United Through Sport’s (UTS) Goalkeeper Programme is transforming the way young goalkeepers grow and develop across Saint Lucia. Launched by former intern and passionate goalkeeper Gijs Spaling, this initiative has grown from a small, grassroots effort into a thriving island-wide clinic, offering weekly, specialised training tailored specifically for different age groups in a challenging yet fun atmosphere.
More than just a training session, the weekly initiative is building a community of confident and skilled goalkeepers across the island.
Held every Thursday evening at the Corinth field, the programme was born from a simple yet powerful idea:
“As a passionate goalkeeper myself, I want to create opportunities for young goalkeepers to grow, not just through coaching, but also by learning from each other” Spaling noted when launching the project.
Far more than just routine drills, these sessions centre on the core elements of elite goalkeeping – technique, positioning, and reflexes – all delivered in an energetic and enjoyable environment.
What makes these group sessions truly stand out is their collaborative spirit. Although goalkeeping can be an isolated role, young keepers are encouraged to learn from one another, share experiences, and push each other to improve, developing skills, confidence, communication, and team spirit.
As the programme grows, so does its impact. Not only are young goalkeepers gaining access to better training, but local coaches are upskilled through shared sessions and knowledge exchange, which ensures a more sustainable future for football development across the island.
Whether you are new to goalkeeping or aiming to take your game to the next level, the UTS Goalkeeper Programme provides an inclusive, empowering space to improve, connect, and flourish.