Why Separating Players By Ability Doesn’t Work

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 https://gocardless.com/g/payments-spo... and spend less time chasing fees, more time developing your players. Football Discount Kits supplies quality football kits at prices that actually work for grassroots clubs — no nonsense, no hard sell, just reliable teamwear that arrives on time and looks the part on matchday: https://www.discountfootballkits.com/ LoveAdmin takes the admin off your plate so you can spend more time coaching and less time chasing parents: https://loveadmin.com/ Save £200 on the Veo Cam 3 👉 Use Code: iokfveocam3 Save 50% on the Veo Go 👉 Use Code: iokfveogo TikTok:   / iokfootball   Instagram:   / iokfootball   X (Twitter): https://x.com/iokfootball YouTube:    / @iokfootball   Facebook:   / itsonlykidsfootballpodcast   Email: [email protected]