It's Only Kids Football

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.uk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/ Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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/offers Football 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/@iokfootball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/ Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.uk TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/ Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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/offers Football 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/@iokfootball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/ Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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/offers Football 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/@iokfootball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/ Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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/offers 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. Sign up for the newsletter here: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/ Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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/offers Football 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/@iokfootball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/ Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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/offers Football 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/@iokfootball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/ Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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/offers Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/ Sign up for the webinar: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/events Sign up for the newsletter here: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/ Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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/offers Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/ Sign up for the webinar: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/events Sign up for the newsletter here: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/ Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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/offers Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/ Sign up for the webinar: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/events Sign up for the newsletter here: https://www.itsonlykidsfootball.com/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/ Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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/offers Football 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/@iokfootball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/ Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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: iokfveocam3 Save 50% on the Veo Go 👉 Use Code: iokfveogo TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/ Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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: iokfveocam3 Save 50% on the Veo Go 👉 Use Code: iokfveogo TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/ Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, hosts Ben and Mike are joined in the studio by Football DNA's head of coaching, Paul Barry, to break down the FA’s brand-new 3v3 format for under-7s—and what it really means for coaches, players and parents. Drawing on over 30 years of coaching experience, Paul explains why 3v3 is “football in its purest form,” designed to maximise touches, decision-making, and enjoyment. The conversation explores how removing goalkeepers, referees and rigid structure creates a more creative, player-led environment—and why that’s crucial for long-term development. The episode goes beyond theory, offering practical coaching advice on what to prioritise in training, how to build decision-making through small-sided games, and why concepts like ball mastery, attacking intent, and transitions should take centre stage. Paul also shares powerful insights on coaching behaviours—from reducing sideline noise to using language that actually resonates with young players. Alongside the benefits, the discussion tackles real-world challenges, including over-coaching, parental pressure, “ball hogging,” and how to handle difficult grassroots scenarios. Whether you’re unsure about the format or excited to embrace it, this is your complete guide to coaching 3v3 the right way. 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: iokfveocam3 Save 50% on the Veo Go 👉 Use Code: iokfveogo TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/ Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Ben and Mike, two grassroots dads doing their best not to ruin their kids’ football journeys, are joined by Kate and Fran from Performance Canteen, specialists in youth athlete nutrition who’ve worked with elite academies and young players across the UK. While Ben admits his go-to meal plan involves oven chips and panic, Kate and Fran drop a bombshell: most grassroots kids aren’t overfed - they’re under-fuelled. And it’s quietly wrecking their performance, mood, and love for the game. They dive into the biggest myths around “healthy eating,” why sugar isn’t the villain it’s made out to be, and how modern nutrition advice is confusing parents more than it’s helping. If you’ve ever wondered why your kid fades in matches, gets grumpy after training, or constantly asks for snacks—this one’s for you. Grab a bowl of cereal, ditch the guilt, and get ready to rethink everything you thought you knew about feeding young footballers. Get 15% off the Game Ready Course from Performance Canteen. Use code: IOKF15 (valid until end of June) 👉 https://performancecanteen.mykajabi.com/offers/S45Zi4Hp?coupon_code=IOKF15 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: iokfveocam3 Save 50% on the Veo Go 👉 Use Code: iokfveogo TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/ Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Mike Clark and Ben sit down with Colin Windrow, the visionary club manager behind MSB Woolton—officially the largest grassroots football club in England. Colin shares the fascinating journey of scaling a local Liverpool side into an institution supporting over 2,400 players and 400 volunteers. Beyond the logistics, he reveals the club’s secret approach: an internal league designed to foster a love for the game without the crushing pressure of early competition. From practical community hacks like "boot exchanges" to managing the high expectations of parents, this conversation is essential listening for any coach, volunteer, or parent navigating the complex world of grassroots football. Discover how to build a legacy that values people over points. 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: iokfveocam3 Save 50% on the Veo Go 👉 Use Code: iokfveogo TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/ Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode, hosts Ben and Mike travel to St George’s Park to investigate "Future Fit"—the FA’s biggest youth football restructuring in over a decade. The episode dives into the new 3v3 format for under-7s, exploring why more touches and game time are the key to developing confident, skilful players. Featuring insights from former England internationals Glen Johnson and Rachel Yankey, alongside Clare Daniels (Senior National Development Manager for Innovations & Solutions) and John Folwell (Head of Grassroots Coach Development), the episode tackles the "no goalkeeper" controversy and offers advice for parents on navigating the often-toxic grassroots sideline. Whether you’re a coach worried about logistics or a parent wondering where the keepers went, this is a must-watch guide to the new era of the English game. A closer look at 3v3: https://futurefit.englandfootball.com/futurefit/a-closer-look-at-3v3/index.html Everything you need to know about FutureFit: https://futurefit.englandfootball.com/futurefit/index.html 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: iokfveocam3 Save 50% on the Veo Go 👉 Use Code: iokfveogo TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/ Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ben and Mike dive into one of grassroots football’s biggest debates: should every player get equal game time in tournaments? Drawing from real tournament experiences, they unpack the tension between fairness and competitiveness, where short matches and high stakes force tough decisions. From squad rotation challenges to the impact on team flow, they explore how equal minutes can both support development and disrupt performance. Alongside this, they reflect on coaching emotions, player confidence, and the pressure-filled environment of tournament football. It’s an honest look at how coaches can balance inclusion with the desire to win, while keeping the focus on creating positive, meaningful experiences for young players. 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/ LoveAdmin takes the admin off your plate so you can spend more time coaching and less time chasing parents: https://loveadmin.com/ Save £200 on the Veo Cam 3 👉 Use Code: iokfveocam3 Save 50% on the Veo Go 👉 Use Code: iokfveogo TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/ Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ben and Mike are joined by Mark Thompson, UEFA A Licensed coach and International Technical Coaching Manager at Everton, to explore a simple truth: kids don’t need more coaching - they need clearer coaching. From summer training to tournament chaos, they discuss why overcomplicated instructions hold players back and how using simple language like “always see the ball” can transform understanding instantly. Mark shares why unstructured play, repetition and “brilliant basics” matter more than flashy drills, while also tackling the pressures of tournaments and sideline behaviour. It’s a practical look at how small changes in communication can massively improve development and enjoyment. 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/ LoveAdmin takes the admin off your plate so you can spend more time coaching and less time chasing parents: https://loveadmin.com/ Save £200 on the Veo Cam 3 👉 Use Code: iokfveocam3 Save 50% on the Veo Go 👉 Use Code: iokfveogo TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/ Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.