045: Scottish Academy Development with Ross Ballantyne

Just like their American counterparts, many European goalkeeping coaches are asked to wear many hats. Ross Ballentyne knows this as well as anyone. As the first-team goalkeeping coach for Queen of the South FC, the lead academy goalkeeping coach for Heart of Midlothian, a goalkeeping instructor for the Scottish FA’s Holyrood Performance School, and the owner/operator of Savehands GK Academy, Ross has dedicated his career – and countless hours of his life – to the position.

In today’s episode, Ross discusses goalkeeper development across all levels of play in Scotland, from the grassroots to the professional game. He talks about the areas of emphasis at each age level, and how best to prepare young goalies to advance and adapt to the next stage of development.

Along the way, Ross outlines a typical week in the life of a Hearts Academy goalkeeper. He describes some of the top players that he’s had a chance to work with – players performing across Scotland’s professional and national ranks. And he outlines the qualities that separate the most promising keepers from others in the position.

Through his Savehands academy, Ross also offers a free, digital goalkeeping newsletter, available to all keepers and coaches,whether you live in Scotland or not.

Special thanks to Ross Ballantyne for joining me!