In this episode of The Inside Scoop , Neil Crawford shares a powerful story about a young player's transition from rec to competitive soccer—and how that moment inspired the creation of Anytime Weekly Plans . He also breaks down the difference between goals and standards , why kids might not fully grasp long-term goals, and how parents can use consistency, structure, and growth mindset to keep the journey on track—even after the excitement wears off....
Apr 06, 2025•23 min
In this episode, I respond to a great question from a parent of a four-year-old asking if Anytime Soccer Training has sessions for kids that young — and more importantly, what advice I’d give to someone just starting their soccer journey. I take a step back and reflect on what I wish I had known when my boys were that age. We talk about being intentional but playful, the importance of early adoption, staying informed as a parent, and why your behavior — not just your actions — can shape your chi...
Apr 03, 2025•24 min
In this episode, I’m responding to a voice memo from a friend and fellow soccer parent who’s been using the 30-day programs inside Anytime Soccer Training. She loves how simple and organized it is — and I totally get it. That’s why I built those plans. But I also wanted to share something deeper — how I stumbled on what I now call a cheat code for building a rock-solid technical foundation at home. I talk about how the program evolved, why structure and variation matter so much, and how even som...
Apr 03, 2025•15 min
In this episode of The Inside Scoop , I answer a question I hear all the time from parents — “How can I help my child become more confident, especially in 1v1 situations against stronger players?” A fellow parent reached out about their almost 11-year-old who is technically decent but lacks confidence when the pressure is on. I’ve been there — not just as a coach, but as a dad working with my own sons. And the truth is, confidence in soccer doesn’t come out of thin air; it comes from having a ro...
Apr 03, 2025•42 min
Hey, it’s Neil Crawford, founder of Anytime Soccer Training. In this episode, I answer a common question from parents — where should your child start in the program? I break it down simply: begin with the 1,000 Touch Ball Mastery , Ronaldinho Freestyle Dribbling , Juggling , and Wall Passing . These are the core building blocks I used with my own kids. I also share why patience and consistency matter — this is a long-term, delayed gratification process, but it pays off big time. Plus, I walk you...
Apr 01, 2025•23 min
In this episode, I break down a soccer video submitted by one of our Facebook group members, showing how data can turn subjective opinions into objective insights . Instead of relying on gut feelings or vague feedback, I explore how tracking key metrics—like touches, decision-making, and positioning—can provide a clearer picture of player development. Join me as I discuss why numbers don’t lie, how to measure real progress, and how parents and coaches can use data to refine training strategies ....
Mar 28, 2025•19 min
In this episode, I sit down with Tami Matheny, a renowned Mental Game Coach, author, and certified Jon Gordon trainer, to explore one of the trickiest aspects of youth sports: giving feedback to competitive kids. Tami draws on her deep experience working with athletes across a wide range of sports—including soccer—to offer practical, research-backed advice for parents and coaches alike. We dive into: The fine line between encouragement and pressure How to tailor your feedback based on your child...
Mar 24, 2025•32 min
In this episode, I keep the conversation going on youth soccer development and club accountability. After stirring up discussions in our online communities, I take a deeper dive into the real challenges of evaluating player progress. Are clubs truly developing players, or just marketing development? I break down the difference between player evaluations and measuring a club’s effectiveness, highlight key red flags, and discuss how parents can take a more informed approach. If you're investing ti...
Mar 21, 2025•42 min
In this episode, I sit down with Mike Haughton, Technical Director of Bluffton Rush , to explore how a strong technical framework helps young players thrive. With experience at Manchester City’s Academy, Burnley FC, and Global Premier Soccer, Mike shares key insights on coaching education, player development, and building a successful soccer pathway. 🔗 Learn more about Mike and Bluffton Rush: Bluffton Rush Staff...
Mar 15, 2025•1 hr 3 min
Hey everyone, welcome back to The Inside Scoop ! I'm your host, Neil Crawford, founder of Anytime Soccer Training. If you're new here, this podcast helps parents explore different soccer pathways worldwide. And of course, it's brought to you by Anytime Soccer Training—the only training app with over 5,000 step-by-step training videos. Check it out at anytime-soccer.com . Now, onto today’s show! Yesterday, my youngest son, Matthew (2013, now 11), had a first-time experience—his first private trai...
Mar 14, 2025•23 min
In this follow-up episode, I continue the conversation on youth soccer development and club accountability. After sparking debate in our online communities, I break down the reality behind club philosophies and the challenge of measuring true progress. Are clubs genuinely developing players, or just selling the illusion of it? I tackle common misconceptions, the complexities of evaluating development, and the role parents play in navigating the system. If your child’s soccer journey is an invest...
Mar 07, 2025•32 min
Every soccer club claims to prioritize "individual development," but what does that really mean? In this episode, I explore the layers behind club philosophies, development processes, and game models, exposing the gaps in transparency. If your child’s soccer journey is an investment, how do you measure the return?
Mar 07, 2025•40 min
Podcast Title: "Join the 1%: Elevate Your Rec Coaching Game"Episode Summary: In this follow-up episode, I break down what separates the top 1% of rec coaches from the rest. Spoiler alert—it’s not about having a pro soccer background! It’s about being intentional, organized, and focused on player development while keeping the game fun . I’ll share practical steps on structuring engaging practices, teaching key fundamentals, and creating an environment where kids thrive. Whether you’re coaching fo...
Mar 02, 2025•33 min
Podcast Title: "Rec Coach to Rec Coach: Advice for New Soccer Coaches"Episode Summary: Hey everyone, it’s Neil Crawford, host of Inside Scoop and founder of Anytime Soccer Training. Today, I’m diving into a message from an old friend who just volunteered to coach his son’s U-12 team. He’s excited but a little nervous—sound familiar? In this episode, I reflect on my own journey as a rec coach, the two main types of rec coaches, and how coaching can be both a fun way to give back and a stepping st...
Mar 02, 2025•43 min
Hey everyone, it’s Neil Crawford, host of The Inside Scoop and founder of Anytime Soccer Training. In this episode, I dive into a social media post that’s been making the rounds on game formats and youth soccer development. But before getting into that, I introduce a term I’m coining for parents— tactical goals and tactical sequences —which describe patterns of play that reflect a team’s game model. I break down why it’s important to evaluate whether goals and sequences in matches align with wha...
Feb 28, 2025•35 min
Hey everyone, it’s Neil Crawford, host of The Inside Scoop and founder of Anytime Soccer Training. In this episode, I’m following up on a recent discussion about whether playing experience is a must for coaching. This topic has so many layers, so I’m breaking it down piece by piece. For me, it all starts with mindset—believing that anything is possible if you put in the work. But it’s not just about blind optimism; it’s about understanding the process, staying committed, and recognizing that the...
Feb 28, 2025•14 min
Welcome to The Inside Scoop ! Today, we’re tackling a hot topic in youth soccer—does playing experience matter when it comes to coaching? This debate comes up constantly in soccer circles. Some argue that you must have played at a high level to coach effectively, while others believe coaching is a separate skill that can be developed without prior playing experience. Where’s the line? Does it depend on age, competition level, or something else? Throughout this series, we’ll hear from different p...
Feb 28, 2025•37 min
Podcast Title: Is Using Guest Players Ethical? Let's Talk About State Cup Rosters ⚽️ Podcast Summary: In this episode, I'm diving into a hot topic from my Youth Soccer Guest Player Opportunities group: Is it ethical to add guest players for state cups and regional qualifiers? I share my experience and discuss the loopholes, roster freezes, and realities faced by clubs and parents. This one's got me thinking—I’d love to hear your thoughts, too! I'm Neil Crawford, founder of Anytime Soccer Trainin...
Feb 25, 2025•11 min
Podcast Title: "Puberty, Patience, and the Technical Myth in Youth Soccer" Podcast Summary: In today's episode of The Inside Scoop , I share a thoughtful email from one of our listeners that sparked an important conversation about youth soccer and the impact of puberty on player development. We dive into the challenges kids face when their physical maturity doesn't align with their technical skills, emphasizing how patience, mental resilience, and tactical awareness become vital during these cri...
Feb 25, 2025•42 min
In this episode, I walk you through how to create a personalized soccer training plan using Anytime Soccer Training. From signing in and selecting skill areas—like juggling, ball mastery, dribbling, and wall passing—to saving favorites and building custom training sessions, I break it down step by step. Plus, I share how you can access pre-made sessions, track progress, and collaborate with others. Whether you're a parent or coach, this guide makes organizing effective training easier than ever....
Feb 22, 2025•6 min
Hey everyone, it's Neil Crawford, your host and the founder of Anytime Soccer Training. On this episode of The Inside Scoop , I’m responding to a heartfelt email from a parent who’s struggling with their child’s soccer development. She can’t afford private training, but sees other kids benefiting from it—and she’s worried her son is falling behind. I totally get it. My own sons have never had regular private lessons, and I know firsthand how overwhelming it can feel. So today, I’m breaking down ...
Feb 21, 2025•28 min
Hey everyone, it's Neil Crawford, your host and the founder of Anytime Soccer Training. On this episode of The Inside Scoop , I’m responding to a heartfelt email from a parent who’s struggling with their child’s soccer development. She can’t afford private training, but sees other kids benefiting from it—and she’s worried her son is falling behind. I totally get it. My own sons have never had regular private lessons, and I know firsthand how overwhelming it can feel. So today, I’m breaking down ...
Feb 21, 2025•32 min
Hey everyone, welcome back to another edition of Inside Scoop ! I’m your host, Neil Crawford, founder of Anytime Soccer Training. If you’re new here, this podcast is all about helping parents understand the different soccer pathways available to their kids—whether they live in the U.S. or anywhere else in the world. In this episode, I’m tackling something personal—parental bias and the irony of assessing our own kids. A friend called me out on a contradiction: how can I tell parents they might m...
Feb 19, 2025•18 min
Hey everyone, welcome back to Inside Scoop ! I’m Neil Crawford, your host and the founder of Anytime Soccer Training. If you’re new here, this is the show where we dive into soccer pathways around the world and help parents navigate the crazy journey of youth soccer. And of course, this podcast is brought to you by Anytime Soccer Training—the only program with over 5,000 follow-along training videos to help your child build confidence and skill at their own pace. Today’s episode is a short but i...
Feb 19, 2025•27 min
Hey everyone, I’m Neil Crawford, founder of Anytime Soccer Training. In this episode, I chat with Dennis Bros, founder of NASDA, about how he’s helping young players gain international soccer experience. We cover club-neutral pathways, ID camps, and affordable opportunities to play in Europe. Don’t miss it! Learn more at https://www.nasdasoccer.com/
Feb 16, 2025•17 min
Welcome to another episode! I’m Neil Crawford, founder of Anytime Soccer Training, and today we’re tackling a question that hits close to home for many soccer parents. Have you ever told your kid not to pass to certain teammates—maybe a new kid or someone you think is better than them? It’s a tough topic, but I’m offering my thoughts on the situation and what role coaches play in this kind of behavior. We’ll also dig into how parents can balance development, fun, and the things we can actually c...
Feb 10, 2025•45 min
Coach Dave Gleason on Learning
Feb 07, 2025•1 min
Why does youth soccer in the U.S. cost so much? In this episode, I sit down with Coach Rory to break down the real reasons behind the high price of playing. It’s not just club fees and travel—it’s the entire system. From league structures to funding models, we dive into why parents are footing the bill while other countries keep costs low. This is a short preview before the full interview drops—don’t miss it! Let me know your thoughts in the comments. 🔔 Subscribe for more insights on youth socc...
Feb 04, 2025•57 min
Why does youth soccer in the U.S. cost so much? In this episode, I sit down with Coach Rory to break down the real reasons behind the high price of playing. It’s not just club fees and travel—it’s the entire system. From league structures to funding models, we dive into why parents are footing the bill while other countries keep costs low. This is a short preview before the full interview drops—don’t miss it! Let me know your thoughts in the comments. 🔔 Subscribe for more insights on youth socc...
Feb 04, 2025•8 min
Hey, it’s Neil Crawford here, host of The Inside Scoop and founder of Anytime Soccer Training. This week, I’m diving into the controversial topic of “parent education” in soccer. What does it really mean? Is it as essential as we think, or is it just a misunderstood buzzword? I’ll share my perspective, highlight challenges, and suggest a fresh way of framing the discussion. It’s a thought-provoking episode, and I’d love to hear your take. Tune in and let’s dig into it!...
Jan 28, 2025•38 min
