Are We Getting Youth Physical Development Wrong? | Joel Hansson

Gary is joined by Joel Hansson, Head of Physical Development for U8-U14 at Hammarby in Sweden, to rethink how we approach physical development with young players. Joel challenges the idea that youth players should simply follow scaled-down versions of adult training. The conversation between Joel and Curneen explores traditional warm-ups, developing a wider “movement toolbox,” using games and play to develop physical qualities, wrestling and contact work, speed development, the role of the gym, GPS monitoring, and why fun and physical development don’t have to be competing ideas. Joel also shares practical ideas for grassroots coaches working with limited time and equipment, and explains why the early years provide such an important window for players to explore movement, solve problems and develop confidence in their bodies. A fascinating conversation for anyone working in youth soccer and asking a simple question: are we preparing young players for the future, or are we warming them up and training them like mini adults?