Ben Welch introduces his assistant Mike to discuss their experiences coaching together.

They talk about the joys and challenges of coaching, the competitive nature of some young players, and the importance of creating a positive and supportive environment.

The kids experienced some aggressive opponents in a pre-season friendly and they discuss how the kids reacted as well as their own management of the situation.

They also touch on the role of parents in their children's football journey and the excitement they feel for the upcoming season.

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In this episode, Ben Welch is joined by Harry Brooks,

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Summary

The conversation explores the topic of coaching young football players to play without fear and develop their skills.

The guest, Harry Brooks, emphasizes the importance of empowering players and helping them become the best version of themselves.

They discuss the balance between winning and development, highlighting the need for players to understand what it means to win and how to handle both success and failure.

They also touch on the mistakes that parents and coaches make when they become obsessed with winning, such as making it about themselves and their own ambitions rather than the players' growth and enjoyment of the game.

The conversation explores the importance of putting the players first and letting them find their own journey in football. It emphasizes the need for coaches to set aside their egos and focus on helping players be the best they can be.

The discussion also touches on the balance between structure and freedom in coaching, the importance of simplicity and fun in sessions, and the role of targets and challenges to motivate players.

Overall, the conversation highlights the key principles of player-centered coaching and the value of creating a positive and enjoyable environment for young players.

Takeaways

Empowering players and helping them become the best version of themselves is crucial in coaching young football players.

There is a balance between winning and development, and both are important in the player's journey.

Parents and coaches should avoid making it about themselves and their own ambitions, and instead focus on the players' growth and enjoyment of the game.

Understanding what it means to win and how to handle both success and failure is essential for young players. Put the players first and help them find their own journey in football.

Set aside your ego and focus on the development of the players.

Find the balance between structure and freedom in coaching.

Keep sessions simple and fun to engage young players.

Use targets and challenges to motivate players.

Create a positive and enjoyable environment for young players.

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Ben Welch and Jimmy Galustian discuss their experiences with coaching kids' football.

They talk about the impact of Coerver Coaching on their coaching philosophies and the development of young players. They emphasize the importance of ball mastery, 1v1 skills, and small-sided games.

They also discuss the challenges of coaching their own children and the emotional investment that comes with it.

They share their experiences with inconsistency, giving kids game time, and finding the right balance between being supportive and pushing them to improve.

They also touch on the growing level of girls' football and the importance of goalkeepers in playing a certain style of football.

They emphasise the importance of creating a fearless and supportive environment for young players to develop their skills.

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Check out Coerver Coaching: https://www.coerver.com/

The Coerver Coaching Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4ipFw3t10vdfO7qMGHf4Lx

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In this episode, Ben Welch is joined by former pro footballer and seasoned coach, Paul Robinson, for a candid chat about the challenges and triumphs of coaching young football players.

Paul has a stellar career as a pro, turning out for Bolton, Watford, West Brom, Leeds and Birmingham City, clocking up over 700 appearances. He also has four boys who played, so has been on the journey as a football Dad as well.

They dive into Paul's personal journey of coaching his own children, discussing the balancing act between being a supportive coach and a guiding parent on and off the field.

Together, they share practical advice on building resilience and confidence in kids, addressing player behaviour, and the importance of positive feedback during coaching sessions.

They also explore the joy and fulfillment found in grassroots football, and how these community-based experiences shape young athletes.

This conversation offers a mix of personal stories and professional insights, making it a must-listen for parents and coaches alike, looking to foster both skill and enjoyment in young footballers.

Takeaways

• Coaching your own children can be challenging but also rewarding

• Finding the balance between being a supportive parent and a coach is important

• Instilling resilience and confidence in young players is crucial

• Using positive and constructive feedback, as well as asking questions, can be effective in coaching children Coaching styles can have a significant impact on players' development and enjoyment of the game.

• The love of football often stems from playing as a child in grassroots football.

• Parents play a crucial role in supporting and encouraging young players.

• Allowing players to make mistakes is essential for their learning and development.

• Positivity, enthusiasm, and clear communication are key attributes for coaches.

• Coaches should focus on creating a positive and enjoyable environment for players.

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In this conversation, Ben Welch interviews Saul Isaksson-Hurst, a former coach in the Premier League Academy system, about coaching young football players.

They discuss the importance of delivery and session design, the impact of grassroots football on player development, and the role of parents in supporting their children's football journey.

Saul shares his experiences working with elite players and highlights the need for players to have resilience and a love for the game.

He also emphasises the importance of playing and training in the garden to develop skills and work ethic.

The conversation explores the topic of coaching young players in grassroots football.

The main themes discussed include developing confidence in players, common mistakes made by grassroots coaches, session design, and managing player behaviour.

The key takeaways are to create a positive and supportive environment, focus on ball-to-player ratios and ball rolling time, avoid overcomplicating drills, and prioritise player enjoyment and development over winning.

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In this conversation, Charlie Austin, a former professional footballer for QPR, Southampton and Burnley, shares his experiences and insights on coaching kids in football - as well as coaching his own son.

He discusses the challenges of working with children at different stages of development and emphasises the importance of understanding each player's individual needs.

Charlie also talks about the joy and camaraderie that comes from playing grassroots football and the lasting memories it creates.

He opens up about his own ADHD diagnosis and how it has influenced his coaching approach.

Overall, Charlie's goal is to create a positive and enjoyable environment for young players to learn and grow.

Charlie Austin shares his experience of getting involved in his son's football team and the importance of being a parent coach.

He emphasises the value of creating memories and moments for the kids, rather than just focusing on winning.

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In part 2 of this interview, Charlie Austin, a former professional footballer for QPR, Southampton and Burnley, shares his experiences and insights on coaching kids in football - and coaching his own son.

He discusses the role of parents in creating a positive and supportive environment for the team.

He highlights the challenges of coaching and refereeing, the need for realistic expectations, and the need to allow kids to play and enjoy the game.

The conversation covers the importance of teaching kids about winning and losing in football.

The discussion also touches on the key aspects of teaching kids to score goals, such as hitting the target and trusting their abilities.

The conversation concludes with advice for grassroots coaches, highlighting the importance of enjoying the journey with the players and being open-minded.

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In this episode Ben Welch and Mike engage in a Q&A session addressing various challenges faced in kids football coaching.

They discuss the importance of game time for all players, strategies for handling substitutions, and training techniques to prevent bunching during games.

The conversation also touches on the balance between making training fun while maintaining discipline, emphasising the significance of fostering a close-knit team environment.

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In this conversation, Ben Welch and Mike Clark discuss their experiences and challenges of coaching and managing at summer tournaments.

They talk about the excitement and fun of participating in summer tournaments, the short game durations and the difficulty of balancing winning with giving players enough game time.

They also share their own experiences at various tournaments and the emotions that come with both victories and losses.

The conversation highlights the importance of attitude and behaviour in young players and the frustration that can arise when they are not fully engaged in the game.

They talk about the importance of teaching shape and holding positions, as well as the success they had with a new box formation.

They also express gratitude for the support they've received for their podcast and share shoutouts from other coaches and teams.

The conversation ends with advice on handling substitutions and teaching players to avoid bunching and ball-watching.

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In this episode, Ben and Mike discuss their experiences coaching youth football, reflecting on their emotional responses to losing games and the impact of their egos.

They explore the challenges of training young players, the importance of communication with parents, and the dynamics of teamwork versus individual skill development.

The conversation highlights the need for patience, understanding, and a focus on the children's enjoyment of the game, while also addressing the pressures that come with coaching their own kids.

Takeaways:

Coaching youth football can evoke strong emotional responses.

Ego plays a significant role in how coaches react to losses.

Training sessions can vary greatly in effectiveness.

Communication with parents is essential for a positive team environment.

It's important to focus on player development over winning.

Coaches should model emotional regulation for their players.

Understanding each child's unique needs is vital.

Building a supportive community among parents enhances the experience.

Ultimately, it's about the kids having fun and enjoying the game.

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In this conversation, Ben Welch talks to striker coach Scott Chickelday about his experience coaching his own son and provides insights into teaching kids how to strike the ball cleanly.

He emphasizes the importance of honesty and communication when coaching your own child and highlights the challenges of balancing the roles of coach and parent.

Scott shares his journey from coaching grassroots to working with top-level professionals like Ollie Watkins.

Scott also discusses the habits of top players, such as Harry Kane, and the importance of an elite mentality.

They discuss the key coaching points in a finishing drill, the importance of hitting the target, and basing shots off goalkeeper behaviour.

They also talk about the pride and joy of seeing their own children score goals and the challenges of balancing coaching and parenting.

Scott emphasizes the importance of letting kids play and not putting too much pressure on them.

He also shares a story about a negative coaching experience he witnessed in grassroots football.

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In this episode, Ben and Mike take you through the emotional highs and lows of youth football coaching—complete with sleepless nights, frustrated shouting, and even a bizarre goal. 

After three painful defeats, they dive into their pre-game anxiety and the overthinking that kept them tossing and turning. But with a little help from the parents and a return to simple tactics, the team pulled off a thrilling 6-4 win.

From Alfie’s occasional daydreaming to Alby’s newfound confidence in goal, Ben and Mike hilariously balance being supportive dads and demanding coaches. They explore the real challenge—managing their expectations while reminding themselves (and their kids) that it’s just a game… sort of.

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Escape room training drill: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C-DSepZo1sj/?igsh=MXdoZWVmdWlzdW1iYw%3D%3D 

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Join host Ben Welch in this fun and heartfelt episode as he sits down with Dean Russell, the dad behind the viral father-son goalkeeping duo that’s won the hearts of hundreds of thousands on social media and racked up millions of views.

Dean shares the journey of capturing his son Ollie’s football adventures—filled with viral saves, on-field tears and heartwarming moments.

From meeting Ollie's idols Aaron Ramsdale and David Raya to the real-life challenges of coaching your own kid, Dean doesn’t hold back on the highs, lows, and funny stories of being a football dad.

Packed with relatable parenting advice, practical coaching tips and a few laugh-out-loud stories, this episode is a must-listen for parents, coaches and grassroots football fans.

The video that helped Ben support Alfie after he made a mistake: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DBG3gkjNQd4/

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With Mike living it up in Dubai, Ben is left to hold down the fort alongside Adam, the dad of Leigh Ramblers’ very own grassroots Gazza, Ollie. They dive into the team's recent triumphs—two wins in a row—featuring Alby’s chaotic antics and Freddie’s match-winning heroics. Ben candidly shares the ups and downs of being a parent-coach and how it’s tested his relationship with his son, Alfie.

They also reminisce about the hilarious moment Ollie sent a football cannoning into Ben’s head right in the middle of a team talk. Adam provides valuable advice for parents navigating the world of pro academies as he supports two of his sons in the pursuit of their dreams. 

Together, they discuss the challenge of fostering good habits without squeezing the joy out of play. Adam also shares his experience as a sideline spectator, witnessing all the drama of the matches—and the emotional rollercoaster endured by Ben. If you’ve ever wondered what grassroots football truly looks like, this episode offers an honest and entertaining peek behind the curtain.

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In this episode of It's Only Kids Football, former West Ham and Wolves winger Matt Jarvis joins hosts Ben Welch and Mike Clark to share his journey from grassroots football to the heights of the Premier League—and now, back on the sidelines as a supportive dad.

The England international opens up about the unique experience of being raised by elite athlete parents and how it’s influenced his own approach to guiding his son in sport. Jarvis reflects on his early sporting experiences, his family’s dedication and the lessons he's learned about balancing commitment with keeping football fun.

The hosts chime in with relatable stories of their own ups and downs as fathers and amateur coaches.

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Leigh Ramblers Black U8s are back in form and Ben and Mike are absolutely buzzing—well, mostly. While the kids are smashing it on the pitch, the dads are struggling to keep their heads on the sidelines.

Alfie’s hit a rough patch and Ben’s convinced it’s all his fault for going full drill sergeant. Can they figure out how to get the best out of Alfie without Ben losing the plot?

Meanwhile, Mike’s lad Raph joins goal machine Freddie Lambourne on a dream trip to Crystal Palace’s training ground, aiming to dazzle scouts from the Premier League club. And, as always, Alby steals the show with his trademark mix of madness and charm.

Expect goals, gaffes and a hefty dose of goalkeeper chaos.

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This week, Ben and Mike return with a thought-provoking episode featuring Saul Isaksson-Hurst, also known as My Personal Football Coach. Saul is an elite coach who works with top talents like Noni Madueke and has experience at Chelsea and Tottenham academies.

In this episode, he shares his insights on potential changes the FA may introduce to youth football formats. Saul believes that smaller formats will help prioritise skill development in younger players.

He explains how smaller-sided games can lead to 60% more scoring opportunities and 25% more 1v1 situations, how to teach tactical principles like balance and rotation without losing the kids' interest and why scaling back the "helicopter coaching" approach might be the key to success.

If you're looking to develop better players while still securing wins—or simply want to avoid becoming the coach featured on YouTube for all the wrong reasons—this episode is packed with valuable advice you won't want to miss.

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In this episode of It’s Only Kids Football, Ben and Mike are joined by goalscoring legend Adam Le Fondre to tackle one of the hardest skills to teach young players: movement off the ball.

Packed with practical insights and digestible tips, Adam shares his secrets on how to create space, lose your defender and rack up goals like a seasoned striker. Perfect for football parents, coaches and anyone who’s ever shouted “Move!” at a kid standing still on the pitch.

Adam also takes them on a journey through his grassroots beginnings, rise to stardom and advice for aspiring strikers. He dives into everything from how to instil dedication in young players to the impact of supportive (and tough-love) parents like his own dad, whose high standards fuelled his career.

The former Reading striker also shares vivid memories of his childhood matches and the friendships and life lessons learned along the way.

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Three losses, five wins, five losses. On this week’s It’s Only Kids Football, Ben and Mike struggle to cope with the team’s erratic form. As die-hard Gooners, their Spurs-like inconsistency cuts even deeper.

Ben works to help Alfie battle through a crisis of confidence that turns bedtime into a tearful therapy session. Meanwhile, Mike realises he needs to coach Raph on the nuances of effort—sometimes it’s more effective to work smart, not just hard.

The management duo discuss potential formations to shore up their leaky defence, fears of losing their best players, the challenge of motivating the boys to run harder and the endless debate over shouting versus silence.

Holding it all together with little more than duct tape and denial, the lads wonder: will 2025 finally bring better results or are they doomed to remain the Grassroots Tottenham?

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This week, Ben and Mike are joined by Asmir Begovic—a Premier League-winning goalkeeper who’s faced Messi, endured Tony Pulis’ gruelling pre-seasons and played under prime José Mourinho.

Begovic shares his remarkable journey from fleeing war-torn Bosnia as a child to becoming a top-class keeper. With stories of training like Rocky—running up snowy hills and battling brutal Canadian winters under his dad’s unforgiving training regime—he reveals the immense dedication and grit required to reach the top.

He also takes time to assess young Alby’s goalkeeping highlights, offering invaluable advice on bravery, technique and what it takes to excel in the game. Packed with life lessons from an elite-level goalkeeper and a reminder to enjoy it all, because let’s be honest, it’s only kids’ football, isn’t it?

Asmir Begovic gloves: https://ab1gk.com/

Asmir Begovic Academy: https://ab1academy.com/

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This week, Ben and Mike find themselves deep in the trenches as the team endures a streak of disappointing defeats, including tough losses to their inter-club rivals.

Ben opens up about the challenges he's facing with his son Alfie, who's struggling with a loss of confidence and learning how to bounce back after mistakes. Balancing support and discipline proves trickier than ever, as Alfie's emotional highs and lows leave Ben questioning his coaching approach.

Amidst the chaos and tears, there's a hamster to bury and cheeky voice notes from a rival manager taunting Ben and Mike after inflicting a painful defeat. The duo try implementing new motivational techniques but fail to spark the boys, leaving the managers wondering if they're speaking another language.

Messy, emotional, and seemingly more serious than life or death—it's just kids' football, right?

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This week, Ben and Mike bring in a guest guaranteed to change your perspective. Our clueless duo welcomes renowned sports psychologist Dan Abrahams to the pod. Having worked with elite players and coaches like Arne Slot, Gareth Bale and Eddie Howe, Dan is here to help us coach from the sidelines—without emotionally scarring our kids in the process.

He shares practical, actionable advice to boost both your performance and your child’s, from mastering your Game Face to squashing ANTs and creating your own Coach’s Head.

They dive into the challenges of coaching young players, the psychological tools to build confidence and resilience, plus stories of sideline meltdowns, Brighton academy thrashings and the ultimate no-no: starting a car journey with, “So… how do you think you played?”

If you’re a regular listener, you know the drill: tune in for laughs, honest confessions, and surprisingly good advice. And if you’re new, buckle up. Because remember, It's Only Kids' Football… but it’s also the most important thing ever.

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In Episode 18, Ben and Mike relive the highs and lows of their latest two games, which left them planning European tours and doing victory dances in the kitchen.

Then, it’s a reality check as their boys step up to face Brighton’s academy team—spoiler: it wasn’t pretty, but the lessons hit harder than the tackles.

While Ben starts to show signs of listening to his son and learning to ease off, Mike struggles to contain his frustration, bringing about some much-needed introspection.

There are candid confessions about coaching errors, debates over pushing vs. praising, and discussions on the importance of stepping back so the kids can shine.

Plus, there’s the introduction of a new ‘Teammate of the Week’ award and how a sneaky Burger King took the sting out of a challenging car journey home.

It’s another rollercoaster of footballing emotions and a reminder that, win or lose, it’s still only kids’ football… right?

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This week, Ben and Mike sit down with ex-Premier League star Marc Pugh—once a flying winger, now the king of kale. While Mike confesses his love for Burger King, Marc reveals the secrets behind his Spartan lifestyle and a six-pack that could double as a washboard.

They dive into nutrition, rejection and why your kid's Cheerios might be sabotaging their shot at glory. Marc also shares tales from his grassroots days, breaking records and catching the attention of scouts.

If you’ve ever wondered what your little star should eat before, during and after a match—and what to avoid like a red card—this episode is for you.

Grab a rice cake, brace for a guilt trip and get ready to rewrite your shopping list.

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Ever tried teaching kids to mark in football? It’s like herding cats—with shin pads. This week, Ben and Mike, try to deal with kids who think “marking” means standing 10 yards away looking bored, to warm-ups so bad they’ll make you question life itself.

Ben shares how he’s finally improving his relationship with Alfie by stepping back, ditching the intense dad-coach mode and focusing on fun (with a little help from parenting audiobooks). Meanwhile, Mike does his best to stay calm during a warm-up so disastrous it could make a nun swear, all while battling his inner rage over kids ignoring every instruction about marking.

Throw in some questionable tactics, a few positive training sessions and tips they’ve shamelessly nicked from actual pros and you’ve got a therapy session for anyone who’s ever wanted to scream, “JUST MARK YOUR MAN!”

Good Inside: A Guide to Becoming the Parent You Want to Be https://www.amazon.co.uk/Good-Inside-bestselling-parenting-Philippa/dp/0008505543

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This week, Ben and Mike are back, reliving their latest touchline dramas. From celebrating Alfie’s newfound resilience to bemoaning yet another defeat, it’s the usual mix of chaos and tears.

But don’t worry, it’s not all doom and gloom – they’ve brought out the big guns. Former Arsenal and West Brom winger Jerome Thomas drops in to share some fantastic insights and anecdotes.

From training with Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp to getting schooled by Ashley Cole, Jerome’s got stories that you’ll want to share in the WhatsApp group or over a pint at the pub. He breaks down how he mastered the art of the 1v1, sharing essential tips you can pass on to your young players.

Now working as a top scout, Jerome explains what pros really look for in grassroots talent. So whether you’re a stressed-out coach or a parent clinging to sanity on the sidelines, this one’s a must-listen. It’s football, but funny – and a little bit useful.

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This week Ben and Mike are joined by Neil Harris, a coach who spent 21 years at Manchester United, helping bring through stars like Scott McTominay and Anthony Elanga. And to spice things up, his son Jamie Harris—a rising coach himself—jumps in to give us the truth on what it’s like being coached by your dad (spoiler: brutal!).

Expect top-class coaching insights on how to keep kids' attention, providing individual feedback and objectives for players and having a structured arrival routine to help players transition into the session.

Plus, Neil explains why Marcus Rashford played right-back for him in the academy, focusing on development rather than just results and the best way to help your kid get better without making them hate football (note to self).

It’s football, family, and a whole lot of self-reflection—this one’s not to be missed.

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After eight defeats in a row and a mental state that’s circling the drain, Ben and Mike have finally hit rock bottom. In this episode, they unravel their latest meltdown.

For Ben, the emotional toll is hitting new heights as he questions everything—his coaching, his parenting and whether Alfie would just be better off under literally anyone else’s management. Has Ben ruined the one thing they both love? 

Meanwhile, Mike’s realising that even when he's keeping his mouth shut, his body language is screaming absolute despair. And don’t even get him started on Raph deciding he was “cold” mid-game.

This is grassroots football at its rawest—where well-intentioned dads turn into stress-ridden lunatics, obsess over tactics that seven-year-olds will never listen to and spend entire Sundays suppressing the urge to launch themselves into the abyss.

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Mike’s been on the Guinness, Ben’s on the edge and the kids have been on the wind-up. A losing streak hangs in the balance… but at what cost?

We finally get a result… well, sort of. A chaotic inter-club derby leaves everyone questioning whether it was a step forward or just more of the same. Meanwhile, Mike has been living it up in Dublin, missing the carnage and landing back into a WhatsApp storm.

Training was chaos, the warm-up was a shambles and the match? Well, let's just say it involved dodgy defending, a miniature Robbie Savage and some sideline parents who took ‘passion’ a bit too far. Oh and if you’ve got a decent under-8s player, get in touch – the transfer window is open.

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In this episode, Ben and Mike and joined by The Athletic's Rory Smith. Rory has spent his career dissecting elite football, interviewing some of the greatest minds in the game, but none of that prepared him for the minefield of coaching his son’s under-7s team.

Rory confesses to a few questionable touchline moments, wrestles with the impossible task of getting kids to understand positioning (spoiler: they don’t) and wonders if teaching them to "play out from the back" is just setting them up for failure.

He’s also baffled by the number of dads screaming "PRESS!" at children who still struggle to put their boots on the right feet. But it’s not all stress and shouting, Rory also reflects on the good bits, like watching the kids grow in confidence, problem-solving on the pitch and occasionally kicking the ball in the right direction.

Oh and there’s the small matter of trying to coach your own kid without losing the plot. Plenty to unpack, plenty to laugh at.

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Ben’s losing his voice, Mike’s losing his mind, and the kids are losing their markers. A 5-1 win had them dreaming, but a 7-4 battering brought them crashing back to earth.

A shambolic training session saw Ben and Mike lose their rag with their own lads, bringing on instant regret and damage control. In a bid to lift the mood, Mike unleashed his inner Ted Lasso with an American Soccer Dad routine—spoiler: total disaster. Then, to top it off, he went full Wolf of Wall Street, popping champagne after Raph bagged a brace.

Now we’re asking: are our sessions actually helping or just leaving the kids more confused? If you’ve got a player who listens and tracks back, hit us up—the transfer window is still wide open.

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The lads are back, and this week, it’s all about the minefield that is coaching your own kid. Ben’s convinced he’s holding his son to impossible standards, Mike’s trying (and failing) to stay calm and they’re both wondering if they should start charging parents just to keep themselves in check.

But things get deeper (and a bit existential). How do you actually know if you’re pushing your kid too hard or not hard enough? Catalan Soccer’s Matt Ogden in the hot seat, dishing out wisdom on coaching thousands of kids, why he’s banned scouts from his academy and what parents get wrong when trying to develop their children. Expect big lessons, big laughs and possibly a midlife crisis or two.

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Ben and Mike are back and this week they’re breaking down two big games: one where they were unlucky and one where they were actually good (a rare moment of self-praise) and of course, there's reflection on their latest emotional breakdown.

But controversy is never far away. Ben is accused of breaking touchline rules (again) and sparking s touchline war with rival fans, while Mike is begging for sponsorship (again) and the boys put in their best team performance yet.

Plus, how coaching from both sides of the pitch got some parents raging and is this finally the week the lads figure out how to win a close game? What’s the best way to lose a match but still feel positive? And did a camera REALLY mistake Ben’s head for the ball?

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Ben and Mike call in the big guns, elite coach Edu Rubio, to help them crack formations, teamwork and how to stop their lads from bunching. Along the way, they confront their own coaching disasters, debate England vs. Spain’s youth setups and uncover the real secret to coaching kids: it’s not tactics - it’s psychology.

The key takeaways? Get to know your players and make them feel valued, because coaching isn’t just about formations and winning. Praise progress, not just results and focus on developing skills rather than chasing the win.

Involve players in decision-making to boost their engagement and learning and above all, stay calm and lead by example - if you lose your head, they will too. If you’ve ever wondered how to get an 8-year-old to listen, this one’s for you.

The former West Ham and Wolves first-team coach also shares his thoughts on the FA’s latest steps to improve grassroots youth football in England.

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Ben and Mike are buzzing after a couple of wins – turns out, it only takes a sniff of success to turn these two into emotional wrecks planning birthday parties like they're 21 again. 

But don't get comfy, because controversy is never far away. Ben's managed to spark a full-blown touchline war and attract the wrath of the social media police.

Plus, there's a deep dive into the joys and stark lessons of 7-a-side football and Ben's trying to smooth things over with a box of chocolates after upsetting another coach's wife. Will they ever learn? Probably not. But it's bloody funny listening to them try.

Use the coupon code IOKF20 at www.playgreatsoccer.com to receive 20% off. This offer is valid until May 31, 2025.

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This week, Ben and Mike are joined by Frankie Hession-Harris, the mastermind behind Ballers Elite. In this episode, we hear about Frankie’s experience playing in the U.S. college system and how it shaped his approach and why he believes repetition, ball mastery, and 1v1s are the real building blocks of brilliance.

He explains why he stays quiet on the touchline, how mixed messages from coaches and parents can cloud young players' minds and how Ballers creates confident kids who play with flair and freedom.

We also get the lowdown on Frankie’s role as a Tottenham Hotspur scout for U7–U14s, including what really separates a grassroots player from an academy-level baller. 

Frankie also gives his honest take on Alfie, Raph, and Fred—what they’re getting right, where they can grow, and how their journeys reflect the bigger picture of youth development. So sit back, relax and maybe, just maybe, learn how to keep your mouth shut on the sidelines.

Use the code IOKF20 at www.playgreatsoccer.com to receive 20% off. This offer is valid until May 31, 2025.

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Ben and Mike are back and this one gets messy. Fresh from an unforgettable visit to Tottenham’s training ground, where their sons squared off against academy talent, the dads are riding high on pride... but it doesn't last long.

The team gets dismantled by a man-child on a mission to break every goalscoring record in a single game and when emotions boil over, complete with full-blown meltdowns from both boys during and after the match, Ben and Mike are left asking: Are we doing more harm than good?

From the highs of watching their sons shine at a Premier League training ground to the gut punch of wondering if their kids want them to walk away from the team, the lads get honest about the impossible tightrope of being both parent and coach.

Use the code IOKF20 at www.playgreatsoccer.com to receive 20% off. This offer is valid until May 31, 2025.

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Ben and Mike are joined by some actual experts this week – which is a first. Ex-pro Katie Chapman and psychologist Dr. Simon Moore are here to drop some truth bombs about how we really impact our kids' game.

Turns out, it's not just about the kids on the pitch. We're diving deep into sideline confessions, with Ben and Mike admitting they've been part of the problem.

During their fascinating chat, they explore the fight for control – why parents struggle to let go, why it all goes so wrong, angry outbursts and baffling instructions. Will Ben and Mike learn anything? Will you? Tune in to find out what you're getting wrong and how to fix it.

Use the code IOKF20 at www.playgreatsoccer.com to receive 20% off. This offer is valid until May 31, 2025.

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This week, Ben and Mike wrap the final three games of the season. From a triumphant win overshadowed by tears to a painful derby defeat, this episode explores what happens when kids lose confidence on the pitch.

We hear how Alfie's off day became a turning point thanks to a powerful parenting tool called the “three-second rule” and why it’s helping players (and parents) process mistakes and move on.

There’s also plenty of laughter, including some top-tier nibbling from a rival coach and a moment of fatherly pride that nearly left Mike in tears.

From missed sitters and emotional triggers to progress, patience, and parenting, this one’s not just about football—it’s about raising resilient kids who can fall, get up and try again.

Use the code IOKF20 at www.playgreatsoccer.com to receive 20% off. This offer is valid until May 31, 2025.

Video on the 3-second rule from Fit 4 Football: https://www.tiktok.com/@fit_4_football/video/7481195067567328534

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This week, Ben and Mike sit down with elite mindset coach Matt Baxter for an episode that digs deep into the emotional lives of young athletes and their parents. From confidence crashes and comparison traps, Matt talks through the common themes troubling young athletes and how parents and coaches can help them.

Matt shares the everyday mindset tools he uses to help kids bounce back from mistakes and how parents can be their child’s greatest coach. They unpack the emotional toll of parenting boys in sport, the pressure to be “tough,” and why sometimes the best support a parent can offer is to let go of the kid you think they should be.

This one’s not just about football—it’s about raising kids who believe in themselves in their toughest moments.

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In this episode, Ben and Mike sit down with Dave and Billy, father and son, coach and player, for a raw and emotional look back at their 10-year grassroots football story. What started as a simple volunteer gig turned into a decade of highs, heartbreaks and sideline memories that shaped them both.

As Dave steps away from coaching, he reflects on the emotional weight of managing young players, the tough choices that come with being “Dad” and “Gaffer,” and why he wouldn’t trade it for anything. Billy shares what it was like growing up under his father’s management and why, despite the car ride silences and sideline shouts, he’d do it all over again.

This episode is about the bonds we build when we show up week after week, even when it's hard.

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This week, Ben and Mike are joined by Gemma Davies, proud mum of Alby, the goalkeeper who went from pirouettes and daydreaming to a fearless shot-stopper.

It’s a funny and deeply honest look at what it’s like to watch your child struggle in youth football — from Alby’s unpredictable early days outfield to the surprising moment he found his calling in goal.

Gemma gets real about the challenges of watching on the sidelines, the guilt that follows tough car journeys home and the emotional weight parents carry when things go wrong.

They laugh through the toenail complaints and cartwheels, dig into the raw parental emotions behind the game and explore how stepping back as adults can help our kids step up. There’s guilt, growth and a Prosecco or two along the way.

It’s a story about backing your kid when it’s hard, learning when to shut up and the transformation that happens when they finally find where they belong.

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This week, Ben and Mike dive into a tournament day full of sunshine, thrilling football and a semi-final face-off that left everyone in shock. But this one’s not just about the results, it’s about the messy, beautiful business of raising kids through football.

There’s Alfie’s meltdown that triggered a total rethink on parenting and coaching, a mindset coach who helped turn it around and Mike has his own wobble after snapping at Raph mid-game and reflects on the challenge of keeping calm when your kid freezes under pressure.

Freddie makes a pass worthy of the Louvre, Ollie channels his inner Cantona and a scout changes the mood with one well-timed conversation. This episode is about how we show up when our kids fall apart and why that’s when the real learning begins.

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This week, Ben and Mike are joined by Mike's wife and Raph's mum... Estelle Clark, for a refreshingly honest conversation about what it’s like when your family signs up for grassroots football… and it takes over your life.

Estelle opens up about the good, the stressful and the downright ridiculous: from losing weekends to social plans ruined by tournaments. She talks parenting guilt, football obsession and learning what “lock on” means.

She explains how she flopped as kit manager, how Mike’s role as assistant coach brought him closer to Raph and how he’s grown as both a dad and a coach.

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This week on It’s Only Kids Football, Ben and Mike are crawling out of the wreckage of presentation night to relive the laughter, logistics and tears of their team’s end-of-season awards.

The duo break down who won what, how the kids performed throughout the season and why every player went home feeling like a star. From picking walkout music for each player and the response to some questionable jokes to Alfie’s mindset breakthrough and Alby's inspirational turnaround, this episode takes you inside the team's special night.

They also look back on a lively 7–4 win against BKS, praising standout performances from Dexter, Ollie and the ever-clinical Freddie. New signing Parker gets a special shout-out for his relentless effort and a crunching tackle that had the coaches grinning on the sideline.

Also featuring: matching hats, lost car keys, ruined social lives and a very drunk brunch by the sea.

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This week, Ben and Mike are joined by Danny Welch - Ben’s dad - for a brutally honest, funny and nostalgic deep-dive into youth football, fatherhood and tough love.

Danny reflects on his old-school approach to parenting, his sideline shouting and why he believed being hard on Ben was the only way to build resilience. They swap stories of freezing rain, tough tackles and touchline scraps, painting a vivid picture of what kids' football looked like in the ‘90s and just how much it’s changed today.

There’s laughter over managers who didn’t know what tactics were and touching memories of how football became the glue in their relationship. They tackle what it means to push your child, when to step back and how those muddy pitches shaped who they both are today.

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This week, Ben and Mike sit down with Josh Paul, the inspiring coach behind Fit4Football, to explore the power of the “three-second rule” to the simple, game-changing strategies that keep kids engaged.

Josh shares his no-nonsense wisdom on getting players to listen, talk and move with purpose. They unpack the realities of grassroots football—losing players, managing teams and dealing with social media trolls and dive into how to help kids build awareness, develop leadership on the pitch and bounce back from setbacks.

Josh also opens up about his own journey, from growing up playing in his local park to becoming one of the most relatable voices in youth coaching. This episode is packed with practical tools for parents and coaches who want to raise confident, self-motivated kids, both on and off the field.

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This week, Ben and Mike are joined by renowned neuroscientist and best-selling author, Dr Dean Burnett, to explore what’s really going on inside young players’ minds and why even the calmest parents can turn into full-blown lunatics on the touchline.

From daydreaming and memory lapses to executive function and emotional regulation, Dean unpacks the science behind how children develop and why grassroots football is a uniquely chaotic learning environment for players and parents alike.

They also dig into the long-term impact of sideline behaviour, the real risks of head injuries and how sport shapes social and cognitive growth.

Where to find Dean: https://www.deanburnett.com/

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This week, Ben and Mike sit down with Paul Horwood, co-founder of PL One Goalkeeping, the leading goalkeeping academy in Essex.

From transforming our very own Alby into confident shot-stoppers to dealing with parents on the sidelines, Paul shares honest, practical advice for coaches navigating the unique challenges of developing youth goalkeepers.

Drawing on his extensive experience, Paul shares insights into spotting natural talent, prioritising confidence and bravery over perfect early technique and fostering mental development.

He addresses common coaching mistakes, emphasising realistic, game-related sessions and the power of quiet encouragement over shouting.

The discussion also covers developing passing and footwork and the crucial role of play and fun in a goalkeeper's growth. This episode is packed with actionable advice for anyone looking to help young keepers thrive.

Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/

Where to find PL1: https://pl1goalkeeping.co.uk/

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Ben and Mike mark 50 episodes with a tournament win that means way more than it should. They laugh, cringe and nearly cry as they relive the game, the chaos, and the goal that set off a celebration even more embarrassing than Mike’s tiny car.

They relive every kick from the tournament and talk about what these little moments really mean as dads and coaches. They also reflect on two recent friendlies: a dominant display against the Greens where everything clicked and a tough loss to the Blues that tested their mentality and their coaching egos. Plus, they look back on what they’ve learned across 50 episodes — the mistakes, the progress and the moments that make it all worthwhile.

Also in the mix: how training’s finally clicking, set-piece genius (sort of) and whether launching their own tournament is the best or worst idea they’ve ever had.

Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/

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