This greatly revised and expanded edition of The Soccer Goalkeeper is in authoritative guide to the most important and demanding position in soccer. From drills and tactics to equipment and fitness, expert coaches Joe Luxbacher and Gene Klein detail all of the unique mental and physical skills a goalkeeper needs to maximize performance on the field. This second edition features the updated information players and coaches require to keep up with the evolving role of the goalkeeper, including revised illustrations and photos, new and improved drills and game-simulated competitions, modern training regimens such as plyometrics, chapters on footwork and defending against restart situations, more information on positioning, including the role of the keeper / sweeper, and updates on the attacking role of the goalkeeper. Each chapter also presents a variety of drills that help players learn and refine skills such as receiving low, medium, and high balls; footwork; diving; distribution; boxing; and more. Plus, The Soccer Goalkeeper provides players and coaches with details on important soccer fundamentals: Choosing the best equipment. Combining the proper mental approach with physical ability. Developing effective strategies and tactics. Maintaining a physical fitness regimen throughout the year. Other special features include a glossary of soccer terms related to the goalkeeper and an appendix featuring updated Federation International de Football Association laws that directly apply to the goalkeeper.
Joe Luxbacher has more than 30 years of experience in the field of competitive athletics. A former professional soccer player for the North American Soccer League, American Soccer League, and Major Indoor Soccer League, he is currently at the helm of the University of Pittsburgh men's soccer team, a position he has held since 1984.
The twice-selected Big East Conference Soccer Coach of the Year holds a PhD in health, physical, and recreation education from the University of Pittsburgh and has earned the Level A coaching license from the United States Soccer Federation.
Luxbacher has authored more than a dozen books and numerous articles on the sport of soccer. His soccer articles have appeared in national publications such as Scholastic Coach and Athletic Director and Soccer Journal.
Inducted into the Western Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame in 2005 and designated a Letterman of Distinction by the University of Pittsburgh in 2003, Luxbacher is the founder and director of Shoot to Score Soccer Academy, an organization that offers educational camps, clinics, and tournaments to players aged 7 to 18. The camp Web site is www.shoot2score.net.
Luxbacher resides in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with his wife, Gail, and children, Eliza and Travis.
