In this heartfelt episode of Ball at all Cost, we dive into the incredible dedication of parents and kids in grassroots football. From early morning drives to cheering on the sidelines, we explore the sacrifices, passion, and love that fuel the journey. Join us for an inspiring discussion on what commitment truly means in the beautiful game! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more stories from the heart of football.

Commitment

In this powerful episode of Ballatallcost, we sit down with Melvin Minter, a seasoned non-league goalkeeper, entrepreneur, and inspiring figure in the world of football.

We go beyond the pitch to explore: Mental resilience and bouncing back from setbacks, Fly4Sport and goalkeeping entrepreneurship, Rising Ballers’ impact on players like Iliman Ndiaye, working with Harry Kane, the viral spotlight, staying grounded, and lessons from High Performance Habits, the importance of starting young with technical basics, how to develop as a modern-day goalkeeper in the Pep Guardiola era, a heartfelt tribute to Lisa, a grassroots football legend

Melvin shares the realities of non-league football, the pressure of going viral, and the mindset needed to thrive.

👉🏾 Watch, share, and be inspired.

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From Non-League Dreams to Viral Success

This episode of BallAtAllCost tells a dad’s story as he watches his daughter grow in the game. It starts quietly and builds to a Chelsea trial where she scores from midfield, the moment everything shifts.

It shows what people don’t see: late nights, tough calls, money worries, and the ups and downs of backing a young player. It also touches on why representation matters, the hurdles girls still face, and the pride that comes when hard work turns into real progress.

The goal is the headline. The journey is the heart.

Academy Series - A Dad's Story

Marcus joins us on BallAtAllCost to share what really goes on in the world of scouting and youth football. From spotting talent at U9–U16, to why showcase leagues like Ballers Link-Up are catching the eye of recruiters, this episode gives a proper inside look at how young players get noticed.

We talk about what scouts actually look for beyond just skills, why showcase formats are creating new opportunities, how grassroots setups can sometimes outshine academies, honest advice for parents on travel, training, nutrition and supporting development, the overlooked areas that matter most: mindset, resilience, off-the-ball work and fitness, success stories with players getting trials and signings at top clubs

If you’re into youth development, scouting or helping the next generation of players, you’ll find plenty of value here.

How Scouts Spot Future Stars

In this powerful episode of BallAtAllCost, we sit down with Dave Bricknell of Ryan FC, a passionate figure in football whose journey spans grassroots to professional levels.

From spotting the next Harry Kane to guiding players through the unpredictable world of youth academies, Dave shares raw insight into the mindset required to succeed in football, balancing opportunity with player well-being, overtraining, early pressure & protecting young talent, the art of scouting… what really makes a future star, Glenn Hoddle, passing football, and why basics still matter, navigating football dreams as a parent or coach 

Drop your thoughts in the comments!

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#ballatallcost #youthfootball #footballscouting #grassrootsfootball #footballdevelopment #harrykane #spursacademy #mentorship #football #coachingkids #footballpodcast #ukfootball #FIFA #academylife #UEFA

The Truth About Making it in Football w/Dave Bricknell

In this episode of Ballatallcost, we sit down with Keaton Hutchings to explore his unique journey in football, from South London and Millwall to working with top players through the Spanish agency Niagara Sports.

We talk about: The transition from academy life at Millwall to representing global stars like Dani Olmo and Álvaro Morata. The passion of South London football and its role in shaping talent. Why character and personality matter just as much as skill. How recruitment, coaching, and mentorship define Millwall’s identity. The role of passports, Brexit, and player mobility in shaping careers today. The pressure, unpredictability, and rewards of grassroots and academy football. 

Keaton shares raw insights into building a career in football, balancing passion with family life, and how relationships can shape opportunities in this beautiful game.

Let us know your thoughts in the comments… what do you think defines a top player?

#ballatallcost #footballpodcast #millwall #southlondonfootball #daniolmo #alvaromorata #footballcommunity #grassrootsfootball #academyfootball #playerdevelopment #football #premierleague #laliga #kidsfootball #fifa #uefa

Talent, Mentorship & Football Dreams

In this inspiring episode of Ballatallcost, we sit down with Eartha Pond, former Arsenal player, Westminster councilor, and founder of the ESP Foundation, for a deep and powerful conversation on football, education, inclusion, and policy.

We explore: Her football journey from Arsenal to public service. How to improve access, comfort, and participation for girls in sports. The rise of women’s football and its evolving business landscape. Why Arsenal’s fanbase and ticket sales model stands out. The need for medical support and professional standards in the women’s game. Why PE should be a core subject in schools. Cultural barriers faced by Black girls in sports. Hidden talent and the impact of location on scouting. The importance of sports bras, Nike’s voucher investments & access. The harsh reality of football as a business, elitism, transitions, and unloyalty. Are we close to a level playing field in football? Or is true equality still far off?

We also break down the Hashtag FC situation in women’s football, and the WSL’s challenges with game time and development. Plus: we shine a spotlight on Girls Aloud, a program bringing sports, music, and health education to over 22 London boroughs.

This is a conversation about culture, equity, identity, and transformation and how we build a better future in sports from grassroots to elite.

🔔 Subscribe, like, and join the conversation. 

#ballatallcost #womensfootball #girlsinsport #arsenalfc #footballbusiness #football #WSL #grassrootsfootball #sports #youthempowerment #blackgirlsinsport #hashtagsfc #PEinschools #nike #womeninfootball #footballpodcast #FIFA #UEFA #premierleague

Changing the Game for Girls in Sport  w/ Eartha Pond

We’re joined by Brazilian coach and youth mentor Ghabriel Teles, whose journey from watching legends like Rivaldo and Ronaldinho in Brazil to shaping futures in England is nothing short of inspiring.

We go deep into: His love for football growing up in Brazil. The power of joy, belonging, and relationships in building winning teams. The emotional journey of youth players: signings, dropouts & safeguarding. Silent coaching, connection over control, and coaching with legacy in mind. What scouts really look for in grassroots & pre-academy environments. The ‘both-footed vs both-sided’ debate. Why multi-sport kids (like tennis or basketball players) often thrive in football. Brazilian football culture: from Pele to Vinicius Jr. The age-old GOAT debate, is it still Ronaldo Nazario for us? Modern frustrations: inverted wingers, zonal marking & Pep’s tactical myths. We also dive into coaching philosophy, player care, emotional intelligence, and how to truly prepare kids for life in and beyond football.

🔔 Subscribe for more honest conversations from the grassroots to the game’s highest levels.

#ballatallcost #grassrootsfootball #youthdevelopment #footballcoaching #brazil #england #footballjourney #ronaldonazario #ronaldinho #youthqcademy #footballpodcast #football #coachingphilosophy #footballgoat #coach #preacademy #footballtips #footballskills #footballtalk #winterfootball #scoutingtips #fifa #uefa #modernfootball #laliga #premierleague

From Brazil to England w/Ghabriel Teles

It’s another episode, and we sit down with Kenzer Lee and Philip Roberts for an honest and powerful conversation about grassroots football, parenting, and the real journey behind the dream of going pro.

We dive deep into the philosophy of Balance, developing great footballers, but even better human beings. From the pressures of academy life to the fine line between discipline and joy, this episode explores the mental, emotional, and social sides of the game that rarely get discussed.

Kenzer and Philip share their experiences from West Ham, Arsenal, and beyond. The highs, the heartbreaks, and what it really takes to stay grounded in such a brutal industry.

We also talk about: The importance of balance between football and real life. Parenting in youth football, pushing vs. supporting. The psychological journey from academy dreams to life after football. Why identity, self-awareness, and perspective matter more than ever

It doesn’t matter if you’re a parent, coach, or player, this episode will change how you see the game.

Smash the like button and subscribe if you haven’t. 👊🏾


Beyond Football w/ Kenzer Lee & Philip Roberts

We’re joined by Fin Fletcher, the founder of F7 Coaching, to explore what truly drives success in youth football.

We dive into the power of game analysis, how self-reflection and player feedback can shape understanding and performance, and why enjoyment and development should always come before pressure to win.

From grassroots to academy football, we discuss: The art of analysing games and encouraging players to self-assess. How parents can support their kids without adding pressure. The importance of patience, confidence, and leadership in young players. F7 Coaching’s approach to developing talent from ages 5 to 18. A grassroots story that led to a six-week trial at West Ham. Insights on academy life, trust-building, and rediscovering love for the game

This episode is a must-watch for parents, coaches, and aspiring young players.

Youth Football Development Explained w/Fin Fletcher

Jason shares a deeply insightful journey into academy football, from the early days of lockdown kicking a ball in the garden, to joining Tigers JFC and catching the eye of professional scouts.

We explore: Ralph’s journey from grassroots to academy football, showcasing adaptability, humility, and determination. The realities of academy life and how parents can support their kids through challenges and pressure. How to nurture talent while maintaining a love for the game. The role of family, coaching, and environment in developing young players. Balancing discipline, education, and ambition without burning out. Technical drills, confidence-building, and the father-son coaching dynamic. 

This is a must-watch for parents, coaches, and young players aiming to understand what it truly takes to thrive in football’s competitive youth system.

➡️ Watch, learn, and be inspired by Jason’s wisdom and first-hand experience.

🎙️ Hosted by BallAtAllCost where passion meets purpose in football.

#ballatallcost #academyfootball #youthdevelopment #grassrootsfootball #parentinginfootball #footballjourney #footballtraining #footballpodcast #youngtalent #footballmotivation #ukfootball #footballeducation #footballparents #football #footballcoaching #premierleague #fifa #uefa

Academy Series - With Jason Johnson

This podcast dives deep into the world of grassroots football, offering insights and guidance to help parents navigate the often challenging and intricate landscape of youth sports. Each episode provides practical advice, tackling issues like player development, balancing commitments, managing expectations, and understanding the nuances of the grassroots football ecosystem.

Join the grassroots football dads as they share their insights and experiences along with  established guests sharing their vast knowledge on a  weekly basis.