Lee engages in a compelling conversation with former professional goalkeeper Lee Robinson, who has transitioned into a modern-day goalkeeping coach and entrepreneur. They discuss Robinson's journey from a challenging football career to his mission of transforming goalkeeping training through innovative methods and specialized gloves. The episode delves into the importance of character, work ethic, and decision-making in goalkeeping, contrasting traditional views that prioritise physical attributes like height. Robinson shares insights on how he aims to empower young goalkeepers by encouraging them to embrace mistakes in training to enhance their performance in games. This episode not only highlights the parallels between sports and business leadership but also emphasizes the significance of mentorship and personal growth in achieving success.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Character Over Size: The importance of a goalkeeper's character and decision-making skills outweighs physical attributes like height. A smaller goalkeeper with a strong character can be more effective than a taller one lacking in these qualities.

2. Learning from Mistakes: Making mistakes in training is essential for growth. The approach encourages goalkeepers to make errors during practice to avoid repeating them in games, fostering a mindset that values learning over perfection.

3. Innovative Training Methods: The use of specialised training gloves that challenge goalkeepers to improve their catching skills and decision-making under pressure. This method aims to make training more realistic and beneficial for performance in actual games.

4. Mental Health Awareness: Acknowledging the mental challenges faced by goalkeepers, including feelings of inadequacy and pressure. The discussion highlights the need for support and guidance to help young players navigate these challenges effectively.

5. Changing Goalkeeping Norms: Advocating for a shift in how goalkeeping is perceived and trained, moving away from traditional methods that focus solely on physicality and technique. The goal is to inspire a new generation of goalkeepers who are confident, skilled, and capable of making smart decisions on the field.

BEST MOMENTS

 "I want to give the benefit of all my underachievements and failures and hard times and help these young goalkeepers not have to deal with what I had to go through."

 "I think you should have to earn the right to call yourself a professional instead of just leaving school and a couple weeks later having a professional contract."

 "The best goalkeepers aren't the best technically; they're the best decision makers under pressure."

"What you did in those camps absolutely engages the heads of the goalkeepers, engages the hearts of them because they love it, and fundamentally engages the hands and the footwork."

 "You have to make more mistakes in training to make less in a game."

HOST BIO

You can contact Lee Houghton on 07813342194 Lee@leehoughton.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/lhoughton/

For the last 15 years, I have been a multi-sector internal or external business improvement consultant, building the improved capability of individuals, teams and businesses.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my two young children Jack & India. I also enjoy listening to and reading business & personal development material.

Lee Houghton is “THE Business Problem Solver”, a Management Consultant, CX Specialist and Keynote Speaker.