The Grassroots Football Coach

Berks & Bucks FA
  • 4.0 (1)
  • Soccer

UEFA A Licence Coach Mark 'Rivo' Rivers, and Berks & Bucks FA's, Richard Brant, catch up with local and national football coaches to discuss their journeys, coaching philosophies and personal experiences in the sport. Follow Rivo & Rich as they catch up with old friends, new colleagues and footballing legends, and listen in, as each guest provides their own fascinating insight into football coaching from every level of the game.

  1. Jul 16

    World Cup 2026 Special #4

    Send us Fan Mail Rich & Ads are back to reflect on the two World Cup semi-finals. Join them as they break down England’s heartbreaking defeat to Argentina, where Lionel Messi once again reminded the world that he can still shape the biggest moments on football’s grandest stage. They also analyse Spain’s composed and clinical victory over France 24 hours earlier. Looking ahead, they preview Saturday night's Bronze Medal match between England and France before turning their attention to the main event — the World Cup Final between Spain and Argentina. Who do they think has the edge, and who will be lifting the trophy on Sunday? Plus, Rich reveals his unique way of coping with England’s latest footballing heartbreak!

  2. Jul 14

    World Cup 2026 Special #3

    Send us Fan Mail Rich & Ads are back with another World Cup special!  On this episode, they look back on the drama of the knockout stages before turning their attention to the semi-finals. Hear where Spain could have the edge over France, but why containing Olise, Mbappé and co. could prove an uphill battle. The focus then shifts to England v Argentina: how can Tuchel stop Messi, and will the Argentinians be wary of the threat posed by Bellingham and Kane? Plus, Rich & Ads discuss the race for the Golden Boot, football superstitions, the best places to watch the big game, and Ads delivers a rousing speech to inspire the England team.  Music by Darren Fellerdale

  3. Jun 25

    Rivo & Rich meet......Elijah Bada returns!

    Send us Fan Mail This week, Rich welcomes back Elijah Bada to the pod, returning for the first time since 2022.  On the pod, Elijah shares incredible stories from his recent experiences in the Baller League—rubbing shoulders with football icons like Ian Wright and Thierry Henry, and competing against legends including Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer, and Micah Richards. The conversation dives into his time at Arsenal’s Academy, exploring a player-first philosophy built on individuality, authenticity, and creativity—where less is more, the game is the greatest teacher, and connection always comes before correction. Elijah also opens up about his personal journey, including how his faith has shaped him through life’s toughest moments. He reflects on two major health scares, including a battle with cancer in 2023 which included a 24-hour surgery, and having to adapt—highlighting the crucial support of his Arsenal colleagues, players, and his faith through the highs and lows. Now at MK Dons Academy as Foundation Phase Lead, Elijah talks about giving back in the city he grew up in—putting people before players and championing long-term development. He also shares why staying connected to grassroots football through MK Warriors remains so important to him. A powerful, honest, and inspiring conversation not to miss. BBFA are delighted to be hosting their Coaches Conference which takes place on Saturday 11th July, 10am-4pm at Bisham Abbey in Marlow. For more info and to book you place, click here. Music by Darren Fellerdale

  4. Jun 24

    World Cup 2026 Special #2

    Send us Fan Mail Rich is joined once again by Adam Parry to break down the World Cup after the opening two rounds of group stage matches.  Together, they highlight the standout teams who’ve impressed early on, as well as the sides that have delivered a few surprises along the way. They also dive into the influence of football’s biggest stars—Lionel Messi, Erling Haaland, and Kylian Mbappé—as the race for the Golden Boot begins to take shape. Plus, the pair explore how hydration breaks are giving coaches a tactical edge, assess the high standard of officiating, and discuss how less-fancied nations are proving they can compete technically and tactically on the world’s biggest stage.  Music by Darren Fellerdale

  5. Jun 18

    Rivo & Rich meet......Caroline Moran

    Send us Fan Mail This week, Rivo & Rich are joined by the brilliant Caroline Moran for an inspiring deep dive into her footballing journey and coaching career. From growing up in Barnsley as a passionate supporter to stepping into the Arsenal women’s setup alongside names like Alex Scott, Caroline shares the pivotal moments that shaped her path — including her decision to leave the club and carve her own way in the game. She reflects on her early days lifeguarding and coaching after-school clubs, and how those experiences, alongside gaining qualifications through college, laid the foundations for her career. Caroline opens up about the importance of building strong relationships when working with young players, and how adaptability has been key throughout her journey — from coaching in the USA and even working with David Beckham at LA Galaxy, to embracing new environments and challenges. The conversation also covers her involvement in the FA Mentee Development Programme, including a visit to Benfica, and her thoughts on the progress — and ongoing challenges — for female coaches in football. Now at Leicester City, she shares insight into her latest role and ambitions plus her new role as FA Casual Coach Developer at BBFA.  Beyond the pitch, Caroline discusses her work supporting young people in areas of high deprivation, her time at MK Dons, and her commitment to developing opportunities for underrepresented communities. And keep an ear out — there’s even a surprise appearance from Caz’s AI notetaker! Music by Darren Fellerdale

  6. Jun 11

    World Cup 2026 Preview

    Send us Fan Mail Join Rich and special guest, BBFA Football Development Officer, Adam Parry, as they dive into a full preview of the biggest World Cup in history—kicking off today! With a groundbreaking 48-team format, hosted across three nations, this tournament promises to be unlike anything we’ve seen before. They break down the numbers—104 matches, 16 host cities, and 1,248 players—while shining a spotlight on debut nations ready to make their mark, including Cape Verde, Curaçao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan. Expect bold predictions and lively debate as they cover:  -Tournament favourites -Biggest surprises -Big-name nations at risk of an early exit -Which host (USA, Mexico, or Canada) will go furthest -And… how far can England really go? Plus, the guys make their player picks:  -Golden Boot winner -Golden Ball (Player of the Tournament) -Breakout young star And finally, they reflect on the possible “last dance” for some of football’s greatest ever icons—Messi, Ronaldo, Neymar, Modrić—could this be their final World Cup moment? Don’t miss this essential preview to get you tournament-ready.

  7. Jun 4

    Rivo & Rich meet......Charlie Lauri

    Send us Fan Mail Rivo & Rich are back with Series 11 of the pod and this week are joined by local coach Charlie Lauri. In this episode, we sit down with Charlie to explore his coaching journey—from his early days completing his Level 1 qualification through college, to gaining valuable experience with Wycombe Wanderers Foundation. Charlie reflects on how an untimely injury led him into coaching earlier than expected, opening the door to a range of roles across the game. He shares the influence of key figures along the way, including his dad as a coach, and how mentors like Andy Ritchie introduced him to different coaching techniques that helped shape his philosophy. We also dive into how the game has evolved—looking at changing positional demands and the growing role of technology in player development. Finally, Charlie offers practical insight into a topic often overlooked: how to effectively incorporate goalkeepers into training sessions to maximise engagement and development for the whole team. Music by Darren Fellerdale

  8. May 28

    Rivo & Rich meet......Carol John

    Send us Fan Mail Rivo & Rich are back with Series 11 of the pod and this week are joined by local grassroots coach, Carol John.  Carol discusses the female game and how things are changing, but also what still needs to happen to create better, more inclusive environments. Carol shares some great thoughts on how environment and culture can shape people’s experiences—and why a bit more flexibility can make all the difference for coaches and volunteers. Carol also talks about the importance of assistant coaches and young volunteers, including those coming through programmes like Duke of Edinburgh, and why they’re such a big part of the future. Plus, Carol opens up about some of the barriers female and diverse coaches face, and what we can all do to help break those down. It’s a really down-to-earth conversation with loads of real takeaways—definitely worth a listen if you’re passionate about helping people feel welcome and thrive in the game.

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About

UEFA A Licence Coach Mark 'Rivo' Rivers, and Berks & Bucks FA's, Richard Brant, catch up with local and national football coaches to discuss their journeys, coaching philosophies and personal experiences in the sport. Follow Rivo & Rich as they catch up with old friends, new colleagues and footballing legends, and listen in, as each guest provides their own fascinating insight into football coaching from every level of the game.

Information

  • Creator
    Berks & Bucks FA
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    96
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Grassroots Football Coach
  • Show Website
    The Grassroots Football Coach

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