There is a clear gap in the handball world when it comes to structured goalkeeper training. Now, Skillset Handball is being launched – a new digital drill library designed to provide coaches, players, and parents with the right tools from the very beginning.
Behind the initiative are well-known names in Swedish handball: Thomas Forsberg, Johan Ölund, Urban Jensen, and developer Josef Israelsson. Together, they have created a platform with the ambition of making goalkeeper training more accessible – regardless of level.
“We want to create a drill library that reaches everyone,” Thomas Forsberg tells GoHandball.
The idea was born out of a clear demand in handball halls. According to Forsberg, there is currently no simple way for goalkeeper coaches, and especially parents, to get guidance on how to structure training.
“We see that there is no complete and simple way for goalkeeper coaches and parents to get support today, with drills connected by a clear progression. When we visit training sessions, we’ve noticed a strong demand – people often ask: ‘Where do you start?’”
Focus on the fundamentals – creating more opportunities
A core idea behind Skillset Handball is to build a solid foundation for goalkeepers. Instead of focusing solely on top talents, the goal is to reach a broader audience.
“We find that many lecturers only talk about how to work with elite players and don’t see the value in developing someone who doesn’t have natural talent. For example, repetitive work with soft balls is also necessary at certain stages of a goalkeeper’s development, for several reasons – especially for technique and confidence. When you create a safe environment, it becomes easier to work on details and more enjoyable for the goalkeeper,” says Forsberg.
The aim is to give every goalkeeper the tools to develop based on their own conditions. A key part of this is building body control and understanding of the game. Since every goalkeeper is unique, the team behind Skillset Handball wants players to develop body awareness and play their own style.
Drills for all levels
Skillset Handball is built around a comprehensive drill library where each exercise has a clear purpose. Users don’t just gain access to drills, but also:
- The purpose of each exercise
- What the goalkeeper and coach should focus on
- How to progress and adapt drills to individual needs
“The goal of having a strong foundation is to create opportunities for goalkeepers to make the save they want in that specific moment,” Forsberg explains.
From youth to elite
The platform is based on a structured progression where each drill connects logically to the next. Users receive not only exercises, but also clear instructions on purpose and focus.
One detail that sets Skillset Handball apart is how the material is produced. Many drills are demonstrated by children and youth players – not just elite athletes. This makes the content more realistic and easier to understand, especially for younger goalkeepers and their coaches.
“We want to show what the drills actually look like in a real training environment. It should be easy to understand and easy to use,” says Forsberg.
Available in multiple languages
The platform is currently available in Swedish and English, with more languages on the way. The ambition is to reach an international audience and make the material accessible to as many people as possible.
With Skillset Handball, the founders hope to contribute to a more inclusive and structured approach to goalkeeper training – where more players have the opportunity to develop, regardless of where they start.
Read more and start using Skillset Handball here.