Whether your child is just starting out or you’re a semi-pro or professional footballer aiming to gain an edge, one on one football training can be one of the most powerful investments in development. In a sport that often focuses on team drills, tactics, and matchday strategy, personalised football coaching offers something team sessions rarely can: tailored, focused improvement based on individual strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations.
In this article, we’ll break down the core benefits of one on one football training, explore what to look for in a top-tier coach, and provide trusted links to platforms and academies where you can find high-quality trainers in your area.
What is One on One Football Training?
One on one football training refers to private, individualised coaching sessions where a player works directly with a qualified coach. These sessions typically focus on developing specific technical, tactical, physical, or psychological attributes that are sometimes glossed over in large team environments.
Sessions may include:
- Position-specific drills
- Technical work (e.g., passing, first touch, shooting)
- Game IQ and decision-making
- Video analysis
- Speed and agility work
- Mental conditioning and mindset coaching
The structure of one on one football training will often depend on the level of the player, their goals, and the coach’s area of expertise.
Why One on One Training is Beneficial for Children
1. Faster Skill Development
Children develop at different rates, and one on one sessions allow the coach to adapt drills to the child’s pace. Repetition, correction, and encouragement lead to quicker improvement in fundamentals like dribbling, control, and passing.
2. Boosts Confidence
Children who receive individual feedback and encouragement from a coach build confidence more quickly. They feel seen, supported, and celebrated for their efforts—not just their results.
3. Personalised Attention
In a team environment, a coach may have to divide their attention among 15-20 players. One on one training ensures your child gets undivided attention, leading to more nuanced coaching and fewer bad habits being overlooked.
4. Instills Discipline and Focus
Private coaching can help instil a professional mindset from a young age. The structure and accountability of regular one on one sessions teach focus, discipline, and the value of consistent effort.
How Semi-Professional and Professional Players Benefit
1. Fine-Tuning Performance
At the semi-pro and professional levels, small margins make a massive difference. A private coach can identify specific micro-improvements, whether it’s your body position when receiving, shooting under pressure, or your fitness in the final 20 minutes.
2. Recovery and Rehab Support
Injury prevention and post-injury recovery can be managed more effectively with one on one sessions. Coaches often work alongside physios or S&C coaches to support recovery plans.
3. Maintain Competitive Edge
Even top-tier players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have private trainers. Why? Because they understand that ongoing personal development outside team sessions is vital to staying ahead.
4. Customisation for Position and Role
Your position matters. A winger needs different training to a centre-back. One on one coaching can be entirely tailored to the player’s positional needs and tactical role.
What to Look For in a One on One Football Coach
1. Qualifications and Experience
Look for coaches with legitimate coaching badges (e.g., FA Level 2 or UEFA B and above), playing experience, and a strong track record.
2. Reviews and Testimonials
Word-of-mouth, Google reviews, and testimonials on websites or social media are a good indication of a coach’s effectiveness and reputation.
3. Philosophy and Communication Style
You want a coach whose values align with yours or your child’s. Are they all about discipline, creativity, or confidence-building? Do they encourage and build rapport? Chemistry matters.
4. Progress Tracking and Feedback
Top coaches use data, video, and progress logs to track development. This is especially important at semi-pro and pro levels.
5. Flexibility and Accessibility
Are they local? Do they travel to you? Can they work around your schedule? Accessibility and convenience matter in consistency.
Where to Find One on One Football Training
Here are some reliable platforms and services where you can search for verified and reviewed coaches:
For the UK:
- Coachability – Offers access to vetted football coaches across the UK.
- 1on1 Football – Specialises in private sessions for all levels.
- Bark – Online Professionals Database.
- Train Effective – Also offers virtual one on one training with elite coaches.
For the US:
- CoachUp – A well-established platform for booking private coaches.
- Soccer Shots – Focused on children’s development.
- Beestera Soccer Training – Specialises in elite 1:1 and group sessions.
Case Studies: Success Stories from One on One Football Training
Case 1: From Benchwarmer to Star Performer (Youth Player)
12-year-old Alex was struggling for confidence at his local grassroots club. After three months of weekly one on one sessions focusing on ball control and composure under pressure, he broke into the starting XI and scored five goals in his first season.
Case 2: Semi-Pro to Pro Transition (Young Adult)
Dan, a 20-year-old semi-pro player, used the off-season to train individually with a former pro. They focused on explosive pace and finishing. After 4 months, he received a contract from a National League team.
Case 3: Professional Recovery and Rebuild
A League Two player recovering from an ACL injury worked privately on fitness, mobility, and technical sharpness for six months before returning to first-team action ahead of schedule.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing based only on price: A cheaper coach may not always deliver quality; the best usually come at a premium.
- Ignoring personality fit: The best technical coach in the world won’t be effective if the communication doesn’t click.
- Infrequent sessions: Consistency is key. Once every few weeks won’t yield significant improvements.
- Not setting goals: You should always go in with specific objectives: e.g., improve weak foot, increase stamina, master ball shielding.
How Much Does One on One Football Training Cost?
Prices vary based on location, experience level, and session type:
- Children’s sessions: £25–£50/hour
- Semi-pro: £40–£70/hour
- Professional: £60–£150+/hour
Packages (e.g., 5 or 10 sessions) often offer better value.
The Role of Parents and Support Systems
For younger players, the involvement of parents is crucial. This doesn’t mean hovering over every session, but rather being engaged with:
- Reviewing progress reports
- Helping establish consistent routines
- Reinforcing lessons at home
For older players, having mentors, sports psychologists, and nutritionists can enhance the impact of the one on one sessions.
Final Thoughts: Is One on One Football Training Worth It?
Absolutely. If you’re serious about improving as a footballer or helping your child reach their potential, then one on one training provides a level of personalisation, accountability, and progress that team training alone can’t match.
It’s not just about becoming a better footballer—it’s about building the habits, mindset, and belief system of someone who’s capable of reaching the next level.
Whether your aim is a place in the first team, a professional contract, or simply more confidence on the ball, personalised training can be the game-changer.
Start Your Journey Today
Explore the coaching platforms listed above or ask around at your local club. Trial a few sessions and see the difference. The right coach could unlock not just your footballing potential—but your confidence, consistency, and career trajectory.
Got questions about one on one training or want help picking the right coach? As a business coach and grassroots football expert, I help players, parents, and clubs make smarter decisions that lead to long-term success. Reach out for tailored advice or club development support.
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