🎙️ Go Football Podcast - Episode 7: The New 3v3 Format in Grassroots Football ⚽

In Episode 7 of the Go Football Podcast, we’re tackling one of the biggest changes to hit grassroots football—the newly announced 3v3 format coming in the 2026/27 season, as revealed by The FA. This bold new approach aims to enhance player development by increasing touches on the ball, decision-making opportunities, and overall enjoyment for young footballers. But what does this mean for coaches, parents, referees, and players? We break it all down for you!

In this episode, we discuss:

✅ The FA’s 3v3 Announcement – A deep dive into the new format, why the Football Association is making the change, and how it could transform grassroots football for the next generation.

✅ Why 3v3 Matters – Explore the benefits of 3v3 football, including increased ball mastery, game intelligence, and more playing time for every child. We also touch on how it aligns with international best practices in youth football development.

✅ Challenges of the New Format – What will clubs, coaches, and parents need to prepare for? We discuss the practicalities of adapting to smaller teams, pitch layouts, and how this shift may change the way grassroots football is coached and played.

✅ How It Impacts Development – We explore how this new format could shape young players, focusing on technical ability,

confidence, and decision-making. Plus, how it might affect the transition to 5v5, 7v7, 9v9, and 11v11 in later age groups.

📩 Get Involved! We want to hear from YOU! What do you think about the new 3v3 format? Will it improve youth football, or are there concerns? Share your thoughts by emailing us at gofootballpod@gmail.com or connecting with us on social media.

🎧 Don’t Miss Out! Make sure to follow, subscribe, and leave a review on your favorite platform—whether you’re listening on Spotify, YouTube, Podbean, Amazon Music, or Apple Podcasts.

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🎙️ Go Football Podcast - Episode 6: Respect in Grassroots Football ⚽

In Episode 6 of the Go Football Podcast, we’re tackling one of the biggest issues in the grassroots game—RESPECT. Whether you're a referee, coach, player, or parent, respect plays a huge role in shaping the game, and the energy on the pitch often comes from the sidelines, coaches, and spectators. But how can we make sure it stays positive?

This week, we discuss:

✅ Referees' perspective – The challenges match officials face and why respect is crucial.

✅ Coaches' role in setting the tone – How their energy impacts the game and the players.

✅ Players' mindset – How respect between teammates and opponents improves development.

✅ Parents and spectators – Why sideline behavior matters more than you think.

🚨 "On The Pitch" returns! This week, we’re talking about a bizarre shin pad incident in a recent cup game—have you ever seen anything like it?

📩 Get in touch! We’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic. Email us at gofootballpod@gmail.com or hit us up on social media.

⚡ Don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and leave a review! Available now on Spotify, YouTube, Podbean, and all major podcast platforms.

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🎙️ Go Football Podcast - Episode 5: Grassroots Shape & Formations ⚽

Welcome back to the Go Football Podcast! A huge thank you to our returning listeners, and a special shoutout to everyone who voted on their favorite grassroots formations for 7v7, 9v9, and 11v11. Your input has shaped this episode, and we’re diving deep into how team shape and formations impact player development at every stage of the grassroots journey.

This week, we discuss:

✅ Why formations matter – How the right setup helps young players develop technical, tactical, and positional awareness.

✅ Best formations for each stage – The strengths and weaknesses of different systems in 7v7, 9v9, and 11v11 football.

✅ How to coach team shape – Tips for grassroots coaches.

✅ Adapting tactics for player development – Why players should experience multiple positions and formations to maximize growth.

🔎 Did You Know? Some of the best players in the world didn’t start in their final positions! We’ll explore how tactical flexibility shaped the careers of top pros and why grassroots players should embrace change.

Of course, we’ve also got our usual football insights from the grassroots game, and tips for coaches, parents, players, and referees looking to navigate the beautiful game!

📧 A massive thank you to everyone who emailed us at gofootballpod@gmail.com and interacted with us on social media. Your feedback and questions keep this podcast going—keep them coming!

Don’t forget to follow, rate, and subscribe on Spotify, YouTube, Podbean, and all major podcast platforms to stay up to date with the latest in grassroots football.

#GrassrootsFootball #FootballFormations #7v7 #9v9 #11v11 #YouthFootball #FootballCoaching #TacticalAnalysis #FootballDevelopment #SoccerPodcast #CoachingTips #FootballTrivia #GoFootballPodcast

🎙️ Go Football Podcast - Episode 4: Mastering Formations in Grassroots Football 🎙️

In Episode 4 of the Go Football Podcast, we dive into the world of formations and why it’s crucial for young players to learn how to play in different systems. Whether it’s 4-4-2, 3-5-2, or 4-3-3, understanding formations helps players develop tactical awareness, adaptability, and all-round game intelligence—key skills for progressing in football.

This week, we discuss:

⚽ Why versatility matters – The benefits of training players in multiple formations.

⚽ How coaches can introduce tactical flexibility at different age groups.

⚽ Common mistakes to avoid when moving between formations.

🔎 Did you know? Before becoming a world-class midfielder, Steven Gerrard started as a right-back! And he’s not the only one—Ashley Cole began as a forward, and Kyle Walker played as a winger before settling into his defensive role. We explore how positional changes shape player development.

As always, we’ve got our usual football trivia, plus discussions on grassroots coaching, player progression, and how parents and referees fit into the journey.

📧 A massive thank you to everyone who emailed us at gofootballpod@gmail.com and engaged with us on social media! Keep your questions and thoughts coming—we love hearing from you.

Follow, subscribe, and rate the Go Football Podcast on Spotify, YouTube, and all major platforms for your weekly grassroots football insights.

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🎙️Episode 3: "The Game Moves On" - Navigating Grassroots Football Transitions 🎧

Welcome to Episode 3 of the Go Football Podcast, where we dive deep into the heart of grassroots football! This week, we’re focusing on one of the biggest journeys in the game: the transition from 5v5 to 7v7, 9v9, and finally 11v11. These changes are vital for player development but can also present unique challenges for coaches, players, and parents.

🎙️ In This Episode:

The Transition Explained: We break down what each stage of the game means for young players. From the tight-knit action of 5v5 to the tactical complexity of 11v11, we discuss how the game evolves and why these stages are so important for development.

Challenges for Coaches: Managing squad sizes, changing formations, and keeping training sessions relevant at each level—coaching through these transitions isn’t always easy. We share tips and advice to help coaches keep players engaged and improving.

Support for Parents: As parents, understanding these changes is key to supporting your child’s journey. We’ll offer practical insights on how to encourage your young footballer to embrace new formats and overcome obstacles.

Player Perspective: For young players, adapting to new team dynamics, larger pitches, and new rules can be tough. We’ll share ideas to help them develop confidence and skills as they progress through these stages

⚽ Regular Features:

On the Pitch: This week’s update from the grassroots community, highlighting the stories, challenges, and achievements shaping the game at the local level.

Trivia Time: Test your knowledge with this week’s football trivia challenge, featuring some fun and surprising facts about the evolution of the grassroots game.

📬 Get Involved:

A massive thank you to everyone who emailed us at gofootballpod@gmail.com or connected with us on social media! Your questions, stories, and feedback inspire the show. Got a topic or story to share? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you, and you might even be featured in an upcoming episode!

🎧 Where to Listen:

Don’t miss Episode 3 of the Go Football Podcast! Listen now on Spotify or watch the full video version on YouTube. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with your football community to help us grow the conversation around grassroots football.

Join us as we explore the journey from small-sided games to the full 11-a-side experience. Whether you’re a coach, parent, player, or referee, this episode is packed with insights, tips, and a shared love for grassroots football.

Let’s keep the game moving forward together! On pass at a time ⚽

🎙️ Go Football Podcast - Episode 2: The Changing Game of Football 🎙️

In Episode 2 of the Go Football Podcast, we explore how the game of football is evolving to meet the needs of players, coaches, and fans at every level. Hosted by Steve, a UEFA Licensed Coach, Referee, and Grassroots Parent, this episode is packed with insights into the latest developments in the sport, from grassroots to the professional game.

Here’s what we’re tackling this week:

⚽ The New Format Changes: A deep dive into the recently announced shift to 3v3 and 4v4 formats for younger players. What do these changes mean for player development, and how are they being received in grassroots football?

⚽ Evolution of the Rules: From the iconic introduction of the pass-back rule in 1992 to more recent changes like the heading and kick-in rule trials, we break down how the game has adapted over the years and why.

⚽ What’s Next for Football?: A discussion on how modern changes are shaping the future of the sport for players, coaches, referees, and parents alike.

This episode is perfect for anyone looking to stay informed about football’s ever-changing landscape.

📧 Got a question, feedback, or topic you’d like us to cover? Email us at gofootballpod@gmail.com — your input could be featured in a future episode!

Follow, subscribe, and rate the Go Football Podcast on Spotify, YouTube

🎙️ Go Football Podcast - Episode 1: Football Firsts, Trivia, and Rule Changes 🎙️

Welcome to the Go Football Podcast, your new go-to show for all things football! Hosted by Steve, a UEFA Licensed Coach, Referee, and Grassroots Parent, this podcast is designed for coaches, players, parents, and referees who want to dive deeper into the game we all love.

In this episode, we’re starting strong with:

⚽ Football Firsts: Discover fascinating trivia about historic “firsts” in football — perfect for die-hard fans and trivia lovers alike.

⚽ The Heading and Kick-In Rule Trials: We explore how these rule changes are being used this season, their impact on the game, and what it means for the future of football at all levels.

Whether you're on the sidelines, in the dugout, or out on the pitch, this episode delivers insights, debates, and knowledge to take your love for football to the next level.

📧 Got a question, feedback, or topic suggestion? Email us at gofootballpod@gmail.com — we’d love to hear from you and include your ideas in future episodes!

Follow, rate, and subscribe on Spotify and all major platforms to join us on this exciting journey through football!

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