Ball at all Cost

Recording of our Live Stream on Feb 15th 2026! What’s your biggest frustration in grassroots or academy football right now? Is it coaching decisions? Playing time? Academy trials? Parent pressure? Politics? Development being ignored for results? No filters. No scripts. Just real conversation. This live is about hearing from coaches, parents, and players who are actually in it week in, week out. If you’ve got something to say, this is your space. Jump in the chat and let’s talk properly.📅 We’re live tonight🔔 Turn notifications on so you don’t miss it⁠ #grassrootsfootball⁠ ⁠#ballatallcost⁠ ⁠#football⁠ ⁠#academyfootball⁠ ⁠#footballparent⁠ ⁠#footballdebate⁠ ⁠#ukfootball

This one means a lot. For our 50th episode of Ball at All Cost, we sit down with the Born to Ball coaches, Junior, Jevaze and the wider team for an honest conversation about grassroots football, coaching, and what it really takes to support young players properly. We reflect on why Born to Ball has earned the trust of so many families and how confidence, mindset, and enjoyment matter just as much as technical ability. There are honest moments and plenty of perspective for parents, coaches, and players who want a clearer view of football development beyond trophies and results. If you’ve been with us from the start, thank you. If you’re new here, welcome. 👉🏾 Like, subscribe and drop your thoughts in the comments. #ballatallcost #borntoball #grassrootsfootball #footballcoaching #playerdevelopment #football #footballparents #futsal #footballcommunity #southlondonfootball #premierleague

It is another podcast episode and we delve into the grassroots development of football, particularly focusing on the remarkable growth of girls' football. Special guest Tom McDermott shares his coaching journey, the philosophy behind TM Development, and the importance of nurturing young talent over mere competition. Discover how dedication, passion, and innovative coaching strategies are shaping the future of women's football. Don't forget to subscribe for more insights and stories from the world of football! #girlsfootball #footballcoaching #grassrootsfootball #football #womensfootball #youthsports #footballjourney #coachingphilosophy

Are smaller players being protected or are teams just protecting results? In this episode of the Ball At All Cost Podcast, we’re joined by Coach Brandon from Lambbeath Tigers to unpack one of grassroots football’s most debated topics: how the game treats smaller players. We discuss bio-banding, player development, football intelligence, mentality, and the pressures within England’s youth football system. From coaching decisions to parental expectations, this conversation explores whether talent is being nurtured properly or filtered out too early because of size. This episode is essential listening for football parents, grassroots coaches, and anyone invested in the future of player development. Join the conversation and share your thoughts… does size really matter in football? #youthfootball #grassrootsfootball #footballdevelopment #biobanding #playerdevelopment #smallplayers #footballcoaching #footballpodcast #football #ballatallcost

In this episode of the Ball at All Cost Podcast, we sit down with Diego Pagliuso, also known as The Confident Footballer, to break down how futsal, mindset, and intelligent coaching shape confident young players. Diego shares his journey from Brazil to football coaching in the UK, explains why futsal is one of the most powerful tools for player development and gives honest insight into the realities of football academies and the pre-academy system. This episode is packed with practical advice for parents, coaches, and young players on building confidence, game intelligence, and a strong footballing identity. Whether your child is entering an academy, playing grassroots football, or struggling with confidence on the pitch, this conversation offers real-world guidance you won’t hear anywhere else. 🎙 Topics covered include: Why futsal accelerates technical development. Confidence vs talent in young footballers. Navigating football academies and pre-academies. Advice for football parents. Developing intelligent, fearless players Subscribe for more honest conversations on grassroots football, player development, and the academy pathway. #confidentfootballer #youthfootball #futsal #footballacademy #footballparenting #football #grassrootsfootball #footballcoaching #ballatallcost #fifa #uefa #premierleague #messi #cristianoronaldo #pele #r9 #spurs #brazil #unitedkingdom

In this Christmas special edition of the Ball at All Cost podcast, we welcome Tom Wright, a football coach and talent ID scout, who shares invaluable insights into navigating the girls' football academy pathway. Learn about the importance of playing boys' football, how to get scouted, balancing education and training, and developing game IQ for young female footballers. Doesn’t matter if you’re a parent or coach, this episode is packed with practical advice and expert tips to help your daughter shine on the pitch and advance her football journey. Don’t miss out! Subscribe and hit the notification bell to stay updated with more football academy insights!

In this episode of Ball at All Costs, we chat with Jermaine Fagan from We Make Footballers about his journey in football. From playing and refereeing to scouting and running football academies. He shares honest stories about grassroots football, the challenges refs face, and why futsal could be a game-changer for young players. Whether you’re a parent, coach, or just love football, Jermaine’s insights on developing talent, enjoying the game, and creating opportunities for kids are well worth a listen! Don’t forget to subscribe and drop us a comment!

In this down-to-earth chat, Dwight Gayle opens up about his rocky start at Arsenal’s academy, the struggles of being a smaller player, and how he kept the dream alive to play in the Premier League. He also shares honest advice on coaching kids today, balancing pressure with fun, and why playing multiple sports can actually help young footballers thrive. Whether you're a parent, a coach, or just love football, Dwight’s story and insights are gold. Plus, hear how he’s shaping his son’s football journey with the wisdom only a former pro can offer. Hit subscribe, drop a like, and join the conversation! #dwightgayle #grassrootsfootball #ballatallcost #footballjourney #grassrootstopro #footballparenting #footballtips #premierleague #footballcoaching #fifa #uefa

We sit down with Neil from Ballon D’Or Football Academy to explore how they're nurturing young football talent with passion, skill, and a fresh approach. From technical training to real pathways into professional clubs like Chelsea and Arsenal, Neil shares what makes Ballon D’Or stand out and how they’re changing the game for kids in South London and beyond. Whether you're a parent, coach, or football fan, you’ll get valuable insights into youth football development and what it really takes to succeed. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments! #youthfootball #ballondooracademy #footballjpurney #coachingkids #footballdevelopment #southlondonfootball #nextgenfootballers #ballatallcost #footballtraining #youngathletes #football #fifa #uefa #premierleague #chelsea #arsenal #westham

In this episode of Ball At All Costs, we sit down with Nick – The GK Coach to chat all things goalkeeping. From his journey as a keeper to the ups and downs of grassroots football, what it really takes to be a great goalie, and how coaching has changed over the years. Plus, Nick opens up about the importance of mental health, neurodiversity, and why goalkeepers deserve more love and respect in the game. It doesn’t matter whether you're a parent, a young keeper, or just love football, this is a must-watch! We also touch on coaching tips, the right mindset, and how parents can support their kids in goal. Get inspired and get the inside scoop on what it's like behind the gloves. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you enjoy the chat! #grassrootsfootball #goalkeeperlife #footballchat #gkcoach #ballatalcost #youthfootball #mentalhealthmatters #goalkeepingtips #footballfamily #football #premierleague #fifa #uefa Transcript

Tune into the Ball At All Costs podcast as Mustapha Carayol shares his inspiring journey from grassroots football in Peckham to over 400 professional games. Discover his struggles with anxiety, safety challenges, and the pressures of pro football. Mustapha offers unique insights for parents and young players on mental health, player development, and the realities of the beautiful game. Hit subscribe, smash the like button, and be part of the conversation! #footballjourney #profootball #ballatallcosts #grassrootsfootball #mentalhealthinsport #footballparenting #footballpodcast #football #youthfootball #footballagent #footballlife #footballcareer #premierleague #fifa #uefa #championship Transcript

Phil “PJ” Roberts is back on Ball At All Cost to talk about the side of football we don’t always see, the inner game. From academy trials and rejection to resilience, mental health, and parenting in sport, Phil shares his journey from professional footballer to mentor and founder of The Inner Game. This episode is full of honest stories, practical advice, and powerful reminders that mindset matters just as much as skill. Whether you’re a player, parent, or coach, you’ll take something valuable away. 👉🏾 Hit subscribe, drop a comment, and share this with someone who loves the game. #ballatallcost #footballmindset #youthfootball #mentalhealthinfootball #parentinginfootball #academylife #football #fifa #uefa #premierleague

Welcome back to Ball at All Cost! We're doing it big this week with a very special guest, Danny O'Reilly, the father of Instagram-famous football talent, Mason O'Reilly. Danny breaks down the crazy story of Mason's simple garden drills going viral and getting comments from stars like Neymar! Why is the system failing elite young players like Mason? Hear Danny's frustration with the "non-competitive" leagues in Ireland compared to the UK's demanding academy scene. We discuss the impossible choice Danny faced regarding a 4-hour daily round-trip academy offer and why talent isn't enough when opportunity is miles away. Danny shares the pride of seeing his gifted son prioritise setting up teammates over scoring goals. Plus, we cover Movember, the latest Echo League news, and shout out our amazing listeners! Subscribe and comment below: Is competitive youth football essential for development?

We break down the real challenges young footballers face today, especially young girls pushing through mixed football, elite academies, and pressure-filled environments. We speak with Chris, a parent whose daughter is thriving in Echo League, Arsenal and Finesse setups, and explore what it really takes: long travel, balancing school and sport, managing expectations, and building confidence in a tough football landscape. We discuss why girls who train with boys often develop faster, why the development gap still exists between boys’ and girls’ football, and why the right environment matters far more than big club names. We also dive into modern coaching, emotional intelligence, communication with parents, one-to-one training, and why a child’s ability to learn is more important than physical size or early technical ability. If you’re a parent, coach, or young player trying to understand the real pathway to growth, this episode is a must-watch. #ballatallcost #youthfootball #girlsfootball #grassrootsfootball #footballparents #arsenalacademy #footballdevelopment #coachingkids #footballpodcast #kidsinsport #academyfootball

We sit down with Coach George, an 18-year-old who’s already making serious noise in grassroots football. From being an average goalkeeper to managing and scouting, his journey is proof that passion, emotional intelligence, and experience beat age every single time. We dive deep into: Why enjoyment matters more than competition in youth football. How young coaches like George are reshaping development through care, honesty, and communication. The role of parents in a player’s journey and how supportive ones make all the difference. The importance of emotional intelligence, individuality, and creating the right environment. How networking and real-life experience can open doors faster than coaching badges ever could. What it takes to be a top learner, not just a top player. If you’re a parent, coach, or young player chasing your dream, this episode will hit home. 👇🏾 Watch. Learn. Be inspired. #ballatallcost #footballpodcast #grassrootsfootball #coachingjourney #youthdevelopment #footballcoach #football #footballmindset #playerdevelopment #footballtalk #premierleague #youngcoach #sportsphilosophy #footballparent #footballeducation #footballcommunity #fifa #uefa

Jason shares a deeply insightful journey into academy football, from the early days of lockdown kicking a ball in the garden, to joining Tigers JFC and catching the eye of professional scouts. We explore: Ralph’s journey from grassroots to academy football, showcasing adaptability, humility, and determination. The realities of academy life and how parents can support their kids through challenges and pressure. How to nurture talent while maintaining a love for the game. The role of family, coaching, and environment in developing young players. Balancing discipline, education, and ambition without burning out. Technical drills, confidence-building, and the father-son coaching dynamic. This is a must-watch for parents, coaches, and young players aiming to understand what it truly takes to thrive in football’s competitive youth system. ➡️ Watch, learn, and be inspired by Jason’s wisdom and first-hand experience. 🎙️ Hosted by BallAtAllCost where passion meets purpose in football. #ballatallcost #academyfootball #youthdevelopment #grassrootsfootball #parentinginfootball #footballjourney #footballtraining #footballpodcast #youngtalent #footballmotivation #ukfootball #footballeducation #footballparents #football #footballcoaching #premierleague #fifa #uefa

We’re joined by Fin Fletcher, the founder of F7 Coaching, to explore what truly drives success in youth football. We dive into the power of game analysis, how self-reflection and player feedback can shape understanding and performance, and why enjoyment and development should always come before pressure to win. From grassroots to academy football, we discuss: The art of analysing games and encouraging players to self-assess. How parents can support their kids without adding pressure. The importance of patience, confidence, and leadership in young players. F7 Coaching’s approach to developing talent from ages 5 to 18. A grassroots story that led to a six-week trial at West Ham. Insights on academy life, trust-building, and rediscovering love for the game This episode is a must-watch for parents, coaches, and aspiring young players.

It’s another episode, and we sit down with Kenzer Lee and Philip Roberts for an honest and powerful conversation about grassroots football, parenting, and the real journey behind the dream of going pro. We dive deep into the philosophy of Balance, developing great footballers, but even better human beings. From the pressures of academy life to the fine line between discipline and joy, this episode explores the mental, emotional, and social sides of the game that rarely get discussed. Kenzer and Philip share their experiences from West Ham, Arsenal, and beyond. The highs, the heartbreaks, and what it really takes to stay grounded in such a brutal industry. We also talk about: The importance of balance between football and real life. Parenting in youth football, pushing vs. supporting. The psychological journey from academy dreams to life after football. Why identity, self-awareness, and perspective matter more than ever It doesn’t matter if you’re a parent, coach, or player, this episode will change how you see the game. Smash the like button and subscribe if you haven’t. 👊🏾

We’re joined by Brazilian coach and youth mentor Ghabriel Teles, whose journey from watching legends like Rivaldo and Ronaldinho in Brazil to shaping futures in England is nothing short of inspiring. We go deep into: His love for football growing up in Brazil. The power of joy, belonging, and relationships in building winning teams. The emotional journey of youth players: signings, dropouts & safeguarding. Silent coaching, connection over control, and coaching with legacy in mind. What scouts really look for in grassroots & pre-academy environments. The ‘both-footed vs both-sided’ debate. Why multi-sport kids (like tennis or basketball players) often thrive in football. Brazilian football culture: from Pele to Vinicius Jr. The age-old GOAT debate, is it still Ronaldo Nazario for us? Modern frustrations: inverted wingers, zonal marking & Pep’s tactical myths. We also dive into coaching philosophy, player care, emotional intelligence, and how to truly prepare kids for life in and beyond football. 🔔 Subscribe for more honest conversations from the grassroots to the game’s highest levels. #ballatallcost #grassrootsfootball #youthdevelopment #footballcoaching #brazil #england #footballjourney #ronaldonazario #ronaldinho #youthqcademy #footballpodcast #football #coachingphilosophy #footballgoat #coach #preacademy #footballtips #footballskills #footballtalk #winterfootball #scoutingtips #fifa #uefa #modernfootball #laliga #premierleague

In this inspiring episode of Ballatallcost, we sit down with Eartha Pond, former Arsenal player, Westminster councilor, and founder of the ESP Foundation, for a deep and powerful conversation on football, education, inclusion, and policy. We explore: Her football journey from Arsenal to public service. How to improve access, comfort, and participation for girls in sports. The rise of women’s football and its evolving business landscape. Why Arsenal’s fanbase and ticket sales model stands out. The need for medical support and professional standards in the women’s game. Why PE should be a core subject in schools. Cultural barriers faced by Black girls in sports. Hidden talent and the impact of location on scouting. The importance of sports bras, Nike’s voucher investments & access. The harsh reality of football as a business, elitism, transitions, and unloyalty. Are we close to a level playing field in football? Or is true equality still far off? We also break down the Hashtag FC situation in women’s football, and the WSL’s challenges with game time and development. Plus: we shine a spotlight on Girls Aloud, a program bringing sports, music, and health education to over 22 London boroughs. This is a conversation about culture, equity, identity, and transformation and how we build a better future in sports from grassroots to elite. 🔔 Subscribe, like, and join the conversation. #ballatallcost #womensfootball #girlsinsport #arsenalfc #footballbusiness #football #WSL #grassrootsfootball #sports #youthempowerment #blackgirlsinsport #hashtagsfc #PEinschools #nike #womeninfootball #footballpodcast #FIFA #UEFA #premierleague