This is a quick hitter of an episode; a short discussion on whether or not every child should receive equal playing time in youth sports - weighing development and retention against competition and winning.

This episode invites listeners - coaches, parents, and players - to share their views on when equal playing time should end and competitive selection should begin, asking for specific ages and practical experiences.

Jump into the comment section and let us know what you think.

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, I have a conversation with Danny O'Sullivan from Tralee, County Kerry. Danny shares the profoundly emotional experience of losing his wife, Alison, at just 37 years of age to a sudden and aggressive form of cancer just 10 weeks after diagnosis.

Despite the heartbreak, Danny has channeled his energy into organising a significant charity cycle from Malin to Mizen Head, aiming to raise funds for the palliative care unit at University Hospital Kerry. This facility provided indispensable care to Alison and continues to support families during their most challenging times.

Join me to hear about Danny's journey from his Gaelic football roots to embracing a triathlon lifestyle spurred by the COVID pandemic, and now using his passion for cycling to make a difference. Discover how a community's generosity and a family's resilience can help build a brighter future for those facing similar battles.

For those wishing to donate to the fundraiser, you can find out more info here; https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/DannyOsullivan1212

In this insightful episode, we delve into the world of sports coaching with Nick Walsh, a former Gaelic football player turned AFL high-performance expert. We explore the unique challenges athletes face when transitioning from Gaelic games to Australian Rules Football and discuss the importance of mental health support for both players and coaches.

Nick shares his experiences in developing high-performance programs, emphasising the significance of player relationships, strategic fitness programs, and the evolving role of technology in sports. Whether you're involved in youth sports or at a high-performance level, this episode offers valuable insights into building a positive environment for athletes.

As always, you can help support Tir Na Nóg orphanage by contributing to the fundraiser I've set up for listeners of the podcast; http://bit.ly/4fypLSh

I'd also like to thank MFC Sports who have come on board as main sponsors of the podcast series and look forward to developing a productive relationship moving forward.

Listen in to this insightful episode as we delve deep into the world of coaching with Dr. Ed Coughlan, an expert in skill acquisition. Discover how to create the optimal environment for players to develop their skills effectively, beyond the traditional drills. Dr. Coughlan shares his expertise on the importance of practicing skills in context, under pressure, and with decision-making components to truly elevate player performance.

Whether you're a novice coach or a seasoned professional, this episode is packed with valuable insights on how to improve your coaching strategies. Learn how to engage young athletes, encourage their natural curiosity, and help them become more proficient in their respective sports.

As always, you can help support Tir Na Nóg orphanage by contributing to the fundraiser I've set up for listeners of the podcast; http://bit.ly/4fypLSh

I'd also like to thank MFC Sports who have come on board as main sponsors of the podcast series and look forward to developing a productive relationship moving forward.

Welcome to an engaging episode where we delve into the psychological intricacies of coaching youth in sports. After a brief hiatus, we're back to explore how parents and coaches can create a nurturing environment for young athletes. Joining us is Dr. Ciara Losty, a lecturer in Applied Sport and Exercise Psychology. Dr. Losty shares valuable insights from her experience of working with Team Ireland at the Olympics and sheds light on fostering resilience and internal motivation in young athletes.

Throughout the episode, we discuss key strategies to improve youth sports experiences, emphasising the importance of focusing on the process rather than just the outcome. Whether it's understanding the balance of pushing athletes or creating environments of enjoyment, Dr. Losty provides practical advice for anyone involved in coaching youth sports. Don't miss out on her perspectives on how to handle setbacks, build resilience, and ensure kids continue enjoying and succeeding in sports.

As always, you can help support Tir Na Nóg orphanage by contributing to the fundraiser I've set up for listeners of the podcast; http://bit.ly/4fypLSh

I'd also like to thank MFC Sports who have come on board as main sponsors of the podcast series and look forward to developing a productive relationship moving forward.

In this thought-provoking first episode of 2025, we delve into the current state of physical education (PE) in Irish national schools, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for improvement. Host Mike engages in a compelling discussion with Stephen and Peter Lavin, the passionate educators behind Game Sense Coaching, renowned for their contributions to coaching.

Throughout the episode, we explore the stark contrasts between government funding allocation for various educational initiatives, like STEM and hot school lunches, and the lack of financial support for PE in primary schools. The Lavin brothers share their firsthand experiences as teaching principals, pointing out the inconsistencies in PE time allocation compared to other countries and the pressing need to rethink PE resources and training for teachers.

Listeners will gain unique insights into the potential benefits of a structured and thoroughly supported PE curriculum, not just for student health and wellness but also as a foundation for lifelong physical activity and mental well-being. The discussion also touches upon broader implications of prioritizing health, alongside other critical national agendas.

Join us for a comprehensive look at how redefining PE from the grassroots could positively influence Ireland's future, making a case for greater political support and investment in physical education across all schools.

You can help support Tir Na Nóg orphanage by contributing to the fundraiser I've set up for listeners of the podcast; http://bit.ly/4fypLSh

I'd also like to thank MFC Sports who have come on board as main sponsors of the podcast series and look forward to developing a productive relationship moving forward.

In this episode, I'm joined by Des Ryan, a renowned expert in youth athletic development and coaching, with a career spanning elite roles at Arsenal, Irish Rugby, and now as Director of Sport and Physical Activity at the University of Galway.

Des shares his wealth of knowledge on developing young athletes, fostering effective coaching practices, and navigating relationships between coaches, parents, and players. From practical advice for coaches to insights on creating a positive environment for youth development, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways for anyone involved in sport and coaching.

You can help support Tir Na Nóg orphanage by contributing to the fundraiser I've set up for listeners of the podcast; http://bit.ly/4fypLSh

Kerry's Tommy Walsh is both an All Ireland winner and former professional Aussie rules player with both St Kilda and the Sydney Swans.

Following commentary by Kerry GAA county chairman Patrick O'Sullivan recently about the need for the GAA to become more proactive about putting structures in place to help keep more of our young players at home, Tommy was generous enough to share his experiences of his GAA to AFL journey and gives some great insights into where the GAA can improve how the approach the situation.

You can help support Tir Na Nóg orphanage by contributing to the fundraiser I've set up for listeners of the podcast; http://bit.ly/4fypLSh

 Jason McGahan is the high-performance manager with Kerry GAA, and shares his journey from playing football in Armagh to managing performance for one of Ireland's top GAA counties. He provides valuable insights into building high-performance structures within sports teams, illustrating how clubs can improve their operations without hefty financial investments.

In a compelling discussion, the conversation shifts to the concept of athletic development and the significance of supporting not only players but also coaches, volunteers, and staff. Jason emphasises the importance of communication, internal motivation, and shared vision in creating a solid high-performance culture. He also discusses how clubs, regardless of size, can implement elements of high-performance strategies by investing in current personnel and encouraging continuous education.

Jason provides practical advice for grassroots coaches on incorporating athletic development principles and utilising simple tools like RPE (Rate of Perceived Exertion) to better monitor player loads. The episode concludes with a conversation about the implications of early specialization in sports and the vital role of resilience in athletes’ development journeys. Jason's insights offer a fresh perspective on cultivating a well-rounded, supportive environment for young athletes and coaches alike.

You can help support Tir Na Nóg orphanage by contributing to the fundraiser I've set up for listeners of the podcast; http://bit.ly/4fypLSh

Join us in this episode as we delve into the world of coaching with Declan Quill, former joint manager of the Kerry Ladies football team. Hear inspiring stories and insights from Quill on how he and his team transformed the coaching approach, leading the Kerry Ladies to All-Ireland glory. Discover the challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned along the way.

Whether you're a coach, parent, or sports enthusiast, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical insights to help you foster success in sports and life. Tune in to learn from one of the best in the field and explore new ways to enhance your coaching journey.

We also highlight a heartfelt initiative focusing on raising funds for the Tír na Nóg Foundation in Tanzania, run by Declan's sister, Louise Quill.

You can help support Tir Na Nóg orphanage by contributing to the fundraiser I've set up for listeners of the podcast; http://bit.ly/4fypLSh