year my goal is to play 10 games.&nbsp;

The Transition from College to MLS Next Pro: A Goalkeeper’s Journey

Youth goalkeepers face one of the most mentally demanding positions on the field. Unlike field players who can recover from a mistake more easily, goalkeepers often carry the weight of a single moment deciding a game. This is where goalkeeper imagery, the mental practice of visualizing game scenarios becomes such a game-changer and powerful tool. It helps youth goalies build confidence, perform under pressure, stay in the sport long-term, and avoid burnout.<blockquote><h3>To any players, coaches, clubs, and trainers reading this, encourage mental imagery in goalkeeping development. It might just be the secret weapon that helps a youth goalkeeper make their next big save.</h3></blockquote><h3>What is Goalkeeper Imagery? What Imagery do I Use?</h3>Goalkeeper imagery, or what I call my mental rehearsal, involves visualizing different training and game situations and how to respond to them. This technique is widely used by professional athletes but something I’m trying to advocate for in youth goalkeeping. What it does and what statistics show is it, strengthens muscle memory, reaction speed, and mental resilience.&nbsp;Personally, I use a nerdy and perhaps unique visualization approach. I visualize myself as both a shark and a goldfish, what I call a Gark. The shark represents aggression, sharp reflexes, and fluid movement, always ready to attack the ball. The goldfish, inspired by Ted Lasso, symbolizes a short memory, quickly able to reset after mistakes and letting go of self-doubt. When I practice imagery, I see myself executing saves, handling crosses, distributing the ball, leading my team, and communicating effectively. I imagine the decision-making process in high-pressure moments, preparing myself to stay composed and react instinctively.Only two years ago, after more than ten years of playing the game, was I taught about visualization. Since then, visualization has provided me with an advantage in 1v1 situations, corners, and high-pressure moments. It allows me to win before I even step onto the field, building my confidence and mental toughness, the mental edge that is often lacking in soccer at the youth goalkeeping level.<figure id="figure-ya9v7ntl2mm8rvezee"><img id="ya9v7ntl2mm8rvezee" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/30yRtjnlL0o3bA9UbWoSHVXxS9tUDGgR34TSUyYF27elvDAyCuWWOBCeOb2dmScO.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 20% 100%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="20%" data-positiony="100%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/30yRtjnlL0o3bA9UbWoSHVXxS9tUDGgR34TSUyYF27elvDAyCuWWOBCeOb2dmScO.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 20% 100%;"></figure><h3>The Advantages of Goalkeeper Imagery for Youth GKs are:</h3><ol><li>Being able to improve key skills that improve choices and decision-making abilities with goalkeeping imagery. When goalkeepers rehearse and visualize things like one-on-ones, penalty kicks, and corner kicks they improve their chance of cognitive responses to react quickly when under pressure. It is a great way to work on building confidence. Many youth goalkeepers struggle with self-doubt, especially after conceding goals. Imagery helps reinforce positive outcomes, boosting self-assurance and a strong mindset.</li><li>Visualization and imagery help build muscle memory as it triggers the same neural circuits as physical practice. By repeatedly visualizing the correct techniques: diving, ball handling, positioning, goalkeepers practice skills and drills off the pitch, reinforcing these skills without needing to be on the pitch.</li><li>Visualization and imagery help youth GKs better navigate and manage game pressure in their ability to keep their cool in stressful situations which is very important. Rehearsing staying calm and focused, preparing to handle game-day nerves effectively.</li></ol><h3>How to Incorporate Goalkeeper Imagery into Training</h3>For me, I set aside 5-10 minutes before a match in a quiet space and visualize different game scenarios. I do this as well before tryouts and training. For club GK trainings like working with Matias in Pscio goalkeeping, we break down each step to a skill both mentally and physically in a way where he verbally helps me visualize how to not only prepare, do, and handle difficult situations. Then on my own, I know how to better visualize various situations.&nbsp;Engage All Senses: not just the visual aspect but also the feel of diving for the upper 90s vs low dives, the sound of the crowd, and even the smell of the grass to make the imagery more immersive. The biggest challenge for me when I was younger was blocking out critics, boos, and gasps when a goal was conceded. Regular visualization helped turn this into white noise, improving my focus. When youth GKs reach out to me for advice or tips it’s frequently around this topic of critics and the pressure from the sidelines.&nbsp;Focus on Growth, Not Just Success: Instead of only imagining saves, I also visualize mistakes as learning opportunities. Developing a growth mindset is key, improving little by little each day. Another key area youth GKs would benefit from visualizing practices being incorporated into training.&nbsp;Combine with Breathing Techniques: Deep breathing while visualizing can help reinforce calmness and composure under pressure.<figure id="figure-bo6pb5rtxm8rvl4g4"><img id="bo6pb5rtxm8rvl4g4" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/bEpaUdgiqU49PSoYh80PmtFgpkszqVmumW9DRZnayc5zKUdoGmrZY79K2kZAYLD9.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 60%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="60%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/bEpaUdgiqU49PSoYh80PmtFgpkszqVmumW9DRZnayc5zKUdoGmrZY79K2kZAYLD9.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 60%;"></figure>Goalkeeper imagery is an underrated but game-changing tool for youth goalkeepers. By integrating it into training, we give youth GKs a mental edge, enhancing performance, confidence, and resilience.

The Power of Goalkeeper Imagery

My name is Delilah Burns. I am a 2027 graduate and goalkeeper for Tampa Bay United SC’s 2009 Girls team in the ECNL league. For as long as I can remember, soccer has been my outlet. Growing up in a military family, I’ve moved more times than I can count, constantly adapting to new schools, new teams, and new environments. But through all that change, soccer has been my one constant—my safe space where nothing else matters. It doesn’t matter who I’m playing with, what level I’m playing at, or where I am—the game is always the same. The only two things I can control are my confidence and intensity, and that’s what I try to focus on every time I step on the field.Of course, that’s easier said than done. There are always outside factors—pressure, expectations, and the ever-present challenges of being in a new environment. But no matter what, soccer remains my escape. When I’m in goal, I’m in control. And in a life where so much is out of my hands, that means everything.<figure id="figure-9q45v79chm8jd03i5"><img id="9q45v79chm8jd03i5" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/11pkSVx2fVuvEZ6Y4iBqhakXjxlbNA8Gf7QR4of9j7MMqfyciZQBBdYNF2RKgnq5.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 65% 20%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="65%" data-positiony="20%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/11pkSVx2fVuvEZ6Y4iBqhakXjxlbNA8Gf7QR4of9j7MMqfyciZQBBdYNF2RKgnq5.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 65% 20%;"></figure><h3>The Challenge of Moving and Finding New Teams</h3>Moving is hard. Finding new schools, making new friends, and adjusting to a new environment is a challenge in itself. But for an athlete, especially a goalkeeper, joining a new club team is another level of difficult. Club teams often have the same core group of girls for years. Even though new players come in, many have been together since they were kids—they know each other’s styles, they have chemistry on the field, and they have friendships off of it.Walking into that as an outsider is tough. No matter how much research you do on a club, no matter how many practices or tryouts you attend, there’s always an adjustment period. Soccer is all about personalities. On the field, there are 11 different ones working together, and as a goalkeeper, you have to be both respected and respectful. You have to command leadership while also earning trust, and that’s hard when you’re stepping into an already well-established flow. I’m not saying it’s easier for a field player, but for a goalkeeper, whose voice and decisions dictate so much of the game, breaking into that dynamic takes time and extra effort.<figure id="figure-6dqqo9tjym8jcyx5i"><img id="6dqqo9tjym8jcyx5i" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1dCOfUSjrCpWOMFP5CmbvbE9oVYvOUhab8L5P3nZgIlrFnne3Os8dWAkme96l0DJ.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1dCOfUSjrCpWOMFP5CmbvbE9oVYvOUhab8L5P3nZgIlrFnne3Os8dWAkme96l0DJ.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>The Pros and Cons of This Lifestyle</h3>Pros: &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp; &nbsp;Exposure to different playing styles and coaching philosophies. &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp; &nbsp;Meeting new people and forming deep, meaningful friendships. &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp; &nbsp;Learning to adapt, both on and off the field.Moving so much has forced me to grow in ways I wouldn’t have otherwise. I’ve played with so many different types of players, learned various approaches to the game, and expanded both my soccer IQ and emotional intelligence. I’ve also formed connections with people who share my love for the game, and those bonds are unbreakable.A perfect example of this is my experience with the Dominican Republic national team. I don’t see my teammates every day—we don’t even talk all the time. But the moment we step on the field together, it’s like no time has passed. The chemistry is there because we built it fast, and that kind of connection is something special.Cons: &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp; &nbsp;Constantly having to prove yourself again. &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp; &nbsp;Leaving behind teammates and friends. &nbsp; &nbsp; • &nbsp; &nbsp;Never feeling like you had enough time to make the impact you wanted.The hardest part about this lifestyle is when you finally get comfortable—when you find your flow, your team, your people—and then you have to leave. Every time I leave a team, I can’t help but think about what I could’ve done differently, how I could’ve left a bigger impact, how I might’ve taken that time for granted. And saying goodbye to teammates is never easy. No matter how many times I do it, it doesn’t get less painful.<figure id="figure-xn748tk2um8jczhau"><img id="xn748tk2um8jczhau" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/31vzEJ2BuYfGhVYHPO8Xgg1OvYNQGHYC2UXOa9RBAab7sQ8jgTigXmiN9LnXmPeH.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 50%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="50%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/31vzEJ2BuYfGhVYHPO8Xgg1OvYNQGHYC2UXOa9RBAab7sQ8jgTigXmiN9LnXmPeH.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 50%;"></figure><h3>How Soccer Became a Community Everywhere I Went</h3>Despite the challenges, soccer has given me a community every place I’ve lived. No matter where we move, I know I’ll find my people on the field. The game connects us, even if we come from completely different backgrounds. The moment I step onto the pitch, everything else fades—where I’m from, where I’ve been, where I’m going. None of that matters. What matters is my intensity and confidence.This experience has shaped me not just as a player, but as a person. It has forced me to step outside of my comfort zone, over and over again. Walking into a new team, into a room full of strangers who already have their chemistry and unspoken understanding, is intimidating. But I’ve learned that the only way to earn my place is to put myself out there—to communicate, to lead, to show how much I want it. Every time I’ve done that, I’ve grown. I’ve gained confidence in my voice, in my presence, in my ability to adapt.It’s also taught me resilience. Not every transition has been easy. Some have been frustrating, overwhelming, and even lonely at first. But through it all, I’ve learned how to keep showing up, how to fight for respect, and how to lead even when I’m still finding my footing. Most importantly, I’ve learned that no matter where life takes me, I will always have a place in this sport. Soccer is more than just a game—it’s a language, a connection, and a home that follows me.<figure id="figure-24xfjimmsm8jct1je" class=""><iframe id="24xfjimmsm8jct1je" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/58AXzenFIpI" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58AXzenFIpI" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/58AXzenFIpI" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure><blockquote>Soccer is more than a game to me—it’s my anchor. Growing up in a military family, I never had a permanent home, but I always had the game. Moving has been tough, and it’s never going to be easy, but soccer has always been there to catch me. It’s taught me to embrace new challenges, build new relationships, and trust myself in any environment.To anyone in a similar situation, know this: every new beginning is a chance to grow. The game doesn’t change, and if you put in the work, you’ll always find your place. You are more than just the new kid—you are a player, a competitor, and someone who belongs. Keep pushing, keep believing, and most importantly, keep playing.</blockquote>

Blog

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The Power of Goalkeeper Imagery

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