Little Boots, Big Dreams!

• Tactics & Team Identity in Youth Football: What Kids Really Need to Know

  In this episode, I'm joined by grassroots coach Tom to discuss one of the most misunderstood areas of youth football — tactical education.How do we teach tactics in a way that makes sense for a 6-year-old, a 10-year-old, or a 15-year-old? And how can coaches help young players develop a clear team identity, without taking the joy out of the game?We explore:⚽ How to make tactical concepts age-appropriate from U5 to U16🧠 Why decision-making, not just formations, is the real heart of tactics🎯 Simple ways to introduce playing styles, even at grassroots level🤝 Why collaboration with parents is key to reinforcing learning💬 How to keep football fun while still building awareness and structureWhether you’re coaching your local U7s or managing a teenage side, this episode will give you practical insight into helping players think, learn, and grow on the pitch — all while loving the game.

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• Psychological Development in Young Footballers

  In this episode, we explore the psychological journey of young footballers, from their first kicks at U5s through to adolescence.Oliver Spink, a Sport Psychologist (in Doctorate Training) and Founder of One More Sport Psychology, joins me to discuss the emotional needs, mental milestones, and common challenges young players face as they grow and develop.We dive into:⚽ How psychological stages align with a child’s football journey🧠 What parents and coaches can do to support emotional well-being at every age🚸 The damaging impact of adult aggression, shouting, and violence on young players💬 How to create a positive, safe, and development-first environment for kids🌱 Long-term psychological consequences of too much pressure too soonWhether you're a parent, coach, or just passionate about youth football, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you raise confident, resilient young players — both on and off the pitch.

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• When Coaching Meets Parenting in Elite Football

  In this episode, we explore the unique challenges of being both a parent and a coach — especially when you're working in elite football settings and your child is on the periphery.Matt Cook, a coach with academy experience and a son playing at a high level of youth football, joins me to talk about the emotional juggling act of wearing both hats. From managing perceptions of favouritism to navigating the opinions of other coaches, we shine a light on the realities of bridging grassroots and the elite game.We unpack:⚽ What academy coaches are really looking for in young players🧠 The challenges that parent-coaches face in elite settings⏳ How 'busy' parents might unintentionally hold kids back🌱 And how lessons from elite environments can create better grassroots experiences — for players, coaches, and parents alikeIf you're raising a young footballer, coaching them, or trying to do both — this one’s for you.

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• Growing the Game – Injury Prevention & Physical Development in Young Footballers

  In this episode, we’re joined by Tracy Lewis, an expert in physiotherapy with years of experience supporting elite athletes — including her time as Head of Physiotherapy for The Women’s National Team at The FA.We dive into the key physical development considerations for young footballers aged 5–16, exploring the most common injuries, how to spot signs of overtraining, and the crucial differences in how boys and girls develop.Whether you’re a grassroots coach, a parent, or someone involved in youth development, this episode is packed with practical advice to help young players stay healthy, strong, and injury-free — without burning out.🧠 Learn how to balance fun, performance, and wellbeing — and why your job is to develop healthy, confident kids, not just better footballers.

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• Spotlight on Headcorn FC - Grassroots Done Right!

  Founded in 1886, Headcorn Football Club has transformed from two adult teams and a single junior side to a thriving community of 14 youth teams, a girls’ programme, and a clear mission focused on development, inclusion, and fun.We sit down with the people behind the scenes to talk about their incredible growth, their ethos around equal game time, how they’re tackling poor sideline behaviour, and what it's really like running a self-sustaining, community-first football club in today’s game.Expect passion, chaos, funny stories from the touchline, and plenty of wisdom for coaches, parents, and volunteers alike.🎧 A must-listen for anyone who loves grassroots football and wants to hear what good youth development really looks like.

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