Why separating players by ability doesn’t work
From It's Only Kids Football by Ben Welch and Mike Clark
April 20, 2026 · 1h 6m · Season 1 · Episode 91
About this episode
Ben and Mike discuss the challenges of coaching mixed ability groups in grassroots football with expert Chris Ramsey.
In this episode, Ben and Mike welcome Chris Ramsey onto the pod. One of the most respected voices in player development and coaching in the English game, Ramsey's career spans roles at QPR, Tottenham, and the FA. He has worked across academy football, first-team management, and coach education, helping shape not just players, but better coaches and environments. Together, they unpack the real challenges of grassroots football: coaching mixed ability groups, building confidence in young players, and managing the pressures that come from parents and expectations. You’ll learn why keeping sessions simple often beats copying elite tactics, how repetition and structure accelerate development, and why communication—not drills—is the most important coaching skill. They also tackle the debate around positions, explain how to create a positive environment where kids enjoy the game, and share practical insights to help volunteer coaches get the best out of every player. Football DNA is the ultimate platform for coach and player development: https://footballdna.co.uk/sessions/ Power your grassroots team with effortless payments — sign up with GoCardless today at…
People in this episode
Hosts: Ben Welch, Mike Clark
Guest: Chris Ramsey
Topics covered
- grassroots football
- coaching
- player development
- mixed ability groups
- parental expectations
- positive environment
Keywords
- grassroots football
- coaching
- player development
- mixed ability
- youth soccer
- confidence building
- communication skills
Sponsors
GoCardless, Football Discount Kits
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: QPR, Tottenham, the FA, Football DNA
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- Should you play equal game time in tournament football? · May 18, 2026 · 1h 15m
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