Game version
Pool follow-the-leader: one person leads a movement and the group copies. Swap the leader each time, with a lifeguard or coach watching.
Goalie Reaction Blocks
For goalies: react to close shots with quick hands and a strong rise from the legs.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Tread in goal in your ready position.
Core: As written. Aim for smooth form and compare only with your own last time.
- Ages
- 14 and up
- Time
- 12 min
- Space
- Pool
- Bring
- Pool, goal, soft balls, coach
- Level · skill
- Advanced · Defense
The steps
How it works
- Tread in goal in your ready position.
- Your coach throws soft balls from 4 yards (4 m) to different spots.
- Rise and block with your hands.
- Do 3 sets of 10 with rest between.
Coaching point
See it, rise, block.
Safety: Use soft balls and close-range throws only. Swim only with a lifeguard or coach watching and, under 14, a grown-up within arm’s reach.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Challenge
Pick a level: Less (slower or smaller), Core (as written), More (one extra twist). Aim for smooth form and compare only with your own last time.
Story
You are an explorer crossing the pool like an ocean.
My best
Beat your own count
Aim for smooth form and compare only with your own last time. Only your own number counts: today against last time.
Practice makes progress
Print it now, or save it free
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An email from you to the coach, with the words ready. Nothing is tracked and nobody is rewarded.