Youth Soccer Podcast

Want to learn how to help your kid become a top 1% player by age 10? This episode delves into the critical issue of early engagement in youth soccer development, emphasizing the importance of establishing a solid foundation early on and the advantages of teaching players to use both feet effectively. The discussion highlights how these elements contribute to the success of players and the overall...

In this episode, Paul discusses the critical role of communication in youth soccer, emphasizing the need for players to improve their verbal and non-verbal communication skills both on and off the field. He provides actionable advice for players to build confidence through simple practices, such as using teammates' names, making eye contact, and engaging in conversations. The episode also highligh...

In this episode, Paul addresses common questions from youth players and parents regarding performance, team dynamics, and personal enjoyment in sports. He emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, improvement, and resilience in overcoming challenges faced by young athletes. The conversation covers how to bounce back from poor performances, the decision-making process around team tryouts, and t...

In this episode of the Youth Soccer Podcast, Paul and Phil discuss the critical role of coach energy in youth soccer. They explore how a coach's enthusiasm and accountability can significantly impact player development and team dynamics and the conversation delves into the importance of building relationships, fostering unity among players, and the tactical awareness required for effective coachin...

This episode features the best parent questions from our podcasts in 2025. CHAPTERS 0:00 What can my kid do to get more minutes? 2:50 Should my kid be playing in a different position? 5:42 Skipping practice or games due to pain 10:58 Advice for high school season 15:46 Advice for tryouts 22:55 Thoughts on private training 25:03 Too much schoolwork impacting soccer 27:17 Encouraging your son or dau...

In this special holiday episode of the Youth Soccer Podcast, the hosts engage in a lively Q&A session, discussing their favorite soccer teams, standout memories as fans, players, and coaches, and the lessons learned from red cards. They also share their personal experiences and insights related to football, their idols, memorable matches, and their experiences living in America. Chapters 00:00...

In this episode of the Youth Soccer Podcast, the hosts delve into the escalating costs associated with soccer, focusing on World Cup ticket prices and the financial landscape of youth soccer in America. Chapters 00:00 The Rising Costs of World Cup Tickets 09:58 Understanding Youth Soccer Costs 18:05 The Value of Service in Youth Soccer 21:20 Growth vs. Local Competition 23:33 The Influence of Mone...

In this episode of the Youth Soccer Podcast, the hosts delve into the emotional aspects of football, discussing how emotions can impact players, coaches, and parents alike, touching on the relevance of the Mo Salah situation at Liverpool. They explore the importance of harnessing emotions positively, the challenges of emotional control, and the role of parents on the sidelines. The conversation al...

In this episode of the Youth Soccer Podcast, the hosts delve into the theme of rejection, exploring personal experiences and the broader implications for young players. They discuss how rejection can serve as a powerful motivator, the importance of reframing rejection as redirection, and the role of parents and coaches in supporting young athletes. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Rejection in Soccer...

In this episode of the Youth Soccer Podcast, the hosts discuss the current state of referees and parent/coach sideline behavior in the youth game. Much of the conversation centers around the importance of communication between referees, coaches, players, and parents to improve the overall experience for everyone involved. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Youth Soccer Podcast 00:23 Current State of R...

In this episode of the Youth Soccer Podcast, the hosts discuss player positions, emphasizing the skills and attributes necessary for each position. The conversation also touches on the challenges of balancing academics with soccer development, emphasizing the need for time management and commitment in youth players. Chapters 00:00 International Break Insights 06:11 The Evolution of Goalkeeping 12:...

In this episode of the Youth Soccer Podcast, the hosts discuss the impact of different playing styles on youth soccer development, focusing on the contrast between tiki-taka and long ball strategies. They emphasize the importance of fundamentals, adaptability in coaching, and the balance between technical skills and physicality. Chapters 00:00 Playing Styles in Youth Soccer 02:55 The Importance of...

In this episode of the Youth Soccer Podcast, the hosts discuss various aspects of player development, emphasizing the importance of psychological resilience, fitness, and the role of team training. They explore the Four Corners Model of development, which includes technical, tactical, physical, and psychological elements. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Player Development 02:57 The Importance of Psyc...

In this episode, Ricky, Paul, and Phil dive into the divisive topic of winning in youth soccer.  They discuss the balance between prioritizing winning and focusing on player development, the role of coaches and parents, and the impact of club hopping on player growth.  The conversation also touches on the business side of club soccer and the importance of teaching young players about the realities...

In this episode of the Youth Soccer Podcast, Paul Spacey, Ricky Collett, and Phil Walsh delve into the critical topic of player mentality in youth soccer. They explore the importance of resilience, the impact of environment on player development, and the cultural differences in soccer mentality. The conversation highlights the transition from recreational to club soccer, the need for a unified app...