The Inside Scoop with Anytime Soccer Training - Discussing Youth Soccer from Around the World

Hey, it's Neil Crawford here with a quick freestyle episode of The Inside Scoop.This one's just me thinking out loud — no script, just opinion. A friend of mine posted a great graphic from the Croatian Football Federation encouraging players to rotate positions. I love the idea in theory, but I had to jump on the mic and share a few personal thoughts.We'll talk about:Why I prefer my sons to start in the spine (6, 8, 10)What I think games are and aren't good forHow training — not just playing — drives real developmentAnd why structured games may not be the best place to “fix weaknesses”Again, this isn't gospel — just one parent-trainer's point of view.Let me know what you think, and as always — let's get better together.

Hey, it's Neil Crawford here with a quick freestyle episode of The Inside Scoop.This one's just me thinking out loud — no script, just opinion. A friend of mine posted a great graphic from the Croatian Football Federation encouraging players to rotate positions. I love the idea in theory, but I had to jump on the mic and share a few personal thoughts.We'll talk about:Why I prefer my sons to start in the spine (6, 8, 10)What I think games are and aren't good forHow training — not just playing — drives real developmentAnd why structured games may not be the best place to “fix weaknesses”Again, this isn't gospel — just one parent-trainer's point of view.Let me know what you think, and as always — let's get better together.

Hey, it's Neil Crawford, founder of Anytime Soccer Training. This is a follow-up to the last episode where we talked about the classic tryout dilemma: Team A or Team B?In that show, I walked through how I help my own kids think through those choices. This time, I'm diving deeper — unpacking how I personally evaluate teams, what I actually look for in a training environment, and how I turn these moments into teachable life lessons.I also share my take on why I don't obsess over what kids say they want long-term — and instead focus on what they're willing to do right now.If you caught the last episode, this one fills in a lot of the blanks. Let's keep the conversation going and, as always, let's get better together.

In this episode, I share a real conversation I had with a soccer dad wrestling with a common tryout dilemma — should his child join the more competitive A team or stick with the solid B team?I break down how I think through these choices with my own kids: focusing less on titles, leagues, or promises, and more on training environment, realistic commitment, and what we actually control as parents.If you're a parent trying to help your child navigate team choices, this one's for you. Let's get better together.

In this episode of The Inside Scoop, I (Neil Crawford, founder of Anytime Soccer Training) dive into one of the biggest headaches for parents—tryout season. What if we could standardize it? What if there was a clear window for tryouts, offers, and decisions—just like college recruiting?I explore a proposal that some states are already testing and raise questions about why this isn't the norm nationwide. Could it work if everyone agreed? What's stopping it now?This isn't a rant—it's an open question. If your state does it differently, I'd love to hear from you. Let's figure this out…together.Brought to you by Anytime Soccer Training — 5,000+ follow-along videos and now: Weekly Plans, Skill Moves by category, Individual Player Plans, and more.

Hey everyone, Neil Crawford here—host of The Inside Scoop and founder of Anytime Soccer Training. In this episode, I interview Frisly Colop, a soccer parent currently living in Mexico, to get his firsthand perspective on how youth soccer in Mexico compares to the U.S. We dive into the structure of training, the role of the community, cost differences, and what he's observed as both a parent and a fan of the game. If you've ever wondered how soccer development looks outside the U.S., this episode brings an honest and insightful look from a parent who's lived both sides.https://anytime-soccer.com/

Hey everyone, Neil Crawford here, founder of Anytime Soccer Training. In this episode of The Inside Scoop, I'm diving into one of the most talked-about — and misunderstood — issues in American youth soccer: pay-to-play.I recently watched a YouTube video titled “The Real (Optimistic) Truth About Pay-to-Play in America” and had a thoughtful exchange with the host. It sparked this episode because, while the video raised some valid points, many people miss a critical nuance when comparing the U.S. system to countries like England, Germany, or Brazil.Yes, soccer is more expensive for families here. But what often gets overlooked is that we're demanding and paying for a very different product — more training, more paid coaches, more structure. In many other countries, most kids play under volunteers with minimal costs and far fewer services. So while it's true that players abroad might pay less, they're also getting less — at least until they enter elite academies, which only a tiny percentage of kids ever do.In this episode, I break that down and explain why I think the U.S. system is flawed — but not always in the way it's portrayed. Here is the video: https://youtu.be/ThOcraYEhro?si=8EoW5UnWIsbwjPLuLet's get better together.

Hey everyone, Neil Crawford here, founder of Anytime Soccer Training. This episode gets personal. I'm responding to a message from a fellow soccer parent about their child getting anxious and “forgetting their training” during games. That hit home for me—because I've been there with my own kids, and I know how helpless it can feel.In this episode, I open up about how I've approached those tough moments. I share how I break the game down into simple, specific actions—not just vague goals like “be confident.” I talk about how I used principles of play like penetration, switching the point of attack, and creativity in the final third as anchors to help my sons focus on just one or two key things each year.We also dive into the emotional side of all this: how we as parents have to acknowledge our biases, manage our impulses, and give our kids the space and time to grow—technically, mentally, and emotionally. I talk about the role of visualization, mindfulness, and using small physical cues as reminders to help our kids stay present and intentional on the field.This episode is for the parents who are trying to figure out how to support their kids without overstepping. For those wondering if what they're doing is too much—or not enough. And for those who, like me, are trying to get better every day.Let's get better together.

Hey everyone, Neil Crawford here, founder of Anytime Soccer Training. This episode gets personal. I'm responding to a message from a fellow soccer parent about their child getting anxious and “forgetting their training” during games. That hit home for me—because I've been there with my own kids, and I know how helpless it can feel.In this episode, I open up about how I've approached those tough moments. I share how I break the game down into simple, specific actions—not just vague goals like “be confident.” I talk about how I used principles of play like penetration, switching the point of attack, and creativity in the final third as anchors to help my sons focus on just one or two key things each year.We also dive into the emotional side of all this: how we as parents have to acknowledge our biases, manage our impulses, and give our kids the space and time to grow—technically, mentally, and emotionally. I talk about the role of visualization, mindfulness, and using small physical cues as reminders to help our kids stay present and intentional on the field.This episode is for the parents who are trying to figure out how to support their kids without overstepping. For those wondering if what they're doing is too much—or not enough. And for those who, like me, are trying to get better every day.Here is a link to the website referenced in the show:  https://www.competitivedge.com/ Let's get better together.

This episode is not about offering solutions. Nope — it's a full-on rant inspired by the tidal wave of advice, contradictions, and guilt trips parents get from every corner of the youth soccer world.We're told:Don't train your kid too early — unless you do.Winning doesn't matter — but your team better be in a competitive league.Clubs don't develop players — but also, stop moving clubs.Be hands-on — but don't be that parent.Tryouts are scams — but pick the perfect team in 48 hours.So today, I'm asking one question: What do you actually want from us?If you've ever felt like you're drowning in expert opinions but starving for actual clarity — this one's for you.Let's get better (or at least stay sane) together.— NeilP.S. Accepting nominations for Mayor of Parent Trainers and President of the YSPPA. Must love logic, sarcasm, and juggling with the non-dominant foot.

This episode is not about offering solutions. Nope — it's a full-on rant inspired by the tidal wave of advice, contradictions, and guilt trips parents get from every corner of the youth soccer world.We're told:Don't train your kid too early — unless you do.Winning doesn't matter — but your team better be in a competitive league.Clubs don't develop players — but also, stop moving clubs.Be hands-on — but don't be that parent.Tryouts are scams — but pick the perfect team in 48 hours.So today, I'm asking one question: What do you actually want from us?If you've ever felt like you're drowning in expert opinions but starving for actual clarity — this one's for you.Let's get better (or at least stay sane) together.— NeilP.S. Accepting nominations for Mayor of Parent Trainers and President of the YSPPA. Must love logic, sarcasm, and juggling with the non-dominant foot.

Hey everyone, Neil Crawford here, founder of Anytime Soccer Training. In this episode of The Inside Scoop, I share an idea I've been thinking about—what if schools could partner with local soccer clubs to create affordable after-school programs that mirror the club soccer experience? It's not something I plan to launch, but I wanted to think out loud, unpack the challenges, and hear your thoughts. If you care about accessibility, cost, and creative solutions for youth soccer, this one's for you. Let's get better together.

Hey everyone, Neil Crawford here with a quick update to my last episode. I've been thinking a lot about how to make starting with Anytime Soccer Training more intuitive — especially for new parents and coaches who feel overwhelmed by all the content. In this short episode, I walk through a new idea I'm hoping to roll out with the dev team — a simple, organized way to follow weekly training plans based on skill area. If you've ever wondered how to make individual training smoother without sacrificing structure or variety, this one's for you. Let me know what you think! Let's get better together.

In this episode, I answer a great question from a parent struggling to structure a training plan for their 6-year-old using Anytime Soccer Training.I share a straightforward, age-appropriate approach to avoid overwhelm, focus on foundational skills, and keep training fun. Whether you're a parent or coach, this episode will help you build a plan that supports consistent development without overcomplicating things.Tune in for practical tips!

Hey, it's Neil Crawford, host of The Inside Scoop and founder of Anytime Soccer Training. Today's episode is a little different — I'm responding to a text from a fellow "parent trainer" that had me thinking. We're talking about what it really looks like behind the scenes when parents support their kids in soccer development, how the so-called "crazy parent" label gets thrown around, and why it's not always what people assume. I'll also share why I think we need more honest conversations about the role parents play, and why having a deliberate plan matters more than people give credit for. If you're a parent trainer or just curious about this side of youth soccer, this one's for you. Let's get better together.

Hey everyone, it's Neil Crawford here, host of The Inside Scoop. This episode is a behind-the-scenes snippet of a fun conversation I had with pro scout Chris Robinson. Chris shared some of his thoughts on the relative age effect and a few other hot topics in the world of scouting. It was a really interesting chat, and I'm excited to give you a glimpse into how scouts think about player development. Let's dive in!

Hey everyone, it's Neil Crawford. In today's episode, I'm responding to a great message I got from a listener who's feeling a little frustrated with their club's setup. We're talking about how to bring up concerns — like training time, competition level, or even suggesting something like Anytime Soccer Training — without being labeled "that parent." I'll share a few real-world tips and how I would approach a club director if I were in your shoes. Let's get into it.

Hey everyone, it's Neil Crawford here. In today's episode, I'm answering a great question I got from a parent who asked how their child can perform better in rondos — especially with tryouts right around the corner.I break down why individual technical training actually does help your rondo game, even though it might not seem like it at first. We talk about how things like first touch, passing, and decision-making are the real foundation, and why doing well in a rondo has a lot more to do with your touch and your thinking speed than you might realize.I also explain why you shouldn't stress too much if rondos seem unpredictable — there are so many variables, like space, the setup, and the other players involved. Plus, I share a few simple rebounder drills that can really sharpen your one- and two-touch passing.If you're a parent or a player trying to connect all the dots between training at home and performing in games, you'll definitely want to stick around for this one!

Winning Mindset Program with Thomas Dooley

Hey, it's Neil Crawford, host of The Inside Scoop. In this episode, I dig into a term we hear all the time—soccer IQ—but rarely define clearly. What does it really mean? Why do so many players lack it? And what can we actually do about it?I also share how I'm helping my own son improve in this area—and why most clubs aren't teaching it like they should. Let's break it down and challenge some assumptions.

Hey, it's Neil Crawford, host of The Inside Scoop. In this episode, I dig into a term we hear all the time—soccer IQ—but rarely define clearly. What does it really mean? Why do so many players lack it? And what can we actually do about it?I also share how I'm helping my own son improve in this area—and why most clubs aren't teaching it like they should. Let's break it down and challenge some assumptions.

In this episode, I sat down with Juan Martinez, the President and Executive Director of DKSC, to get real about what it actually costs to run a competitive youth soccer club.We talked about his journey into coaching, the early days of DKSC, and then dove into the numbers—things like coaching salaries, field rentals, admin fees, and how fast it all adds up. Juan shared how his club tries to stay sustainable while keeping things affordable for families, and we even touched on the pay-to-play debate and whether parents really want an alternative. If you've ever wondered why soccer is so expensive or what club directors are actually dealing with behind the scenes, this is the episode to hear.

In this episode, I share a conversation that really stood out—a 14-year-old player reached out to me directly, signed up for Anytime Soccer Training on his own, and started doing the work. What impressed me even more was his question: “Is it okay to take a rest day?”That simple question sparked this episode. We talk about why rest is not only okay—but necessary—and how it fits into long-term development. I also revisit a core message from an earlier episode:"Goals are what you want. Standards are what you do daily."We dive into why it's tough to motivate someone without a growth mindset, but also why it's equally hard to discourage someone who has one. I walk through how I use this mindset at home with my own sons and how we structure their weekly training—including a breakdown of how much time they spend using Anytime.Whether you're a parent, coach, or player—this episode will help you rethink the balance between effort, rest, and smart training.https://anytime-soccer.com/

Here's a short, punchy podcast title and description written in the first person, perfect for your episode with Chris Robinson:

Hey coaches, Neil Crawford here—host of The Inside Scoop and founder of Anytime Soccer Training. In this episode, I'm responding to a great email from a fellow coach who's been using Anytime with his team and had some thoughtful questions about instruction, skill moves, and how to best support players when you're not able to demonstrate every move yourself.Here's the thing—we're all better coaches than we think.Even if you can't bust out a Ronaldo chop on demand or demo a Ketta like a pro, what really matters is your ability to structure sessions, show up consistently, and help players get reps with purpose. In fact, the ability to observe, give feedback, and keep kids engaged might be the most important coaching skill of all.I also break down the TIER Framework (Time, Instruction, Effort, and Reps)—a simple system I created to help coaches and parents organize their training approach and build a strong foundation for their players. Plus, I share some behind-the-scenes updates on new Anytime Soccer Training features for teams, like assigning homework, customizing sessions, and even sharing curated YouTube content for extra instruction.If you've ever felt unsure about whether you're “doing enough” or if your lack of pro-level skill holds you back as a coach—this episode is for you. You're doing more than you know, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.Let's keep growing together and building better players—one rep at a time. ⚽

In this episode of The Inside Scoop, Neil Crawford shares a powerful story about a young player's transition from rec to competitive soccer—and how that moment inspired the creation of Anytime Weekly Plans. He also breaks down the difference between goals and standards, why kids might not fully grasp long-term goals, and how parents can use consistency, structure, and growth mindset to keep the journey on track—even after the excitement wears off.

In this episode, I respond to a great question from a parent of a four-year-old asking if Anytime Soccer Training has sessions for kids that young — and more importantly, what advice I'd give to someone just starting their soccer journey.I take a step back and reflect on what I wish I had known when my boys were that age. We talk about being intentional but playful, the importance of early adoption, staying informed as a parent, and why your behavior — not just your actions — can shape your child's experience in the sport.Whether you're just getting started or already deep in the soccer world, this episode is all about giving young kids the best foundation while keeping the joy front and center.Let's get better together.

In this episode, I'm responding to a voice memo from a friend and fellow soccer parent who's been using the 30-day programs inside Anytime Soccer Training. She loves how simple and organized it is — and I totally get it. That's why I built those plans.But I also wanted to share something deeper — how I stumbled on what I now call a cheat code for building a rock-solid technical foundation at home. I talk about how the program evolved, why structure and variation matter so much, and how even something as simple as pinning a few videos to a training session folder can make a massive difference.This isn't about doing it my way — it's about giving you the tools and showing you what's possible when you mix the right system with the human connection only a parent can provide.If you're using Anytime Soccer Training — or thinking about it — this one will help you see how to unlock its full power. Let's get better together.

In this episode of The Inside Scoop, I answer a question I hear all the time from parents — “How can I help my child become more confident, especially in 1v1 situations against stronger players?”A fellow parent reached out about their almost 11-year-old who is technically decent but lacks confidence when the pressure is on. I've been there — not just as a coach, but as a dad working with my own sons. And the truth is, confidence in soccer doesn't come out of thin air; it comes from having a rock-solid technical foundation and getting real reps over time.In this episode, I share:Why most of us parents (me included) often get our child's skill level wrong — sometimes we overestimate, sometimes we underestimateWhy confidence and technical ability go hand-in-handHow I personally use Anytime Soccer Training to build that rock-solid technical foundation for my boysWhy you don't need a fancy, custom plan — you need structure, consistency, and patienceHow the program helps parents like us guide our kids without overwhelming them or ruining the funIf you're trying to help your child feel more confident, especially when facing tougher players, this is the exact conversation you need. I'll walk you through what I do, what I've learned (the hard way), and how Anytime Soccer Training fits into the solution.And don't miss the quick preview — we've got a big interview coming up with the Head Scout from Southampton Academy.

Hey, it's Neil Crawford, founder of Anytime Soccer Training. In this episode, I answer a common question from parents — where should your child start in the program? I break it down simply: begin with the 1,000 Touch Ball Mastery, Ronaldinho Freestyle Dribbling, Juggling, and Wall Passing. These are the core building blocks I used with my own kids.I also share why patience and consistency matter — this is a long-term, delayed gratification process, but it pays off big time. Plus, I walk you through setting up My Training Sessions inside the app to make it easy.Let's get better together!

In this episode, I break down a soccer video submitted by one of our Facebook group members, showing how data can turn subjective opinions into objective insights. Instead of relying on gut feelings or vague feedback, I explore how tracking key metrics—like touches, decision-making, and positioning—can provide a clearer picture of player development.Join me as I discuss why numbers don't lie, how to measure real progress, and how parents and coaches can use data to refine training strategies. Whether you're analyzing your child's game or looking to improve your own coaching, this episode will change the way you view player performance.

In this episode, I sit down with Tami Matheny, a renowned Mental Game Coach, author, and certified Jon Gordon trainer, to explore one of the trickiest aspects of youth sports: giving feedback to competitive kids. Tami draws on her deep experience working with athletes across a wide range of sports—including soccer—to offer practical, research-backed advice for parents and coaches alike.We dive into:The fine line between encouragement and pressureHow to tailor your feedback based on your child's personality and mindsetWhy confidence is the foundation of performance—and how you might be unintentionally undermining itThe right (and wrong) time to give feedback after gamesSpecific strategies for helping young athletes want to hear and apply your feedbackTami also shares her personal story of struggling with confidence as a young athlete and how that journey sparked her passion for helping others master the mental side of sports. Whether you're a parent on the sidelines or a coach on the field, this episode will give you a new lens for supporting your athlete's growth.

In this episode, I keep the conversation going on youth soccer development and club accountability. After stirring up discussions in our online communities, I take a deeper dive into the real challenges of evaluating player progress.Are clubs truly developing players, or just marketing development? I break down the difference between player evaluations and measuring a club's effectiveness, highlight key red flags, and discuss how parents can take a more informed approach. If you're investing time and money into your child's soccer journey, let's make sure it's paying off. Tune in!

In this episode, I sit down with Mike Haughton, Technical Director of Bluffton Rush, to explore how a strong technical framework helps young players thrive. With experience at Manchester City's Academy, Burnley FC, and Global Premier Soccer, Mike shares key insights on coaching education, player development, and building a successful soccer pathway.

Hey everyone, welcome back to The Inside Scoop! I'm your host, Neil Crawford, founder of Anytime Soccer Training. If you're new here, this podcast helps parents explore different soccer pathways worldwide. And of course, it's brought to you by Anytime Soccer Training—the only training app with over 5,000 step-by-step training videos. Check it out at anytime-soccer.com.Now, onto today's show! Yesterday, my youngest son, Matthew (2013, now 11), had a first-time experience—his first private training session with someone other than me. A buddy of mine texted, asking if I had finally tried private training, and the answer is yes! Through a company called Teach Me Two, we linked up with a local trainer who had a fascinating playing background.In this episode, I break down what I learned from this experience, the unique dynamic between Matthew and his coach, and why so many parent-trained kids end up in the midfield. I also reflect on my strengths as a parent trainer and where outside perspectives can help. Plus, stay tuned—there's a freebie coming for Inside Scoop listeners!Let's dive in.

In this follow-up episode, I continue the conversation on youth soccer development and club accountability. After sparking debate in our online communities, I break down the reality behind club philosophies and the challenge of measuring true progress. Are clubs genuinely developing players, or just selling the illusion of it? I tackle common misconceptions, the complexities of evaluating development, and the role parents play in navigating the system. If your child's soccer journey is an investment, how do you ensure you're getting real value? Tune in as we separate fact from fiction.

Every soccer club claims to prioritize "individual development," but what does that really mean? In this episode, I explore the layers behind club philosophies, development processes, and game models, exposing the gaps in transparency. If your child's soccer journey is an investment, how do you measure the return?

Podcast Title: "Join the 1%: Elevate Your Rec Coaching Game"Episode Summary:In this follow-up episode, I break down what separates the top 1% of rec coaches from the rest. Spoiler alert—it's not about having a pro soccer background! It's about being intentional, organized, and focused on player development while keeping the game fun.I'll share practical steps on structuring engaging practices, teaching key fundamentals, and creating an environment where kids thrive. Whether you're coaching for the first time or looking to level up, this episode will give you the mindset and tools to stand out.Let's go beyond just running drills—let's build confident, skilled players who love the game!

Podcast Title: "Rec Coach to Rec Coach: Advice for New Soccer Coaches"Episode Summary:Hey everyone, it's Neil Crawford, host of Inside Scoop and founder of Anytime Soccer Training. Today, I'm diving into a message from an old friend who just volunteered to coach his son's U-12 team. He's excited but a little nervous—sound familiar?In this episode, I reflect on my own journey as a rec coach, the two main types of rec coaches, and how coaching can be both a fun way to give back and a stepping stone in a child's long-term soccer development. Whether you're just stepping up to help out or thinking long-term about player development, this one's for you.Plus, I'll share some key tips and resources to make your rec coaching experience smoother. And stay tuned—I'll be inviting my friend onto the show to see how his season unfolds!https://www.youtube.com/@CoachRorySoccer

Hey everyone, it's Neil Crawford, host of The Inside Scoop and founder of Anytime Soccer Training. In this episode, I dive into a social media post that's been making the rounds on game formats and youth soccer development. But before getting into that, I introduce a term I'm coining for parents—tactical goals and tactical sequences—which describe patterns of play that reflect a team's game model.I break down why it's important to evaluate whether goals and sequences in matches align with what's being taught in training, rather than just relying on individual brilliance or defensive mistakes. I also share my thoughts on the recent move by the English FA to introduce 3v3 for U7s and why flexibility over format should be the focus of youth development.Most importantly, I emphasize why what happens Monday through Friday in training is far more important than the game format on the weekend—because no amount of 3v3, 7v7, or 11v11 can replace quality coaching, clear game models, and intentional development.Tune in as I unpack this topic, challenge common narratives, and advocate for a more thoughtful approach to youth soccer. Let's get better together!

Hey everyone, it's Neil Crawford, host of The Inside Scoop and founder of Anytime Soccer Training. In this episode, I'm following up on a recent discussion about whether playing experience is a must for coaching. This topic has so many layers, so I'm breaking it down piece by piece.For me, it all starts with mindset—believing that anything is possible if you put in the work. But it's not just about blind optimism; it's about understanding the process, staying committed, and recognizing that the journey itself is where the real value lies. I share my own experiences, including how my initial goal of helping my son with ball control led me to something much bigger—helping other parents support their kids without stress.I also dive into why we need to be careful about telling others (especially kids) what they “can't” do, because that mindset shuts down all the necessary steps to even try. Instead of limiting people, we should be showing them the path forward.Join me for this deep dive into mindset, belief, and why the process matters more than the outcome. Let's get better together!

Welcome to The Inside Scoop! Today, we're tackling a hot topic in youth soccer—does playing experience matter when it comes to coaching?This debate comes up constantly in soccer circles. Some argue that you must have played at a high level to coach effectively, while others believe coaching is a separate skill that can be developed without prior playing experience. Where's the line? Does it depend on age, competition level, or something else?Throughout this series, we'll hear from different perspectives—coaches who played, coaches who didn't, and experts who can break down what really makes a great coach. We'll also explore the bigger picture of developing more quality coaches as the sport grows.Stick around as we dive into the nuances of this ongoing debate. And if you're looking for ways to develop your child's skills at home, check out Anytime Soccer Training at Anytime-Soccer.com. Let's get into it!

Podcast Title:Is Using Guest Players Ethical? Let's Talk About State Cup Rosters ⚽️Podcast Summary:In this episode, I'm diving into a hot topic from my Youth Soccer Guest Player Opportunities group: Is it ethical to add guest players for state cups and regional qualifiers? I share my experience and discuss the loopholes, roster freezes, and realities faced by clubs and parents. This one's got me thinking—I'd love to hear your thoughts, too!I'm Neil Crawford, founder of Anytime Soccer Training. Let's figure this out together!

Podcast Title:"Puberty, Patience, and the Technical Myth in Youth Soccer"Podcast Summary:In today's episode of The Inside Scoop, I share a thoughtful email from one of our listeners that sparked an important conversation about youth soccer and the impact of puberty on player development. We dive into the challenges kids face when their physical maturity doesn't align with their technical skills, emphasizing how patience, mental resilience, and tactical awareness become vital during these critical years.I openly discuss why parents shouldn't put too much weight on individual performances during these transitional periods, since growth stages—before, during, and after puberty—each bring unique challenges. Additionally, I explore the misconception surrounding the term "technically outstanding," highlighting that most young players, including my own, rarely reach this level, despite common assumptions.As always, this is an open, honest dialogue—just my personal reflections and experiences—and I invite listeners to contribute their insights or share helpful resources. Plus, I'm also reaching out to the community for recommendations on budget-friendly podcasting equipment due to recent audio issues.Let's keep the conversation going!

In this episode, I walk you through how to create a personalized soccer training plan using Anytime Soccer Training. From signing in and selecting skill areas—like juggling, ball mastery, dribbling, and wall passing—to saving favorites and building custom training sessions, I break it down step by step. Plus, I share how you can access pre-made sessions, track progress, and collaborate with others. Whether you're a parent or coach, this guide makes organizing effective training easier than ever. Let's get better together!

Hey everyone, it's Neil Crawford, your host and the founder of Anytime Soccer Training. On this episode of The Inside Scoop, I'm responding to a heartfelt email from a parent who's struggling with their child's soccer development. She can't afford private training, but sees other kids benefiting from it—and she's worried her son is falling behind.I totally get it. My own sons have never had regular private lessons, and I know firsthand how overwhelming it can feel. So today, I'm breaking down my Tier System—a simple framework that shows how time, instruction, effort, and reps are the real keys to development, not just expensive coaching.We'll also dive into mindset, expectations, and the power of creating the right environment at home. If you're DIY-ing your child's soccer training, this episode is for you. Plus, I'll share how you can join my special mailing list for parents who want practical, affordable ways to help their kids succeed.Tune in now, and let's get better together!

Hey everyone, it's Neil Crawford, your host and the founder of Anytime Soccer Training. On this episode of The Inside Scoop, I'm responding to a heartfelt email from a parent who's struggling with their child's soccer development. She can't afford private training, but sees other kids benefiting from it—and she's worried her son is falling behind.I totally get it. My own sons have never had regular private lessons, and I know firsthand how overwhelming it can feel. So today, I'm breaking down my Tier System—a simple framework that shows how time, instruction, effort, and reps are the real keys to development, not just expensive coaching.We'll also dive into mindset, expectations, and the power of creating the right environment at home. If you're DIY-ing your child's soccer training, this episode is for you. Plus, I'll share how you can join my special mailing list for parents who want practical, affordable ways to help their kids succeed.Tune in now, and let's get better together!

Hey everyone, welcome back to another edition of Inside Scoop! I'm your host, Neil Crawford, founder of Anytime Soccer Training. If you're new here, this podcast is all about helping parents understand the different soccer pathways available to their kids—whether they live in the U.S. or anywhere else in the world.In this episode, I'm tackling something personal—parental bias and the irony of assessing our own kids. A friend called me out on a contradiction: how can I tell parents they might misjudge their child's ability while also saying my son is technical? Fair point, and I want to address it.I'll dive into how I approach my kids' development, the importance of staying open-minded, and why I try (emphasis on try) not to let my own opinions influence their training too much. Plus, I'll share a key strategy I use each season to help them improve without overwhelming them.If you've ever struggled with balancing support and objectivity as a soccer parent, this one's for you!And don't forget—this show is brought to you by Anytime Soccer Training, the only program with over 5,000 training videos covering all the major skills your child needs to succeed. Check out Anytime-Soccer.com to learn more. Now, let's get into it!

Hey everyone, welcome back to Inside Scoop! I'm Neil Crawford, your host and the founder of Anytime Soccer Training. If you're new here, this is the show where we dive into soccer pathways around the world and help parents navigate the crazy journey of youth soccer. And of course, this podcast is brought to you by Anytime Soccer Training—the only program with over 5,000 follow-along training videos to help your child build confidence and skill at their own pace.Today's episode is a short but important one. A parent reached out with a question that so many of us can relate to—how to help her two boys gain confidence on the ball. One is 10, aggressive, and reads the game well but sometimes gets nervous with the ball. The other is 13, technically skilled at home but struggles to bring that confidence to the field. Sound familiar?I break down a few key points:✅ Why parents often misjudge their kids' strengths and weaknesses (and how to be more objective)✅ The importance of focusing on broad development themes instead of reacting to every game✅ How extra touches at home build technical ability and confidence in a way that isn't always obvious✅ A simple way to track progress without overloading your child with feedbackThis episode is packed with practical tips, plus a little bit of “preaching” (you've been warned!). If you're trying to help your child take more initiative and build confidence in their skills, you won't want to miss this one.Hit play, and let's get into it!

Hey everyone, I'm Neil Crawford, founder of Anytime Soccer Training. In this episode, I chat with Dennis Bros, founder of NASDA, about how he's helping young players gain international soccer experience. We cover club-neutral pathways, ID camps, and affordable opportunities to play in Europe. Don't miss it!Learn more at https://www.nasdasoccer.com/

Welcome to another episode! I'm Neil Crawford, founder of Anytime Soccer Training, and today we're tackling a question that hits close to home for many soccer parents.Have you ever told your kid not to pass to certain teammates—maybe a new kid or someone you think is better than them? It's a tough topic, but I'm offering my thoughts on the situation and what role coaches play in this kind of behavior.We'll also dig into how parents can balance development, fun, and the things we can actually control to help our kids grow as players.Come join the conversation!