Futsal Goalkeeping: The Spread Block in 1v1s

Group work where every student plays goalie and learns the spread block, the futsal technique for smothering a 1v1 with one knee down and arms wide. Students work on reaction, controlled courage and safe goalkeeping technique.

How to play

1. Setup (2 min): five groups of 5; two groups at the full-size goals and three at small goals with a mat in front of each to learn the move.
2. Learning the move (3 min): from standing, the goalie drops one knee to the floor toward the ball, extends the other leg and spreads both arms; repeat 6 times to each side on the mat.
3. Against a rolled ball (4 min): a partner dribbles slowly from 8 yd and shoots low at 3 yd; the goalie comes out, sets and makes the spread block as the shot is taken.
4. Live 1v1 (5 min): the attacker starts from 12 yd at medium speed and the goalie decides when to come out and when to block; a spread-block save is 1 point for the goalie.
5. Rotation: each student plays goalie for 5 reps in a row and then attacks; every 6 minutes groups switch goals.
6. Wrap-up (4 min): each group shows its best save and explains where the goalie's weight was.

Rules

• The attacker shoots low and never at the goalie's head.
• The attacker may not follow up once the goalie is on the ground.
• The goalie never dives headfirst at an opponent's feet.
• Use knee pads or a mat for anyone who needs them.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: plays goalie seated in a small goal, blocking with arms and torso, or throws balls in.
• Autism or fear of contact: practices only with balls rolled by a trusted partner.
• Lower skill level: the attacker dribbles at a walk and calls out before shooting.

Learning goals

• Perform the spread block with safe technique.
• Decide when to come out to meet the attacker.
• Protect your body when going to the ground.

Equipment for a class of 25

• futsal ball: 10
• goals: 2
• small goals: 3
• cones: 10
• mats: 3

Teacher tip

This is a great task for giving every student a turn in goal, not just the usual goalies. Check that the knee lowers to the floor with control, not with a thud.

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