This years U16 Goalkeeper of the Tournament, Dillon Griner, was a forced to be reckoned with.

The young keeper has some of quickest reflexes I’ve ever seen in a goalkeeper of his age. The way he manipulates his body to get in front of incoming crosses and shots is inspirational, as a field player I’d rest easy knowing he was behind me.

By the time Griner graduates he should be a developed, technical and consistent goalkeeper. If he can stay the number 1 at Atlanta United then it would almost guarantee him a spot at any DI university and allow him plenty of opportunities at the professional level.

River’s Three Traits to Consider:Agile: Griner’s quick reflexes give him the ability to move into the way of incoming shots, however he agility gives him the ability to make the critical second save. He’s able to quickly transfer his weight onto the opposite foot in order to get his body’s momentum moving as quickly as possible. Technical: Griner is really good with his feet. Most goalkeepers in the modern game are at least decent with their feet due  to the amount of teams transitioning to more possessive styles of play. However, Griner has legitimate skills with his feet. He doesn’t mind getting the ball and picking out a teammate.Confident: Griner is one of those keepers that wants to be involved with the big moments. He’s not hiding in the net waiting for the whistle to blow. He wants to save the penalty, he wants to make the save, he’ll challenge players face to face. He knows he has a direct role in the outcome of the game. 

Awarded as the best goalkeeper in the division, Griner played a big role in Atlanta United’s title-winning campaign. The numbers tell part of his importance to the team as the goalkeeper allowed just three goals in the team’s five matches in Frisco, making of Atlanta one of the top defensive sides in the event. Griner has all the tools of an elite goalkeeper, combining good size, great reflexes and excellent decision-making between the posts and uses them well to make stops and get the job done. He’s also very calm on the ball and connects good passes from the back.

Goalkeeper. The hero of the Generation adidas Cup last season for Atlanta United is still the top option for the MLS Academy in his age group. He has some of the quickest reactions in the country for the position. A number of saves he makes per game would end up on the highlight reel for any other player. Griner’s reflexes and shot-stopping instincts make him the top prospect for the position in the state.