Podcast
It's Only Kids Football
Hosted by Ben Welch and Mike Clark · EN
Ben Welch is figuring out how to be a decent kids football coach and a better Dad.
He's joined by coaching experts, ex-pros as well as football industry folk and internet friends to help him navigate the minefield of parenting and grassroots kids football.
It's meant to be for fun, but sometimes it's hard to remember - It's Only Kids Football.
Links: https://linktr.ee/itsonlykidsfootballpodcast
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
35episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
What should young footballers eat? Top nutritionists explain
1w ago01:06:18Tap to summarizeThis week, Ben and Mike, two grassroots dads doing their best not to ruin their kids’ football journeys, are joined by Kate and Fran from Performance Canteen, specialists in youth athlete nutrition who’ve worked with elite academies and young players across the UK.While Ben admits his go-to meal plan involves oven chips and panic, Kate and Fran drop a bombshell: most grassroots kids aren’t overfed - they’re under-fuelled. And it’s quietly wrecking their performance, mood, and love for the game.They dive into the biggest myths around “healthy eating,” why sugar isn’t the villain it’s made out to be, and how modern nutrition advice is confusing parents more than it’s helping. If you’ve ever wondered why your kid fades in matches, gets grumpy after training, or constantly asks for snacks—this one’s for you.Grab a bowl of cereal, ditch the guilt, and get ready to rethink everything you thought you knew about feeding young footballers.Get 15% off the Game Ready Course from Performance Canteen. Use code: IOKF15 (valid until end of June) 👉 https://performancecanteen.mykajabi.com/offers/S45Zi4Hp?coupon_code=IOKF15Football 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.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/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: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Transcribe →Why England’s biggest grassroots club STOPPED keeping score
2w ago01:01:03Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Mike Clark and Ben sit down with Colin Windrow, the visionary club manager behind MSB Woolton—officially the largest grassroots football club in England. Colin shares the fascinating journey of scaling a local Liverpool side into an institution supporting over 2,400 players and 400 volunteers. Beyond the logistics, he reveals the club’s secret approach: an internal league designed to foster a love for the game without the crushing pressure of early competition. From practical community hacks like "boot exchanges" to managing the high expectations of parents, this conversation is essential listening for any coach, volunteer, or parent navigating the complex world of grassroots football. Discover how to build a legacy that values people over points.Football 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.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/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: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Transcribe →What every coach and parent needs to know about 3v3
2w ago00:46:44Tap to summarizeIn this special episode, hosts Ben and Mike travel to St George’s Park to investigate "Future Fit"—the FA’s biggest youth football restructuring in over a decade.The episode dives into the new 3v3 format for under-7s, exploring why more touches and game time are the key to developing confident, skilful players.Featuring insights from former England internationals Glen Johnson and Rachel Yankey, alongside Clare Daniels (Senior National Development Manager for Innovations & Solutions) and John Folwell (Head of Grassroots Coach Development), the episode tackles the "no goalkeeper" controversy and offers advice for parents on navigating the often-toxic grassroots sideline.Whether you’re a coach worried about logistics or a parent wondering where the keepers went, this is a must-watch guide to the new era of the English game.A closer look at 3v3: https://futurefit.englandfootball.com/futurefit/a-closer-look-at-3v3/index.htmlEverything you need to know about FutureFit: https://futurefit.englandfootball.com/futurefit/index.htmlFootball 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.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/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: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Transcribe →Should you play equal game time in tournament football?
3w ago01:15:20Tap to summarizeBen and Mike dive into one of grassroots football’s biggest debates: should every player get equal game time in tournaments? Drawing from real tournament experiences, they unpack the tension between fairness and competitiveness, where short matches and high stakes force tough decisions. From squad rotation challenges to the impact on team flow, they explore how equal minutes can both support development and disrupt performance. Alongside this, they reflect on coaching emotions, player confidence, and the pressure-filled environment of tournament football. It’s an honest look at how coaches can balance inclusion with the desire to win, while keeping the focus on creating positive, meaningful experiences for young players.Football 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.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/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: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Transcribe →Simple coaching language that actually works
4w ago01:09:54Tap to summarizeBen and Mike are joined by Mark Thompson, UEFA A Licensed coach and International Technical Coaching Manager at Everton, to explore a simple truth: kids don’t need more coaching - they need clearer coaching. From summer training to tournament chaos, they discuss why overcomplicated instructions hold players back and how using simple language like “always see the ball” can transform understanding instantly. Mark shares why unstructured play, repetition and “brilliant basics” matter more than flashy drills, while also tackling the pressures of tournaments and sideline behaviour. It’s a practical look at how small changes in communication can massively improve development and enjoyment.Football 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.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/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: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Transcribe →We answer your toughest kids' football questions
May 700:33:42Tap to summarizeIn this bonus episode, Ben and Mike tackle the realities of grassroots football through listener questions and stories from the community. They explore key debates like competition vs development, managing long losing streaks and what to do when training sessions fall apart.They reflect on the pressures volunteer coaches face, the importance of parent support, and the risk of burnout, while also celebrating the emotional highs — last-minute winners, promotions, and proud dad moments.From sideline behaviour to player development and grassroots chaos, it’s always worth it.Football 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.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/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: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Transcribe →What we learned coaching our own kids this season
May 401:11:52Tap to summarizeAs the season wraps up, Ben and Mike take a brutally honest look back at the highs, lows, and everything in between — from standout performances and unforgettable goals to moments they’d rather forget as coaches and parents.They revisit the team’s development across the year, celebrating the progress in confidence, teamwork, and style of play, while also acknowledging the emotional challenges of coaching their own children. The conversation digs into the reality of end-of-season reflection: the pride in how far the boys have come, mixed with regret over moments where frustration took over and lessons were learned the hard way.Beyond the football itself, they explore how their coaching mindset has evolved—learning to let go of results, communicate more effectively, and understand that effort, decision-making, and consistency are all part of a child’s development journey. It’s a candid look at what improvement really looks like, both on the pitch and on the sidelines.Along the way, they share their favourite memories, toughest moments, biggest lessons, and what they want to do differently next season.Football 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.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/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: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Transcribe →Why your child plays like two different footballers
Apr 2701:04:35Tap to summarizeWhy does your child sometimes look like two completely different footballers? Ben and Mike explore the frustrating but fascinating reality of inconsistency in youth players—where confidence, mood, environment and even small moments in a game can completely change a child’s performance.From training intensity to matchday mentality, they unpack why the “switch” can flick on and off so dramatically. They also reflect on how factors off the pitch—like school, health worries, or even the dynamic of being coached by a parent—can quietly influence effort levels and decision-making. It’s a reminder that what looks like laziness or lack of focus is often something more complex, and understanding the “why” is key to supporting development.Along the way, they discuss the impact of confidence swings, the importance of patience when progress isn’t linear, and how coaches and parents can respond when effort drops without damaging a child’s love for the game.They also tackle a range of listener questions, including how to manage parent behaviour on the sidelines without burning out, setting boundaries as a volunteer coach, and navigating the challenges of growing squads.Football 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.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/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: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Transcribe →Why separating players by ability doesn’t work
Apr 2001:05:45Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Ben and Mike welcome Chris Ramsey onto the pod. One of the most respected voices in player development and coaching in the English game, Ramsey's career spans roles at QPR, Tottenham, and the FA. He has worked across academy football, first-team management, and coach education, helping shape not just players, but better coaches and environments.Together, they unpack the real challenges of grassroots football: coaching mixed ability groups, building confidence in young players, and managing the pressures that come from parents and expectations.You’ll learn why keeping sessions simple often beats copying elite tactics, how repetition and structure accelerate development, and why communication—not drills—is the most important coaching skill.They also tackle the debate around positions, explain how to create a positive environment where kids enjoy the game, and share practical insights to help volunteer coaches get the best out of every player.Football 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.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/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: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Transcribe →Should kids have set positions in grassroots football? Our response sparked a backlash
Apr 1301:15:59Tap to summarizeIs advertising for specific positions in youth football the right approach for development? Ben and Mike debate whether recruiting for roles like “defenders only” is a practical necessity or risks pigeonholing players too early, shaping how they see themselves on the pitch.They also discuss why losing is essential for growth, how competition builds resilience, and what lessons really stick when things don’t go your way. It’s a reminder that, while winning feels great, it’s often the tough moments—the missed chances, poor decisions and defeats—that teach children the most, even if they’re harder for parents to watch.They also look at how the close proximity and constant instruction between parent and child in training can quickly spark tension, misunderstandings and those all-too-familiar flashpoints. There are positives too, as elements from recent training—particularly around shooting and decision-making—begin to show up in matches, reinforcing the idea that repetition and patience do pay off over time.Alongside this, they tackle the practical realities of grassroots football, including how best to trial a new player without disrupting the group or placing too much pressure on the individual.Football 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.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/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: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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