In this episode, we explore the psychological journey of young footballers, from their first kicks at U5s through to adolescence.
Oliver Spink, a Sport Psychologist (in Doctorate Training) and Founder of One More Sport Psychology, joins me to discuss the emotional needs, mental milestones, and common challenges young players face as they grow and develop.

We dive into:
⚽ How psychological stages align with a child’s football journey
🧠 What parents and coaches can do to support emotional well-being at every age
🚸 The damaging impact of adult aggression, shouting, and violence on young players
💬 How to create a positive, safe, and development-first environment for kids
🌱 Long-term psychological consequences of too much pressure too soon

Whether you're a parent, coach, or just passionate about youth football, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you raise confident, resilient young players — both on and off the pitch.