Welcome to Defending Third

be the NXT UP!

Join our NXT Up training, where we transform aspiring goalkeepers into confident, ruthless protectors of the box. Our program isn't just about making saves; it's about cultivating a mindset that dominates the game, on and off the field. With our 4, 8, or 12-week goalkeeper-specific mental training system, you'll discover the power within you to become an unstoppable force between the posts.

BOLD Vision!

Set your sights on the extraordinary. The first step of the BEASTS Method is to craft a BOLD Vision that ignites your passion and fuels your drive. Envision the goalkeeper you aspire to become and let that vision guide your journey.

STRONG Mindset

Embrace the guardian within. Mental fortitude is the foundation of the BEASTS Method, and the STRONG Mindset component equips you with the resilience and determination needed to overcome obstacles. With a mindset forged in steel, nothing can stand in your way.

EXACT Goals

Precision is key. With the EXACT Goals component, you'll define clear, specific objectives that leave no room for ambiguity. Whether it's improving your confidence or mastering your leadership skills, each goal is a stepping stone towards your ultimate vision.

TEAM Support

You're not alone on this journey. This component emphasizes the importance of TEAM Support – surrounding yourself with mentors, peers, and allies who uplift and inspire you. Together, you'll amplify each other's strengths and conquer challenges as a united force.

ACTION Plan

Turn dreams into reality. The ACTION Plan lays out the roadmap for achieving your goals, breaking down each objective into actionable steps. From daily drills to mental exercises, every action brings you closer to your aspirations.

STRATEGICLLY Adapt

Adaptability is the hallmark of champions. The final component of the BEASTS Program, STRATEGIC Adaptability, teaches you to pivot and thrive in any situation. Whether facing a new opponent or navigating life's twists and turns, you'll learn to adjust your tactics and seize opportunities.

About Defending Thirds NXT UP Mindset Training

Join the NXT Up Revolution

Are you ready to transform into the goalkeeper you were meant to be? Join the NXT Up revolution today and take the first step towards unlocking your full potential. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or just starting your journey, our program is tailored to meet you where you are and propel you towards greatness.

Don’t settle for mediocrity – become a confident, ruthless protector of the box with Defending Third and our NXT Up program. It’s time to elevate your game and dominate the competition like never before. Are you up for the challenge?

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NXT UP Training

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Player Mindset

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On Field Training

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Free Training

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Parent Mindset

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Goalkeeper Parent Articles

Help, advice, and insight for the goalkeeper parent

Unlocking Your Full Potential: Harnessing the Power of Belief

As a soccer goalkeeper, you’re constantly striving to elevate your game and trying to find ways to unlock your goalkeeper potential fully. But did you know that you may only be scratching the surface of your true potential? In this article, we’ll delve into the strategies for unlocking the remaining

The Impact of Athletics on Everyday Life

Explore the profound impact of athletics on everyday life as former athletes reflect on the invaluable lessons learned on the field. From dedication and teamwork to coping with failure and supporting others, discover how these lessons transcend sport and shape individuals' approach to life.

Goalkeeper Parent: 7 Mistakes you might be making.

7 Areas You Can Fail as a Soccer Goalkeeper Parent

Discover essential strategies for soccer goalkeeper parents to nurture their child's mental resilience on and off the pitch. From fostering open communication to prioritizing holistic growth, empower your young goalkeeper to thrive in the beautiful game.

Goalkeeper Positioning: The Key to Saving Goals

Explore the intricacies of goalkeeper positioning and learn where keepers should stand during games to maximize their effectiveness. Mastering this skill is essential for preventing goals and becoming a formidable presence in goal.

Embracing Adversity: The Pathway to Elite Athletic Achievement

Explore how soccer goalkeepers can navigate adversity with resilience and determination. Discover key strategies and the power of the Boomerang Effect in overcoming challenges on and off the field.

The Art and Science of Goalkeeping: Goalkeeper Shot Stopping

Delve into the art and science of shot stopping in goalkeeping. Learn when to catch, parry, or use your feet to maximize your chances of making crucial saves. Discover the holistic approach to goalkeeping excellence beyond the highlight reel moments.

NXT UP GoalKeeper Camp
Launching this Summer!

Training Goalkeepers Throughout the SouthEast

Elevating Keepers, Anywhere, Anytime

Looking to elevate your goalkeeper game without breaking the bank? Look no further than NXT Up Goalkeeper Training – the affordable option for aspiring keepers in Southeast Tennessee. With in-person sessions available in Cleveland, TN, Collegedale TN, Ooltewah TN, Athens TN, and Dalton GA, we bring elite coaching right to your doorstep. But if travel to Cleveland, TN is too far, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive NXT Up Mindset coaching available online. Whether you prefer solo learning or thrive in group or personal sessions, our online platform ensures you never miss a beat. Unleash your full potential with Defending Third – where affordability meets excellence.

Ever since starting training with Defending Third and Coach Gary, Lilly's confidence on the ball has increased. She now makes quicker decisions on and off the ball and isn't afraid to scan and switch the field if necessary. In a few short weeks she has learned and implemented creating space by pushing off other players, holding up the ball while allowing other players to get in position to receive the ball, and she has become way more vocal on the pitch. She is learning how to communicate with her teammates her plans so that the runs become more successful. Obviously it's not pretty all the time but the skills she is learning and beginning to lock down at 9 years old will carry her far.

My daughter's soccer passion blossomed, but self-doubt held her back from her team. Coach Gary's NXT Up Mindset transformed her game. With a tailored plan, we've honed her mindset for success on and off the field. Witnessing her confidence soar each game fills me with pride.

I've learned what triggers my negativity. I've replaced these triggers with mindful responses, helping adjust my mindset.

Testimonials

What Goalkeepers & parents are saying

See what kind of amazing results players just like you are experiencing from Defending Third and NXT Up Mindset training.

Live Webinars & Podcasts

Join my upcoming webinars or listen to the podcast

Stay ahead of the game and never miss out on valuable insights! Sign up now to receive exclusive updates on upcoming webinars, fresh podcast episodes, and more. Be the first to know when we go live and gain access to cutting-edge content that will elevate your skills and mindset. Don’t miss your chance to stay informed and empowered – join our community today!

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Why Choose Defending Third?

Enhanced Performance Under Pressure

Goalkeeping is as much a mental game as it is physical. Mindset coaching equips goalkeepers with the mental resilience and focus needed to perform at their best under pressure. By mastering techniques such as visualization, goalkeepers can remain calm and composed even in high-stakes situations, enabling them to make crucial saves and decisions with confidence.

Increased Confidence and Self-Belief

Confidence is a cornerstone of goalkeeping success. Mindset coaching helps goalkeepers develop a strong sense of self-belief, enabling them to trust in their abilities and take control of the game. As their confidence grows, goalkeepers become more assertive in their actions, commanding their defense with authority and instilling trust in their teammates.

Improved Concentration and Focus

Goalkeepers must maintain unwavering concentration throughout the game to anticipate shots, react quickly, and communicate effectively with their team. Mindset coaching teaches goalkeepers how to stay focused amidst distractions, hone their mental sharpness, and sustain their attention over the course of the match. With improved concentration, goalkeepers can stay fully engaged in the game and ready to react to any situation that arises.

Resilience in the Face of Setbacks

Setbacks and mistakes are inevitable in goalkeeping, but mindset coaching teaches goalkeepers how to bounce back quickly and maintain a positive mindset. By reframing setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning, goalkeepers develop resilience and mental toughness, enabling them to shake off errors and stay mentally strong throughout the game. With a resilient mindset, goalkeepers can overcome adversity and emerge stronger and more determined than ever before.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often are goalkeeper training sessions held?

Our goalkeeper training sessions are typically held on a weekly basis, with options available for both individual and group sessions. The frequency of sessions may vary depending on factors such as the goalkeeper's skill level, training objectives, and scheduling preferences. We work closely with each goalkeeper to create a training plan that aligns with their goals and commitments. We offer lessons in packages of 4, 8, 12 sessions along with the option to do single session training.
What age groups do you cater to for goalkeeper training?

We provide goalkeeper training for all ages 8 to 18 who are looking to fine-tune their skills. Our programs are tailored to meet the specific needs and development stages of each age group, ensuring that every goalkeeper receives the personalized attention and guidance they require.
How can mindset coaching benefit goalkeepers?

Mindset coaching plays a crucial role in helping goalkeepers unlock their full potential by developing mental resilience, confidence, focus, and resilience. By mastering techniques such as visualization, goal-setting, and positive self-talk, goalkeepers can enhance their performance, overcome challenges, and thrive in high-pressure situations.
What does mindset coaching involve?

Mindset coaching involves a variety of techniques and strategies aimed at enhancing a goalkeeper's mental skills and psychological well-being. This may include goal-setting, visualization, relaxation techniques, positive self-talk, mindfulness, and performance analysis. Our mindset coaches work closely with goalkeepers to identify areas for improvement and develop personalized plans to optimize their mental game.
What can goalkeepers expect to learn from your training programs?

Our training programs cover a wide range of essential goalkeeper skills, including shot-stopping, positioning, distribution, communication, and decision-making. In addition to technical skills, we also focus on developing the mental toughness and mindset necessary for success in goalkeeping. Through a combination of drills, exercises, and tactical instruction, goalkeepers will gain the knowledge, confidence, and abilities needed to excel on the field.
How long does it take to see results from mindset coaching?

The timeline for seeing results from mindset coaching can vary depending on factors such as the goalkeeper's current mindset, level of commitment, and willingness to implement coaching strategies. While some goalkeepers may experience immediate improvements in their confidence and performance, others may require more time and practice to fully integrate mindset coaching techniques into their game. Consistent effort and dedication are key to achieving long-term success.
Are your training programs suitable for beginner goalkeepers?

Yes, our training programs are designed to cater to goalkeepers of all skill levels, including beginners. We provide a supportive and encouraging environment where beginner goalkeepers can learn the fundamentals of goalkeeping, build confidence, and develop a solid foundation of skills. Our coaches tailor instruction to meet the individual needs and abilities of each goalkeeper, ensuring that everyone receives the guidance and support they require to succeed.
How can mindset coaching help goalkeepers overcome performance anxiety?

Mindset coaching equips goalkeepers with effective strategies for managing performance anxiety and staying calm under pressure. Techniques such as deep breathing, visualization, and positive self-talk can help goalkeepers control their nerves, maintain focus, and perform at their best when it matters most. Our mindset coaches work closely with goalkeepers to develop personalized coping mechanisms and mental routines that alleviate anxiety and enhance performance.