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We took the opportunity of an invite from Gillian Burgess Director at GK316 Academy to pop down to Gloucester FA at Almondsbury and watch one of her training sessions for GKs.

On a balmy Saturday in June, there were 15 goalkeepers mainly representing clubs from the South West but also from the South East. Following goalkeeper specific warm-ups, the group were led through a series of progressive exercises. The session ended with small team goalkeeper focussed games ”for a bit of competitive fun.”

Gillian – a UEFA B Goalkeeper Coach and UEFA C Outfield Coach – says her Goalkeeper events offer those attending:

“Super insights into transferables from the 11 aside game and Futsal Goalkeeping into the Walking Football format. How they can be utilised and more importantly how we can look to protect our bodies and still be effective.”

Female walking football goalkeepers

This was evident throughout the session where Gillian offered advice on leg and arm positioning to reduce the risk of injury to walking football keepers.

Gillian, who also has caps in a Walking Football National Squad and is a FA Women’s England Talent Pathway Coach, adds that her events provide: “Insights into what managers are looking for at higher levels within this format.”

As well as running events for Goalkeepers of every age and ability, Gillian reflects on why she is now planning more walking football specific coaching sessions: “Having started Walking Football Goalkeeper sessions in Exeter and hosting a few events, alongside supporting the WFA O50 England squad, it became clear there was a demand for coaching within this format. Taking into consideration women that were brand-new to the position and experienced and Goalkeepers transitioning from 11 aside and hockey.” Talking about what the sessions offer female walking footballers, Gillian tells us that the specialised training sessions are built around developing all areas: Technical, Tactical, Physical and Psychological.

If you are interested in attending one of Gillian’s sessions, or have a suitable venue she could use, please contact Gillian: GK316 Academy on 07704444593

We’ve all heard of the Goalkeepers Union and Gillian explains that part of the event is most definitely about this unity and camaraderie. “The sessions offer encouragement and support and create a community for Goalkeepers. Recognising and understanding our strengths and areas of development. Plus celebrating our achievements and successes…”

FULL STORY at source: https://www.wf4w.co.uk/post/these-women-are-absolute-warriors-gillian-burgess-on-the-female-walking-football-goalkeepers-sh

If you are interested in attending one of Gillian’s sessions, or have a suitable venue she could use, please contact Gillian: GK316 Academy on 07704444593

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