Building the Thinking Goalkeeper
Go beyond standard drills. I provide elite goalkeeper coaching in Sussex, also covering parts of Surrey, focusing on the tactical, mental, and positional skills needed for academy trials and professional success.
Book a ConsultationMy Coaching Philosophy: 20 Years of Excellence
For over two decades, I've dedicated my career to developing goalkeepers at every level. My philosophy is simple: create intelligent, proactive goalkeepers who command their box and influence the game. I don't just train reflexes; I build football minds.
My sessions are not a series of repetitive, isolated drills. We focus on recreating real in-game situations. We analyze positioning both inside and outside the 18-yard area, develop the tactical awareness to anticipate threats, and enhance the vision to see the next pass and initiate attacks. It's about learning to read the play, not just react to it.
My experience spans grassroots to elite academies, giving me a unique understanding of what it takes to succeed. I provide the tools and insights needed to bridge the gap between potential and performance, preparing keepers not just for the next save, but for the entire game.
My name is Matthew Wellfare, and I am currently the goalkeeper coach for the Charterhouse School football teams, where I apply this philosophy to develop the next generation of elite talent.
Developing goalkeepers into confident, tactical leaders on the pitch.
A Holistic Approach to Goalkeeping
My coaching covers every critical aspect of the modern goalkeeper's game. This is what transforms a good keeper into an elite one.
Tactical & Positional Play
Forget endless, repetitive drills. We simulate live-game scenarios. This is specialist goalkeeper coaching for positioning in Surrey and Sussex, focusing on tactical awareness, reading the play, and understanding your role both in and outside the 18-yard box.
- ✔ Reading the Game & Anticipation
- ✔ Command of the 18-Yard Box
- ✔ Vision to See the Next Pass
Mental Skills & Resilience
As a mental skills coach for young goalkeepers, I develop the focus, confidence, and leadership essential for high-pressure situations. We work on managing mistakes, maintaining concentration, and communicating effectively.
- ✔ Building Unshakeable Confidence
- ✔ Concentration & Focus Techniques
- ✔ Leadership & Communication
Elite & Academy Preparation
My goal is to create the next generation of top keepers. As an experienced goalkeeper coach in Sussex and Surrey, my program is designed to prepare players for the demands of academy trials and professional environments.
- ✔ Trial-Specific Training Scenarios
- ✔ Understanding Professional Standards
- ✔ Decision Making Under Pressure
Coaching Programs & Age Groups
Tailored coaching designed for specific age groups to maximize development and enjoyment.
Elite Development (Ages 12-18)
These intensive sessions are designed for goalkeepers serious about reaching the next level. We focus on in-depth analysis and advanced techniques.
- ✔ Format: 1-on-1 or 2 Goalkeepers per session.
- ✔ Focus: Advanced tactical, technical, and mental preparation for academy and performance environments.
Foundational Group Sessions (Ages 7-11)
A fun, engaging group environment where young goalkeepers learn the core fundamentals of the position while developing a love for the game.
- ✔ Format: Small group sessions.
- ✔ Focus: Core skills, confidence-building, and positive habits in a dynamic setting.
The Elite Advantage: A Data-Driven Look
The path to a professional academy is incredibly competitive. While thousands of goalkeepers have good technical skills, academies are looking for the few who possess the game-changing cognitive and tactical abilities. Here’s what the data tells us.
What Professional Academies Look For in a Modern Goalkeeper
Nearly every player scouted for an academy possesses strong core technical abilities. This is the entry ticket, not the differentiator.
Research and scouting reports show that a goalkeeper's tactical understanding, decision-making under pressure, and mental resilience are what separate 'good' from 'academy-ready'. This is the edge you need.
Fact: According to data from the Premier League, of the thousands of players in the academy system, less than 1% will make a long-term professional career. Advanced skills are no longer a bonus; they are essential for success.
Goalkeeper Analysis Tool
Answer a few questions to get an instant analysis of your goalkeeping profile, highlighting your strengths and providing actionable tips for improvement.
Areas Covered in West Sussex
I provide 1-on-1 and group goalkeeper coaching across West Sussex, including the following towns and villages. While I am based in Sussex, I also cover parts of Surrey.
If your location isn't listed, please get in touch to discuss.