"Train the person, not just the technique" – Ivan Benko's path as a goalkeeping coach

In our blog series "Coaches in Portrait," we're gradually introducing the top coaches of the Goalkeeping.com Academy —passionate individuals with exciting careers, unique training philosophies, and a big heart for goalkeeping. Today, we're especially pleased to introduce you to Ivan Benko —a coach who not only brings international experience but also embodies a clear vision for modern and holistic goalkeeping training.

1. Ivan, please introduce yourself briefly: Who are you, where do you come from and how did you get into goalkeeping?

My name is Ivan Benko , and I'm originally from Zagreb, Croatia . From a young age, I've been fascinated by goalkeeping – the responsibility and uniqueness of this position immediately captivated me. From the moment I first stood in goal, I knew: This is where I belong.

2. How did your personal career as a goalkeeping coach develop? Was there a key moment that inspired you to take this path?

After my professional career, which took me through Croatia, England, Greece, and Austria , I transitioned naturally into coaching. The defining moment came during my time in Greece—there I began working with young goalkeepers in the academy and discovered my passion for teaching and development. Helping others grow—on and off the pitch—became a true calling for me.

3. What positions have you held as a goalkeeper coach so far? At which clubs or academies have you worked?

My coaching career began at OFI Crete in Greece, where I worked in the academy system. After returning to Croatia, I became a goalkeeper coach at the NK Lokomotiva Zagreb academy, where I continue to develop young talent to this day. At the same time, I founded my own goalkeeping school—the IB Goalkeeping Academy —where I offer both individual and small group coaching, as well as online mentoring.

4. What licenses or training have you completed in the field of goalkeeping training? How important is professional development for coaches to you?

I hold a UEFA C License , a national goalkeeper certificate , and have completed various specialized training courses, including the PFSA Talent Identification Level 2 and certifications through Wyscout and Hudl . Continuous training is essential in this profession—not only to keep up with modern methods, but also to continually develop yourself as a coach and mentor.

5. What is your personal training philosophy? What makes good goalkeeping training for you?

My philosophy is clear: Train the person, not just the technique . Good training challenges the goalkeeper physically, mentally, and tactically. Every drill must serve a purpose and reflect real game situations. Building self-confidence is also particularly important to me – because a confident goalkeeper can lead a team.

6. Are there any particular focuses in your training? What aspects do you place particular emphasis on (e.g., technique, game structure, mental strength)?

I place great emphasis on decision-making , positioning , and tactical understanding of the game . I also work intensively on mental strength —that is, resilience, focus, and leadership qualities—especially with young goalkeepers. In modern football, a goalkeeper must also be involved in the build-up play—which is why footwork and passing under pressure are integral parts of my training sessions.

7. How do you adapt your training to the individual performance level of your goalkeepers? Do you prefer training with young talents or with experienced keepers?

I adapt my training to each individual, depending on age, experience, and personality . Every goalkeeper is different, and it's essential to address their specific needs. I enjoy working with both groups: with young players, it's about fundamentals and mentality, while with experienced goalkeepers, it's about fine-tuning and maintaining performance.

8. What fascinates you most about goalkeeping?

I'm fascinated by how a single moment can change the entire game—a save, a pass, a command. The position brings with it great pressure , but also great responsibility and reward . The mental toughness, the ability to read the game, the leadership role—all of this makes this position so special and respectful to me.

9. Who do you think is the best goalkeeper in the world right now – and why?

For me, Alisson Becker is currently the most outstanding goalkeeper. His calmness, consistency , and ability to perform under pressure are impressive. He is a modern goalkeeper who combines shot-stopping, footwork, and leadership at the highest level.

10. Do you have a personal motto or attitude that guides you as a coach?

"Lead by example and never stop learning." That's my daily motto. I believe that as a coach, I must exemplify discipline, passion, and a willingness to learn—if I expect the same from my players.

11. Finally, what does working with Goalkeeping.com mean to you, and what makes our Academy special?

Being part of Goalkeeping.com is a great honor. It's a platform that connects passionate coaches and players from across Europe and is dedicated to taking goalkeeping training to the next level. What makes the Academy so special is the sense of community, professionalism , and the drive to develop the next generation of goalkeepers with the best possible support.

Thank you very much, Ivan, for the interview! We look forward to welcoming you as a coach at the 18th International Goalkeeper Camp in Weyregg am Attersee .