In this episode, hosts Ben and Mike are joined in the studio by Football DNA's head of coaching, Paul Barry, to break down the FA’s brand-new 3v3 format for under-7s—and what it really means for coaches, players and parents.

Drawing on over 30 years of coaching experience, Paul explains why 3v3 is “football in its purest form,” designed to maximise touches, decision-making, and enjoyment. The conversation explores how removing goalkeepers, referees and rigid structure creates a more creative, player-led environment—and why that’s crucial for long-term development.

The episode goes beyond theory, offering practical coaching advice on what to prioritise in training, how to build decision-making through small-sided games, and why concepts like ball mastery, attacking intent, and transitions should take centre stage. Paul also shares powerful insights on coaching behaviours—from reducing sideline noise to using language that actually resonates with young players.

Alongside the benefits, the discussion tackles real-world challenges, including over-coaching, parental pressure, “ball hogging,” and how to handle difficult grassroots scenarios. Whether you’re unsure about the format or excited to embrace it, this is your complete guide to coaching 3v3 the right way.

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/

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This 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=IOKF15

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/

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In 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: iokfveocam3

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Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com

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In 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.html

Everything you need to know about FutureFit: https://futurefit.englandfootball.com/futurefit/index.html

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/

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Ben 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: iokfveocam3

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Email: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com

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Ben 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: iokfveocam3

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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball

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In 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: iokfveocam3

Save 50% on the Veo Go 👉 Use Code: iokfveogo

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iokfootball

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As 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: iokfveocam3

Save 50% on the Veo Go 👉 Use Code: iokfveogo

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: itsonlykidsfootballpodcast@gmail.com

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