Inside The Game

Episode Thirty - Life Behind The Lens

In the Season 3 finale of Inside The Game, host Stuart Sharples explores the theme Life Behind The Lens — taking a unique look at youth soccer through the eyes of the people capturing the moments that define the game. Our curriculum topic is Overloads, and our core value this week is Commitment.We take a deeper look at overloads in the modern game and how top teams intentionally create numerical advantages through movement, positioning, and teamwork. Stuart breaks down real match examples from the professional game, including how teams like Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool create overloads centrally and in wide areas to break pressure and create chances. He also shares practical ways coaches can teach overloads within their sessions through small-sided games, positional play, wide-area combinations, and decision-making exercises that encourage players to recognize and exploit advantages together.This week’s guest is Brian Seay, the official photographer and videographer for Steel United, who shares a completely different perspective on the game from behind the lens. Brian reflects on the moments that stand out most in youth soccer, the emotions he’s naturally drawn to capturing, and the hidden moments many people on the sidelines never notice. He also discusses how storytelling, media, and visual content help build culture, preserve memories, and showcase the commitment shown throughout the youth game every single day.🎧 Step Inside The Game one final time this season for an episode focused on teamwork, storytelling, and the memories that make youth sports truly special.#Coaching #SoccerCoaching #PlayerDevelopment #SteelUnited #Overloads #Commitment #YouthSoccer #SoccerPodcast #SportsPhotography

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Episode Twenty Nine - From Parent to Coach

3w ago00:20:23Tap to summarize

In this episode of Inside The Game, host Stuart Sharples explores the theme Navigating from Parent to Coach — focusing on the unique journey many people take from supporting their child on the sidelines to leading and developing an entire team. Our curriculum topic is Overloads, and our core value this week is Teamwork.We take a closer look at how overloads in soccer rely on players recognizing support, movement, and collective decision-making—and how those same principles apply to building strong team environments off the field. Stuart discusses practical ways coaches can teach overloads within their sessions while also emphasizing the importance of communication, trust, and connection between coaches, players, and parents.This week’s guest is Brian Duffy, who shares his perspective on transitioning from parent to coach and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Brian reflects on balancing the role of supporting his own child while leading a full team, the importance of communication between coaches and parents, and how teamwork extends far beyond the field. His insights offer valuable advice for both current and aspiring coaches navigating the realities of the youth game.A valuable reflection for coaches looking to strengthen the culture around their team.🎧 Step Inside The Game for an episode centered on relationships, communication, and the importance of teamwork throughout the entire youth sports experience.#Coaching #SoccerCoaching #PlayerDevelopment #SteelUnited #Overloads #Teamwork #YouthSoccer #SoccerPodcast #CoachingTips

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Episode Twenty Eight - The Impact of The World Cup

4w ago00:18:17Tap to summarize

In this episode of Inside The Game, host Stuart Sharples explores the theme The Impact of The World Cup — focusing on how the biggest tournament in the world can inspire, educate, and shape the next generation of players. Our curriculum topic is Defending Play, and our core value this week is Commitment.We take a closer look at how the World Cup influences the youth game far beyond the final scoreline. From inspiring young players to dream bigger, to showcasing the importance of teamwork, resilience, and collective defending, Stuart discusses how coaches can use World Cup moments as powerful teaching tools within their own sessions. The episode also highlights the importance of connecting players to the global side of the game through initiatives like the Passport to the World Cup modules on the Lasorda Way app, helping players explore different cultures, playing styles, and traditions from around the world.This week’s guest is Andrew Broadbent, who shares his perspective on the lasting impact the World Cup can have on participation, passion, and player development within the youth game. Andrew discusses how major tournaments inspire communities, the lessons young players can learn from elite defending on the world stage, and why the upcoming World Cup in the United States could be transformational for soccer development across the country.🎧 Step Inside The Game for an episode centered on inspiration, global connection, and the power the World Cup has to shape the future of the game.#Coaching #SoccerCoaching #PlayerDevelopment #SteelUnited #WorldCup #Defending #Commitment #LasordaWay #SoccerPodcast #CoachingTips

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Episode Twenty Seven - Power of Reflection

Apr 3000:17:47Tap to summarize

In this episode of Inside The Game, host Stuart Sharples explores the theme Power of Reflection — focusing on how true development happens not just through action, but through understanding and learning from those experiences. Our curriculum topic is Defending Play, and our core value this week is Integrity.With players across the club currently completing their reflection forms, this episode highlights the importance of taking that process seriously. Stuart discusses how meaningful reflection helps players recognize strengths, identify areas for improvement, and take ownership of their development—particularly in defensive situations where decision-making, positioning, and communication are key.This week’s guest is Jeremy McManus, who shares his perspective on what effective reflection looks like in practice. Jeremy dives into how coaches can guide players to reflect with purpose, avoid common mistakes, and build habits that encourage honesty and accountability. He also connects reflection directly to performance, explaining how players can learn from quick, high-pressure defensive moments and improve over time.🎧 Step Inside The Game for an episode centered on learning, honesty, and helping players take control of their development.#Coaching #SoccerCoaching #PlayerDevelopment #SteelUnited #Defending #Integrity #Reflection #SoccerPodcast #CoachingTips

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Episode Twenty Six - Preparing for Gameday

Apr 2500:15:26Tap to summarize

In this episode of Inside The Game, host Stuart Sharples explores the theme Preparing for a Game — focusing on how players can be set up to perform when it matters most. Our curriculum topic remains Final Third Play, and our core value this week is Respect.We take a closer look at what effective preparation really looks like, from building matchday routines and creating realistic training scenarios to developing the confidence needed to make decisions under pressure. Stuart shares practical ways coaches can prepare players for those key moments in the final third, where games are often decided. It’s a clear and applied look at how preparation directly impacts performance.This week’s episode features a player perspective, with Ethan and Kevin from the Steel United NJ 2011 Boys NAL team—who are also part of our National Program. They share how they prepare for games, what helps them feel confident stepping onto the field, and how they approach decision-making and teamwork in high-pressure situations. Their insight offers a valuable reminder of how preparation is experienced from the player’s point of view.A powerful reflection for coaches to take into their next session.🎧 Step Inside The Game for an episode centered on preparation, performance, and hearing directly from the players living it.#Coaching #SoccerCoaching #PlayerDevelopment #SteelUnited #FinalThird #Respect #GamePreparation #SoccerPodcast #CoachingTips

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Episode Twenty Five - Applying Modern Trends to Your Team

Apr 1700:18:00Tap to summarize

In this episode of Inside The Game, host Stuart Sharples explores the theme Applying Modern Trends to Your Youth Team — focusing on how coaches can take ideas from the highest levels of the game and translate them into meaningful, age-appropriate learning for their players. Our curriculum topic is Final Third Play, and our core value this week is Teamwork.We take a closer look at how the modern game has evolved in the attacking third. From the rise of cutbacks and combination play to the emphasis on creating higher-quality chances, Stuart breaks down what’s actually happening at the top level—and more importantly, how coaches can bring those ideas into their own sessions. With practical insights on session design, decision-making, and movement in the box, this episode offers a clear pathway for developing more effective attacking players.This week’s guest is Jack Koleszar, Assistant Director of Player and Coach Development, who shares his perspective on modern attacking trends and how to apply them in youth environments. Jack dives into the importance of understanding the why behind the game, helping players make better decisions, and building teamwork in high-pressure moments where games are often decided.A key reflection for coaches looking to build more connected and effective attacking teams.🎧 Step Inside The Game for an episode packed with practical insight, modern trends, and real ways to bring the game to life for your players.#Coaching #SoccerCoaching #PlayerDevelopment #SteelUnited #FinalThird #Teamwork #SoccerPodcast #CoachingTips

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Episode Twenty Four - Building a Growth Mindset

Apr 900:19:05Tap to summarize

In this episode of Inside The Game, host Stuart Sharples explores the theme Importance of a Growth Mindset — focusing on how the way players think, respond, and learn is just as important as what they do on the field. Our curriculum topic remains Switching the Play, and our core value this week is Commitment.We take a closer look at how developing awareness and decision-making—key components of switching the play—requires patience, resilience, and a willingness to learn through mistakes. Stuart shares practical ways coaches can create environments that encourage players to take risks, reflect on their decisions, and stay committed to improvement over time. It’s a clear, applied look at how mindset directly impacts development and performance.This week’s guest is Dave Cornish, VP of New Business, who brings a powerful perspective on growth mindset and personal development. Drawing on his work with the Lasorda Way app, Dave shares how habits, consistency, and daily reflection play a key role in long-term success. He offers practical insight into how coaches can support players beyond the technical side of the game—helping them build resilience, confidence, and a commitment to getting better.🎧 Step Inside The Game for an episode centered on mindset, growth, and the commitment required to truly develop.#Coaching #SoccerCoaching #PlayerDevelopment #SteelUnited #GrowthMindset #Commitment #LasordaWay #SoccerPodcast #CoachingTips

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Episode Twenty Three - Understanding The Person

Apr 200:17:37Tap to summarize

In this episode of Inside The Game, host Stuart Sharples explores the theme Understanding The Person — focusing on how great coaching goes beyond tactics and into truly connecting with the individuals in front of you. Our curriculum topic is Switching the Play, and our core value this week is Integrity.We take a closer look at why switching the play is such a powerful tool in the modern game — not just as a tactical action, but as a reflection of awareness, decision-making, and understanding the bigger picture. Stuart shares practical ways coaches can teach this within their sessions, from designing constraints and directional games to helping players recognize pressure, scan effectively, and move the ball with purpose. It’s a clear, applied look at how to develop more intelligent, adaptable players.This week’s guest is Mary Lowdon, Assistant Director of Soccer Events, who brings a unique perspective on understanding people through her work with players, parents, coaches, and customers. Mary shares how communication, first impressions, and handling conflict in high-pressure environments translate directly into coaching. Her insights offer valuable guidance on how to build trust, adapt communication styles, and create stronger relationships within your team.A powerful reflection for every coach to take into their next session.🎧 Step Inside The Game for an episode centered on connection, communication, and the human side of coaching.#Coaching #SoccerCoaching #PlayerDevelopment #SteelUnited #SwitchingThePlay #Integrity #Leadership #SoccerPodcast #CoachingTips

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Episode Twenty Two - Embracing Challenges

Mar 2600:16:52Tap to summarize

In this episode of Inside The Game, host Stuart Sharples explores the theme Embracing Challenges with Special Guest Jaylin Finney— focusing on how players grow when they are pushed outside of their comfort zone. Our curriculum topic remains Breaking Lines, and our core value this week is Respect.We take a deeper look at what it really means to play forward with intent. Breaking lines requires bravery, decision-making, and a willingness to take risks under pressure — and with that comes mistakes. Stuart shares how coaches can create an environment where players feel supported to embrace those challenges, learn through failure, and continue to develop confidence in possession. It’s a practical and honest look at how growth happens when players are encouraged to step into difficult moments rather than avoid them.This week’s guest is Jaylin Finney, who returns to the podcast to share her journey and insights. As the first coach to win a title with Steel United’s national program, Jaylin reflects on the challenges she has faced coaching in a male environment, how she built trust and respect with her players, and the lessons that shaped her success. Her perspective offers valuable insight for all coaches, particularly those navigating leadership, identity, and culture within their teams.A powerful reflection for coaches to take into their next session.🎧 Step Inside The Game for an episode centered on growth, resilience, and the mindset needed to move players — and teams — forward.#Coaching #SoccerCoaching #PlayerDevelopment #SteelUnited #BreakingLines #Respect #WomenInCoaching #SoccerPodcast #CoachingTips

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Episode Twenty One - Favourite World Cup Moment

Mar 1900:07:12Tap to summarize

In the opening episode of a new season, host Stuart Sharples introduces the theme Introduction to the Season — setting the tone for what’s to come and laying the foundation for player and coach development in the weeks ahead. Our curriculum topic is Breaking Lines, and our core value is Teamwork.We explore one of the most important concepts in the modern game — progressing the ball forward with purpose. Breaking lines is what separates possession from penetration, and this episode dives into how players can recognize space, time their movements, and work collectively to move the game forward. Stuart shares practical coaching insights on creating passing lanes, receiving between lines, and encouraging players to play with intent — all while reinforcing the importance of connection and trust within the team.With the World Cup on the horizon, this season also introduces a new element — each guest will share their favourite World Cup memory. This week, we turn that question over to you, the listener, inviting you to reflect on the moments that made you fall in love with the game.We close the episode with our first Question of the Week:“How often does your team look to play forward… and how often do they actually do it?”A simple but powerful reflection to take into your next session or game.🎧 Step Inside The Game as we kick off a brand new season — focused on growth, connection, and setting the standard for what’s ahead.#Coaching #SoccerCoaching #PlayerDevelopment #SteelUnited #BreakingLines #Teamwork #SoccerPodcast #CoachingTips

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All episodes

Episode Thirty - Life Behind The Lens

Episode Twenty Nine - From Parent to Coach

Episode Twenty Eight - The Impact of The World Cup

Episode Twenty Seven - Power of Reflection

Episode Twenty Six - Preparing for Gameday

Episode Twenty Five - Applying Modern Trends to Your Team

Episode Twenty Four - Building a Growth Mindset

Episode Twenty Three - Understanding The Person

Episode Twenty Two - Embracing Challenges

Episode Twenty One - Favourite World Cup Moment