In my experience, a coach’s pre-game words are a reflection of his or her wider coaching philosophy, and a good measure of their belief as to what constitutes team success. Simple, encouraging, memorable words really can make a positive impact on young players and help in their journey through life. So let’s choose our words […]

                                                 Photo Credit: Leeming Design                                              MIKE SMITH, FOUNDER: BIGiDEASPORTS A […]

Happy to see our 1+1 Peer Learning concept kicking off at a Premier League club. A season of Academy players and Special Olympics players sharing their passion for football, live and on-line, with benefits on both sides. Particular thanks to Newcastle United Academy Director Joe Joyce for his openness and commitment to this pilot project. LINK.

This evening I stopped to watch some kids, a mix of boys and girls, in the local square (in Spain we are lucky to still have them) playing intensely as the street lights come on, mimicking the moves of the stars that inspire them; playing a unique and special version of the beautiful game. In […]

I live in Barcelona. Most Saturdays I am in my local pub watching Barca play their magical brand of football. Like many people, I love the Pro game: The skill, the speed and intensity, the physical battle and knife-edged drama, the maniacal fans. For sure, the Pro game is an inspirational magnet for attracting a […]