The Soccer Coaching Podcast

Send us Fan Mail (https://www.buzzsprout.com/247200/fan_mail/new) Episode 126 – Training Session Round Table, with Ben Andreos, Craig Birtwistle, Peter Prickett & Ray Power In this episode we bring together an outstanding panel for a Training Session Round Table discussion, focusing on what is arguably the most fundamental part of player development – the training session itself. Joined by Ben Andreos, Craig Birtwistle, Peter Prickett and co-host Ray Power, we explore how coaches approach the design and delivery of training sessions. The conversation dives into session structure, how sessions connect to a wider coaching plan, and the importance of ensuring transfer from the training ground into matchday performance. The panel share their experiences, ideas and practical approaches to creating engaging, purposeful and effective sessions that truly support both player and team development. It was an absolute privilege to be joined by such an awesome group of coaches, each bringing their own perspective, insight and expertise to the discussion. Please do leave a review, like and share the episode! Connect with our guests • Peter Prickett (The Bearded Coach) – X: @PeterPrickett • Craig Birtwistle – X: @CraigBirtwistle / @SessionShareNet • Ben Andreos – X: @ben_andreos • Ray Power – X: @power_ray Podcast Information X - The Soccer Coaching Podcast - @SoccerCoachCast Email - [email protected] This episode was brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly. Established since 2006, Soccer Coach Weekly is a leading source of inspiration and advice for all grassroots coaches. Join thousands of youth soccer coaches, just like you, saving time and effort in their goal of having the most effective, enjoyable and successful coaching journey for them and their players. – https://www.soccercoachweekly.net/ Thanks for listening and we hope you enjoyed the episode! This episode was brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly. Established since 2006, Soccer Coach Weekly is a leading source of inspiration and advice for all grassroots coaches. Join thousands of youth soccer coaches, just like you, saving time and effort in their goal of having the most effective, enjoyable and successful coaching journey for them and their players. – https://www.soccercoachweekly.net/ Thanks for listening and we hope you enjoyed the episode!

Episode 126 – Training Session Round Table, with Ben Andreos, Craig Birtwistle, Peter Prickett & Ray Power In this episode we bring together an outstanding panel for a Training Session Round Table discussion, focusing on what is arguably the most fundamental part of player development – the training session itself. Joined by Ben Andreos, Craig Birtwistle, Peter Prickett and co-host Ray Power, we explore how coaches approach the design and delivery of training sessions. The conversation dives into session structure, how sessions connect to a wider coaching plan, and the importance of ensuring transfer from the training ground into matchday performance. The panel share their experiences, ideas and practical approaches to creating engaging, purposeful and effective sessions that truly support both player and team development. It was an absolute privilege to be joined by such an awesome group of coaches, each bringing their own perspective, insight and expertise to the discussion. Please do leave a review, like and share the episode! Connect with our guests Peter Prickett (The Bearded Coach) – X: @PeterPrickett Craig Birtwistle – X: @CraigBirtwistle / @SessionShareNet Ben Andreos – X: @ben_andreos Ray Power – X: @power_ray Podcast Information X - The Soccer Coaching Podcast - @SoccerCoachCast Email - [email protected] This episode was brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly. Established since 2006, Soccer Coach Weekly is a leading source of inspiration and advice for all grassroots coaches. Join thousands of youth soccer coaches, just like you, saving time and effort in their goal of having the most effective, enjoyable and successful coaching journey for them and their players. – https://www.soccercoachweekly.net/ Thanks for watching and we hope you enjoyed the episode!

Send us Fan Mail Episode 126 – Training Session Round Table, with Ben Andreos, Craig Birtwistle, Peter Prickett & Ray Power In this episode we bring together an outstanding panel for a Training Session Round Table discussion, focusing on what is arguably the most fundamental part of player development – the training session itself. Joined by Ben Andreos, Craig Birtwistle, Peter Prickett and co-host Ray Power, we explore how coaches approach the design and delivery of training sessions. Th...

Send us Fan Mail (https://www.buzzsprout.com/247200/fan_mail/new) Episode 125 Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 125 – How AI Can Be Used in Football Coaching, a conversation with Kevin Middleton In this episode, Ray and I are joined by the awesome Kevin Middleton to explore the growing impact of Artificial Intelligence in football coaching and beyond. Kevin shares his journey and provides a fascinating insight into his work with FootballGPT, highlighting how AI is beginning to shape the way coaches plan, analyse, and deliver their sessions. We dive into the practical applications of AI in coaching, as well as the opportunities and challenges it presents for coaches at all levels of the game. We also discuss: • What AI actually means for grassroots and academy coaches • How tools like FootballGPT can support session design and planning • The role of AI in analysis, feedback, and player development • The balance between technology and the human side of coaching • What the future of coaching might look like with AI continuing to evolve Ray and Kevin are also running an AI course for coaches who want to explore this space further. You can find out more and book your place here: AI for Football Coaching Course (https://www.tickettailor.com/events/raypowercoacheducation/2093668?utm_source=chatgpt.com) This episode offers a thought-provoking look at how coaches can embrace innovation while staying true to their coaching philosophy and values. Please do leave a review, like and share the episode! The Soccer Coaching Podcast, Twitter - @SoccerCoachCast The Soccer Coaching Podcast, Email - [email protected] This episode was brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly. Established since 2006, Soccer Coach Weekly is a leading source of inspiration and advice for all grassroots coaches. Join thousands of youth soccer coaches, just like you, saving time and effort in their goal of having the most effective, enjoyable and successful coaching journey for them and their players. – https://www.soccercoachweekly.net/ Thanks for listening and we hope you enjoyed the episode! This episode was brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly. Established since 2006, Soccer Coach Weekly is a leading source of inspiration and advice for all grassroots coaches. Join thousands of youth soccer coaches, just like you, saving time and effort in their goal of having the most effective, enjoyable and successful coaching journey for them and their players. – https://www.soccercoachweekly.net/ Thanks for listening and we hope you enjoyed the episode!

Send us Fan Mail Episode 125 Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 125 – How AI Can Be Used in Football Coaching, a conversation with Kevin Middleton In this episode, Ray and I are joined by the awesome Kevin Middleton to explore the growing impact of Artificial Intelligence in football coaching and beyond. Kevin shares his journey and provides a fascinating insight into his work with FootballGPT, highlighting how AI is beginning to s...

Send us Fan Mail (https://www.buzzsprout.com/247200/fan_mail/new) Episode 124 Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 124 – Deep Dive Episode 2: Playing a HIGH BLOCK In this episode, Paddy and I take a deep dive into the concept of playing a high block, using a fascinating tactical example from the Carabao Cup Final where Manchester City surprised Arsenal with a bold and aggressive approach. We explore how City implemented a high block structure, committing four attacking players high up the pitch to disrupt Arsenal’s build-up and create immediate pressure in advanced areas. Through analysis of match footage, we break down how this tactical adjustment impacted the game, the positioning and roles of the players involved, and why it proved so effective. We also discuss: • What a high block really looks like in practice • The benefits and risks of committing players high • Key coaching points for implementing a high block with your own team • How coaches can adapt this approach across different age groups and levels This episode is packed with practical insights for coaches looking to develop a more aggressive out-of-possession strategy and better understand modern tactical trends in the game. Please do leave a review, like and share the episode! The Soccer Coaching Podcast, Twitter - @SoccerCoachCast The Soccer Coaching Podcast, Email - [email protected] This episode was brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly. Established since 2006, Soccer Coach Weekly is a leading source of inspiration and advice for all grassroots coaches. Join thousands of youth soccer coaches, just like you, saving time and effort in their goal of having the most effective, enjoyable and successful coaching journey for them and their players. – https://www.soccercoachweekly.net/ This episode was brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly. Established since 2006, Soccer Coach Weekly is a leading source of inspiration and advice for all grassroots coaches. Join thousands of youth soccer coaches, just like you, saving time and effort in their goal of having the most effective, enjoyable and successful coaching journey for them and their players. – https://www.soccercoachweekly.net/ Thanks for listening and we hope you enjoyed the episode!

Episode 124 Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 124 – Deep Dive Episode 2: Playing a HIGH BLOCK In this episode, Paddy and I take a deep dive into the concept of playing a high block, using a fascinating tactical example from the Carabao Cup Final where Manchester City surprised Arsenal with a bold and aggressive approach. We explore how City implemented a high block structure, committing four attacking players high up the pitch to disrupt Arsenal’s build-up and create immediate pressure in advanced areas. Through analysis of match footage, we break down how this tactical adjustment impacted the game, the positioning and roles of the players involved, and why it proved so effective. We also discuss: What a high block really looks like in practice The benefits and risks of committing players high Key coaching points for implementing a high block with your own team How coaches can adapt this approach across different age groups and levels This episode is packed with practical insights for coaches looking to develop a more aggressive out-of-possession strategy and better understand modern tactical trends in the game. Please do leave a review, like and share the episode! The Soccer Coaching Podcast, Twitter - @SoccerCoachCast The Soccer Coaching Podcast, Email - [email protected] This episode was brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly. Established since 2006, Soccer Coach Weekly is a leading source of inspiration and advice for all grassroots coaches. Join thousands of youth soccer coaches, just like you, saving time and effort in their goal of having the most effective, enjoyable and successful coaching journey for them and their players. – https://www.soccercoachweekly.net/

Send us Fan Mail Episode 124 Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 124 – Deep Dive Episode 2: Playing a HIGH BLOCK In this episode, Paddy and I take a deep dive into the concept of playing a high block, using a fascinating tactical example from the Carabao Cup Final where Manchester City surprised Arsenal with a bold and aggressive approach. We explore how City implemented a high block structure, committing four attacking players high...

Send us Fan Mail (https://www.buzzsprout.com/247200/fan_mail/new) Episode 123 Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 123 – Being a Confidant to Elite Football Managers, a conversation with Ray Power In this episode, Ray and I explore a fascinating and often unseen aspect of his coaching business, his 1-2-1 work with elite, top-flight football managers. Ray shares what it means to act as a trusted confidant at the very highest level of the game, and why even the most experienced managers need someone they can speak to openly and honestly. We dive into the types of conversations they have, from handling pressure and decision-making, to managing relationships, maintaining clarity, and navigating the complexities of modern football. We also discuss why top-flight managers reach out in the first place, what they’re really looking for in that support, and how Ray creates a space that is both challenging and psychologically safe. This episode offers a unique insight into the human side of elite coaching and leadership. Please do leave a review, like and share the episode! The Soccer Coaching Podcast, Twitter - @SoccerCoachCast The Soccer Coaching Podcast, Email - [email protected] This episode was brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly. Established since 2006, Soccer Coach Weekly is a leading source of inspiration and advice for all grassroots coaches. Join thousands of youth soccer coaches, just like you, saving time and effort in their goal of having the most effective, enjoyable and successful coaching journey for them and their players. – https://www.soccercoachweekly.net/ Thanks for listening and we hope you enjoyed the episode! This episode was brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly. Established since 2006, Soccer Coach Weekly is a leading source of inspiration and advice for all grassroots coaches. Join thousands of youth soccer coaches, just like you, saving time and effort in their goal of having the most effective, enjoyable and successful coaching journey for them and their players. – https://www.soccercoachweekly.net/ Thanks for listening and we hope you enjoyed the episode!

Send us Fan Mail Episode 123 Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 123 – Being a Confidant to Elite Football Managers, a conversation with Ray Power In this episode, Ray and I explore a fascinating and often unseen aspect of his coaching business, his 1-2-1 work with elite, top-flight football managers. Ray shares what it means to act as a trusted confidant at the very highest level of the game, and why even the most experienced mana...

Send us Fan Mail (https://www.buzzsprout.com/247200/fan_mail/new) 🎙️ Episode 122: Coach’s Voice (Episode 1) Episode 122 marks the launch of our brand-new Coach’s Voice series — where the conversation starts with you. In this first edition, Scott and Ray respond to four thought-provoking questions sent in by coaches who listen to the podcast. These are real challenges from real environments, and the discussion is honest, practical, and grounded in lived coaching experience. This episode is less about theory — and more about the realities of coaching in today’s game. 🗣️ The four questions discussed: ⚽ 1. The Match Day Environment How do we create a match day atmosphere that supports development rather than fear? Scott and Ray explore the role of the coach on game day, emotional tone, parent behaviour, and how match day can either reinforce or undo the work done during the week. 💭 2. Building (and Protecting) Player Confidence What does confidence really mean in young players — and how easily can we damage it? The conversation explores the difference between praise and belief, the impact of language, and why confidence is often built through challenge, not comfort. 🎯 3. Over-Coaching Are we saying too much? Scott and Ray reflect on the temptation to control every moment, the dangers of constant instruction, and why silence can sometimes be the most powerful intervention a coach can make. 🧩 4. Tactics & Structure vs Freedom & Creativity How much structure is too much? Where is the balance between giving players a framework and allowing them to solve problems? The discussion dives into whether rigid tactical systems can unintentionally limit game intelligence — and how coaches can design structure that still allows expression. Throughout the episode, Scott and Ray share practical examples from their own environments, challenge common coaching habits, and encourage deeper reflection on how our behaviours shape player experience. This is an episode designed to make you think about how you show up — on the grass, on the sideline, and in your communication. 🎧 Coach’s Voice – Get Involved Coach’s Voice episodes are driven by you. We invite coaches to: • Send in a voice note (up to 2 minutes) sharing a question, dilemma, idea, or opinion • Be reflective, honest, even challenging • Help shape future episodes of the podcast Selected submissions will be played on the show and used as the starting point for discussion. A couple of simple guidelines: • Please don’t use player names • If discussing sensitive topics, avoid naming clubs • If you’d rather not record audio, you can email your question instead 📩 Send voice notes or emails to: [email protected] Thanks for listening — and if one of these questions resonated with you, share the episode with a fellow coach. Your voice matters. This episode was brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly. Established since 2006, Soccer Coach Weekly is a leading source of inspiration and advice for all grassroots coaches. Join thousands of youth soccer coaches, just like you, saving time and effort in their goal of having the most effective, enjoyable and successful coaching journey for them and their players. – https://www.soccercoachweekly.net/ Thanks for listening and we hope you enjoyed the episode!

🎙️ Episode 122: Coach’s Voice (Episode 1) Episode 122 marks the launch of our brand-new Coach’s Voice series — where the conversation starts with you. In this first edition, Scott and Ray respond to four thought-provoking questions sent in by coaches who listen to the podcast. These are real challenges from real environments, and the discussion is honest, practical, and grounded in lived coaching experience. This episode is less about theory — and more about the realities of coaching in today’s game. 🗣️ The four questions discussed: ⚽ 1. The Match Day Environment How do we create a match day atmosphere that supports development rather than fear? Scott and Ray explore the role of the coach on game day, emotional tone, parent behaviour, and how match day can either reinforce or undo the work done during the week. 💭 2. Building (and Protecting) Player Confidence What does confidence really mean in young players — and how easily can we damage it? The conversation explores the difference between praise and belief, the impact of language, and why confidence is often built through challenge, not comfort. 🎯 3. Over-Coaching Are we saying too much? Scott and Ray reflect on the temptation to control every moment, the dangers of constant instruction, and why silence can sometimes be the most powerful intervention a coach can make. 🧩 4. Tactics & Structure vs Freedom & Creativity How much structure is too much? Where is the balance between giving players a framework and allowing them to solve problems? The discussion dives into whether rigid tactical systems can unintentionally limit game intelligence — and how coaches can design structure that still allows expression. Throughout the episode, Scott and Ray share practical examples from their own environments, challenge common coaching habits, and encourage deeper reflection on how our behaviours shape player experience. This is an episode designed to make you think about how you show up — on the grass, on the sideline, and in your communication. 🎧 Coach’s Voice – Get Involved Coach’s Voice episodes are driven by you. We invite coaches to: Send in a voice note (up to 2 minutes) sharing a question, dilemma, idea, or opinion Be reflective, honest, even challenging Help shape future episodes of the podcast Selected submissions will be played on the show and used as the starting point for discussion. A couple of simple guidelines: Please don’t use player names If discussing sensitive topics, avoid naming clubs If you’d rather not record audio, you can email your question instead 📩 Send voice notes or emails to: [email protected] Thanks for listening — and if one of these questions resonated with you, share the episode with a fellow coach. Your voice matters. This episode was brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly. Established since 2006, Soccer Coach Weekly is a leading source of inspiration and advice for all grassroots coaches. Join thousands of youth soccer coaches, just like you, saving time and effort in their goal of having the most effective, enjoyable and successful coaching journey for them and their players. – https://www.soccercoachweekly.net/ Thanks for listening and we hope you enjoyed the episode!

Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Episode 122: Coach’s Voice (Episode 1) Episode 122 marks the launch of our brand-new Coach’s Voice series — where the conversation starts with you. In this first edition, Scott and Ray respond to four thought-provoking questions sent in by coaches who listen to the podcast. These are real challenges from real environments, and the discussion is honest, practical, and grounded in lived coaching experience. This episode is less about theory — and more about the realities of ...

Send us Fan Mail (https://www.buzzsprout.com/247200/fan_mail/new) 🎙️ Episode 121: Coaching Gen Z and Gen Alpha Players – A Focus on Mindset Episode 121 marks the first episode co-hosted by Scott Mowberry and Ray Power, launching a new collaborative chapter for The Soccer Coaching Podcast. For this episode, Scott and Ray are joined by Phil Phillipou to explore the challenges and opportunities of coaching Gen Z and Gen Alpha players, with a particular focus on mindset. As the game continues to evolve, so do the players we coach. This conversation dives into how today’s young players think, learn, communicate, and respond to pressure — and what that means for coaches working in modern football environments. 🧠 Key themes discussed include: • Understanding the mindset traits of Gen Z and Gen Alpha players • How social media, culture, and modern life influence young footballers • Why traditional coaching approaches don’t always land with today’s players • Creating environments that support confidence, resilience, and self-belief • Practical strategies coaches can use to connect, challenge, and support players • The balance between standards, empathy, and accountability Phil brings a psychology-informed perspective grounded in real-world coaching and athlete development, offering practical insight that coaches can apply immediately — whether they’re working in grassroots football, academies, or performance environments. 📘 About the guest Phil is the author of Inspiring Young Minds: The Psychology Mastery for Young Footballers, a book designed to help young players develop strong psychological foundations alongside their football ability. 🔗 Book link: https://www.amazon.com/Inspiring-Young-Minds-Mastery-Footballers/dp/B0FN79FKV9 📲 Connect with Phil: • Instagram: @mindsightsport • LinkedIn: Phil Phillipou Phils Webinar & Discount Code- https://www.tickettailor.com/events/raypowercoacheducation/2029162 The discount is PHIL10 🎧 Coach’s Voice – get involved As part of this new phase of the podcast, we’re introducing Coach’s Voice episodes — and we want to hear from you. Coaches are invited to: • Send in a voice note (up to 2 minutes) sharing a question, idea, experience, or viewpoint • Be as individual, reflective, or even controversial as you like Selected submissions will be played on the podcast and used as the starting point for discussion with Scott and Ray. A couple of simple guidelines: • Please don’t use player names • If your topic is controversial, avoid naming clubs • If you prefer not to record audio, you can email your thoughts instead 📩 Send voice notes or emails to: [email protected] This episode was brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly. Established since 2006, Soccer Coach Weekly is a leading source of inspiration and advice for all grassroots coaches. Join thousands of youth soccer coaches, just like you, saving time and effort in their goal of having the most effective, enjoyable and successful coaching journey for them and their players. – https://www.soccercoachweekly.net/ Thanks for listening and we hope you enjoyed the episode!

Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Episode 121: Coaching Gen Z and Gen Alpha Players – A Focus on Mindset Episode 121 marks the first episode co-hosted by Scott Mowberry and Ray Power, launching a new collaborative chapter for The Soccer Coaching Podcast. For this episode, Scott and Ray are joined by Phil Phillipou to explore the challenges and opportunities of coaching Gen Z and Gen Alpha players, with a particular focus on mindset. As the game continues to evolve, so do the players we coach. This conversa...

Send us Fan Mail (https://www.buzzsprout.com/247200/fan_mail/new) 🎙️ Episode 120: An Exciting Evolution of The Soccer Coaching Podcast In this short update episode, I share some exciting news about the next evolution of The Soccer Coaching Podcast. Going forward, I’ll be collaborating with Ray Power to bring even more engaging, thought-provoking, and coach-focused content to the podcast. Together, we’re planning to release one or two episodes per month, alongside the existing format, designed to explore the game from multiple perspectives and spark meaningful discussion. 🔍 What’s coming next? Our collaborative episodes will include a mix of: • Guest interviews with coaches and practitioners • Round-table conversations exploring key themes and ideas • Coach’s Voice episodes — where you, the coaching community, take centre stage 🎧 Coach’s Voice: we want to hear from you For our Coach’s Voice episodes, we’re inviting coaches to get involved directly. You can: • Record a voice note (up to 2 minutes) sharing a question, idea, experience, or opinion • Be as unique, reflective, or even controversial as you like We’ll play selected voice notes on the podcast and use them as a starting point for discussion. A couple of important guidelines: • Please don’t use player names • If your topic is controversial, avoid naming clubs • If you’d rather not record audio, you can email your thoughts instead 📩 Send voice notes or emails to: [email protected] This evolution is all about making the podcast more interactive, more reflective of the coaching community, and a place where real coaching conversations can happen. Thanks, as always, for listening and Ray and I are really looking forward to sharing what comes next. This episode was brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly. Established since 2006, Soccer Coach Weekly is a leading source of inspiration and advice for all grassroots coaches. Join thousands of youth soccer coaches, just like you, saving time and effort in their goal of having the most effective, enjoyable and successful coaching journey for them and their players. – https://www.soccercoachweekly.net/ Thanks for listening and we hope you enjoyed the episode!

Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Episode 120: An Exciting Evolution of The Soccer Coaching Podcast In this short update episode, I share some exciting news about the next evolution of The Soccer Coaching Podcast. Going forward, I’ll be collaborating with Ray Power to bring even more engaging, thought-provoking, and coach-focused content to the podcast. Together, we’re planning to release one or two episodes per month, alongside the existing format, designed to explore the game from multiple perspectives a...

Send us Fan Mail (https://www.buzzsprout.com/247200/fan_mail/new) 🎙️ Episode 118 — Deep Dive #1: Building Out from the Defensive Third (with Paddy King) Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) In the first episode of our brand-new Deep Dive series, we’re joined by Paddy King to explore one of the game’s most important tactical elements — building out from the defensive third. Paddy breaks down what effective build-out play looks like and shares insight into the key principles behind it — from creating angles and supporting runs to recognising when and how to progress the ball through the thirds. Using a short clip from a recent Barcelona match, Paddy highlights how top teams manage this phase of play, before explaining how grassroots and academy coaches can translate those same concepts into practical, engaging training sessions. In this episode: • How Barcelona’s structure and spacing create options during build-out • The decision-making process for centre-backs, midfielders, and the goalkeeper • Coaching cues and constraints-led practices to develop confident build-out play • Ideas for small-sided games that replicate real match scenarios 📺 Watch this Deep Dive episode on YouTube: 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@thesoccercoachingpodcast9489 💬 Got feedback or a topic you’d like us to explore? We’d love to hear from you — email us at [email protected] ⚽ Subscribe on your favourite podcast app (and on YouTube) so you never miss a new Deep Dive episode! This episode was brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly. Established since 2006, Soccer Coach Weekly is a leading source of inspiration and advice for all grassroots coaches. Join thousands of youth soccer coaches, just like you, saving time and effort in their goal of having the most effective, enjoyable and successful coaching journey for them and their players. – https://www.soccercoachweekly.net/ Thanks for listening and we hope you enjoyed the episode!

Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Episode 118 — Deep Dive #1: Building Out from the Defensive Third (with Paddy King) Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) In the first episode of our brand-new Deep Dive series, we’re joined by Paddy King to explore one of the game’s most important tactical elements — building out from the defensive third. Paddy breaks down what effective build-out play looks like and shares insight into the key principles behind it — from...

Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Episode 118 — Introducing Our New Deep Dive Series In this short promo, we unveil our brand-new Deep Dive series: focused, practical episodes that take one coaching theme at a time and go beneath the surface—ideas you can lift straight onto the training pitch. What to expect Clear, actionable takeaways for grassroots to academy coachesReal session ideas, common pitfalls, and quick winsShort, focused format you can revisit anytime 📺 Also on YouTube: Watch ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 117, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 117 – The Importance of Philosophy and Culture, a conversation with Jason Carney In this episode we speak again with the superb Jason Carney about the importance of Philosophy and Culture. Jason is the Director of Coaching at FC Portland, and is an A licensed coach and author. Jason talks about his experiences in developing a philosophy and supporting cul...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 116, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 116 – Positional Play, a conversation with Paddy King In this episode we speak again with the awesome Paddy King. Paddy has a passion for positional play and in this episodes, we speak about what he’s been up to since we last spoke on episode 39. Paddy tells about his new online coaching course and how it can help all coaches better understand the concept...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 115, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 115 – The Importance of Coaching Principles, a conversation with Osku Partonen UEFA Pro Licensed Coach In this episode we speak again with the awesome Osku Partonen about the importance of coaching principles, why they are important and how to embed them. Osku shares with us his nine key coaching principles that underpin all other aspects of his coa...

Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Episode 114 – What Makes Great Coach Development? (with Ray Power) Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) What really makes coach development effective? In this episode, Scott is joined by coach educator, author, and Head of Football at Bangladesh’s National Academy, Ray Power, for a deep dive into the principles that truly help coaches grow. Forget ticking boxes and CPD hours — this is about developing thinking coaches wh...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 113, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 113 - Formations and Playing Positions, a conversation with Ray Power Football formations mystify many coaches – are they essential blueprints or merely starting points for something more fluid? Ray Power, Head of Football at Bangladesh's National Academy (BKSP), masterfully deconstructs this question through the lens of both elite and grassroots football...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 112, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 112 - A Look At Grassroots Football, with Jason Carney, Director of Coaching at FC Portland and Author In this episode we speak again with the wonderful Jason Carney, who is the Director of Coaching at FC Portland. We discuss his coaching background and updates since we previously spoke back in 2022. We discuss grassroots football, the obstacles to player...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 111, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 111 - A Look At Scouting In Grassroots Youth Football, a conversation with Chris Robinson, Director at The Scouting Game and Head of Academy Recruitment at Southampton FC In this episode we speak with the awesome Chris Robinson about the world of scouting. We look behind the curtain of grassroots youth football scouting and Chris helps us demystify the sc...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 110, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 110 – Giving The Game Back To The Kids, a conversation with Chris Fraser In this episode we speak to Chris Fraser about grassroots football and discuss if adults are taking the game away from the kids We talk about the experiences Chris has seen this seen and how youth grassroots football has changes over the past few years. Chris sugges...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 109, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 109 – What’s too far? A conversation about behaviour in youth grassroots football In this episode we speak with James Brooks and discuss behaviour in grassroots football. We look at coach matchday behaviour and what’s changes over the past 5-10 years and discuss some of the reasons. We also look at spectators and players and the role the FA and lea...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 108, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 108 – How To Deliver An Effective Training Session, a conversation with Mark Rivers, Arsenal Pre-Academy Manager and FA Tutor In this episode we speak with the awesome Mark Rivers who is the current Pre-Academy Manager at Arsenal and an FA Tutor. Mark talks us through his own coaching journey and how that influences his delivery as well as what he ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 107, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 107 – Maximising Coach Delivery, a conversation with Temisan Williams former academy UEFA A coach and founder of Excellence Academy In this episode we speak with the awesome Temisan Williams (Temi) about his top tips for coaches to maximise their coaching delivery. Temi talks us through his own coaching journey and experiences. We talk about how hi...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 106, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 106 - Designing effective training practices and adapting for winter training, a conversation with Macauley Musgrave coach and owner of The Coaches Zone In this episode we speak with the awesome Macauley Musgrave (Macca) about how he goes about designing effective training practices. We also discuss what coaches could consider as many of us move in...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 105, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 105 - A Look At How Coaching Player Behaviours Can Support Player Development, A conversation with Dan Abrahams, sports psychologist, podcast host and author In this episode we speak with the awesome Dan Abrahams about how coaches can focus on player behaviours to help the players develop Dan talks us through his own coaching journey and his passion...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 104, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) How Coaching Abroad Has Helped Me Develop, a conversation with Billy Ready, UEFA B coach at PASS Abu Dhabi In this episode we speak with Billy Ready about how coaching abroad has helped him develop as a coach. Billy talks us through how his approach to coaching has evolved since we last spoke and the adaptations he has made so as to effectively coach abroa...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 103, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 103 - Using Positional Play To Better Understand The Game, a conversation with David Garcia, UEFA Coach, Coach Developer and founder of `It's Just A Sport` In this episode we talk to the awesome David Garcia about how we can use the concept of `positional play` to better understand the game. David talks us through his own coaching journey and how the Spani...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 102, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) A look at the importance of Mental Training in athlete development, a conversation with Lindsey Willson founder of Positive Performance Training and the Mindset Coach Academy In this episode we speak again with Lindsey about the importance of and ways to support mental training of young athletes. Lindsey talks us through her own journey as an elite basketball pla...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 101, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 101 – What we might be able to learn as youth football coaches by looking at the adult game, a conversation with Jamie Tompkins, Senior Manager at Brentford FC CST and Ascot United 1st Team Manager In this episode we speak again with Jamie Tompkins, Senior Manager at Brentford FC CST and Ascot United 1st Team Manager. Jamie helps us look at what we might be able...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 100, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 100 - Facilitating Self Managing Teams, a conversation with Mark Bennett MBE and founder of PDS Coaching In this episode we talk to the awesome Mark Bennett (MBE), founder of PDS Coaching. Mark talks about his journey and what inspired him to spend the past 30 years crafting his understanding and skills to help others get the best of themselves. We ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 99, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 99 – Reflecting Back on an U14's Season, a conversation with James Brooks, FA Level 2 grassroots and Development Centre Coach In this episode we talk to James Brooks (FA Level 2 grassroots and Development Centre Coach) about his grassroots teams U14’s Season. James gives us a bit of background to the team and what was in place up to the send of U13’s. We...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 98, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 98 – 10 Things To Consider When Coaching Adolescent Football Players In this episode Scott reflects back on his experience of coaching the U13 and U14 boys’ team for the past two seasons. Scott talks about the differences between adolescence and puberty and how on reflection he wasn’t as informed as he could and should have been to fully understand and sup...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 97, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 97 – Key Coaching Topics for Youth Football Coaches and CPD, a conversation with Ray Power, Academy Manager, Coach Developer and Author In this episode we speak to Ray Power, academy manager, coach and author of Making the Ball Roll, Coaching Youth Football and the Deliberate Soccer Practices series of books. Ray tells us what he believes are some of the k...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 96, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 96 - The 3 A's to Maximising Player Game Impact In this episode Scott responds to several listener questions asking for more information about the 3 A’s that he uses to underpin his coaching syllabus and training sessions. Scott talks us through the 3 A’s (Attitude, Ability and Application), what is included in each one and how they are used in practice. H...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 95, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Quality Coaching and Player Engagement, a conversation with Faith Jasper, Coach and Recreational Therapist In this episode we discuss what is quality coaching? And the importance of player engagement, especially with our youngest players, with Faith Jasper, Coach and Recreational Therapist Faith tells us about her playing and coaching journey and how she s...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 94, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 94 - Top Trump Coaching Tips, a Christmas Special! In this episode Mark and I play Top Trumps with our coaching tips to see who has the best tips for coaches. We share a coaching tip each, that we believe is important in coaching and and try and agree which one is the `best` ;) The Soccer Coaching Podcast, Twitter - @SoccerCoachCast The Soccer Coaching ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 93, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 93 – Developing Your Coaching Blueprint, a conversation with Jason Carney, UEFA coach and author In this episode we talk to Jason about the importance or having a coach’s blueprint and how you can put one together. Jason talks us through his own playing and coaching journey and explains how his own experiences influence his approach to coaching now. ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 92, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 92 – My Coaching Journey, so far!...a conversation with Ali Speechly UEFA B football coach In this episode we talk to Ali about her football coaching journey including going from her Level 1 to UEFA B and coaching grassroots and academy players. Ali shares her approach to coaching, what her successes have been so far and what have been some of the challeng...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 91, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 91 – Developing a Team Culture, a conversation with JP Nerbun, coach, author and founder of TOC Culture Consulting In this episode we talk to JP Nerbun about developing a team culture. We discuss JP`s coaching background and experiences and then look at some of the key areas that impact on culture developing. These included What is Transformational L...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 90, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 90 – What is Great Coaching? a conversation with Shane Smith In this episode we talk to Shane Smith about what is great coaching and how to support player development. Shane has a BSc in Sports Science, an M.A. in Primary Education, is a primary school teacher and a coach. We discuss what great coaching may look like by reviewing the coach, the environment...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 89, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 89 - Connected Coaching, The Craft of Player Development, a conversation with Ben Bartlett In this episode we talk with Ben Bartlett about his second book Connected Coaching, The Craft of Player Development. Ben updates us on what’s changed since we last spoke (episode #75) and we briefly revisit his first book before taking a closer look at the new book. ...

Send us Fan Mail Episode 88, Brought to you in association with our friends at Soccer Coach Weekly (@SoccerCoachWeek) Episode 88 - A look at academy coaching, a conversation with Ross O'Kane, UEFA A and Advanced Youth Award Coach In this episode we talk with Ross O’Kane about his experience of coaching in the academy system for the past twelve years. Ross talks to us about his time as foundation phase lead coach at Luton FC and his approach to coaching. We discuss how academies a...