Aurora FC Goalkeeper Training Program

At Aurora FC, we are dedicated to developing elite goalkeepers through a specialized, high-performance training program designed for players at all stages of the competitive pathway. Our Goalkeeper Training Program is open to all Competitive, OPDL, and League1 Ontario U20 goalkeepers within the club, offering a structured and progressive environment focused on excellence in the position.

The program is led by Don Ferguson, holder of the Ontario Soccer Goalkeeping Diploma and a former goalkeeper for the Canadian Men’s National Team. With years of experience both on the international stage and in player development, Don brings an unmatched level of expertise, mentorship, and passion to the role.


Outdoor 2025 Program Schedule (May 24-Sept 13)

U7-U10 (Boys/ Girls)	10AM-11AM
U11-U14 (Boys/ Girls)	11AM-12PM
U15-U18 (Boys/ Girls)	12PM-1PM
All sessions will take place at Machel Park

Program Objective
Our objective is to develop confident, technically sound, and tactically intelligent goalkeepers who are prepared to excel in competitive matches and beyond. We foster a training environment that emphasizes professionalism, personal growth, and leadership from the back line.

Program Overview
This program serves:

• Competitive Goalkeepers, grouped by age:

U7–U10 (Early Development)
U11–U12 (Intermediate Development)
U13+ (Advanced Development)

• Ontario Player Development League (OPDL) Goalkeepers
• League1 Ontario U20 Goalkeepers

Each group follows a customized curriculum tailored to their developmental stage, ensuring appropriate challenge, growth, and progression through the club’s goalkeeper pathway.

Program Curriculum

Technical:
Footwork, handling, diving, high balls, positioning, distribution, and communication.

Physical:
Balance, coordination, speed, agility, endurance, strength, and flexibility.

Mental:
Increasing personal effectiveness under pressure; dealing effectively with mistakes, setbacks, and criticism; maintaining self-confidence; effective decision making; bravery; concentration; motivation and discipline.

Tactical:
Developing a better understanding of the game; initiating attacks; commanding the penalty area; preparing for set pieces; development of outfield skills and overall tactical awareness.

Training Structure

Weekly goalkeeper-specific sessions, year-round
Progressive training curriculum with long-term development goals
Game scenario training and video-based tactical analysis
Individual feedback and tracking to support each goalkeeper’s pathway
Delivered across both indoor and outdoor training facilities based on season

Our Philosophy

Goalkeepers are more than just the last line of defence, they are leaders, communicators, and difference-makers. At Aurora FC, our goalkeeper program is built around a growth mindset, encouraging players to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and strive for continual improvement. Under the guidance of Don Ferguson, our goalkeepers are empowered to reach their full potential and compete at the highest levels of the game.

 

Last Updated on Thursday, 04 September 2025 15:17