It's Only Kids Football

Jaksot

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  How to handle angry football parents 17.09.2026 35min

  In part five of their coaching masterclass with Little Kickers, Ben and Mike sit down again with early childhood learning specialist Laura Mellor-Bachman to tackle grassroots football's most-asked-about topic: the parent-coach relationship. Laura explains why sideline meltdowns almost always come from one place, care, not chaos, and shares practical ways coaches can set expectations early so parents know exactly what to expect from day one. The trio get personal too, recounting a touchline incident where things turned genuinely nasty, and unpacking a strange encounter with aggressively positive opposition parents who unintentionally frightened their own players. Along the way, they explore why every sideline blow-up ultimately comes down to ego, how to keep a child's experience separate from a parent's own memories and expectations, and why Vygotsky's zone of proximal development explains why struggle is essential for kids to actually improve and build real, lasting confidence on the pitch. Honest, practical listening for any parent, coach or volunteer who's ever felt their blood boil on the touchline, with just one episode left in this six-part series.Start your journey with Little Kickers today at www.littlekickersfranchising.co.ukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootballYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  The words I regret saying to my own son 14.09.2026 1t 9min

  Ben and Mike are back with a double dose of grassroots chaos: tournament tales, a brand new format, and a lot of soul-searching. Their Barking FC tournament run swings from two straight wins to a possible academy-ringer thrashing, before ending in heartbreak with a cup exit against old rivals.Ben opens up about the harsh words he regrets shouting at his own son mid-meltdown, and how tough love in another game got Alfie back out on the pitch to help the team storm to an 8-1 win. Then it's Charlie's turn, as the youngest Welch is thrown into the confusing, chaotic new world of 3v3 football, uneven numbers, unclear rules and all.Along the way there's a listener's kind message about Raph's newly diagnosed asthma, a LinkedIn post that changed how Ben parents, and honest reflections on season goals: calmer team talks and learning to treat your own kid like everyone else's.Design your own it with VeseyID: https://www.discountfootballkits.com/veseyidGet your team a free £300 Discount Football Kits voucher by using our exclusive link to collect subscriptions through GoCardless at https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/offersFootball DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Sign up for the newsletter here: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootballYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  How to handle a meltdown without losing control 10.09.2026 31min

  In part four of our six-week masterclass with Little Kickers, Ben and Mike sit down with early childhood learning specialist Laura Mellor-Bachman to tackle one of the toughest moments in youth sport: the meltdown.Whether it's tears after losing the ball or a full-blown tantrum mid-match, Laura reveals why phrases like "suck it up" make things worse, and what to say instead.She breaks down the science behind emotional outbursts, explaining why kids can't just "snap out of it" and how acknowledging their feelings first is the fastest route back to calm.The episode also digs into spotting performative crying versus genuine distress, with a real example from Ben's own home. Packed with practical techniques, this is essential listening for any coach, volunteer or parent who's ever frozen on the sideline wondering what to say next.Start your journey with Little Kickers today at www.littlekickersfranchising.co.ukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootballYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  How AI is about to transform grassroots coaching forever 07.09.2026 49min

  In this episode, Ben and Mike travel to Copenhagen to meet Henrik Teisbæk, co-founder of Veo, the AI-powered sports camera used by over 50,000 grassroots football clubs worldwide.Henrik reveals the real story behind Veo, born from a missed goal and a father who arrived too late to film his son's first strike, and how that frustration sparked a mission to bring professional-level video and analytics to Sunday League football.They explore how AI coaching technology is levelling the playing field for grassroots coaches and parents, why filming games quietly improves sideline behaviour and how to use match footage and data to give young players constructive feedback without overwhelming them.Henrik also looks ahead to Veo's new analytics tools, personalised player insights, and a future where every grassroots team could have elite-level coaching support. A must-listen for parents, coaches and volunteers passionate about improving youth football.Get VEO sports camera: https://www.veo.com/sales-callSign up for the newsletter here: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootballYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  How to give feedback kids will actually listen to 03.09.2026 30min

  Giving feedback to young footballers after a game is one of the trickiest balancing acts in grassroots football. Whether you are dealing with a silent ride home, defensive reactions or outright disinterest, traditional post-match lectures often fall on deaf ears. In this episode, Ben and Mike sit down with expert Laura Mellor-Bachman to reveal how coaches and parents can transform full-time reactions into meaningful learning moments. Discover why swapping emotional car journey critiques for objective, observation-based feedback completely changes how children receive guidance. Learn practical sideline techniques - such as simple mid-game note-taking - that help you step back from matchday stress and deliver calm, targeted recaps. Packed with real-world examples and actionable communication tips, this episode provides the ultimate playbook for fostering intrinsic motivation, improving player engagement and ensuring your matchday advice actually sticks.Start your journey with Little Kickers today at www.littlekickersfranchising.co.ukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootballYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  A warning to all grassroots coaches 31.08.2026 58min

  In this episode, Ben and Mike stagger back from their holidays to face the glorious, chaotic mess of youth football pre-season. First up, Mike delivers a classic dad-guilt moment after realising his son wasn't just being lazy—he actually has severe asthma. The boys then dive into the training pitch, breaking down high-energy 1v1 reaction drills, the 'Rivals' game, and how to stop screaming at your own flesh and blood when a drill goes sideways. Throw in the absolute nightmare of arranging 3v3 friendlies, snide football kits from abroad, and a quick reality check on why we’ll actually miss these freezing, muddy Sunday mornings, and you’ve got classic touchline therapy. Put the kettle on!Discount Football Kits are offering a special 72-hour deal from 30 August - get your coach’s folder for just £29.95 with FREE delivery (normally £39.95 + delivery): https://discountfootballkits.com/tactics-padGet your team a free £300 Discount Football Kits voucher by using our exclusive link to collect subscriptions through GoCardless at https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/offersFootball DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Sign up for the newsletter here: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootballYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  The secret to getting children to listen 27.08.2026 30min

  Why do some coaches instantly capture a group's attention while others spend an entire session repeating themselves? In this episode, hosts Ben and Mike are joined by Laura Mellor-Backman, Director of Curriculum and Training at Stronger Youth Brands and an early childhood learning specialist, to uncover the secret to getting young footballers to actually listen.Drawing on child development research and years of experience designing programmes for young children, Laura explains why listening isn't about speaking louder - it's about communicating differently.Together, they explore how body language, storytelling, questioning, structure and play all help children stay engaged, while sharing practical strategies for supporting shy players, managing challenging behaviour and creating sessions that are both fun and purposeful.This conversation will help you communicate more effectively, build stronger connections with your players and create an environment where every child can learn, grow and develop a lifelong love of football.Start your journey with Little Kickers today at www.littlekickersfranchising.co.ukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootballYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Ex-Premier League striker: Why grassroots means more than my pro career 24.08.2026 1t 8min

  From scoring the winning goal on his Premier League debut for boyhood club West Ham to coaching his own children on a Sunday morning, Freddie Sears has experienced almost every level of the game. But despite a career spanning more than 460 professional appearances, it’s grassroots football that now gives him some of his greatest enjoyment.In this episode, Freddie joins Ben and Mike in the studio to reflect on growing up playing grassroots football, the coaches and parents who shaped him, and the unforgettable moment he fulfilled his childhood dream at West Ham. He also opens up about the challenges of coaching his own children, managing expectations, dealing with nerves and finding the balance between pushing young players and simply letting them enjoy football.For parents and coaches, Freddie’s message is clear: football should be fun. His story is a powerful reminder that the friendships, memories and experiences created on a Sunday morning can mean far more than the result.Get your team a free £300 Discount Football Kits voucher by using our exclusive link to collect subscriptions through GoCardless at https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/offersFootball DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Sign up for the newsletter here: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootballYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  How a young footballer's brain works 20.08.2026 30min

  Why do young players ignore instructions, forget skills they've mastered in training or simply want to play instead of listening? In this episode, hosts Ben and Mike, are joined by Laura Mellor-Bachman, Director of Curriculum and Training at Stronger Youth Brands and an early childhood learning specialist, to explore what's really happening inside a young footballer's brain.Drawing on child development research and years of experience designing programmes for young children, Laura explains why play is the foundation of learning, how emotional safety shapes confidence and why coaches often expect more than children are developmentally ready for.Whether you're a grassroots coach, volunteer or football parent, this conversation will help you better understand how young players think, learn and develop—giving you practical insights to create more enjoyable sessions and help every child build a lifelong love of football.Start your journey with Little Kickers today at www.littlekickersfranchising.co.ukTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootballYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Help your child score more goals this season 17.08.2026 54min

  What does it really take to help a young footballer become a better goalscorer? In this episode, Ben and Mike are joined by former Football League striker and specialist finishing coach Dan Holman to uncover the coaching principles that develop confident, clinical finishers.From improving ball striking and mastering different finishing techniques to making smarter runs, finding space and bouncing back after missed chances, Dan explains how goalscorers are made through practice, patience and repetition—not just natural talent.The conversation also explores how parents can support their child's development at home without over-coaching, why confidence is built through keeping promises rather than chasing perfection, and the small mindset shifts that can make a huge difference on matchday.This episode is packed with practical advice that parents, volunteers and grassroots coaches can start using immediately.Get your team a free £300 Discount Football Kits voucher by using our exclusive link to collect subscriptions through GoCardless at https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/offersFootball DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Sign up for the newsletter here: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootballYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  The secret to raising a mentality monster 10.08.2026 57min

  What separates the young footballers who keep improving from those who stand still? According to ex-professionals and Complete Football Academy coaches Kudus Oyenuga and Garry Richards, it isn't talent — it's mentality.Joining Ben and Mike, they explore how parents and coaches can develop resilience, intensity and self-belief without crushing a child's confidence or love for the game.Through stories from academy football, grassroots coaching and parenting their own children, they discuss why kids need to be challenged, why protecting them too much can hold them back, and how the right standards can unlock potential both on and off the pitch.They also share practical advice on coaching your own child, giving feedback that motivates rather than discourages, and creating environments where young players learn to embrace mistakes, work harder and push beyond their comfort zone.Get your team a free £300 Discount Football Kits voucher by using our exclusive link to collect subscriptions through GoCardless at https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/offersFootball DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Sign up for the newsletter here: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootballYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Is 3v3 REALLY better for young footballers? 06.08.2026 1t 7min

  In this webinar, hosts Ben and Mike host an expert panel, featuring the FA’s head of grassroots coach, John Folwell, elite academy coach Michael Fox, professional goalkeeper Mark Howard, and youth league chairman Ryan Walker—to dissect the FA’s new 3v3 format for under-7s.Drawing on extensively tested research and real-world rollout experience, John and Ryan explain how 3v3 maximises active playing time, touches, and player autonomy while simplifying match logistics for grassroots clubs.The panel explores the core philosophy of giving the game back to the kids, highlighting how small-sided matches foster creative decision-making and fundamental movement skills without early parental or sideline pressure.Beyond the general format, the discussion tackles heat-button debates—including the controversial removal of goalkeepers, logistical pitch setups, parent-facilitator roles, and managing mixed-ability squads. Packed with practical advice on matchday execution, training adaptations, and navigating adult mindset shifts, this session offers an essential roadmap for coaches and parents embarking on the 3v3 journey.Get your team a free £300 Discount Football Kits voucher by using our exclusive link to collect subscriptions through GoCardless at https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/offersPower your grassroots team with effortless payments — sign up with GoCardless today at https://gocardless.com/g/payments-sports-clubs/ and spend less time chasing fees, more time developing your players.Sign up for the newsletter here: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootballYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Will playing a year up make your child better? 03.08.2026 1t 2min

  Ben and Mike dive into one of grassroots football's biggest debates: will playing a year up actually make your child a better footballer? Using their own team's pre-season as a real-life case study, they share what happened when they tested their Under-10s against older, stronger opposition—and the surprising lessons they learned. They discuss how physical challenges can accelerate development, why confidence and resilience matter just as much as technical ability, and the signs parents should look for before making the leap. Along the way, they explore pre-season training, helping younger players build confidence, coaching intensity, and why more football isn't always the answer unless it's the right football. This episode gives parents and coaches practical insight into making the right long-term decision.Get your team a free £300 Discount Football Kits voucher by using our exclusive link to collect subscriptions through GoCardless at https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/offersFootball DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Sign up for the newsletter here: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootballYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Why some young goalkeepers stop loving football 27.07.2026 1t 3min

  Why do some young goalkeepers thrive under pressure while others lose confidence after a single mistake? In this episode, hosts Ben and Mike are joined by former professional goalkeeper and experienced academy coach Andy Collett to explore what it really takes to develop confident, resilient young shot-stoppers.Drawing on years of experience working with players of all ages, Andy explains why coaches and parents often expect too much from young goalkeepers, how confidence is built—or damaged—and why the way adults communicate can have a lasting impact on a child's development. The conversation also covers concentration, decision-making, handling mistakes, age-appropriate coaching and the unique challenges of playing the most demanding position on the pitch.This episode is packed with practical advice that will help you better understand, support and develop young goalkeepers.Get your team a free £300 Discount Football Kits voucher by using our exclusive link to collect subscriptions through GoCardless at https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/offersFootball DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Sign up for the newsletter here: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootballYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Why your kid needs to get stronger 20.07.2026 55min

  In this episode, Ben speaks to youth athlete development expert Dr Ben Pullen, to smash the biggest myths holding young players back. He completely dismantles the classic misconception that strength training stunts a child’s growth, revealing that avoiding physical preparation actually leaves young athletes vulnerable to injuries during peak growth spurts. You will discover how 3G pitches and explosive changes of direction subject young joints to dangerous forces, frequently triggering painful overuse conditions like Osgood-Schlatter knee pain and Sever's disease. Listeners will walk away with an exact step-by-step blueprint packed with practical coaching tips and at-home drills. Dr Pullen shares how to run highly engaging chase games that naturally build explosive sprint speed, how to integrate 5-minute plyometric jumping and landing routines into team warm-ups, and how to use clever bodyweight challenges to safely build core strength without any gym equipment. Learn how just 30 to 60 minutes a week of these games-based exercises can unlock genuine acceleration and agility. Most importantly, this physical level-up directly boosts a child’s confidence, combatting the 70% youth sports dropout rate and keeping them in love with football for the long haul.Get your team a free £300 Discount Football Kits voucher by using our exclusive link to collect subscriptions through GoCardless at https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/offersFootball DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Sign up for the webinar: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/eventsSign up for the newsletter here: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootballYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Are we raising soft footballers? 13.07.2026 1t 7min

  Ben and Mike are joined by former professional footballer Damian Scannell and mental performance coach Michael Hilton for an honest conversation about what it really takes to help young players thrive. Together, they explore how parents and volunteer coaches can build confidence, resilience and a lifelong love of football without adding unnecessary pressure. From handling disappointment and managing emotions to knowing when to step in and when to let children learn for themselves, the discussion is packed with practical advice and real-life experiences. This episode offers valuable insights into raising confident young footballers while helping them develop the life skills that extend far beyond the game.Get your team a free £300 Discount Football Kits voucher by using our exclusive link to collect subscriptions through GoCardless at https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/offersFootball DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Sign up for the webinar: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/eventsSign up for the newsletter here: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootballYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Why tournament football drives coaches crazy 06.07.2026 1t 15min

  Ben and Mike reflect on another unforgettable weekend in grassroots football, where the highs of great performances were matched by the heartbreak of a cup final defeat. In this honest and relatable conversation, they unpack what really happens behind the touchline - from managing pressure, emotions and expectations to supporting young players through both success and disappointment.They discuss the lessons learned from tournament football, the challenges of coaching their own children, the psychology of big games, and the everyday chaos that every volunteer coach and football parent knows all too well.They also look ahead to presentation night, sharing why celebrating every player's journey, recognising individual progress and creating lifelong memories can often mean far more than lifting a trophy. This episode is packed with candid stories, practical insights and plenty of laughs. It's a reminder that grassroots football isn't just about winning trophies—it's about helping young players grow, creating lasting memories, and learning something new every single week.Get your team a free £300 Discount Football Kits voucher by using our exclusive link to collect subscriptions through GoCardless at https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/offersFootball DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Sign up for the webinar: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/eventsSign up for the newsletter here: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootballYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  Teach this skill before next season starts 29.06.2026 54min

  What really helps young footballers improve? In this episode, hosts Ben and Mike sit down with Jason and Neil from Rondos Academy to uncover the coaching principles they've learned from more than 15 years of developing grassroots players.From the importance of patience and creating engaging training sessions to the technical skills children should really be practising, this conversation is packed with practical advice for volunteer coaches, parents and anyone involved in youth football.They discuss why competition can transform learning, how to support players of all abilities, what children should focus on during the summer and why long-term development matters far more than short-term results.Get your team a free £300 Discount Football Kits voucher by using our exclusive link to collect subscriptions through GoCardless at https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/offersFootball DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Sign up for the newsletter here: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootballYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  What scouts REALLY look for in grassroots players 22.06.2026 1t 6min

  What does it really take for a young player to make it in academy football and what are parents and grassroots coaches getting wrong? In this episode, Ben and Mike sit down with Sean Conlon, a former Chelsea and QPR academy coach and scout, to get honest answers from inside the system.Sean, now the ceo of We Make Footballers and founder of Project Footballer, breaks down the reality of youth football in the UK - from why early talent means nothing long-term, to what scouts actually look for (and it’s not just skills).The conversation dives into mindset, habits, and the huge influence parents have from the sidelines. Ben and Mike ask the questions every grassroots parent and coach is thinking, while Sean shares practical, no-nonsense insight on how to support young players properly, without adding pressure or taking the joy out of the game.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Power your grassroots team with effortless payments — sign up with GoCardless today at https://gocardless.com/g/payments-sports-clubs/ and spend less time chasing fees, more time developing your players.Football Discount Kits supplies quality football kits at prices that actually work for grassroots clubs — no nonsense, no hard sell, just reliable teamwear that arrives on time and looks the part on matchday: https://www.discountfootballkits.com/Save £200 on the Veo Cam 3 👉 Use Code: iokfveocam3Save 50% on the Veo Go 👉 Use Code: iokfveogoTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootballYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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  The biggest lessons from 100 episodes 15.06.2026 1t 8min

  Episode 100 marks a milestone beyond numbers, as Ben and Mike reflect on how three years of coaching and honest self-examination have reshaped them from reactive, emotionally driven dads into more self-aware, confident coaches. What began as sideline frustration, post-match “crash outs,” and sleepless nights has evolved into a calmer, more thoughtful approach built on accountability and experience. They revisit early mistakes—shouting, letting results dictate emotions, and struggling to separate parenting from coaching—while sharing how expert advice and reflection helped them improve communication and focus on development over winning.Alongside practical lessons in training, confidence, and team culture, this episode highlights the power of honesty, showing how growth comes not from perfection, but from learning, adapting, and showing up better each time.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Power your grassroots team with effortless payments — sign up with GoCardless today at https://gocardless.com/g/payments-sports-clubs/ and spend less time chasing fees, more time developing your players.Football Discount Kits supplies quality football kits at prices that actually work for grassroots clubs — no nonsense, no hard sell, just reliable teamwear that arrives on time and looks the part on matchday: https://www.discountfootballkits.com/Save £200 on the Veo Cam 3 👉 Use Code: iokfveocam3Save 50% on the Veo Go 👉 Use Code: iokfveogoTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootballInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootballYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootballFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.