Imagine playing professional football then having it all taken away in one moment. Luke Lyons went from grassroots football to academy through to professional. As as a youngster he was highly regarded at Leeds United and was part of the league-winning u18 side that had many players who have since gone onto big things in professional football. He eventually played professional for Airdrieonians FC in the Scottish Championship after a short stint with Bradford Park Avenue. Unfortunately, he had it cruelly taken away from him due to injury and is now coaching the next generation with his time split between coaching at Foot-Tech, Leeds United and Notre Dame College. He sits down with us to tell his story of all the ups and downs along the way. We discuss: Why junior footballers DO NOT need to be in academies at 5 years old to make it (he is proof of this) Why joining a grassroots team later in Primary School actually helped him How playing street football (even when in the academy system) massively helped his development What he wishes he’d have done differently when playing for Leeds United Academy The difference he sees with high-level grassroots footballers compared to academy kids How his parents helped and supported him (plus advice to current football parents)  What he learnt from playing against Jude Bellingham The way he sees football going in the future and how we need to develop kids for the future game And much much more. This was such a great chat and there’s loads for parents to take away from it. We hope you enjoy listening.