In grassroots football, there’s a troubling paradox that can affect coaches’ mental health. The coaches who follow best practices – those focusing on player development, long-term growth and enjoyment over immediate results – often face more criticism and pressure from parents/carers/guardians (PCGs) than those who prioritise winning at all costs.

This creates a mental health challenge that’s rarely discussed but significantly impacts the very people we rely on to develop our young footballers in the right way.