In my experience, America has one of the worst cultures in the world for choosing winning over development at youth age groups 😔. It’s no surprise their national side continues to struggle.

If parents could guarantee that their child becomes a top player & signs for a pro academy, but, has to lose every game they play at grassroots in the process, the majority would agree to that deal. In reality however, the majority of parents still seek winning over development.

Our weekly live will be happening tonight (Sunday 17th Dec) at 7pm with Dan Edwards and Sean Conlon. Send us your questions to answer on the episode. You know the drill 👊💫

Is it common for parents of U8 players in pre-academies to be feeling stressed right now?

Of the top pro footballers, what percentage of parents do you think pushed their children to make it in the same way that Ted Beckham did?

What club has the best academy in England and why?

Did you know that it is almost impossible for a player to leave a Category 1 academy to join another Category 1 academy if the club their are contracted with doesn’t want them to leave? Is this rule fair?

At what point should you discourage your child from pursuing a career in football?