The Football Parent
WHAT CAN THEY ACTUALLY PRACTISE AT HOME?
BALL MASTERY
Touches, control and getting comfortable with the ball.
PASSING
Accuracy and receiving the ball.
DRIBBLING
Close control and changing direction.
FIRST TOUCH
Receiving and controlling the football.
SHOOTING
Accuracy and technique where there is a suitable and safe space.
DO THEY REALLY NEED MORE EQUIPMENT?
More equipment isn't always better. Start with the basics and add things when they have a clear purpose.
STARTING OUT
Keep things simple. A football and a little space can go a long way.
REGULAR TRAINING
Consider adding simple equipment such as cones and markers.
EXTRA PRACTICE
A rebounder or small goal can create more ways to practise.
MORE SPECIALISED TRAINING
Add equipment when your child has a clear interest or specific area they want to practise.
DEVELOPMENT ESSENTIALS
TRAINING BALLS
Choose a suitable football for regular practice.
TRAINING EQUIPMENT
Simple equipment can create more ways to practise.
REBOUNDERS
Useful for passing, receiving and practising independently.
FOOTBALL GOALS
Create a simple target for shooting and finishing practice.
FOOTBALL BOOTS
Comfortable boots suited to the playing surface remain important.
WHAT CAN THEY ACTUALLY PRACTISE AT HOME?
BALL MASTERY
Touches, control and getting comfortable with the ball.
PASSING
Accuracy and receiving the ball.
DRIBBLING
Close control and changing direction.
FIRST TOUCH
Receiving and controlling the football.
SHOOTING
Accuracy and technique where there is a suitable and safe space.
NAVIGATING ACADEMY TRIALS
Understanding the academy trial process, managing expectations and supporting your child through one of the most challenging parts of the journey.
HOW TRIALS WORK
From scouting to the 8-week trial period, here is what to expect from the formal process.
ACADEMY CATEGORIES
Understanding the difference between Category 1, 2, 3 and 4 academies and what it means for your child.
PREPARING FOR TRIALS
Practical advice on helping your child stay relaxed and focused when the scout comes calling.
MATCH THE EQUIPMENT TO THE PRACTICE
BALL
CONES / MARKERS
Useful for: Ball mastery, Touches, Dribbling, Passing
Useful for: Dribbling, Changing direction, Footwork
REBOUNDER
Useful for: Passing, Receiving, First touch
GOAL / TARGET
Useful for: Shooting, Finishing, Accuracy
YOU DON'T NEED A FULL-SIZE PITCH
A small, safe space can be enough for useful practice.
SMALL SPACE
Football + a few markers
MEDIUM SPACE
Football + cones + rebounder
LARGER SPACE
Football + rebounder + goal
Parent tip: Keep practice short, enjoyable and age-appropriate. The aim is to encourage them to want to practise again.
HELP THEM ENJOY THE NEXT STEP
The best development environment is one where young players enjoy playing, practising and learning. You don't need to buy everything. Start with what they enjoy and add equipment when it gives them another useful way to practise.
MORE HELP FOR FOOTBALL PARENTS
FIRST FOOTBALL KIT
TRAINING ESSENTIALS
MATCHDAY ESSENTIALS
GRASSROOTS ESSENTIALS
For players just getting started.
Everything they need for regular training.
Get ready for the weekend's match.
The practical kit they need for grassroots football.
HELP THEM ENJOY THE NEXT STEP
The best development environment is one where young players enjoy playing, practising and learning. You don't need to buy everything. Start with what they enjoy and add equipment when it gives them another useful way to practise.