Why do I want representation?
over the past couple of weeks, I have had the pleasure of meeting families who are being approached by agents. The themes that emerged from this work are worth reflecting on for us all
Chris Platts
Dr Chris Platts worked in Academia for over 15 years studying the work of professional footballers. He presented and published on the international stage before starting chrisplatts.co.uk
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Do we medicate the fish or clean the tank?
I hear a lot of discussion about culture in clubs - clubs love to find "culture carriers" for their teams, but how often do they reflect on the environments that have given rise to certain cultures?
The gift of Brené Brown
We, as family members, can continue to pretend that running out in front of 40,000 people is a pleasure, or we can be realistic about the challenges that confront our kids in this brutal world.
Survivorship bias and why you need to know about it
"But we have the data, why wouldn't we use it?". You can only use data if you know how to handle it.
Where do you get your information?
Reading this article made me realise the need for people like me (and others, of course) to rally against such populist writing.
What can we learn from Benfica Academy
Last week, I chatted with a representative from Benfica about their academy. There are some valuable lessons for us all to take from that chat.
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FREE Workshop
Myself and professional footballer Tobi Sho-Silva are delivering a set of workshops. Click to read more
Live in your ears 🎧
Podcasting has been a great experience for me. I get asked so many useful questions that help me to outline exactly why my services are needed. For you, they also highlight some of the gems in the research I have undertaken to help you take control of your son or daughter's career in football.
I strongly believe...
I believe in putting more power in the hands of players and their families, and that is what I can do.
Education in Academies
At the heart of this issue is a fundamental misunderstanding of the relationship between education and professional football. So let me be clear on this. Undertaking education alongside your playing career makes you a better player.
Why the academy system is dead
While I believe the academy system will still be there in 20 or 30 years, and I see there are many good people working in it, it is outdated, misfocused and, in many cases, irrelevant.
Three Essential Lessons for New Football Scholars
A football scholarship isn’t just about the game; it is about growing into the kind of person who can thrive on and off the pitch throughout a career.
Punishment or Discipline? The Hidden Reality of Youth Football Training
Behind every professional prospect is a young person learning about themselves, the sport, and, of course, the world. Education and development should be built on support and growth, not fear and punishment. It is up to us to take control of that.