This week, host Brian McDonough sits down with Dan Hook, a Manchester City Football Group partner-school head coach at Dwight School Hanoi in Hanoi, Vietnam. Dan shares his unique football journey, from growing up and coaching in England to teaching abroad, before transitioning into full-time football across Qatar, South Korea, the United States, and now Vietnam.

In this episode, Dan opens up about what it’s like building a football program from the ground up, working with complete beginners, shaping a school football culture, and adapting his coaching approach to different environments and cultures. The conversation also explores the state of Vietnamese football, how tactical ideas differ around the world, and how modern influences like TikTok and highlight culture are changing the way young players learn the game.

The episode wraps up with some lighter moments, including a discussion on classic 90s football kits, Serie A nostalgia, and a fun Dutch football and Wolverhampton Wanderers trivia segment.

If you're interested in hearing more from the Heart of the Game podcast then make sure to give us a follow, as we're on a journey to recognize the true beating heart of football: the people who give everything to the game, both on and off the pitch.

If you'd like to learn more about those behind the Heart of the Game podcast then you can check us out further on the SciSports website.