New England Soccer Journal

The guest is Kelvin Martinez, the newly appointed head coach of Berkshire School Boys Soccer. Martinez discusses his excitement about leading one of the top prep programs in New England, touching upon his coaching philosophy, the talent in his roster, and his strategies for building a dynamic and competitive team. Martinez shares personal anecdotes about his upbringing in Honduras, his soccer journey, and the international influence in prep school soccer. The episode also delves into Martinez's endeavors in establishing a soccer academy in Honduras, emphasizing his commitment to giving back to his community. The show concludes with an engaging 'Extra Time' segment featuring thought-provoking questions about the intricacies and joys of soccer.   Topics 00:33 Meet Kelvin Martinez: New Berkshire School Boys Soccer Head Coach 01:25 Excitement and Expectations for Berkshire Soccer 02:53 Balancing Family and Coaching 04:16 Outdoor Adventures and Family Life 04:36 Berkshire's Soccer Legacy and Future 06:27 Coaching Philosophy and Team Dynamics 11:42 Kelvin's Soccer Journey from Honduras to the US 16:47 Giving Back: Building a Soccer Academy in Honduras 19:34 International Influence in New England Prep Soccer 22:39 Recruiting Talent from Around the World 24:23 Expectations for the 2025 Season 25:42 Extra Time  26:38 Kelvin's Insight on Soccer's True Essence 29:40 The Challenges of Being a Goalie 33:20 Debunking the Myth: Soccer is Boring 40:11 Wrapping Up: Final Thoughts and Farewell

Matt Langone is joined by NESJ writer Matt Doherty to discuss important upcoming dates in the New England club soccer scene. They highlight significant events such as the Girls Academy Northeast Talent ID in New Jersey, the MLS Next Flex event in Maryland, and the ECNL showcases and playoffs. The hosts delve into how these events provide vital exposure for players, help with college recruiting, and represent a pivotal part of the soccer calendar. Additionally, the crew has fun creating and casting hypothetical soccer movies.   Topics 00:56 Spring Club Soccer Calendar Highlights 02:52 Girls Academy Northeast Talent ID Event 04:29 MLS Next Flex Event Overview 08:08 ECNL Girls and Boys Upcoming Events 14:51 Extra Time: Creating Soccer Movies 17:44 Casting Choices for Jade and Coach Terry 18:33 Debating Theme Songs for the Movie 19:07 Plot and Casting for the World Cup Thriller 23:06 Plot and Casting for the Comedy Movie 26:57 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

The guest is Oakwood Soccer Club Girls Academy Director Marisa Kresge. She covers Oakwood's strong performances in the Jefferson Cup, Marisa's transition from college coaching to club directing, and the challenges she faced in her first year. The conversation covers the importance of consistent communication, individual player development, and strategic plans for Oakwood's future. They also delve into broader topics in women's soccer, including the impact of NIL and transfer portal on college soccer, the distinctions between coaching at college and youth levels, and the benefits of the Girls Academy platform. The episode concludes with a fun 'Would You Rather' segment focused on soccer scenarios. Topics 00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome 00:31 Guest Introduction: Marisa Kresge 00:53 Oakwood Soccer Club's Recent Success 01:45 Marisa's First Year at Oakwood 03:02 Coaching Philosophy and Communication 04:29 Transition from College to Youth Soccer 06:15 Differences Between College and Youth Coaching 08:03 Marisa's Playing Background and Credibility 13:29 Challenges in College Soccer and Recruiting 20:53 Balancing Academics and Athletics in the Big 10 21:24 NIL Deals in Women's Soccer 22:40 Oakwood Soccer Club's Progress and Goals 26:34 Extra Time: Fun and Goofy Soccer Questions 34:07 Conclusion and Wrap-Up

Matt Langone is joined by NESJ reporter Matt Doherty to discuss the current state of college soccer recruitment, focusing on the class of 2025. They explore the slow pace of commitments due to a multitude of factors including the rise of multiple leagues, the impact of COVID-19, the transfer portal, and the influx of international players. They also delve into how these factors are affecting high school, prep school, and Division III recruiting landscapes. The episode concludes with a segment on potential rule changes in soccer, sparking lively debates.   Topics 00:53 Recruitment Challenges in 2025 03:39 Impact of the Transfer Portal 10:27 Division 3 Soccer's Rise 19:54 Advice for High School Players 23:34 Extra Time: Soccer Innovations 31:14 Conclusion and Wrap-Up

In this episode of New England Soccer Journal's The Goal Podcast, host Matt Langone is joined by NESJ writer Matt Doherty and New England Revolution Academy coach Abel Wasswa. Abel discusses his new role as the U14 coach for the academy, sharing his objectives, learning experiences, and the differences between coaching college and younger players. He emphasizes the importance of game intelligence, individual duels, and a positive coaching environment. Abel also details his participation in the Elite Formation Coaching License program with the French Federation. The episode concludes with a fun 'Extra Time' segment featuring potential rule changes in soccer. Topics 01:21 Coaching Philosophy and Objectives 02:17 Transition from College to Academy Coaching 05:02 Coaching Younger Players: Challenges and Strategies 08:04 Influences and Inspirations in Coaching 12:31 Creating a Positive Coaching Environment 16:11 Player Development and Tactical Mastery 22:32 Personal Playing Experience and Coaching Impact 25:54 Elite Formation Coaching License Program 26:36 Introduction to the 18-Month Course 28:13 Course Structure and In-Person Meetings 29:14 Observations and Assignments 30:10 Final Evaluation and Conclusion 30:37 Overtime Session: Zany Soccer Questions 31:30 Sin Bin for Yellow Cards 35:22 Kick-Ins Instead of Throw-Ins 39:09 Multi-Ball Chaos Mode 43:19 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

The guest is Amherst College senior Niall Murphy. Murphy reflects on his crucial role in leading Amherst to a national championship in 2024 and discusses the team's journey starting from their loss in the 2023 national title game. He shares insights on the competitive nature of NESCAC soccer, the significance of his leadership, and the personal milestones of overcoming injuries and adapting to new positions. Murphy also opens up about his academic path in computer science and his upcoming career in finance while balancing his passion for soccer.   Topics   00:34 Meet Niall Murphy: Amherst College Soccer Star 00:57 The Journey to the National Championship 02:16 Facing Rivals and Overcoming Challenges 03:44 Personal Reflections and Experiences 13:00 High School Days and Recruitment Challenges 19:00 Life After College Soccer 20:29 Extra Time: Fun and Unexpected Questions 26:03 Conclusion and Farewell  

Matt Langone is joined by colleague Matt Doherty, who reports on the ECNL Girls' Winter Showcase in Florida. Despite battling a virus, Doherty shares his observations on the competitive matches, standout teams, and the significant presence of college coaches scouting talent. They discuss the promising performances from New England clubs including FC Stars, South Shore Select, and Scorpions SC, and how the showcase serves as a prelude to the upcoming spring season. The episode wraps up with a fun segment of Extra Time, where they analyze famous soccer quotes. Topics 01:29 Discussion on ECNL Florida Winter Showcase 02:53 College Coaches and Competitive Atmosphere 10:10 Comparing ECNL and MLS Next Fest 13:33 Teams to Watch in the Spring Season 20:14 Dining Experiences in Florida 21:34 Spring Soccer Coverage Preview 21:46 Extra Time: Fun Soccer Questions 34:22 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

Host Matt Langone and co-host Matt Doherty discuss the top five soccer stories to watch in 2025. They start by highlighting the University of Vermont's 2024 national championship win and debating the team's chances for a repeat. They then move on to the budding rivalry between FC Stars and South Shore Select in ECNL Girls, followed by a deep dive into the upcoming MLS Next Flex event and the New England clubs to watch. The pair also explore the ongoing parity in boys' prep school soccer, questioning whether Taft can repeat as champions. Finally, they address the changing landscape of recruiting post-COVID, anticipating an uptick in player commitments. The episode concludes with personal reflections on the challenges and goals for the new year in soccer journalism.   Topics 02:13 Vermont's Historic National Championship 07:24 South Shore Select Joins ECNL Girls 10:43 MLS Next and Playoffs Preview 15:23 Boys Prep Soccer Parity 18:49 Milton vs. Taft: A High School Soccer Showdown 19:35 The Challenge of Repeating Championships 20:49 Impact of COVID on College Recruiting 22:17 Recruiting Trends and Delays 24:11 The Future of Soccer Recruiting 25:44 Top Five Soccer Stories Recap 26:27 Extra Time: Soccer Insights and Predictions

Matt Langone and Matt Doherty are joined by guest Max Murray, a standout player from the University of Vermont. The discussion centers around Vermont's historic first national championship win in NCAA soccer, with Murray sharing his experiences and the team's journey. Murray elaborates on the dynamics and special qualities of the team, notable moments from their championship run, and his transition to professional soccer after being drafted by New York City FC. The episode also delves into Murray's personal journey, his versatility on the field, and his thoughts on the team's future.   Topics   00:50 Winning the National Championship 02:59 Team Dynamics and Strategies 04:38 Community Support and Team Bonding 08:08 Versatility and Position Changes 17:45 Draft Day and Professional Aspirations 24:47 Panelists Share Their Favorite Soccer Championships 28:27 Greatest Soccer Comebacks Ever Witnessed 33:48 Imagining a Statue to Commemorate the Championship 38:34 Wrapping Up: Final Thoughts and Farewells

In this episode of New England Soccer Journal's The Goal Podcast, host Matt Langone is joined by New England Soccer Journal writer Matt Doherty and University of New Haven men's soccer head coach, Tom Mattera. They discuss New Haven's historic season, recruiting strategies, and the challenges and successes faced along the way. Mattera shares insights into building a competitive program and the unique attributes of the Northeast 10 conference. The episode also features a discussion about memorable soccer moments and stadiums in the Extra Time segment.   Topics 01:08 Historic Season for New Haven 02:57 Recruitment Strategies and Challenges 07:10 New Haven's Playing Style and Key Moments 10:54 Division II Landscape and International Recruitment 16:55 Transfer Portal and Recruitment Challenges 20:20 The Transfer Combine Craze 20:32 Building a Winning Culture 21:15 Winter Plans and Recruiting 21:52 Extra Time Segment Introduction 22:37 Impressive Soccer Stadiums 26:36 Unique Soccer Uniforms 28:37 Memorable Soccer Plays 34:42 Wrapping Up and Farewell

Matt Langone is joined by Matt Doherty to discuss the upcoming MLS Next Fest. They talk about the significance of this major showcase for young soccer talent, the participation of New England teams, and the opportunities it presents for players in terms of exposure and recruitment. The conversation delves into the dynamics of the event, the level of competition, and the player development landscape. They also recount memorable experiences and share insights into the life of a sports journalist. The episode concludes with bonus questions that explore their most memorable interviews and writing moments.   Topics   00:50 MLS Next Fest Preview 02:40 Importance of Exposure for Players 04:35 Teams and Players to Watch 06:19 Event Logistics and College Recruitment 15:16 Post-Event Content and Coverage 19:33 Extra Time: Fun and Personal Stories 34:19 Conclusion and Wrap-Up

In this episode of New England Soccer Journal's The Goal Podcast, host Matt Langone is joined by club soccer writer Matt Doherty, IFA New England MLS Next Director Rohit Gautam, and club president Bill Altieri. They discuss IFA New England's development strategies, the importance of the MLS Next platform, and the club's competitive environment. The conversation also explores their goals for player development, international experiences, and upcoming events. The episode concludes with a fun Q&A segment, 'Extra Time,' where the guests tackle various soccer dilemmas.   Topics   00:58 IFA New England's Ambitions and Progress 02:44 The Role and Impact of MLS Next 05:37 Weekly Routine and Player Development 09:06 Competitiveness and Unique Approach of IFA New England 21:00 International Exposure and Future Plans 24:13 Reflecting on a Successful Event 24:43 Future Plans for International Tournaments 25:19 MLS Next Fest and Its Importance 25:54 Showcasing Talent and Competing 28:25 The Extra Time Segment Begins 28:58 Handling Time-Wasting Tactics 32:40 Dealing with Injured Players 37:04 Managing Fiery Players 41:11 Closing Remarks and Farewell

In this episode of New England Soccer Journal's The Goal Podcast, host Matt Langone is joined by Siemens Media Managing Editor and Girls Prep Soccer Writer Mike Zhe. They delve into the upcoming NEPSAC soccer tournaments, providing a comprehensive breakdown of both girls and boys teams. They discuss potential top teams, analyze their performances during the season, and predict who might make it through to the finals. The episode also features 'Extra Time' where the hosts respond to thought-provoking soccer-related quotes. This episode is a must-listen for serious soccer players and their supporters looking to navigate the high-stakes environment of New England prep soccer.   Topics   01:01 NEPSAC Tournament Overview 03:14 Girls Prep Soccer: Top Teams Analysis 06:15 Class A Contenders Breakdown 13:51 Class B Insights and Predictions 17:02 Boys Prep Soccer Preview 18:44 Milton and Berkshire: The Teams to Watch 19:33 Contenders for the Boys' Championship 21:22 Filling Out the Field: The Final Teams 23:52 Class B Championship Predictions 26:46 Bracketology and Final Thoughts 28:28 Extra Time: Soccer Quotes and Insights

In this episode of the New England Soccer Journal's 'The Goal' podcast, hosts Matt Langone and Matt Doherty sit down with Eric Klein, New England Revolution II midfielder and the Revolution Academy Player of the Year for the 23-24 season. Klein opens up about his journey from Pennsylvania to the Revs Academy, highlighting the honor of his award and the significance of adaptability on the field. The episode delves into his physical and skill development, the importance of fitness, and the challenges of professional soccer. Notable discussions include the value of mentorship, the nuances of player-coach relationships, and parental support in youth sports. The conversation is enriched with Klein's personal soccer memories, aspirations, and the essential qualities that make a great coach. Topics 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:31 Meet Eric Klein: Revolution Academy Player of the Year 01:05 Eric's Journey and Achievements 03:39 Life in the Academy and Residency Program 06:08 Transition to Professional Soccer 10:45 Personal Growth and Future Goals 17:54 Producer David's Toughest Questions 18:38 Memorable Soccer Moments 22:39 Advice for Soccer Parents 27:17 Qualities of a Good Soccer Coach 31:27 Closing Remarks and Farewell

Host Matt Langone introduces new soccer reporter Matt Doherty. The episode highlights Matt's background, including his experience in sports journalism and his focus on club and academy soccer in the New England region. They discuss the dynamic soccer landscape, especially in the context of youth clubs and academies, such as MLS Next and ECNL. Matt shares his excitement about covering the burgeoning soccer scene and the opportunity to share untold player stories. The podcast also features a segment of 'extra time', where hypothetical scenarios about soccer movies and fascinating rules are discussed.   Topics   00:36 Meet the New Reporter: Matt Doherty 01:34 Matt Doherty's Background and Experience 03:31 Insights on MLS Next and Club Soccer 07:24 High School vs. Club Soccer 10:37 Future Coverage and Club Dynamics 17:44 Extra Time: Fun and Random Questions 31:03 Conclusion and Farewell  

In this episode of New England Soccer Journal's The Goal Podcast, host Matt Langone chats with Paul Turner, the new head coach of Thayer Academy Girls Soccer. Turner, who has extensive coaching experience in high school soccer, shares his excitement about the new role, the challenges of leading a team with significant injuries, and his coaching philosophy. He also reflects on his journey from London to the U.S., the modern club soccer landscape, and his hopes for the future of the sport. Additionally, Turner and Langone discuss the growth of the National Women's Soccer League and the pros and cons of artificial turf in soccer.   Topics   00:34 Meet Paul Turner: Thayer Academy's New Head Coach 01:10 Paul Turner's Coaching Journey 02:45 Challenges and Opportunities at Thayer Academy 04:23 Team Dynamics and Player Development 06:12 Coaching Philosophy and Team Strategy 14:01 Paul Turner's Background and Passion for Soccer 17:01 Reflecting on the Evolution of Soccer 17:57 Challenges in Club Soccer 19:56 Defining a Successful Season for Thayer 21:55 Extra Time: Random Questions 22:31 The Future of Women's Soccer 25:42 Debate Over Artificial Turf 28:10 First Memories of Soccer 30:26 Closing Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode of New England Soccer Journal's The Goal Podcast, host Matt Langone speaks with New England Soccer Journal high school soccer writer Patrick Donnelly about the upcoming high school soccer season. They discuss top teams and players to watch, challenges posed by the MLS Next factor, the impact of club soccer on high school participation, and share experiences covering high school sports. The episode also includes a fun segment called Extra Time, where the participants answer random soccer-related questions.   Topics   01:12 High School Soccer Insights 02:55 MLS Next Impact on High School Soccer 04:41 Early Season Highlights and Rankings 05:39 Challenges of Covering High School Sports 08:04 Players to Watch This Season 10:41 State Championship Atmosphere 12:16 Comparing High School and Prep School Sports 14:55 Pat's Background and Experience 16:04 Extra Time: Fun Questions 24:34 Conclusion and Sign Off

In this episode of New England Soccer Journal's The Goal Podcast, host Matt Langone welcomes Seamans Media Managing Editor and Girls Prep Soccer writer Mike Zhe. They discuss the upcoming NEPSAC 2024 prep soccer season, focusing on top teams and players in both girls and boys prep soccer. Key highlights include in-depth prospects for perennial powerhouses like Buckingham, Brown, and Nichols (BB&N) on the girls' side and Milton Academy on the boys' side, along with insights into other competitive teams like Taft, Northfield Mount Hermon, and Worcester Academy. The episode also features an engaging ‘extra time' segment with creative and insightful soccer-related questions.   Topics 01:06 Previewing the Girls Prep Soccer Season 01:58 Top Teams to Watch in Girls Prep Soccer 05:12 Founders League Powerhouses 09:15 Class B Contenders: Pingree and Dexter Southfield 11:02 ISL Teams to Watch: Thayer Academy and Nobles 13:38 Teams Outside the Top 10 to Watch 16:08 Transition to Boys Prep Soccer 16:28 Milton Academy: The Team to Beat 17:57 Challengers to Milton Academy 20:53 Western Massachusetts Contenders: Taft, NMH, and Berkshire 22:37 Worcester Academy's Prospects 23:38 Founders League Boys Teams: Loomis Chaffee 23:53 Loomis Chaffee's Promising Season 24:21 Choate: The Team to Beat 24:59 Kimball Union Academy's Rise 25:57 Avon Old Farms and Nobles in the Rankings 26:52 Potential Top 10 Contenders 28:24 The Passion of Prep and High School Soccer 30:11 Extra Time: Fun and Creative Soccer Questions

In this episode of New England Soccer Journal's The Goal Podcast, hosted by Matt Langone, University of Maine women's soccer head coach Scott Atherley joins the show. They discuss the upcoming 2024 season, reflecting on Maine's historic 2023 NCAA tournament appearance. Coach Atherley shares his insights on the evolution of the game, team dynamics, the influence of Canadian recruitment, and strategic preparations for the season. The conversation also covers Atherley's approach to developing players' mentality and handling transitions within the sport.  Topics 00:47 University of Maine Women's Soccer: Season Preparation 01:24 Reflecting on the Historic 2023 Season 02:42 Maine's Soccer Philosophy and Recruitment 06:24 Spotlight on Abby Kramer 07:42 Recruiting Strategies and Challenges 09:48 Selling the University of Maine Experience 13:19 Upcoming Season and Team Mindset 24:14 Extra Time: Fun Soccer Questions 31:56 Conclusion and Farewell

Damario McIntosh: Journey to the MLS Next All-Star Game In this episode of New England Soccer Journal's The Goal Podcast, host Matt Langone interviews Damario McIntosh, a 16-year-old midfielder for New England Revolution II, about his soccer journey. Damario discusses his recent honor of being selected for the MLS Next All-Star Game, his experience traveling, and his developmental journey from Jamaica to California to Boston. They also cover his transition from striker to right back, his soccer influences, and future goals. The episode concludes with a fun segment inspired by Ted Lasso quotes, touching on sports philosophy and personal challenges.   Topics   00:44 Damario McIntosh's MLS All-Star Game Experience 03:15 Journey from Jamaica to the USA 07:26 Switching Positions: From Striker to Right Back 12:09 Future Goals and Development 14:20 Extra Time: Fun Soccer Questions 21:27 Conclusion and Farewell

In this episode of New England Soccer Journal's The Goal Podcast, host Matt Langone interviews Brendan Adams, the head coach of Bridgewater State men's soccer team. They discuss Adams' two-decade-long tenure, his approach to recruiting, the identity and evolution of his program, and the competitive landscape of Division III soccer in New England. The episode also features a fun segment with producer David Yas, where they evaluate famous soccer goal calls, potential warm-up songs, and soccer movie trailers. Topics 00:34 Meet Coach Brendan Adams 00:45 Building a Winning Program 03:00 Challenges and Successes in the MassCac 11:20 Recruitment Strategies and Challenges 12:57 The Value of State School Programs 17:33 Balancing Coaching and Recruitment 18:48 Reflecting on a Coaching Career 21:15 Team's Potential for the Season 21:38 Facing New Challenges as Top Dogs 22:06 Extra Time Segment Introduction 22:39 Evaluating Iconic Soccer Goal Calls 27:48 Best Soccer Warm-Up Songs 29:34 Soccer Movie Trailers Quiz 32:53 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

The guest is Santiago Somorrostro, the New Hampshire Gatorade Player of the Year from Nashua South, who achieved the honor twice consecutively. They discuss Santi's high school legacy, the surprise of winning the award, his transition to UMass Lowell for Division I soccer, and his involvement in soccer and other sports over the years. Santi shares advice for younger players, insights into his goals and playing style, and his excitement about starting his college soccer career. Topics 01:47 Winning the Gatorade Player of the Year 03:29 Balancing Academics and Athletics 07:14 Choosing UMass Lowell 09:03 Club Soccer Experience 10:49 Family and Early Soccer Influences 12:18 Advice for Young Soccer Players 14:12 Preparing for College Soccer 17:16 Extra Time: Fun Soccer Questions 22:22 Conclusion and Farewell

In this episode of New England Soccer Journal's The Goal Podcast, host Matt Langone interviews Dave Barrett, head coach of Fairfield University women's soccer team. Dave discusses his insights and strategies as a college recruiter and coach, emphasizing the importance of athleticism, character, and transparency in the recruitment process. He shares experiences from his coaching career, talks about the blend of technical ability and character he seeks in players, and highlights the critical nature of fit for both the program and the athlete. The discussion also covers the importance of managing expectations, handling rejection, and the evolving role of social media in recruitment. As Fairfield prepares for another competitive season, Dave expresses optimism about the team's prospects and reflects on the significant emotional moments in his coaching journey.  Topics 00:45 Recruiting Insights and Philosophy 04:58 Handling Rejection and Thick Skin 13:03 Geographical Recruitment Strategy 15:03 Social Media's Role in Recruitment 19:21 The Importance of Live Interaction in Recruiting 19:50 Evaluating Player and Family Dynamics 20:46 The Initial Contact Process 21:44 Challenges with Player Parents 24:01 Goalkeeper Perspective in Coaching 25:48 Program Expectations for 2024 29:15 Extra Time: Fun and Insightful Questions 38:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The guest is Ally Giovino, a forward transitioning from Colgate University to the University of New Hampshire for a graduate year. Ally discusses her bittersweet emotions about leaving Colgate, her reasons for choosing Colgate over other schools during her recruiting process, her development as a player, and how the COVID-19 pandemic affected her college experience. She also talks about her plans for the future, her strong work ethic, and her experiences coaching younger players during the summer.  Topics: 00:37 Reflecting on Colgate Experience 03:17 Navigating the COVID-19 Challenges 04:57 Choosing UNH for Grad Year 08:16 Leadership and On-Field Role 10:32 Recruitment and Transfer Insights 15:43 Early Soccer Journey and Multi-Sport Background 17:35 The Benefits of Playing Multiple Sports 19:07 The Impact of Club Soccer on Development 19:36 Summer Training Plans and Personal Coaching 20:17 Future in Coaching and Training Young Players 21:57 Extra Time: The Best Coach

New England Soccer Journal contributor, Frank Dell'Apa discusses the current state of the New England Revolution, their struggles in the Eastern Conference, and the broader context of soccer development and superstar influence in MLS. The conversation delves into the Revolution's performance, historical context under Bruce Arena's management, and prospects for improvement. Also, the transformative effect of Lionel Messi's arrival in MLS with Miami, comparing the impact of star power on soccer dynamics in the U.S. to global trends. Additionally, the pod covers the role of youth development, the future of American soccer leading up to the 2026 World Cup, and the potential ramifications of sports gambling on the game. 00:42 Diving Deep into the New England Revolution's Current Struggles 02:04 Analyzing the Revolution's Performance and Potential Turnaround 05:00 The Impact of Youth and Homegrown Talent on the Revolution 07:33 Caleb Porter's Optimism and the Challenges Ahead 12:52 Miami's Game-Changing Approach to MLS 18:07 The Future of the Revolution in the Competitive MLS Landscape 19:52 The Game-Changing Potential of Soccer's Accessibility 19:59 The Spontaneity of Soccer and Its Fans 21:17 The Messi Effect: A Case Study in Star Power 24:17 The Future of Soccer: Star Players and Team Strategies 28:35 Extra Time: Deep Dives into Soccer's Evolution, Challenges, and Gambling

In this episode of The Goal Podcast, Matt Langone and producer David Yas discuss the television docuseries 'Welcome to Wrexham,' which follows Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney as they purchase and manage Wrexham AFC, a historic yet struggling Welsh soccer team. They delve into the show's influence on soccer's popularity, its appeal to a broader audience, and its representation of the sport's emotional and competitive aspects. The episode also covers the concept of relegation in soccer, the team's challenges and successes under new management, and the unique community support around Wrexham AFC. Additionally, they touch on a new venture by Reynolds and McElhenney into Mexican soccer with Club Nacaxa. Interviews, clips from the series, and discussions highlight key moments, fan culture, and the personal investment of the owners in the team's turnaround. Topics: 00:27 Diving Deep into 'Welcome to Wrexham' 02:18 The Hollywood Effect: Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney's Impact 03:25 The Emotional and Financial Investment in Wrexham AFC 04:04 Exploring the Cultural Phenomenon of Soccer Through 'Welcome to Wrexham' 11:36 Understanding Soccer's Relegation System and Its Impact 19:32 Rob and Ryan's Strategy: Star Power and Community Engagement 22:37 Fan Engagement and Ownership Dynamics 23:31 SportsCenter Parody and Team Performance Analysis 24:17 The Power of Self-Deprecation in Sports 25:37 Cultural Impact and Audience Connection 27:35 The Unique Charm of Soccer Chants 30:57 The Evolution of Rob and Ryan's Public Persona 32:28 Season Recap and Looking Ahead 40:00 Expanding the Empire: New Ventures

The guests are Steve McAuliffe, Executive Director, and Brendan Hamilton, Academy Director, from South Shore Select. The episode delves into the club's significant transition to ECNL girls from the Girls Academy for the 2024-25 season, marking a major milestone. McAuliffe and Hamilton discuss the club's joy and competitive ambitions with this move, highlighting their long-term effort in fostering soccer talent and the club's development over the past 30 years. They share success stories, including nurturing players like number one NWSL draft pick Ally Sentnor. The conversation also touches on the club's strong community ties, the importance of maintaining a competitive yet respectful club culture, and their perspectives on future growth and challenges within the changing landscape of club soccer. The podcast concludes with a light-hearted Celebrity Soccer Fantasy Draft. More at https://selectma.com/ Topics 00:00 Welcome to The Goal Podcast with South Shore Select Leadership 00:41 Major Club Announcement: Transition to ECNL 02:38 Reflecting on Club Success and Player Development 07:50 The Competitive Spirit and Future Aspirations 16:22 Navigating the Club Soccer Landscape and Focusing on Self-Improvement 19:07 Exploring the Club's Unique Approach and Community Impact 19:38 The Importance of Familiarity and Personalization in Club Sports 20:59 Expansion Strategies and Maintaining Club Identity 21:57 Transitioning to a New League: Expectations and Preparations 23:14 Club and Community Excitement for the Upcoming Season 23:56 Celebrity Soccer Fantasy Draft: A Fun Divergence

Scott Halpern was named head coach of Loomis Chaffee's soccer teaam in 2023. Halpern previously worked with the men's soccer program at the University of Connecticut. He joins the show to talk about this off-season, including adding some new students and off-season training and conditioning programs.

New England Revolution forward Olger Escobar joins the show to talk about the team's training in Florida and the excitement surrounding the new season. Also covered in the show: Olger shares insights into his transition from youth soccer to professional soccer, emphasizing the motivation he draws from seeing young players progressing through the ranks and his determination to adapt quickly to the demands of professional play. The conversation touches upon Older's accolades, such as being named the Revolution Academy Player of the Year for 2022-23, highlighting his journey from joining the academy to receiving recognition for his performance and dedication. Olger discusses his international experience, including his call-up to the Guatemalan national team and his debut, offering insights into the emotions and significance of representing his country on the soccer field. Olger also reflects on his personal soccer journey, discussing his early dedication to the sport, family influences, and experiences playing for various teams. He shares memorable moments, such as crucial penalty kicks and the impact of watching and learning from soccer legends like Lionel Messi

The guests are Boston Bolts MLS Next Director Shawn Napier and Director of Coaching Greg Robertson who join the show to look ahead to the MLS season and discuss how the Bolts are distinguished from the rest of the club landscape in New England.

The guest is Aztec Soccer Junior Boys Director Jeff Winterton. Jeff, a veteran of the club, discusses its new ownership, changes in structure and more.

Chris Watkins was named the new head women's soccer coach at Boston College this past December.  Watkins previously coached seven seasons at Gonzaga, where he compiled a 79-33-16 record.

Milton Academy recently claimed the the Class A championship, after a "gauntlet" of a tournament. Coach Chris Kane joins the show to talk about the achievement.

Host Matt Langone is joined by Seamans Media Managing Editor and Girls Prep Soccer writer Mike Zhe to preview the New England prep school playoffs.

The guest is Jennifer Epstein, one of the owners of Boston's brand new National Women's Soccer League franchise that will begin play in 2026.

Rick Warren, head coach for Suffield Academy, is the guest.  Prior to arriving at Suffield, he was the assistant men's soccer coach at Kenyon College. Rick is a native of Jamaica who played for his country at the youth level.

Sam Lopes was named the ninth head coach of the Providence women's soccer program in 2014  In his first nine seasons as head coach, Lopes has guided the Friars to seven winning seasons, one appearance in the NCAA Tournament (2021) and appearances in seven of the last eight Big East Tournaments. In 2021, Lopes guided the Friars to their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 1993. 

New England Soccer Journal's Matt Langone and Mike Zhe preview the upcoming prep school soccer season for both the boys and girls squads.

Just days away from the start of the season, Coach Jen Hughes joins the show to talk Amherst College soccer.

The guest is Marc Hubbard, who is in his ninth season as UNH men's soccer head coach. The Wildcats have recorded 10+ win seasons each of Hubbard's first eight years and is currently a top-25 ranked team.

Longtime soccer writer Frank Dell'Apa joins the show to talk about the Women's World Cup and a host of other topics.

Curt Onalfo, technical director of the New England Revolution, joins the show to talk about a host of issues including the signing of local soccer phenom Peyton Miller.

NEFC Boys Director of Coaching Christian Battaglia joins the show to talk about a host of issues around the spring season of soccer.

Jon Moodey is the founder and CEO of Black Rock Football Club. He previously served as the Head Soccer Coach at Berkshire School for 11 years, where he won three National Prep Championships. 

USA College recruiting and placement expert Don Williams joins the show with a host of advice for the parents of high school soccer players.

James Proctor just finished his 23rd year coaching the Worcester Academy boy's soccer program. During his time at WA, he has compiled a 271-69-53 record.

The guest is Brown University forward Brittany Raphino, who recently got the call from the U23 women's youth national team.

Goalkeeper Max Weinstein is the guest, fresh off signing his first pro contract with the N.E. Revolution II.

Connecticut FC ECL director and co-owner Todd Plourde is the guest. Plourde also serves as women's soccer head coach for Iona.

The guest is the Berkshire School's Tony Amolo, the men's  head varsity coach and a 2013 alum of the prep school. Under Amolo's guidance the team improved to a stellar 14-3-2 last season.

The guest is coach Kyle Dezotell, who In his first year led the Tufts University men's soccer program to the NESCAC championship and into the Elite 8 of the NCAA Tournament.