It's Only Kids Football

What’s it really like for a child playing the most pressured position on the pitch? In this episode, Salford City goalkeeper Mark Howard shares honest insights from academy football at Arsenal to parenting his own son.Coaches and parents will learn how to build confidence, handle mistakes, and support kids through the emotional highs and lows of goalkeeping. From simple “reset” techniques to smarter warm-ups and sideline behaviour, this conversation is packed with relatable stories and practical advice.If you’ve ever watched your child struggle after conceding or wondered how to help them enjoy football again this episode is essential listening.Download kit design form: https://linktr.ee/itsonlykidsfootballpodcast#552550290Football 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.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: 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.

In this episode, Ben and Mike, talk about their experience of loud adult spectators unintentionally overwhelming young players. The hosts reflect on balancing resilience with responsibility, questioning when to step in and highlighting how adult behaviour on the sidelines can shape a child’s experience.They discuss the science of "preclude constraints", using the powerful analogy of Kyrie Irving practising on a broken backboard to explain why intentionally making training difficult—by blocking the "easy path"—is essential for developing player creativity and resilience.Beyond the tactics, the duo explores the "happiness of the pursuit", a concept inspired by a Jimmy Carr podcast, where the comedian makes the point that the satisfaction of the journey comes from the struggle itself, rather than just the result.They discuss the eeriness of playing a match during a "silent weekend", and Ben shares a poignant realisation: the day his son stops playing is approaching faster than he would like. It is a timely reminder to coaches and parents to stop wishing away the tough times and instead cherish the messy, rewarding reality of the grassroots journey before it is gone.Download kit design form: https://linktr.ee/itsonlykidsfootballpodcast#552550290Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Get FREE delivery when you spend over £100 at https://www.discountfootballkits.com/ using code IOKFFD — but hurry, it ends at midnight on March 31st, 2026.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.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: 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.

Every grassroots coach faces the same nightmare: a defence that’s "all over the place" and young players who just want to be on the ball.In this episode, Ben and Mike, chat with Mac Smith, a football director and coach at Moreton City Excelsior FC in Australia’s Queensland NPL, who reveals why traditional tactical plans fail young players and how to instead build "defensive habits" that stick.Learn the high-reward scoring game that makes kids love winning the ball back, the "Gabriel & Saliba" method for teaching positioning, and the "click moment" for stopping ball-watching.Mac explains how to stop treating defending like a boring chore and start building a solid foundation.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Get FREE delivery when you spend over £100 at https://www.discountfootballkits.com/ using code IOKFFD — but hurry, it ends at midnight on March 31st, 2026.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.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: 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.

Ben and Mike break down two intense matches, from a muddy “battle” to a frustrating defeat after a brilliant first half and reflect on the fine margins between development and results. The conversation dives into defensive organisation, why kids lose concentration and the challenge of coaching your own child without letting emotions take over. The discussion becomes particularly honest when Mike reflects on a moment where frustration got the better of him while coaching his son during the game. Looking back, he questions whether his reaction was really about tactics or influenced by the emotions that come with being both a parent and a coach. Alongside the emotional side of coaching, they analyse the football itself—talking through missed chances, defensive lapses, and the importance of communication and positioning. They also reinforce a key philosophy: prioritising development over results by giving every player meaningful minutes, rotating positions, and allowing kids to learn the game through experience, even when it costs the team in the short term.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Get FREE delivery when you spend over £100 at https://www.discountfootballkits.com/ using code IOKFFD — but hurry, it ends at midnight on March 31st, 2026.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.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: 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.

What happens when a football insider with 165,000 followers, Premier League contacts and a career around the game ends up managing his son’s Under-7s team?In this honest conversation, Ben and Mike, meet the man behind the famous @ExWHUEmployee X (Twitter) account joins the podcast to reveal the emotional rollercoaster of grassroots football.From overthinking line-ups and man-of-the-match decisions to the unexpected joy of watching kids score their first goals, this episode dives into the psychology, pressure and pride of coaching your own child. It’s funny, brutally honest and surprisingly relatable.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Get FREE delivery when you spend over £100 at https://www.discountfootballkits.com/ using code IOKFFD — but hurry, it ends at midnight on March 31st, 2026.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.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: 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.

Ben and Mike deliver an honest reflection on the reality of being a football dad, diving into the difficult balance between coaching a player and raising a son. They explore stoicism, discussing how to handle your emotions and unrealistic expectations.The conversation gets raw as they break down a gut-wrenching defeat played in "war zone" conditions, questioning why some losses stay with a coach longer than they do with the players. They challenge every parent to look in the mirror and ask: "Are you gutted for them, or are you just gutted for you?"Beyond the mindset, they share practical coaching strategies to keep kids focused, from eliminating downtime during sessions to using 6-4-2 ball mastery to build a child’s skill and confidence.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Get FREE delivery when you spend over £100 at https://www.discountfootballkits.com/ using code IOKFFD — but hurry, it ends at midnight on March 31st, 2026.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.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: iokfveocam3Save 50% on the Veo Go 👉 Use Code: iokfveogoArne Slot's sport psychologist on how you can develop your child's mental skills:Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/lt/podcast/arne-slots-sport-psychologist-on-how-you-can-develop/id1761618341?i=1000679710829Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2gi0qhWx1DogaXhNaHr8jE?si=WSSO0n2kTJeCJInBkMv96ATikTok: 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.

In this unfiltered episode, former academy coaches Michael Fox and Olly Porteous join Ben and Mike to tackle the biggest issues facing grassroots football right now.From 3v3 formats, silent weekends and heading bans to kick-ins, league tables and parent behaviour, the conversation goes beyond surface-level opinions and into what’s actually helping — and what might be quietly harming — player development.Are we overcorrecting youth football? Are rule changes solving the real problem? And is adult behaviour, not structure, the issue that needs fixing most?Drawing on years inside academy systems and grassroots environments, Fox and Porteous break down what needs to change, what needs to be protected and why balance—not extremes—is the key to developing confident, resilient young players.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Get FREE delivery when you spend over £100 at https://www.discountfootballkits.com/ using code IOKFFD — but hurry, it ends at midnight on March 31st, 2026.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.LoveAdmin takes the admin off your plate so you can spend more time coaching and less time chasing parents: https://loveadmin.com/Book a call with a VEO expert: https://get.veo.co/iokfootballOlly Porteous: https://www.instagram.com/ollyporteous/Michael Fox: https://www.instagram.com/foxmic15/Fox Academy: https://www.instagram.com/f.o.x.football.academy/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.

Ben and Mike are joined in the studio by Josh Paul, the social media powerhouse behind @fit_4_football to dissect the parental pre-game pep talk. Josh reveals why giving technical instructions to a young child is not only ineffective but also ignores the reality of how children actually learn and play.The conversation explores the dangers of comparing grassroots players to the "wonder kids" seen in highly edited social media clips. From managing chaotic training sessions to using professional players as positive role models, this episode is a deep dive into keeping the pressure low and the fun high.Ben and Mike get honest about their own past coaching mistakes and why the most important job a parent has is simply being their child's biggest fan.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Get FREE delivery when you spend over £100 at https://www.discountfootballkits.com/ using code IOKFFD — but hurry, it ends at midnight on March 31st, 2026.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.LoveAdmin takes the admin off your plate so you can spend more time coaching and less time chasing parents: https://loveadmin.com/Book a call with a VEO expert: https://get.veo.co/iokfootballTikTok: 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.

In this episode, Ben and Mike are joined by John Curtis — former Manchester United player and founder of NCE Soccer — for a wide-ranging conversation on what really drives youth football development.John reflects on his own journey from grassroots football to Manchester United, sharing how early environments, coaching culture, and emotional support shape confident, resilient players.Drawing on his experiences in elite academies and now working in the US, he explains why many development systems prioritise results, money, and status over long-term growth — and the damage this can cause to young players’ belief and enjoyment.The discussion dives into coaching children at different ages, managing emotions when confidence dips, the challenges of parent-coaches and positional changes.John also outlines the philosophy behind NCE Soccer, how it differs from traditional club models, and what aligned players, parents, and coaches can achieve when development — not winning — is the priority.Benny is 4 years old 💙 and fighting stage 4 high-risk neuroblastoma. His family are raising funds for life-saving CAR-T cell therapy in Rome. Follow his journey: https://www.instagram.com/stand_by_benny/. Donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/benjaminahmanizadFootball DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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/Book a call with a VEO expert: https://get.veo.co/iokfootballTikTok: 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.

Ben and Mike tackle one of grassroots football’s biggest false divides: the idea that fun and development can’t coexist. From debates around training more than once a week and mixed-ability teams, to the realities of repetition, confidence-building and unseen work away from the pitch, they unpack what actually helps kids improve — and enjoy the game more.The conversation weaves through emotional challenges of coaching your own child, managing expectations of volunteer coaches, the role of parents in development, and why creating the right environment matters more than results.They also dig into a question that frustrates almost every parent-coach: why your child seems to listen intently to other coaches but completely switch off when it’s you speaking?Through personal experience and reflection, they explore how familiarity can dilute authority, how unconditional love removes consequences, and how emotion — even when unintentional — changes the way messages land. It’s an honest look at why being both parent and coach is uniquely hard, and why the answer isn’t better instructions, but better awareness.Benny is 4 years old 💙 and fighting stage 4 high-risk neuroblastoma. His family are raising funds for life-saving CAR-T cell therapy in Rome. Follow his journey: https://www.instagram.com/stand_by_benny/. Donate here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/benjaminahmanizadFootball DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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/Book a call with a VEO expert: https://get.veo.co/iokfootballTikTok: 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.

In this episode, Ben and Mike welcome back Michael Fox, former Peterborough United academy coach and now head coach at Focusing on Excellence Football Academy, to tackle one of grassroots football’s most debated topics: playing out from the back.Drawing on his first season coaching in grassroots, Michael shares how academy principles can work at under-9s and under-10s level—despite the retreat rule, mixed ability squads and limited game time. The conversation explores how to teach children to stay calm under pressure, use goalkeepers effectively, create overloads and understand space without overwhelming them with tactics.They also dive into emotional regulation on the sidelines, why consistency in coaching behaviour matters more than results, and how simple language, repetition and visual cues help players learn faster. Along the way, Michael explains concepts like “fishing passes,” starting again, and why mistakes at the back are a necessary part of long-term development.The episode finishes with a wider discussion on mindset—what separates academy players from grassroots, whether resilience can be coached, and why helping kids enjoy learning the game matters far more than winning on a Sunday morning.Use code IOKF10 and get 10% OFF at www.discountfootballkits.com — the UK’s longest-established specialist supplier of discounted branded football kits, accessories and footballs. Offer ends midnight, 31st January 2026Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Connect with Olly Porteous: https://withme.so/OllyporteousTikTok: 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.

Ben and Mike reflect on a weekend that sharpened one of the biggest truths in grassroots football: coaches can guide, but parents carry the real responsibility for a child’s development.As training resumes after the Christmas break, the focus is on repetition, patience and building habits — passing, movement and decision-making that only improve through consistent exposure. The session reinforces a hard reality: one hour a week with a volunteer coach will never be enough on its own.The pair recount their interclub face-off with Leigh Ramblers Greens and from there, the conversation widens. Ben and Mike challenge the growing tendency to blame coaches for a child’s lack of progress, particularly in mixed-ability teams.They discuss confidence, belief, physical development and the unseen work that happens away from training — and why expecting a volunteer to “fix” everything in 45 minutes a week is both unrealistic and unfair.Use code IOKF10 and get 10% OFF at www.discountfootballkits.com — the UK’s longest-established specialist supplier of discounted branded football kits, accessories and footballs. Offer ends midnight, 31st January 2026Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

This week, Ben and Mike are joined by Saul Isaksson Hurst, one of the world’s leading technical coaches and the man behind elite players including Noni Madueke and Antoine Semenyo.Saul breaks down what truly separates top academy and Premier League players from the rest, exploring mindset, work ethic, technical mastery and the environments that allow young players to thrive.The conversation dives deep into common grassroots coaching challenges — keeping players engaged, designing high-tempo sessions, developing weaker feet and turning ball mastery into real in-game impact rather than “skills for skills’ sake.”Packed with practical examples, simple games and honest coaching reflections, this episode is essential listening for any coach or parent who wants to help young players improve — without overcomplicating the process.Level 1 & Level 2 e-learning courses with Saul to help take your coaching to the next level: https://mypersonalfootballcoach.com/level-1-level-2-e-leaning-courses/Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

This week, Ben and Mike welcome Mick Clegg, the former Manchester United power development coach who helped transform a young Cristiano Ronaldo into a global icon.Mick pulls back the curtain on the elite habits of the world’s best, revealing how grassroots coaches and parents can apply these same principles today.They dive into the biggest conditioning mistakes in youth football, the importance of "experiential knowledge," and practical ways to build athleticism without overcomplicating training.Whether you're coaching under-6s or aspiring pros, Mick’s advice will help you build an athlete from the ground up.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

Ben and Mike reflect on a defining mid-season episode that spans an academy test against Arsenal’s development squad and a local derby to close the year. Against Arsenal, the boys learn what real team football demands. Faced with sharper movement, quicker pressing and higher standards, individual moments stop being enough.They are forced to communicate, release the ball earlier and trust each other under pressure — lessons that carry into the following day against Leigh Ramblers Reds, where they show the impact that passing, discipline and teamwork can have.The pair then reflect honestly on fatigue, behaviour, confidence and coaching responsibility, as listener stories and grassroots dilemmas round out the final episode of 2025.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

Ben and Mike kick things off by reliving their dramatic derby against the Blues — from a chaotic training session to touchline wobblers, goal-line drama and the boys’ grit in a scrappy 4–3 win.They’re then joined by Cambridge United’s Dario Seminerio, Youth Development Phase Lead Coach (U13- U16) at Cambridge United, who explains why great coaching is about teaching principles, not patterns. Dario speaks about the cultural differences between coaching in England and Italy — from parental behaviour to training frequency, communication style and how young players in each country respond to instruction, pressure and team identity.He also digs into the detail: how managing time and space can instantly level mixed-ability groups, why players learn faster when they understand the why behind movements, and how concepts like creating a “plus one,” recognising pressure and rotating intelligently help kids solve problems instead of memorising set plays.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

This episode dives into the nagging anxiety every parent-coach secretly carries: Am I actually doing a good job? Should I be doing more? Ben and Mike relive a chaotic comeback win featuring a spectacular warm-up wipe-out and a pre-match team talk that fell apart faster than a cheap pop-up goal.But beneath the muddy knees and over-enthusiastic touchline gesticulations lies something far more important: real progress. Raph and Alf bounce back from a crisis of confidence with maturity, Ollie finds his spark again, Parker turns into a match-winner and the whole team strings together passages of passing football that make the dads briefly consider applying for the Premier League.Off the pitch, the dads confront the emotional weight of the job — the constant questioning, the comparisons with other teams, the fear they’re not giving enough time, guidance or balance. Through honest reflection and small, satisfying breakthroughs, they realise coaching isn’t about perfection; it’s about effort, patience and letting the kids grow at their own pace.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

In this episode, Ben and Mike relive a turbulent fortnight in their grassroots coaching journey — from a humiliating 7–1 collapse to an emotionally charged comeback win built on grit and passing football.What starts as a defensive nightmare spirals into soul-searching: confidence crises for both boys, sideline meltdowns, overthinking, burnout and the heavy emotional load that parent-coaches quietly carry.But woven through the chaos are powerful moments of connection: an unexpected message from Noni Madueke that lifts Alfie from rock bottom, a North London Derby that wipes away a painful morning and two boys showing maturity beyond their years as they confront their weaknesses head-on.On the pitch, the team rebounds with discipline, teamwork and resilience — and off it, Ben and Mike learn to manage their own expectations, rein in catastrophising, and let their kids simply be who they are.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

In this episode, former Southend and Dagenham & Redbridge winger Damien Scannell sits down with Ben and Mike for an honest, vulnerable and often hilarious conversation about fatherhood, identity and the emotional minefield of kids’ football.Damien reflects on his own childhood — growing up without parents on the touchline, finding freedom in grassroots football and watching his brother go through the academy system far earlier than he did. He explains why that contrast shaped his views on pressure, character and the true purpose of youth sport.The trio dig into the hardest parts of being a modern dad: the guilt of losing your cool, the car-ride regret, the internal battle between wanting tough kids and emotionally intelligent ones, and how old-school masculinity often clashes with today’s expectations.Damian shares how working on himself transformed his parenting, why dads project their insecurities onto their kids, and how to build habits, discipline and resilience without breaking their spirit. He also opens up about coaching his own boys, resisting academy FOMO, spotting when pressure becomes toxic, and why the journey matters more than the dream.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

In this episode, former Crystal Palace and Brighton striker Glenn Murray joins Ben to reflect on his childhood in grassroots football, the memories that shaped him and the pure joy of playing with friends before the pressures of the professional game took over.He opens up about the car-ride home truths that built his resilience, the emotional tightrope parents walk, and why honest feedback matters — but only when delivered with care. Glenn also reveals what he’s like on the touchline watching his own sons play, how he navigates being “the professional in the crowd,” and why modern youth football sometimes forgets its purpose.Glenn Murray is the 2025/26 Utilita Kids & Girls Cup ambassador. The annual football competition sees more than 20,000 schoolchildren each year take to the pitch for the chance to represent the 72 EFL Clubs across England and Wales, bolstering the existing ties between Clubs and their local communities.The Utilita Kids & Girls Cups inspire children to be active, healthy, and develop a strong sense of teamwork, while offering the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play at Wembley Stadium ahead of major EFL finals. The competition helped discover stars such as Adam Wharton, Jamal Musiala, and Scott McTominay. Find out more here: www.efl.com/competitions/utilita-kids-girls-cupTikTok: 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.

Ben and Mike deliver their most emotionally honest episode to date — a rollercoaster through three tough grassroots games, a confidence crisis for both of their sons, a sideline flashpoint and a revealing look at the hidden strain of being a parent-coach.They talk honestly about shouting, pressure, overthinking, the pain of watching your child struggle and the moments that make you want to walk away from coaching completely. But this isn’t just about their team.The episode widens into the bigger picture of grassroots football as they break down the results of their new nationwide survey — revealing how widespread sideline abuse, parent tension, lack of volunteer support and emotional burnout really are. From shocking anonymous stories to why coaches feel isolated, under-appreciated and overwhelmed, the survey becomes a backdrop to everything the boys experience on the pitch.Amid the chaos comes hope: breakthrough conversations, growth in the toughest moments and a reminder that kids’ football is about building resilience, not protecting egos. This episode asks the uncomfortable question all parent-coaches face sooner or later.Our latest research, in partnership with LoveAdmin and GoCardless, reveals a community full of passion, but stretched thin by patchy support, time, and financial pressure: Read the full report here.New research highlights the need for calmer, more supportive sidelines in youth football - read more here.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

In this episode, Ben and Mike welcome Nick Green, Football DNA ambassador and seasoned youth coach with experience across England and Australia, for a deep dive into the emotional and tactical side of coaching young players.Drawing from his work in academies and grassroots football, Nick shares how to create a positive environment that builds belief and resilience in kids—especially when confidence dips or results don’t go their way. From using reflection and delayed feedback to managing “car-ride emotions” as parent-coaches, the conversation explores how to keep football enjoyable while fostering growth and grit.Nick also offers practical insights on helping smaller players thrive, developing defensive skills, handling positional challenges and creating club-wide coaching plans that align players, parents, and coaches. Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

Ben and Mike are back with their most explosive episode yet — a day that should’ve been all about wonder goals and winning football turns into a masterclass in how not to behave on the sidelines.After a brilliant first half, a confrontation between parents spills over, forcing Ben to face the uncomfortable truth: for all his talk about calm and composure, he’s just as capable of losing it when the kids are caught in the crossfire.With the dust barely settled, the pair welcome their fiercest rival, Rhys — the larger-than-life manager everyone has an opinion on — for a brutally honest chat about passion, perception, and why every dad-coach ends up shouting at their own kid.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

In this episode, Ben and Mike welcome clinical psychologist, performance coach and author Dr Kate Lund to unpack one of the hardest balancing acts in youth sport—how to build resilience in children without turning them into emotionless robots.Drawing from her work with young athletes and parents, Dr Lund explains why modern resilience goes beyond “toughen up and get on with it.” She shares practical strategies for coaches and parents to help kids manage frustration, recover from mistakes and thrive under pressure—from relaxation and visualisation techniques to the “daily wins” exercise that shifts focus from failure to growth.The trio dive deep into the contrasts between old-school grit and emotionally intelligent resilience, how parental behaviour on the sidelines shapes a child’s response to setbacks and why communication and self-awareness matter as much as skill drills.Dr Kate Lund's new book: https://www.katelundspeaks.com/bookFootball DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

Ben and Mike return with one of their most honest episodes yet, tackling a feeling every parent-coach knows but few admit: the desperate, irrational need for your child to play well when someone’s watching.What begins as a normal weekend of grassroots football — a couple of big games and the usual sideline chaos — spirals into a raw reflection on pride, pressure, and parenting. When Ben’s son Alfie picks up an injury and struggles through a match with a friend in the crowd, it triggers a wave of guilt, frustration and self-awareness that hits harder than any defeat.Between the laughs, match analysis and familiar coaching highs, the dads ask the real question: are we pushing our kids to enjoy the game — or to protect our own egos?Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

What happens when a Premier League goal scorer goes back to where it all started — the grassroots pitches that shaped him? In this heartfelt episode, Dwight Gayle opens up to Ben and Mike about his journey from being a child prodigy at Arsenal’s academy to rediscovering his passion for the game after being released at just 12 years old.He shares powerful insights on identity, rejection, and resilience, explaining why being “Dwight Gayle the footballer” almost cost him his love of the game — and how returning to grassroots football helped him find joy again.Now coaching his son’s under-8s team, Dwight reflects on the joys and struggles of being a football dad, from managing touchline emotions to teaching respect, teamwork and humility.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

Ben and Mike return to the touchline for an episode that captures everything maddening and magical about grassroots football. One match leaves them questioning their tactics, their tempers and even their sanity — but also delivers a reminder of why they keep coming back week after week.In the latest instalment of their season diary, the dads relive a pair of unforgettable games — both dramatic, both wildly entertaining, but each ending in very different emotions. From the elation of everything clicking to the despair of watching it slip away, it’s grassroots football in all its unpredictable glory.There’s also a deep dive into their time with Ballers Elite, taking on Brighton’s academy and Ipswich Town’s development squad. As Mike wrestles with frustration from the sidelines, Ben finds perspective in watching Alfie grow in confidence and begin to play with genuine freedom.And through it all runs the toughest challenge of all — being a parent-coach. How do you build confidence and fearlessness in your child when they’re already tired of being told what to do by the same voice at home and on the pitch?3 v 3 tournament - Aubrey’s Charity Fund Raiser: https://ballers-elite-1.classforkids.io/info/30Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

In this episode, Ben and Mike sit down with Ross Clarke Brooks—UEFA A-Licensed coach at West Ham United and Football DNA content creator—to tackle one of grassroots football’s toughest challenges: coaching kids to defend.Ross draws on over a decade of experience working with young players to share practical ways coaches can introduce defending without killing the fun. From teaching body positioning and decision-making in small-sided games to using creative analogies that kids understand, he explains how to help players see defending as just as exciting as attacking.The discussion also dives into common coaching dilemmas: when to introduce compactness, how to avoid over-instruction, keeping training realistic and playful, and the balance between winning and development.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

Ben and Mike kick off the new season with equal parts optimism and exasperation. Pre-season friendlies brought slick football, impressive wins and a series of great goals, but also reminded the coaching duo not to get too carried away.The first league match against Hullbridge Sports was supposed to be routine – until the boys froze on the grass, the opposition dug in and a last-gasp equaliser left everyone deflated. Off the pitch, Ben admits that old habits of snapping at his son have crept back, leading to emotional car rides, guilt, and even a heartfelt letter of apology.From training drills with countdown shot-clocks to managing fragile confidence, the dads wrestle with whether they’re helping their kids or just piling on pressure. Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

In this episode, Ben and Mike are joined by Neal Lattimore, strength and conditioning coach at Peterborough United and founder of Active Performance Gym. Drawing on this experience working with academy players, Neil breaks down one of youth football’s biggest questions—when and how kids should start physical training.The conversation covers what to focus on at different ages, how to navigate growth spurts safely and why proper movement, balance and coordination matter more than heavy lifting. Neil shares practical tips for improving speed, shot power, coordination and common mistakes coaches and parents make when trying to get kids in shape.From busting the myth that weights stunt growth, to explaining the benefits of bio-banding and why fun races and ladders can build coordination, this episode gives coaches and parents the confidence to support young players’ physical development.They also discuss academy vs grassroots approaches, how to keep sessions engaging, and why patience is key when kids develop at different speeds.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

In this episode, Ben and Mike sit down with renowned coach James Galanis, best known for his work with World Cup winners and elite US internationals, to unpack what grassroots football can learn from the highest level.The conversation dives into James’s philosophy that coaches are “creators of environments” and why the biggest obstacles to player development are often not kids, but parents. He shares powerful stories, including how a single car ride can destroy a child’s love for football and offers practical ways to reset the culture around youth sport.From the dangers of over-structuring training to why US “pay to play” soccer leaves too many talented kids behind, James explains how coaches and parents can shift focus from short-term results to long-term growth. He also breaks down the crucial differences between coaching boys and girls and why listening, respect and love for the game matter more than tactics at grassroots level.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

Ben and Mike gear up for the new season with a mix of excitement, dread and brutal honesty. They look back at the Essex Royal Tournament — a reminder of how far they’ve come since that nightmare first outing — and ask if this year’s squad can handle the jump to 7-a-side.With nine players, equal game time and two new signings, the boys finally have the steel they’ve been missing. But will concentration lapses, emotional meltdowns and dodgy coaching hold them back?The dads set targets for their kids, for the team and for themselves — from improving communication to not losing the plot when someone forgets their position (again). They also share listener stories about silent matches, dodgy refs and training disasters, proving once more that grassroots football is equal parts comedy, stress and joy.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

Ben and Mike sit down with Dave Bricknell — long-time Tottenham coach and scout who first spotted Harry Kane — and Ben’s uncle, Arty, Dave's assistant manager, while running a youth team back in the 90s. Dave gives an honest assessment of Ben’s son Alfie’s recent Spurs trial, pinpointing what he needs to improve to reach the next level. Then Dave and Arty tell stories of grassroots battles and their management style and reveal what it’s like when a future Premier League star lands in your team. Dave opens up on scouting realities, why mental strength beats raw skill and how Kane went from an eager eight-year-old goalkeeper to England captain.Packed with sharp insights, this episode tackles the pressures of trials, the risks of recruiting too young and how parents can set high standards while keeping the game fun.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

In this episode, Ben and Mike are joined by Chris Platts—a career coach working with professional clubs, parents and young players—to explore what grassroots football can learn from elite environments.They take a candid look at the world of professional football academies—highlighting the pressure, uncertainty and harsh realities behind the polished image. Chris offers valuable insight into the emotional and developmental toll the system can take on young players and their families and how to approach it with greater awareness, balance and long-term perspective.Drawing from his professional club experience and academic research, Chris breaks down what makes a good coach, why most grassroots clubs are set up backwards and how adults’ egos often get in the way of kids’ long-term development.The conversation dives into building better club cultures, the importance of coach education and reflection and why focusing on people and purpose can transform how children experience the game.More from Chris Platts: https://www.chrisplatts.co.uk/Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

In this episode, Ben and Mike tackle one of grassroots football’s trickiest challenges—teaching positioning—with the help of Michael Fox, a seasoned coach with 14 years at Peterborough United and now head coach at the Focusing on Excellence Football Academy. Michael shares his approach to helping young players understand space, shape and decision-making without overwhelming them or losing the fun. The discussion explores when kids start to grasp positioning, how to simplify concepts using visual tools and small-sided games and why quiet encouragement often works better than constant instruction. They also cover the importance of rotating positions for long-term development, how to coach emotional resilience when mistakes happen and the delicate balance of managing parent expectations.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Michael's coaching academy: https://focusingonxcellence.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.

What happens when a Premier League striker swaps stadium roars for Sunday league sidelines? In this emotional and brutally honest episode, Charlie Austin returns to the pod to talk with Ben and Mike about his two-year journey coaching his son’s grassroots team.From coaching kids with ADHD to navigating “dad vs coach” guilt, Charlie opens up on what it really taught him about football, parenting and himself.He talks letting go, trial day nerves, dealing with pressure, grassroots politics and why watching his son sign for Swindon Town’s Academy might have been more intense than scoring at Wembley. Plus, the car-ride confessions every sideline parent will relate to.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

This week, Ben and Mike, chat with Ben's old football manager Martin Skinner—a legendary (and unfiltered) former coach of the Brentwood Boys. In this episode, Martin unloads a treasure trove of memories: crazy van rides, dodgy leg rubs, makeshift training camps and a philosophy that mixed old-school discipline with raw devotion.With his trademark wit and razor-sharp memory, Martin reflects on how he stumbled into coaching, what it was like managing Ben and the challenge of running a youth team while holding down a 3am fish market shift. From fake poo pranks to coaching his own son, Martin explains that you don’t need to be a master tactician to get a group of boys to play for you — you just need to understand them, make them laugh and they’ll run through walls for you. He also shares why coaching the kids’ football team was one of the greatest experiences of his life.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/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.

This week, Ben and Mike sit down with Paul Barry, head of coaching at Crystal Palace for U8–U12s and a 28-season veteran of the foundation phase. Paul offers real insight on what really matters when coaching kids—from using words like "fireworks" and "magnets" to help the kids understand tactics and shape, to handling overzealous parents with clear communication and understanding.Expect smart, practical advice on managing the jump from 5-to-7-a-side, improving player focus and how to set up a killer 60-minute session—plus why one-word feedback might be your secret weapon. He also talks about coaching the parents, avoiding the "chimp brain," and why football is about shaping kids for the next 25 years—not the next 25 minutes.Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/Paul Barry's children's books:https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Mr-Paul-David-Barry/author/B08VCXJZJGTikTok: 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.

In this episode of It’s Only Kids Football, Ben and Mike are joined by former Arsenal and England full-back Kieran Gibbs for a chat about the grassroots experiences that shaped his professional journey and the mission driving his post-playing career.From Sunday mornings with the Purley Panthers to the pressure cooker of Hale End and winning trophies with the Gunners, Kieran shares vivid memories, hard lessons and the importance of keeping the joy in kids’ football. He talks candidly about the emotional highs and lows—from missing a penalty as a kid to battling for his scholarship at Arsenal—and how having a twin brother by his side helped him reach the top.Now based in Miami, Kieran explains how he's channelling those experiences into One FC, a youth academy aiming to shift the culture of American soccer. Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/One FChttps://onefcmiami.com/https://www.instagram.com/onefcmiami/?hl=enTikTok: 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.

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/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.

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/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.

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/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.

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.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.

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.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.