Episodes
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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?
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball
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X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/
Email: [email protected]
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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.
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/
X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/
Email: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Missing episodes?
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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?
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/
X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/
Email: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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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.
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/
X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/
Email: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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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.
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/
X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/
Email: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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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.
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/
X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/
Email: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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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.
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/
X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Itsonlykidsfootballpodcast/
Email: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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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/
Follow Dean and Ollie on social media:
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ollierussellgk
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fatherandsongoalkeeping
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fatherandsongoalkeeping
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball/
X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@iokfootball
Email: [email protected]
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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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.
X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iokfootball
Escape room training drill: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C-DSepZo1sj/?igsh=MXdoZWVmdWlzdW1iYw%3D%3D
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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.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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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 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.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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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.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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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.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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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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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.
Follow us on Social Media: https://linktr.ee/itsonlykidsfootball
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In this episode, Ben Welch is joined by Harry Brooks,
Follow Harry on his social channels:
https://x.com/hbrooks_coach
https://www.instagram.com/hbrooks_coach/
Sign up for weekly updates in our newsletter: www.itsonlykidsfootball.com
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.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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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.
Follow on social media: https://linktr.ee/itsonlykidsfootball
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 rewardingFinding the balance between being a supportive parent and a coach is importantInstilling resilience and confidence in young players is crucialUsing 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.🫶 Sign up and follow us on social: https://linktr.ee/itsonlykidsfootball
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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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