Well, studies exploring the contrast between high variability and low variability coaching approaches to goalkeeper training show that, while the random practice conditions leads to poorer performance during acquisition, it shows superior retention tests, otherwise known as the phenomenon ‘contextual interference effect’ (CIE) (Merbah & Meulemans, 2011).
Battig (1966) adopted the term contextual interference effect (Batting, 1979) which emphasized the roles of contextual factors that are internal and external to the task and learner. Furthermore, the entire training context e.g. task, practice schedule, processing engaged with learner. All were seen as potential interference that could enhance or reduce learning Merbah & Meulemans, et al 2011.
So, high variability in a Game Centred Approach (GCA) when learning a motor skill can reduce acquisition in the learning process (Merbah & Meulemans, et al 2011). So, when GCA becomes too difficult to perform tasks related to football, the exception would be to guide a player through a CLA in order to increase the learning of a given task (catching, falling, kicking, etc).
Is this method enabled in a first-team or reserve team environment? Can this methodology still be true for a goalkeeper who is 23 or 35? We, as coaches, would have to critically evaluate this theory to falsify our thinking to create new objective knowledge. Ultimately improving football actions to improve a goalkeeper.
What Do Coaches Look for in a Goalkeeper?
Furthermore, the professionalisation of
the GK coaching role, has now increased the requirements of the goalkeeper coach.
As a result, these coaching requirements have advanced how the top level coaches think
about the role, as well as now having a greater understanding of all positional specific
elements of the science surrounding the role of the GK.
All GK specific coaching, & outfield technical & performance coaches now embrace an enhanced GK specific knowledge across psychology, nutritional needs & necessities, bespoke
positional strength, conditioning & injury prevention techniques of the GK as well as linking
their teams tactical strategy to their training content & through detailed analysis.