About the academy
A goalkeeper academy, built by a goalkeeper
De Lima GK Academy is a goalkeeper-only training academy in Southern California. For 8 years it has trained more than 200 goalkeepers ages 6 to 17, led by 2021 MASL Goalkeeper of the Year Claysson De Lima.
Why we exist
Most young goalkeepers learn the position by accident. They are put in goal, they get a pair of gloves, and they spend practice facing shots without anyone teaching them how to set their feet, where to stand or how to fall safely. Talent alone does not fix that. Technique does.
De Lima GK Academy was created to fill that gap. Founder and head coach Claysson De Lima grew up in Rio de Janeiro, came through the youth academies of Fluminense and Botafogo, and went on to play professionally in the Major Arena Soccer League, where he was named 2021 MASL Goalkeeper of the Year. The academy brings that professional standard to young goalkeepers in Southern California.
What we teach
Every session is built around the actions a goalkeeper performs in a real match:
- Set position and footwork, so the goalkeeper is balanced before the shot.
- Handling, from basic catching shapes to securing low and high balls.
- Diving technique, taught progressively so young goalkeepers learn to land safely.
- Crosses and high balls, including timing, communication and punching.
- One-on-ones, reading the attacker and closing angles.
- Distribution, with hands and feet, because modern goalkeepers start attacks.
Sessions are grouped by age and level, so a 7-year-old learning to catch and a 16-year-old preparing for high school soccer each get the right challenge.
How we work with families
Parents are welcome to watch. After sessions, coaches share what the goalkeeper worked on and what to practice next. Goalkeepers keep playing for their clubs; we focus on the position so they arrive at their games better prepared.
The academy trains in Upland, Santa Ana and Newport Beach, and runs camps during school breaks across Orange County and the Inland Empire. Classes and support are available in English and Spanish.
Partners
Our official glove partner is N1 Gloves, which supports our camps with giveaways for the goalkeepers.
Questions parents ask
What makes a goalkeeper-only academy different from a soccer club?
At a club the goalkeeper often spends practice in goal while field players run their drills. Here every drill is designed for the goalkeeper: footwork, handling, diving, crosses, one-on-ones and distribution, with constant repetitions and feedback.
Who coaches the sessions?
Head coach Claysson De Lima, a professional goalkeeper in the Major Arena Soccer League, leads the academy with coaches Sam and Paulo.
Do you work with my child's club?
Yes. Our training complements club practice. Goalkeepers keep playing for their team and come to us for position-specific work.
Start with one session.
Tell us your goalkeeper's age and level. We reply the same day with the right group and time.