In this episode of Off the Beaten Pitch, we take on the everyday challenge of coaching mixed-ability teams. From managing wide skill gaps to keeping every player engaged, we break down what makes these teams tough — and why they’re also hugely rewarding. We share simple, practical strategies you can use right away: flexible training design, tiered activities, and creating a team culture where every kid feels included and pushed to grow. A quick, honest look at the real work of grassroots coaching.

In this episode of Off the Beaten Pitch, Alex and Alan rewind to where it all began — how they got into coaching in the first place, what sparked their passion for growing players, and the lessons they learned the hard way along the way.

They share what they wish they knew on day one. And they don’t stop there — the guys dive into the changes they hope to see in the youth soccer landscape… 

It’s honest. It’s personal. And it’s a call to make grassroots soccer better for every kid who laces up.

On this episode of Off the Beaten Pitch, Alex and Alan dive into one of the toughest balancing acts in youth soccer: chasing wins today versus building players for tomorrow. Should coaches push for trophies at U10, or focus on long-term growth even if it means losing games?

Too many youth soccer practices still get bogged down by the “three Ls”: lines, lectures, and laps. In this episode, we break down why these outdated methods hurt player development and how coaches can create more engaging, game-like environments instead. From practical training alternatives to mindset shifts for coaches, we’ll share simple ways to keep players moving, thinking, and enjoying the game.

Follow our socials and hit us up with topics you'd like to hear us covered.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1G18hQfmR3/

https://www.tiktok.com/@offthebeatenpitch?_t=ZP-8zWsAoUj3p1&_r=1

https://x.com/thebeatenpitch?s=09

Episode 3 – The Rotation game.
In this episode of Off the Beaten Pitch, Coach Alex and Coach Alan explore why rotating players through different positions is one of the most powerful tools in youth development. From building well-rounded skills to fostering creativity and resilience, we break down how thoughtful rotation can benefit players, teams, and coaches alike. We also tackle common concerns—like pushback from parenrs and  sacrificing short-term wins—and share practical tips for implementing rotation without losing competitiveness. Whether you’re a coach, parent, or player, you’ll learn how to use rotation to unlock potential and keep the beautiful game beautiful. Give us a like and follow on our socials and send us anything you'd like to hear us discuss.

X- https://x.com/thebeatenpitch?t=K4be8hjx0f5ym96I8FY-Xw&s=09

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/share/1CpFsT6v3M/

We'v  slapped our logo on some teeshirts! We don't make anything off these but spread the word! 

 https://www.customink.com/g/phm0-00cz-f7y7

In this episode of Off the Beaten Pitch, Alan and Alex dive into heart of the game: pick-up soccer. From empty lots and gravel roads to church fields and schoolyards, we explore how unstructured, player-led games shape creativity, resilience, and a love for the game in ways traditional training often can’t. We share personal stories, insights from coaching in rural communities, and discuss why letting kids "just play" might be the secret weapon in youth development. Whether you grew up in the game or are coaching the next generation, this episode is a celebration of the beautiful chaos that is pick-up soccer. If you have a topic you'd like us to talk about hit us up on our socials.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1CLe4jkhxQ/

https://x.com/thebeatenpitch?t=p6HYiyMLMyyr-LEogwnFLA&s=09

https://www.tiktok.com/@offthebeatenpitch?_t=ZP-8y7SKau7qdK&_r=1

Welcome to the premiere episode of Off the Beaten Pitch, the podcast that dives into the heart of grassroots soccer in rural America. In this debut episode, hosts Coach Alex and Coach Alan tackle one of the biggest development killers in youth soccer: joystick coaching—when coaches (or even parents) try to control every move a young player makes from the sidelines.

We break down what joystick coaching looks like, why it’s so common in rural environments, and how it holds back creativity, decision-making, and love for the game. You’ll hear personal stories from the grassroots trenches, insights from coaching experts, and practical ways to shift from control to empowerment.

Plus, we dig into the role of well-meaning but overbearing parents and how to reframe sideline behavior for long-term player growth.