Player Development Project Podcast - Learning Tools for Soccer Coaching

On The Grass: Graham Mills on shifting the lens from team to individual development

In this On The Grass episode we are joined by Graham Mills. We discuss putting individual development at the centre of our approach.Graham, UEFA A and Advanced Youth Award holder, is currently a Lecturer in Football Coaching at Solent University. He holds a BA Honours degree in Coach Education and Sports Development from The University of Bath. In this chat we talk through the process of setting targets, focusing on individuals through training and game day and empowering young players on their journey. Let's get started! 

Creativity and Control: A Conversation with Mark Upton, James Vaughan and Dave Wright

Creativity values, culture, systems and control. What does it all mean and how does it impact coaching and sporting environments? In this Masterclass Discussion, PDP Editor, Dave Wright hosts Co-Founder of my fastest mile, Mark Upton alongside PDP Lead Researcher and AIK Academy Coach, James Vaughan.In this wide-ranging conversation, the guys discuss some of James’ Phd research and his recently published paper on creativity, as well as diving down a number of rabbit holes such as:Challenging the role of traditional sports scienceThe problem with creativityData built programsThe concept of controlSystemic issues in youth developmentOrganisational cultureThis philosophical discussion will hopefully leave you considering your approach and generate a few different perspectives to look at your own coaching. When tuning in to this one, consider the environments we create, how we shape them and how they shape us.Exclusive offer for Podcast listeners: 30 Days Free Active Membership.

On The Grass: Maxi Opondo-Mbai on the Learning Curve

In this episode of On The Grass I am joined by Maxwell Opondo Mbai.Maxi has vast experience in the game working in a number of different environments – he has worked as a coach in academy football, non-league and the women’s game, as well as a scout for a league one football team.  In this meandering chat Maxi shares some of his reflections – successes and failures during this journey. We discuss lots of topics in this one, we touch on session design, developing individuals and player motivation.  Maxi is a coach I have worked closely with and he has a great eye for detail, I really enjoyed this discussion he has a fantastic voice for podcast!Exclusive offer for Podcast listeners: 30 Days Free Active Membership.

10,000 Experiences: Developing Players Age 7-10 with Mark Lyons

In this Masterclass Discussion, PDP Editor, Dave Wright is joined by Mark Lyons - Pre Academy Co-ordinator and Lead Coach at Leicester City Football Club. In this wide ranging conversation, Mark and Dave dive into the topic of coaching foundation phase aged players. If you work with U7-11 players, this is essential viewing. Mark shares his philosophy, insights into the clubs approach when working with young children, the importance of fun, variety of experiences, session design and more. Mark is a vastly experienced coach, holds the UEFA A license and FA Advanced Youth Award and this discussion contains a huge amount of practical advice for coaches working with young players.Click here to find out more about Player Development Project Membership.

On the Grass: The Learning Journey with James Coutts

In this episode I am joined by the newest member of the PDP team, James Coutts.  In this podcast we explore some of James’ playing and coaching journey.  I was keen to ask who has influenced his coaching style and what are the key bits he has learnt along the way! James has recently joined the PDP as a coaching advisor, so it was great to learn more and share with the PDP community.Exclusive offer for Podcast listeners: 30 Days Free Active Membership.Hope you enjoy the show!