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The touchline blog
Straight-talking articles for volunteer coaches. Looking for quick reference? See our coach guides.
Parents · 2 November 2026 · 6 min read
A parent says their child isn't getting enough minutes. Here's what to say.
How to handle playing time complaints calmly: park it, check the facts, then acknowledge, show and agree a next step.
Read articleMatchday · 29 October 2026 · 6 min read
The 7v7 team sheet: why winging your rotations fails
A simple way to plan fair 7v7 rotations in quarters, and why winging it leaves the quiet kids short of minutes.
Read articleParent coaches · 29 October 2026 · 7 min read
The overcompensation trap: coaching your own child
Why parent-coaches end up harder on their own kid, and practical ways to stay fair to every player, including yours.
Read articleNew coaches · 26 October 2026 · 8 min read
How to become a grassroots football coach
From zero experience to your first session: DBS checks, safeguarding, a one-page session plan, real costs and the hours it takes.
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