It’s a Saturday morning match. A parent proudly tells you:
“We’ve pulled her out of swimming. Football is all she needs if she wants to make it.”
It sounds convincing. It even feels like dedication. But here’s the truth…
MYTH
Coaching is full of myths. The danger? They sound convincing. But they can hold children back.
We break down a myths from the touchline.
Children must specialise early in one sport to succeed.
FACT
Children who try different sports build better all-round skills, reduce injury risk and enjoy playing for longer.
The Breakdown
When children focus on one sport too early, they risk more than burnout. They often miss the hidden benefits of variety:
Movement bank: Rugby, gymnastics, or basketball teach balance, agility, and coordination that football alone can’t.
Injury prevention: Using the same muscle groups repeatedly increases risk. Different sports spread the load.
Decision-making: Exposure to different games sharpens tactical awareness and adaptability.
Enjoyment: Fresh environments keep children motivated and stop sport from feeling like a job.
Even academies are now steering away from early specialisation, valuing versatile, adaptable players.
Coach’s Takeaway
Encourage your players to try other sports alongside football.
✅ Celebrate the rugby match they played at school.
✅ Use small-sided invasion games from basketball or hockey in training.
The message is simple: variety isn’t a distraction, it’s an investment in long-term development.