Hey everyone.

We started this newsletter to complement our Instagram page.

There are so many inspiring early years football stories out there and a ton of amazing clips.

We couldn’t be happier to see a movement growing that celebrates early years football and supports parents getting intentional.

🤯 Some of the clips we see blow our minds. Keep them coming.

📹️ Submit here to send yours over.

Right then. Let’s get into it!

RAISING THE LEVELS

↩️ The definition of twisted blood

How sharp are these turns?

rkixsoccer

71K followers

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🎧️ 7 ways to get better at dribbling

Great progressive close control drill. Mesmerising to watch!

thementalathletee

1,563 followers

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REPS REPS REPS

🛠️ Skills and drills and video tape

Some of the best from our timelines this week:

👉️ Touch and return. Simple drill to develop receiving and returning the ball at varying ranges.

⚡️ Rapid moves. Receive and go. We like this drill on Ballher.

⚽️ Adding a second ball into a drill is on the rise. Double the difficulty. We’re seeing it a lot more on our timelines.

🧢 Ball manipulation and movement explained. We love to see great coaches at work with their group.

🏠️ This drill is multi-generational. A wall is a great partner for drills to develop ball control and footwork.

💪 Working on competitiveness and using the body as part of the armoury. Nice drill.

THE SCIENCE

📊 7 Science-backed ways sports positively impact kids

Most parents already know this instinctively. But when the journey’s bumpy it’s good to see written down that it’s backed by rock solid research.

1. Physical Health and Fitness

Sports programmes encourage regular physical activity, promoting healthy growth and development. Kids who play sports are more likely to maintain a healthy weight, improve their cardiovascular health, and develop strong muscles and bones.

2. Mental Health and Emotional Well-being

Participating in sports can significantly impact a child's mental health. It helps reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while boosting self-esteem and confidence. The endorphins released during physical activity can improve mood and mental clarity.

3. Social Skills and Teamwork

Sports programs foster essential social skills and teamwork. Kids learn to communicate effectively, collaborate with others, and develop a sense of camaraderie. These experiences are invaluable for building friendships and social networks.

4. Discipline and Time Management

Engaging in sports requires discipline and time management. Young athletes learn the importance of setting goals, following schedules, and balancing sports with academics. These skills are transferable to other areas of life.

5. Academic Performance

Studies have shown that children who participate in sports often perform better academically. The skills learned in sports, such as focus, determination, and perseverance, translate into better study habits and academic achievement

6. Leadership and Responsibility

Sports provide opportunities for kids to develop leadership skills. Being a team captain or leading by example on the field helps children understand responsibility and the impact of their actions on others.

7. Resilience and Coping Skills

Through sports, children experience wins and losses, teaching them resilience and how to cope with setbacks. Learning to handle failure and success gracefully is an essential life skill.