091-092: Killing Breakaways with Tracy Noonan

After a remarkable playing career that featured a World Cup and three NCAA national titles, Tracy Noonan has turned her attention to Dynasty Goalkeeping and the instruction and inspiration of the next generation of keepers. While she’s committed to the latest advances in goalkeeping, she is also a champion of those traditional practices which remain highly effective – including the smother breakaway save.

Tracy analyzes the key decisions that goalkeepers need to make on a breakaway, and when and how those decisions should be made. She also makes a compelling case for the smother save and outlines a litany of benefits, including timing, safety, flexibility and even intimidation.

In Part I of the interview, Tracy describes the technique and application of the smother, and also explains when and why it should be used. She also details her reluctance to embrace the now-popular block save or K-save on breakaways.

In Part II, she outlines proper technique for closing distance on the ball, finding the fine line between aggressive and reckless play, and the value of being “settled” – if not always set – on breakaway touches by the attacker.

Along the way, Tracy also discusses her decorated playing career, examines her unique goalkeeping academy, and offers insight on other topics ranging from mentorship to nutrition. Altogether, it’s a dense 70+ minutes. I hope you enjoy it!

Special thanks to Tracy Noonan for joining me!