The Grassroots Football Coach

Mark 'Rivo' Rivers & Richard Brant are back with Series 7 of the award-winning podcast and this week they are joined by Berks & Bucks FA's Football Development Officer, Alex Pratt.  On the pod this week, Alex talks about his journey which started playing at U9 and becoming secretary of his local grassroots Club at the age of just 17. Alex talks in detail about his passion for goalkeeping and him & Rivo share a funny story from a GK course they were on together a few years ago.Alex talks about the pressures he and other young people face when leaving school and the added pressure to make life-changing decisions about their careers at such an early age. Alex opens up on his experience at university in particular during the Covid pandemic and how upon leaving university, he was able to be in a job which he is passionate about and making a difference. Alex also talks about the Women's World Cup and the legacy the competition will have for aspiring female players both locally and across the globe.   Also find out if Alex can end Rivo's winning streak in the end of the pod quiz. Music and post-production by Darren Fellerdale.

Mark 'Rivo' Rivers & Richard Brant are back with Series 7 of the award-winning podcast and this weeks guest is FA Coach Developer & Mentor, Chris Berry.  This week, Football Development Officer Alex Pratt is guest co-host alongside Rich as Rivo is away on holiday in Portugal. On the pod, Chris shares his journey from his experience starting playing a year up at 11 years old up to setting up a new Club with his friends named Harchester Hawks (can you guess why it was called Harchester......). Chris talks about being a 4th generation Reading FC fan and how his career coaching a variety of sports led him to his current role at the Community Trust at Reading FC. Chris talks about the different roles he's has had at the Trust plus he shares his thoughts on the benefits of smaller formats of the game in particular at the younger age group in the Foundation phase. Chris also talks about his role as Developer and Mentor at The FA plus his role in supporting the growth of the BBFA Female Coaches Community over the past 18 months.  Also find out if Chris can beat guest co-host Alex in the end of the pod quiz.  Music and post-production by Darren Fellerdale.

Mark 'Rivo' Rivers & Richard Brant are back with Series 7 of the award-winning podcast and this weeks guest is Premier League Referee Graham Scott. This week, Referee Development Officer Sam Myatt leads a Referee Takeover of the podcast in Rivo's absence alongside Rich. On the pod, Graham shares his journey from his playing days as Abingdon Town and his memories of playing in the FA Youth Cup. Graham talks about how an injury forced Graham to stop playing and why he took up refereeing at the age of 27. Graham talks about his love for refereeing and how he made the journey through the pathway and become a Premier League Referee.  Graham also talks about VAR, the best goal he has witnessed and gives us an insight into what a normal week as a Premier League Referee looks like. Also find out if Graham can overcome Sam in the end of the pod quiz plus hear what type of biscuit is Graham's favourite!  Music and post-production by Darren Fellerdale.

Mark 'Rivo' Rivers & Richard Brant are back with Series 7 of the award-winning podcast and this week they are joined by grassroots coach, Stephen Jeffery. In the episode, Stephen shares his journey from his first memories of playing football and a memory that has stayed with him to his current role as a grassroots coach. Stephen talks about how to maximise his time with his weekly hourly training sessions with his time and his preferred coaching style.  Stephen gives a great insight into his football experiences in football outside of the UK in Seychelles and Australia and how football has enabled lifelong friendships. Stephen also talks about his passion to develop coaches and his aspirations on the next part of his coaching career.  Also find out if Stephen can put stop Rivo's winning streak in the end of the pod quiz. Music and post-production by Darren Fellerdale.

Mark 'Rivo' Rivers & Richard Brant are back with Series 7 of the award-winning podcast and this week they are joined by FA Regional Coach Development Officer, Vicky Fisher. In the episode, Vicky shares her fantastic journey from her first memories of football playing at primary school to her current role at The FA. Vicky talks about her career path and how a tragic incident transformed her outlook on life and ensured Vicky maximised every opportunity that has been available. Vicky gives a great insight in her coaching role in Dubai before returning back to Cornwall. Vicky also talks about barriers she and other females have experienced in the game and how the pathway and support has improved massively over the last decade. Vicky also talks about her passion for football, her grassroots team plus we look forward to the the World Cup in Australia & New Zealand. Also find out if Vicky can put an end to Rivo's winning streak in the end of the pod quiz. Music and post-production by Darren Fellerdale.

Mark 'Rivo' Rivers & Richard Brant are back with Series 7 of the award-winning podcast and to help them kick off the new season, the duo are joined by Berks & Bucks FA’s Chief Executive Officer, Liz Verrall. In the episode, Liz shares her journey about her first football experience at just 5 years old and how the sport has played a major part in her life. Liz shares her career path in sport and the various roles she has held in her career including recently marking her 10-year anniversary as CEO.Liz also talks about her passion for football and how sport can drive change, connect people and change lives. There’s also a chat about England’s chances at the World Cup in Australia & New Zealand plus find out if Rivo can start this series well in the end of the pod quiz.  Music and post-production by Darren Fellerdale.

To support Mental Health Awareness Week, this special episode of The Grassroots Football Coach features our hosts Mark 'Rivo' Rivers & Richard Brant discussing their own mental health experiences.The theme of the week this year is anxiety. Anxiety is a normal emotion in us all, but sometimes it can get out of control and become a mental health problem. Together on this special episode of the pod, Rivo & Rich talk openly about their own experiences and discuss the impact anxiety can have on individuals.Rivo & Rich are also joined by BBFA's Youth Network Health & Wellbeing Lead, George Andrews who provides a youth perspective on anxiety and additional pressures which can impact young people's lives. Need support? The Samaritans are there to listen 24 hours, 365 days a year. Call free on 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org

To mark Black History Month 2022, this special episode of The Grassroots Football Coach is dedicated to celebrating Black History Month. Black History Month is a national celebration which aims to promote and celebrate achievements by Black people and their contributions to the British society. First celebrated in this 1987, this year marks the 35th anniversary with this years theme being; "Time for Change: Action Not Words". On the pod, Rivo & Rich talk about Black History Month with Rivo sharing his journey and passion for change. We will also hear from previous guests including Mikele Leigertwood, Paul Davis, Michael Gilkes & Emmerson Boyce celebrating their successes including league title wins and FA Cup victories.

To mark World Mental Health Day 2022, this special episode of The Grassroots Football Coach listens back at clips from our previous Mental Health episodes. On the pod, we hear from Jason McMahon, Manisha Tailor MBE, Marvin Sordell, Cara Ostryn, Martin Sinclair & Martin McCloskey who all shared their own experiences of mental health. You will also hear about Berks & Bucks FA's "Pedal to the Metal" challenge to raise awareness of mental health and funds for our new charity partner, Sport in Mind. The team at BBFA are cycling 185 miles in 12 hours. The number is significant because last year, the office of national statistics registered 185 suicide deaths across local authorities in our region. Sport in Mind is the UK's leading mental health sports charity. Their mission is to improve the lives of people experiencing mental health problems through sport & physical activity.  To date, they have supported the recovery of over 15,000 people through their physical activity programmes, and the money you raise will help support them to reach more people and provide more programmes for adults and children across our region and beyond.To show your support and donate to Sport in Mind, please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/bbfa-simTo find out more about Sport in Mind, please follow them on social media via @sportinmind or visit their website www.sportinmind.org for more information and support.Caution Advised - This episode contains sensitive material, with references to bereavement, which some listeners may find difficult to listen to.Need support? The Samaritans are there to listen 24 hours, 365 days a year. Call free on 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.orgMusic and post-production by Darren Fellerdale.

In the final episode of Series 6, Rivo & Rich week caught up with recently qualified UEFA B coach, Sukh Hunjan. On the pod, Sukh takes us on a journey from his playing days to the present day and his role as a Coach. Coinciding with South Asian Heritage month, he also discusses his personal experiences in the game, the barriers he has faced, his current role models in the game and what support is available.Sukh also shares his positive experiences with Coaches throughout his journey and why these encounters led him on a path into coaching alongside teaching.Plus, to celebrate the Lionesses' superb victory in the UEFA Women’s EURO 2022 we spend time discussing what this incredible achievement means, not just for Women’s football, but for sport in general - there's also pre-match thoughts from fans and wild celebrations following the final whistle, live from Wembley Stadium!For more information about grassroots football coaching in Berks & Bucks and the recently launched BBFA Coaches Network, please visit www.berks-bucksfa.com/coaches.Music and post-production by Darren Fellerdale.

This week, marking the 50th episode of the podcast, Rivo & Rich caught up with West Ham United legend, Tony Carr MBE.In this episode, Tony shares his journey in the beautiful game. From his early playing days (which were cut short by injury) to turning his attention to coaching. Tony provides a fantastic insight into an incredible 43-year career at the same Club and gives us a fascinating in-depth look into the famous 'West Ham Way'.He also shares some brilliant stories of players he has helped through the years including, Paul Ince, Rio Ferdinand, Frank Lampard, Michael Carrick, Joe Cole, Mark Noble and Declan Rice.  All who have gone on to have fabulous careers at the top level.Tony also talks about his new book 'Tony Carr; A Lifetime in Football at West Ham United' and we find out if Rivo can recover from his first L in this week’s quiz! For more information about grassroots football coaching in Berks & Bucks and the recently launched BBFA Coaches Network, please visit www.berks-bucksfa.com/coaches.Music and post-production by Darren Fellerdale.

This week, Rivo & Rich caught up with Maidenhead Utd First Team coach, Aaron O’Brien.In this episode, Aaron shares his journey from his early experiences playing to the present day where he is coaching at his hometown club. He also offers great insight into the weekly routine of a National League Club match analysis, match preparation and much more!Aaron also talks about the difference between National League and grassroots football and how much importance and pressure there is to compete with fully professional sides. Aaron also shares his day job and the development of the academy.There's also talk of Leeds Utd, Ryan Reynolds, and Rob McElhenney & we find out if Rivo can continue his undefeated streak in this week’s quiz! For more information about grassroots football coaching in Berks & Bucks and the recently launched BBFA Coaches Network, please visit www.berks-bucksfa.com/coaches.Music and post-production by Darren Fellerdale.

This week, Rivo & Rich catch up with the MK Warriors, UEFA B Licenced Coach, Elijah Bada. In this episode, Elijah shares his journey from growing up in Brixton, South London before moving to Milton Keynes and his first experiences of football. Elijah opens up about his personal experiences which ultimately led to him taking up coaching from which he hasn’t looked back since.Elijah also talks about the importance his mother played in his upbringing and how that has shaped his values as a coach and as a human being.There's also talk of Klopp, Pep, and roundabouts and we find out if Elijah was able to defeat Rivo in this week’s quiz. For more information about grassroots football coaching in Berks & Bucks and the recently launched BBFA Coaches Network, please visit www.berks-bucksfa.com/coaches.Music and post-production by Darren Fellerdale.

This week, our dynamic duo, Rivo & Rich caught up with the brilliant, Sarah Davern. In this episode, Sarah shares her fantastic journey in the game. From her first experiences of grassroots football right up to the present day and playing for Ascot United. She talks in detail about her experiences playing mixed football and the differences she noticed once she joined the Reading FC Girls' Academy. Sarah also discusses her coaching journey, from starting out in her teens with Reading Community Trust before going on to set up and develop her own coaching company at the age of just 21, through to establishing it over the last decade and still finding the time to coach two local grassroots teams.Sarah also talks about modelling her free-kicks on David Beckham, her “beat the sun up” routine, her early entrepreneur skills at school, her friendship with Lioness Fran Kirby and owning the world’s most powerful water gun!For more information about grassroots football coaching in Berks & Bucks and the recently launched BBFA Coaches Network, please visit www.berks-bucksfa.com/coaches.Music and post-production by Darren Fellerdale.

Mark 'Rivo' Rivers & Richard Brant are back with Series 6 of the award-winning podcast. The duo are joined by special guest, Grant Downie OBE, to help them kick off the new season!In this episode, Grant shares his incredible journey from his early days at the NHS all the way to the present day as a Consultant in medical & performance solutions in elite sports & industry. Grant gives us his thoughts on player ownership, positive vulnerability, embracing diversity, investing time in your players and the importance of mental health. He also provides insight into what it was like to receive his OBE in 2013.There are also tales from his time at Rangers, Manchester City, Middlesbrough, The FA & the Premier League and talk of his friendships with Gareth Southgate and the late, Walter Smith. For more information about grassroots football coaching in Berks & Bucks and the recently launched BBFA Coaches Network, please visit www.berks-bucksfa.com/coaches.Music and post-production by Darren Fellerdale.

To support Mental Health Awareness Week, this special episode of The Grassroots Football Coach features our hosts Mark 'Rivo' Rivers & Richard Brant discussing their own mental health experiences. The theme of the week is loneliness, and together, Rivo and Rich talk openly about their own experiences and discuss the impact loneliness can have on individuals.Caution Advised - This episode contains sensitive material, with references to bereavement, which some listeners may find difficult to listen to.Need support? The Samaritans are there to listen 24 hours, 365 days a year. Call free on 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.orgMusic and post-production by Darren Fellerdale.

For this years Christmas Special, Rivo & Rich caught up with Arsenal legend and World Cup Winner Per Mertesacker. On the pod Per opens up about his early experiences in football and what impact his Dad had on his career. Per speaks of taking opportunities presented to him which led to making his debut for Germany at just 20 years old. Per also shares his historic journey with the national team which ultimately resulted in winning the FIFA World Cup in 2014.Per also talks about his wonderful time at Arsenal including winning 3 FA Cups, his current role as Academy Manager at the Gunners and the emerging talent of Bukayo Saka & Emile Smith-Rowe. There’s also talk of leadership, Arsene Wenger, Santi Cazorla, Fernando Torres, Phillipe Lahm and find out who wins this week’s festive themed feature, “…..and a Partridge in a Per Tree.” For more information about grassroots football coaching in Berks & Bucks, and the recently launched BBFA Coaches Network, please visit www.berks-bucksfa.com/coaches.Music and post-production by Darren Fellerdale.

Rivo & Rich caught up with FA Tutor and UK Coaching’s Adam Colley.In this episode, Adam shares his journey from his early playing days and coaching experiences. He talks about his positive attitude and his determination to continue developing as a coach which he believes has led him to the roles he is in today.Adam also talks about the social and personable skills which are important as a coach. There’s also talk of multiple sports, the different ways to learn and Craig David. Plus, will Rivo break his duck in this week’s feature, “Can you Adam & Eve it”For more information about grassroots football coaching in Berks & Bucks, and the recently launched BBFA Coaches Network, please visit www.berks-bucksfa.com/coaches.Music and post-production by Darren Fellerdale.

Rivo & Rich caught up with MK Dons SET, Women’s Participation Officer, Ellie Reid. In this episode, Ellie shares her experiences as a young player in grassroots football and reflects on the resilience she has gained as a result. She provides an insight into the journey that has since led her to her current role at MK Dons SET. Ellie talks in-depth about a recent project she led highlighting the 50 lost years of the female game in this country and the huge strides female football has made in the last 50 years. There’s also talk of next year’s UEFA Women’s EUROs and The FA & BBFA Youth Councils before we put Ellie to the test in the first (and last) game of 'FamEllie' Fortunes.For more information about grassroots football coaching in Berks & Bucks, and the recently launched BBFA Coaches Network, please visit www.berks-bucksfa.com/coaches.Music and post-production by Darren Fellerdale.

In this episode, Rivo & Rich caught up with Oxford Utd U14 Girls' Head Coach and former colleague, Ellen Hopkins.On the pod, Ellen shares her journey from youth player, to coaching in the USA, and to becoming a UEFA B licenced Coach. She talks fondly of her experience across the pond and reflects on where she is now in her career and her various coaching roles. Always on the go, Ellen also explains how her car has transformed into a wardrobe!... For more information about grassroots football coaching in Berks & Bucks, and the recently launched BBFA Coaches Network, please visit www.berks-bucksfa.com/coaches.Music and post-production by Darren Fellerdale.