Welcome to everyone, I speak today to another incredible individual. 

Freddy is a Goalkeeping coach within Non-League at the age of just 17, showcasing that if you are good enough then you are old enough. 

Here is his story so far, a full one already with much more in the pipeline! 

For those who don’t know you yet, tell us a bit about yourself and your journey as a goalkeeper so far.

I've always loved goalkeeping, but as I got older I realised my real passion was coaching. I started helping out in grassroots football and that quickly turned into something I wanted to pursue full-time. Since then I've been focused on developing as a coach, and I'm really grateful to now be working as Goalkeeping Coach at Bowers & Pitsea while continuing my coaching education.

What was it that first attracted you to playing in goal rather than being an outfield player?

I always enjoyed the responsibility that comes with being a goalkeeper. You're involved in so many moments that can change a game, and I was really interested in the tactical side of the position as much as the technical side.

Who has had the biggest influence on you as a goalkeeper, and what have you learned from them?

I've been lucky to work with some great coaches over the years, and I've tried to take something from all of them. The biggest lesson has probably been that the small details matter. Good habits, consistency and decision-making make a huge difference over time.

What part of your game do you feel has improved the most over the last year?

My understanding of the game has improved the most. I've spent a lot of time studying goalkeeping from a tactical perspective, and it's changed the way I look at the position.

Goalkeeping is as much mental as it is technical — how do you deal with mistakes during games?

Mistakes are part of being a goalkeeper. The important thing is not letting one mistake affect the next action. Learn from it, reset, and focus on what comes next.

What is your favourite type of save to make — the big reaction save, a 1v1, a cross, or something else?

I'd probably say 1v1 situations because they're all about timing and decision-making. It's really satisfying when you make the right choice rather than just relying on athleticism.

How important do you think communication is for a goalkeeper, especially at a young age?

It's absolutely vital. A goalkeeper has the best view of the pitch, so good communication can solve problems before they even happen. It's something young goalkeepers should work on from day one.

What does a typical week look like for you in terms of training, recovery, and improving your game?

Most of my week revolves around coaching. Planning sessions, delivering training, reviewing performances and continuing to learn myself. I always try to find ways to improve both as a coach and to help the goalkeepers I work with improve.

Which goalkeeper do you currently watch and study, and what parts of their game stand out to you?

I don't just focus on one goalkeeper. I like watching a range of different goalkeepers because everyone has different strengths. I'm always looking at their positioning, communication, decision-making and how they manage different situations

What is one area you’re working hard to improve right now?

I'm always trying to improve my understanding of the tactical side of goalkeeping and how I can communicate ideas more effectively. As a coach, you're learning all the time.

A lot of young keepers focus on saves — what do you think people underestimate about the goalkeeper position?

People naturally notice the big saves, but there's so much more to the position. Positioning, communication, decision-making and helping organise the team are just as important, and often they're the things that stop shots happening in the first place.

How do you prepare before a match to make sure you’re ready physically and mentally?

Preparation starts well before kick-off. It's about understanding the opposition, knowing what challenges might come and making sure you're mentally ready before the game even begins.

What advice would you give to another young goalkeeper who is trying to progress?

Be patient and enjoy the process. Don't get caught up comparing yourself to others. Focus on improving the basics every day because that's what gives you the best chance of progressing.

If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of goalkeeping advice, what would it be?

I'd probably tell myself not to rush the journey. Every experience teaches you something, and the biggest improvements come from staying consistent over a long period of time.

What are your goals for the next few years, and where do you see your goalkeeping journey taking you?

 My goal is to keep developing as a goalkeeper coach, continue progressing through my coaching qualifications and work in the highest-level environments I can. Ultimately, I want to help goalkeepers reach their potential while continuing to challenge myself as a coach.

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