A qualitative study of goalkeeper coaches' perceptions of key qualities in talented youth soccer goalkeepers

BACKGROUND: Despite a substantial body of literature on identifying talent in outfield players, information on goalkeepers (GKs) is scarce due to the specialist demands associated with the position. The purpose of this study was to explore which qualities GK coaches perceive as important for talented youth soccer GKs. METHODS: This qualitative study used a pragmatic research paradigm. The sample consisted of eight GK coaches (mean age 50.12±9.33 years; mean experience 17.25±9.97 years) who were purposively recruited to participate in the study. A semi-structured interview guide was used to collect data, and a two-stage thematic analysis was employed to identify themes. RESULTS: Four themes and 10 sub-themes were constructed: technical (i.e. handling), physical (i.e. upper body strength and height), tactical (defensive organization, build-up play and decision-making) and psychosocial (i.e. bravery, coachability, communication and composure) attributes. CONCLUSIONS: These findings may provide coaches with valuable information regarding the traits that potentially talented GKs should possess, which could guide training for talent development programs to increase their chances of being chosen for future opportunities.