Agility4Keepers in search for new goalkeeping talent
Agility4Keepers (A4K) run by Shane Nienaber and Sheldon Bowes, has arranged for international goalkeeper coach and instructor, Ian Pledger, to facilitate goalkeeper coaching and training clinics in the country.
One of these clinics will be held at Luso FC on December 9 to 11, starting at 9.30am to 3.30pm daily.
Both Nienaber and Bowes have produced goalkeepers whom have gone on to be selected within the Premier Soccer League (PSL) academy ranks, and keepers who have managed to secure contracts overseas.
Pledger holds a UEFA B License and has been involved abroad in the development of goalkeepers who are then sold to bigger professional soccer clubs across Europe.
He has also been involved in coaching a handful of well-known young goalkeepers who ply their trade in the English Premiership, English Second Division League Championship and in one of Spain’s leagues, to list a few of the leagues.
“South Africa has become the number one location and breeding ground to scout and recruit talented young goalkeepers for trials in Europe,” says Pledger, a former professional goalkeeper himself.
“The attitude, high work ethic and overall skill level is higher than any other country I’ve coached in. This can be accredited to the standard of qualified goalkeeper coaching given to these boys and girls from an early age,” adds Pledger.
Nine goalkeepers were selected last year during a clinic for trials in the UK, where four boys were signed with professional contracts.
Pledger is currently head goalkeeper coach and instructor at Peterborough United in the UK.
For more information contact Shane Nienaber on 071 963 6320 or Sheldon Bowes on 082 964 6929.
