Off the Beaten Pitch

Every soccer journey starts somewhere. In this episode, Alex and Alan share how to build fun, engaging U5 practice sessions that maximize ball touches, use games to teach skills, and create a positive first soccer experience. Learn why the goal at this age isn't winning—it's helping kids fall in love with the game.

After a longer break than planned, Coach Alex and Alan are back behind the microphones. In this episode of Off the Beaten Pitch, they take a look back at the season that was, reflecting on the highs, the challenges, the lessons learned, and the moments that reminded them why they love coaching grassroots soccer. The guys also address the gap between episodes, sharing a little about life, coaching...

In this episode of Off the Beaten Pitch, Coach Alex and Alan sit down with Tom Ovenden and Jonathan Velotta from Steel City FC for a deep dive into what makes their program tick. We unpack the philosophy behind their player development model and explore some of the key metrics they track — including front half regains and balls under control in the box — and why those numbers matter beyond just da...

What actually makes a good soccer training session? In this episode of Off the Beaten Pitch, we break down session design. From setting a clear objective to choosing activities that create real learning moments, we talk through how coaches can design sessions that are engaging, purposeful, and age-appropriate. We discuss common mistakes coaches make when planning sessions, why “more drills” doesn’...

Building out of the back is one of the most debated topics in youth soccer. In this episode, Coach Alex and Coach Alan break down the pros, the challenges, and our thoughts where we stand. We discuss how building out develops technical skills, decision-making, confidence, and long-term player growth — while also addressing common frustrations like mistakes near goal. A must-listen for coaches and...

In this episode, Alan and Alex break down our team’s welcome letter and why clear, proactive communication with parents is essential for a successful season. We share what information truly matters, how to set expectations early, and simple strategies coaches can use to build trust, avoid misunderstandings, and create a supportive environment for their players and families.

In this episode of Off the Beaten Pitch, we take on the everyday challenge of coaching mixed-ability teams. From managing wide skill gaps to keeping every player engaged, we break down what makes these teams tough — and why they’re also hugely rewarding. We share simple, practical strategies you can use right away: flexible training design, tiered activities, and creating a team culture where ever...

In this episode of Off the Beaten Pitch, Alex and Alan rewind to where it all began — how they got into coaching in the first place, what sparked their passion for growing players, and the lessons they learned the hard way along the way. They share what they wish they knew on day one. And they don’t stop there — the guys dive into the changes they hope to see in the youth soccer landscape…  It’s h...

On this episode of Off the Beaten Pitch, Alex and Alan dive into one of the toughest balancing acts in youth soccer: chasing wins today versus building players for tomorrow. Should coaches push for trophies at U10, or focus on long-term growth even if it means losing games?

Too many youth soccer practices still get bogged down by the “three Ls”: lines, lectures, and laps. In this episode, we break down why these outdated methods hurt player development and how coaches can create more engaging, game-like environments instead. From practical training alternatives to mindset shifts for coaches, we’ll share simple ways to keep players moving, thinking, and enjoying the g...

Episode 3 – The Rotation game. In this episode of Off the Beaten Pitch, Coach Alex and Coach Alan explore why rotating players through different positions is one of the most powerful tools in youth development. From building well-rounded skills to fostering creativity and resilience, we break down how thoughtful rotation can benefit players, teams, and coaches alike. We also tackle common concerns...

In this episode of Off the Beaten Pitch, Alan and Alex dive into heart of the game: pick-up soccer. From empty lots and gravel roads to church fields and schoolyards, we explore how unstructured, player-led games shape creativity, resilience, and a love for the game in ways traditional training often can’t. We share personal stories, insights from coaching in rural communities, and discuss why let...

Welcome to the premiere episode of Off the Beaten Pitch, the podcast that dives into the heart of grassroots soccer in rural America. In this debut episode, hosts Coach Alex and Coach Alan tackle one of the biggest development killers in youth soccer: joystick coaching—when coaches (or even parents) try to control every move a young player makes from the sidelines. We break down what joystick coac...