Podcasts about american soccer

Hey Peeps! Ty here with some quick thoughts on family and soccer on the eve of the World Cup. I'll be back on twitter @wtppod during the tournament, we hope you say hello! Rate and review on iTunes, which helps us show up when people search for “Soccer”: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/we-people-usmnt-soccer-podcast/id1019651760?mt=2 Like us on Facebook: https://facebook.com/wtppod Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/wtppod USMNT US soccer we the peeps

For the Glory KC is back with the 182nd episode of the show!Sporting Kansas City and the KC Current didn't play matches this week because of the World Cup break, but we're doing something new for us. We interviewed Nate Bukaty on this week's podcast! It's our first ever interview and Nate was a great first ever guest.He was on to promote his new book that he co-authored with Rustin Dodd, "Perfect Pitch: How Kansas City became the Heart of American Soccer and Landed the World Cup."Nate was a delightful interview as we learned about how he got to the job he has today. He talked about the 70+ interviews he did and how he has caught the bug of writing and wants to keep writing. It sounds like he has the material for 10 books considering the folks he interviewed that didn't make it in.I got the chance to talk to Nate about being friends with a bunch of Sporting KC legends and future legends like Matt Besler, Benny Feilhaber, Graham Zusi (aka Uncle Graham - you've gotta listen to get that story), Roger Espinoza and more!We learned about Kansas City nearly as much as we learned about soccer. Go follow Nate on Twitter and Instagram. He's also on a mission to find everyone on the cover of his book and give out a copy, so if you recognize anyone above hit us or Nate up!Speaking of free copies of the book, we're going to give away a copy here in the coming weeks if you aren't lucky enough to be able to buy one on your own. Otherwise, hit up your local bookstore or anywhere books are sold and buy "Perfect Pitch" today! Or join the waitlist at the library!Here is a rundown of sections and start times:Intro - 0:00Nate Bukaty Interview - 2:55After Dark Nonsense - 50:00Upcoming GamesThe World Cup starts Thursday! (Full Schedule)As a special gift to For the Glory KC listeners and KC Soccer Journal readers, Backheeled.com is giving away 30 days of their amazing, independent American soccer coverage for free. If you decide you want to turn that into a paid membership, they'll give you 10 percent off too. Just follow this link!Big thanks to Splitter Conspiracy (listen to them here) for our theme music made with the permission of the KC Cauldron. 

Send us Fan Mail        Welcome to the GP Soccer Podcast World Cup Special!  (S14 E15)The GP Soccer Podcast is a proud member of the Sports History Network and endorsed by the National Soccer Coaches Association of Canada.     Host Giovanni Pacini welcomes a stellar panel of soccer professionals to the show for this World Cup Special! Renato CapobiancoFormer Team Administrator for the 1994 USMNT.Former Head Men's Soccer Coach at Regis College (MA).Rob EllisAuthor of the book-m "The Soccer Coaches Toolkit".Former coach with the Chelsea FC Foundation.Current Head Men's Soccer Coach at Imperial College in London, England.Ralph FerrignoFormer Head Men's Soccer Coach at Tufts University (MA).Member of the New England Soccer Hall of Fame, Class of 2016.Current contributor to the GP Soccer Podcast European Report.John DeBenedictisExecutive Director for the National Soccer Coaches Association of Canada.Author of the book- "The Last Nine Seconds: The Secrets to Scoring Goals".Founder and director of the "Golden Goal Scoring Course".The GP Soccer Podcast will feature World Cup reports every Wednesday beginning on June 24th throughout the tournament.                    GP Soccer Podcast enjoys continued support from-United Goalkeeping Alliance - Music Meets Sports - National Soccer Coaches Association of Canada - The Sports History Network - Feedspot.com - GP Voice Over Services - Zone 14 CoachingGP Soccer Podcast welcomes a new sponsor- Zone 14 Coaching! Check it out at Zone14coaching.com. Use promo code GP20 for 20% off!To purchase a signed copy of Dr. Joe Machnik's book- "From the Sandlots to the World Cup: 7 Decades of American Soccer", e-mail "Dr. Joe" at joemachnik@no1soccercamps.com. Be sure to mention the GP Soccer Podcast!Enjoy the show!Support the show

Send us Fan MailBall Watching hosts, Jake Koenig and Justin Graham, recap the USMNT's 2-1 loss against Germany and preview their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Paraguay!Follow the show on X and/or Instagram (@BallWatchingSTL)! Find our guest interviews and all episodes in video form on YouTube by searching https://www.youtube.com/@ballwatchingSTL. Be sure to hit subscribe and turn notifications on!Hoffmann Brothers is the 2025 presenting sponsor of Ball Watching! Headquartered right here in St. Louis for over 40 years, Hoffmann Brothers is a full-service residential & commercial provider, providing Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing, Drains, Sewer, Water Heaters, Duct Cleaning, Electrical and Appliance Repair services. Visit them online at hoffmannbros.com!Make The Pitch Athletic Club & Tavern (thepitch-stl.com) your St. Louis CITY SC pregame and postgame destination for all your food and drink needs! Tell them your friends at Ball Watching sent you... Shop in-store or online at Series Six (seriessixcompany.com) and receive a 15% discount  on all orders storewide using code "BALLWATCHING" at checkout!

American soccer isn't failing because of talent — it's failing because of access. In Part 2 of The Interview Sessions, Kevin L. Warren and co-host Dorian "The D.A." Albritton go deeper with Alex Lubyansky — former University of Michigan goalkeeper, European club operator, M&A attorney, and Head Coach/GM of Detroit Metro FC.This one goes straight at the system: promotion/relegation and why it builds accountability, the real reason pro/rel "won't work" in MLS, USL's 2028 pro/rel plan, the truth about pay-to-play and "fully funded" academies, and a full 2026 FIFA World Cup breakdown — Team USA's Group D path against Paraguay, Australia and Türkiye, the new third-place advancement format, plus Mexico, Canada's Jesse Marsch, Brazil, and why Japan is a legitimate dark horse.⭐ HIGHLIGHTED CHAPTER

Send us Fan MailBall Watching hosts, Jake Koenig and Justin Graham, dissect the 2026 USMNT World Cup Roster from top to bottom, recap their 3-2 win over Senegal, and preview what's to come in Chicago against Germany!Follow the show on X and/or Instagram (@BallWatchingSTL)! Find our guest interviews and all episodes in video form on YouTube by searching https://www.youtube.com/@ballwatchingSTL. Be sure to hit subscribe and turn notifications on!Hoffmann Brothers is the 2025 presenting sponsor of Ball Watching! Headquartered right here in St. Louis for over 40 years, Hoffmann Brothers is a full-service residential & commercial provider, providing Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing, Drains, Sewer, Water Heaters, Duct Cleaning, Electrical and Appliance Repair services. Visit them online at hoffmannbros.com!Make The Pitch Athletic Club & Tavern (thepitch-stl.com) your St. Louis CITY SC pregame and postgame destination for all your food and drink needs! Tell them your friends at Ball Watching sent you... Shop in-store or online at Series Six (seriessixcompany.com) and receive a 15% discount  on all orders storewide using code "BALLWATCHING" at checkout!

Dr. Joe Machnik has spent more than seven decades shaping and influencing the game of soccer in the United States.In this special episode of We Are Soccer, Craig Hearn sits down with the legendary referee, educator, broadcaster, and author to discuss the beautiful game from every angle. From the evolution of soccer's laws and the challenges facing modern referees, to the impact of VAR and what fans can expect at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Dr. Joe shares a lifetime of knowledge and experience from inside the game.The conversation also explores Dr. Joe's remarkable soccer journey and his new book, From Sandlots to the World Cup: Inside Seven Decades of American Soccer, a fascinating look at the growth of the sport in America through the eyes of someone who helped shape its history. Whether you're a coach, player, referee, parent, or passionate soccer fan, this interview offers a unique perspective from one of the most respected voices in American soccer.

Send us Fan Mail                         Welcome to the GP Soccer Podcast!  (S14 E14)Proud member of the Sports History Network and endorsed by the National                                                  Soccer Coaches Association of Canada.     Host Giovanni Pacini welcomes his worldwide audience to yet another exciting show. Don't forget this season will feature World Cup "bonus content" during the World Cup.This week's "Conversation with the Coach" is with legendary US soccer professional Bill Nuttall. "Coaches Corner" features a Unisport segment on playing without fear. "News and Analysis" will feature Giovanni Pacini with news from the AP and the Boston Globe. Ralph Ferrigno checks in with commentary regarding the final matches and tournaments before the World Cup. The "American Soccer Revolution" features Giovanni Pacini discussing the value of young players watching World Cup matches. The GP Soccer Podcast features new shows every Wednesday and can be found anywhere you listen to your podcasts. Listeners are encouraged to "Like" and "Subscribe" the GP Soccer Podcast and share the show amongst those within their social media network! Those interested in advertising on the show can contact host Giovanni Pacini at gp4soccer@yahoo.com. And be sure to check out the show website at www.gpsoccerpodcast.com.                     GP Soccer Podcast enjoys continued support from-United Goalkeeping Alliance - Music Meets Sports - National Soccer Coaches Association of Canada - The Sports History Network - Feedspot.com - GP Voice Over Services - Zone 14 CoachingGP Soccer Podcast welcomes a new sponsor- Zone 14 Coaching! Check it out at Zone14coaching.com. Use promo code GP20 for 20% off!To purchase a signed copy of Dr. Joe Machnik's book- "From the Sandlots to the World Cup: 7 Decades of American Soccer", e-mail "Dr. Joe" at joemachnik@no1soccercamps.com. Be sure to mention the GP Soccer Podcast!Enjoy the show!Support the show

Everybody in American soccer loves to say we don't have the right soccer culture. But what happens when someone like Mauricio Pochettino actually brings a higher-level soccer culture into the room? That's where this episode begins. The backlash against Pochettino — over emails, roster decisions, media comments, job rumors, and even who he names captain […]

Send us Fan MailBall Watching hosts, Jake Koenig and Justin Graham, wrap their "Road to '26" interview series with a true icon of the modern American pitch: Jozy Altidore.With 115 caps, an MLS Cup title, and an MLS Cup MVP on his mantle, Jozy stands alone as one of the most dominant forces in national team history. As the third-highest goalscorer in USMNT history with 42 goals, he has summited the highest peaks of the sport and carries a rare, elite understanding of what it actually takes to win on the world stage.Now navigating the boardroom as the Chief Soccer Officer of our show partner, Sogility, Jozy is leveraging state-of-the-art, data-tracked training technology to fundamentally revolutionize how this country develops youth talent.We sit down with the absolute legend to dive deep into his legacy and look ahead to the home crucible of 2026, covering:The CSO Mandate: Unpacking his transition from scoring headlines to corporate leadership. Jozy explains how data and sensory tracking tech are designed to close the global development gap and fix America's historical training deficiencies.The Art of the No. 9: A masterclass on the pure, instinctual mechanics of elite finishing. Jozy details the fine line between clinical execution and overthinking in the box, and breaks down his absolute favorite international career goals.Handling the World Stage: What does it actually feel like to walk onto a pitch with the emotional expectations of an entire nation on your back? Jozy shares the mental adjustments required to handle the pressure cooker of multiple FIFA World Cups.The Pochettino Formula & 2026 Mandate: With the tournament arriving at our front door, Jozy issues a direct, filterless reality check for the current player pool. He reveals the exact baseline trait Mauricio Pochettino's squad needs to adopt to ensure 2026 is a success.Whether you want to hear from one of the greatest strikers to ever wear the crest or see the technological blueprint changing the sport's future, you cannot miss this grand finale.Follow the show on X and/or Instagram (@BallWatchingSTL)! Find our guest interviews and all episodes in video form on YouTube by searching https://www.youtube.com/@ballwatchingSTL. Be sure to hit subscribe and turn notifications on!Hoffmann Brothers is the 2025 presenting sponsor of Ball Watching! Headquartered right here in St. Louis for over 40 years, Hoffmann Brothers is a full-service residential & commercial provider, providing Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing, Drains, Sewer, Water Heaters, Duct Cleaning, Electrical and Appliance Repair services. Visit them online at hoffmannbros.com!Make The Pitch Athletic Club & Tavern (thepitch-stl.com) your St. Louis CITY SC pregame and postgame destination for all your food and drink needs! Tell them your friends at Ball Watching sent you... Shop in-store or online at Series Six (seriessixcompany.com) and receive a 15% discount  on all orders storewide using code "BALLWATCHING" at checkout!

Send us Fan MailBall Watching hosts, Jake Koenig and Justin Graham, continue their "Road to '26" interview series with St. Louis soccer royalty and a true pillar of the American game—Mike Sorber. Mike didn't just witness the 1994 soccer revolution; he was the tactical anchor and engine room for it. From his legendary days as a SLU Billiken to becoming the first American to play in Mexico's top flight with Pumas, he has navigated some of the toughest, grittiest environments in soccer history. With the World Cup returning to the U.S. in 2026, he joins us at the perfect moment to bridge his historic playing days with his elite coaching career across the USMNT, New York Red Bulls, and St. Louis CITY SC.We get "on the grass" with the mastermind himself to cover:The 1994 Crucible: We dive into what the internal vibe was like in the locker room when players felt they were playing for the literal survival of the sport in the U.S.. Mike breaks down Bora Milutinović's specific tactical mandate for him as the squad's quiet anchor.The St. Louis DNA & Liga MX Trailblazing: We discuss how growing up in the unique St. Louis soccer ecosystem prepared him for a professional career before MLS even existed. He shares how a Midwestern "chip on the shoulder" helped him navigate Mexico's top flight.The Coaching Blueprint: We look at his transition to the tactical board and how much of the high-intensity Red Bull pressing philosophy he injected into the foundation of St. Louis CITY SC. He reveals the behind-the-scenes non-negotiables required to establish a club's expansion identity.The Road to 2026 & Legacy: We ask whether the return of the tournament feels like a true "mission accomplished" moment for his generation. Plus, he reveals the exact trait the current 2026 USMNT roster needs to "steal" from the 1994 squad to achieve real success.Follow the show on X and/or Instagram (@BallWatchingSTL)! Find our guest interviews and all episodes in video form on YouTube by searching https://www.youtube.com/@ballwatchingSTL. Be sure to hit subscribe and turn notifications on!Hoffmann Brothers is the 2025 presenting sponsor of Ball Watching! Headquartered right here in St. Louis for over 40 years, Hoffmann Brothers is a full-service residential & commercial provider, providing Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing, Drains, Sewer, Water Heaters, Duct Cleaning, Electrical and Appliance Repair services. Visit them online at hoffmannbros.com!Make The Pitch Athletic Club & Tavern (thepitch-stl.com) your St. Louis CITY SC pregame and postgame destination for all your food and drink needs! Tell them your friends at Ball Watching sent you... Shop in-store or online at Series Six (seriessixcompany.com) and receive a 15% discount  on all orders storewide using code "BALLWATCHING" at checkout!

Send us Fan Mail                         Welcome to the GP Soccer Podcast!  (S14 E13)Proud member of the Sports History Network and endorsed by the National                                                  Soccer Coaches Association of Canada.     Host Giovanni Pacini welcomes his worldwide audience to yet another exciting show. Don't forget this season will feature World Cup "bonus content" during the World Cup.This week's "Conversation with the Coach" is with Dan Abrahams, noted sport psychology expert and author of a new book entitled- "Compete". "Coaches Corner" features Paul Robinson where he discusses the importance of arrival activities. "News and Analysis" will feature Giovanni Pacini with news from the AP and Ralph Ferrigno checks in with commentary regarding season ending matches and UEFA competitions. The "American Soccer Revolution" features a piece from Matt Dumouchelle where the topic is retention of youth sports players.The GP Soccer Podcast features new shows every Wednesday and can be found anywhere you listen to your podcasts. Listeners are encouraged to "Like" and "Subscribe" the GP Soccer Podcast and share the show amongst those within their social media network! Those interested in advertising on the show can contact host Giovanni Pacini at gp4soccer@yahoo.com. And be sure to check out the show website at www.gpsoccerpodcast.com.                     GP Soccer Podcast enjoys continued support from-United Goalkeeping Alliance - Music Meets Sports - National Soccer Coaches Association of Canada - The Sports History Network - Feedspot.com - GP Voice Over Services - Zone 14 CoachingGP Soccer Podcast welcomes a new sponsor- Zone 14 Coaching! Check it out at Zone14coaching.com. Use promo code GP20 for 20% off!To purchase a signed copy of Dr. Joe Machnik's book- "From the Sandlots to the World Cup: 7 Decades of American Soccer", e-mail "Dr. Joe" at joemachnik@no1soccercamps.com. Be sure to mention the GP Soccer Podcast!Enjoy the show!Support the show

Of the 11 U.S. cities to host FIFA World Cup games, Kansas City is the most unlikely — but also among the most deserving. The story of how KC turned itself into one of the nation's premier soccer cities is the subject of the book: “Perfect Pitch: How Kansas City Became the Heart of American Soccer,” by Nate Bukaty and Rustin Dodd.On SportsBeat KC, the sports podcast of The Star and KCUR (89.3 FM), Bukaty describes the journey, from the early days of immigrants playing on local fields to the first professional teams through the triumphs of Sporting KC and the KC Current. The momentum continued not only with games in the World Cup, but four base camps in the Kansas City area.The world's largest sporting event is coming to the middle of America because, as Bukaty notes, Kansas City earned the bid.SportsBeat KC is the sports podcast of The Kansas City Star and KCUR, hosted by Blair Kerkhoff. It's produced by Hannah Wise, Suzanne Hogan, and Gabriella Lacey, and edited by Jeff Rosen and Scott Chasen.   

Send us Fan MailBall Watching hosts, Jake Koenig and Justin Graham, continue their "Road to '26" interview series with the undisputed "Dean of the Press Box"—Paul Tenorio, a senior writer for The Athletic. Paul doesn't just report on soccer; he explains the complex machinery, roster rules, and boardroom politics that actually make the sport move in this country. With his highly anticipated book, The Messi Effect, set to hit shelves on June 2, 2026, he joins us at the ultimate moment to dive into his reporting.We challenge the insider with some analytical rigor just days ahead of the high-stakes May 26 roster reveal to cover:The Messi Effect & The Business of Soccer: Has the arrival of Lionel Messi permanently rewired Major League Soccer's financial ecosystem, or are we operating in a temporary bubble that risks bursting post-retirement? Paul shares behind-the-scenes boardroom insights from his upcoming book.The Soccer Paradox: We take a hard look at soccer's perception both domestically and globally. Are we really looking at a "golden generation"? Do others see it that way?Defining Success & The Post-World Cup Horizon: Is a Round of 16 exit an objective failure for this generation? We explore where the line sits between a respectable run and a missed opportunity, Poch's future past July, and whether U.S. Soccer infrastructure is genuinely prepared for the post-Messi reality.Follow the show on X and/or Instagram (@BallWatchingSTL)! Find our guest interviews and all episodes in video form on YouTube by searching https://www.youtube.com/@ballwatchingSTL. Be sure to hit subscribe and turn notifications on!Hoffmann Brothers is the 2025 presenting sponsor of Ball Watching! Headquartered right here in St. Louis for over 40 years, Hoffmann Brothers is a full-service residential & commercial provider, providing Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing, Drains, Sewer, Water Heaters, Duct Cleaning, Electrical and Appliance Repair services. Visit them online at hoffmannbros.com!Make The Pitch Athletic Club & Tavern (thepitch-stl.com) your St. Louis CITY SC pregame and postgame destination for all your food and drink needs! Tell them your friends at Ball Watching sent you... Shop in-store or online at Series Six (seriessixcompany.com) and receive a 15% discount  on all orders storewide using code "BALLWATCHING" at checkout!

Send us Fan MailBall Watching hosts, Jake Koenig and Justin Graham, continue their "Road to '26" interview series with the ultimate insider—the longest-serving President in the history of U.S. Soccer and current Senior Lecturer of Economics at Columbia University, Sunil Gulati. Known as "The Leader" of the modern American soccer infrastructure, Sunil's reign saw the sport take its most significant strides in our nation's history. From the "soccer in a desert" era to spearheading successful World Cup bids, he has quite literally lived it all.We challenge the professor with some analytical rigor and dive deep into his legacy, covering:The 1994 vs. 2026 Contrast: How the global "sales pitch" changed from an era when the American soccer market was purely theoretical to the reality of the upcoming World Cup.The Economist's Lens: The exact economic hurdles and incentive structures that had to be cleared during the early days of MLS and the professionalization of the USSF.Highs & Lows of the Presidency: The proudest moments watching the USWNT reach legendary status, the true directive behind hiring Jurgen Klinsmann, and a candid look back at how the trying times of the 2017 collapse in Trinidad changed his view on player development.Aspirations for 2026: What a "successful" tournament actually looks like for this country on July 20th, 2026, beyond just the performance on the pitch.Whether you want to understand the business behind the beautiful game or get a masterclass in where American soccer has been and where it's going, this is an episode you cannot miss.Follow the show on X and/or Instagram (@BallWatchingSTL)! Find our guest interviews and all episodes in video form on YouTube by searching https://www.youtube.com/@ballwatchingSTL. Be sure to hit subscribe and turn notifications on!Hoffmann Brothers is the 2025 presenting sponsor of Ball Watching! Headquartered right here in St. Louis for over 40 years, Hoffmann Brothers is a full-service residential & commercial provider, providing Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing, Drains, Sewer, Water Heaters, Duct Cleaning, Electrical and Appliance Repair services. Visit them online at hoffmannbros.com!Make The Pitch Athletic Club & Tavern (thepitch-stl.com) your St. Louis CITY SC pregame and postgame destination for all your food and drink needs! Tell them your friends at Ball Watching sent you... Shop in-store or online at Series Six (seriessixcompany.com) and receive a 15% discount  on all orders storewide using code "BALLWATCHING" at checkout!

Brando Babini started Youth 4 Youth FC when he was 16 after realizing his own soccer path was changing. Instead of walking away from the game, he built something for the players coming next.Eric Kasimov talks with Brando about player-led development, college soccer recruiting, pay-to-play, MLS, the World Cup, parents, leadership, and why young players need mentorship from people who have lived the journey.Topics covered:Why Brando started Youth 4 Youth FCWhat player-led mentorship looks like in youth soccerHow college soccer recruiting is changingWhy goalkeepers face a difficult pathThe impact of international players on domestic recruitingWhy pay-to-play remains a major problemHow players can take ownership of their journeyWhy street soccer and culture still matterChapters00:00 — Brando Babini, Youth 4 Youth FC, and building while at Brown00:50 — Starting Youth 4 Youth at 1602:15 — A winding recruiting journey and choosing a different soccer path03:23 — When the pro dream shifts into something else04:13 — What Brando wished existed when he was younger05:05 — Street soccer, Nike, and expression beyond exposure05:45 — College soccer recruiting and the transfer portal07:00 — International players and eligibility questions08:00 — Protecting the domestic player pathway08:36 — The goalkeeper recruiting problem11:26 — Building a better domestic soccer system12:00 — MLS, USL, and the future of soccer in the U.S.14:13 — Charlotte FC, accessibility, and the live soccer experience16:20 — Where MLS fits compared to global leagues19:13 — How the World Cup can change U.S. soccer20:00 — Breaking pay-to-play barriers23:08 — Showcases, costs, and why talent should be free to show24:00 — Profit incentives, player development, and investment27:00 — Subsidizing players and creating access28:00 — Game time, competition, and player development31:20 — Parents, pressure, and letting players own the journey34:05 — Scaling Youth 4 Youth through regions36:10 — Brown University, professors, and entrepreneurial flexibility38:00 — Why college can still matter40:30 — Leadership, teammates, and mental toughness43:00 — Internal control and handling adversity47:00 — Content, visibility, and Youth 4 Youth's growth49:00 — Nike Toma, street soccer, and culture51:00 — Messi, Ronaldo, the Premier League, and global soccer52:50 — Best players in the world today54:38 — World Cup predictions and the U.S. path57:00 — How to find Youth 4 Youth FCConnect with Brando Babini | Youth 4 Youth FC Brando Babini on LinkedIn | InstagramYouth 4 Youth FCConnect with Eric & SportsEpreneurSportsEpreneur.com | X | LinkedInEric on LinkedIn | XRelated SportsEpreneur ContentWhen Merit Gets Messy: College Recruiting in Soccer, Hockey, and LacrosseThe State of Youth SportsCollege Recruiting Tips For International Student-AthletesThe Real Cost of Youth Sports in 2026: What Families Actually SpendSoccer Content by SportsEpreneurThe Pressure Placed on Kids in Youth SportsNIL Rules in 2026: What Athletes, Families, and Coaches Need to KnowHigh School Athletes and NIL: The Future of Youth SportsMake Youth Sports Fun Again

Episode 90 of The Mental Game features a riveting conversation with veteran sportswriter Rustin Dodd of The Athletic.Dodd is a senior writer for The Athletic's Peak vertical, covering sports leadership, personal development, and success. His stories have a sharp mental game focus, ranging from how an NFL kicker deals with nerves ahead of the Super Bowl to how a college basketball coach catalogs and learns from mistakes.Dodd came to The Athletic in 2018 after nine years at Kansas City Star. He has also co-authored two books: Kingdom Quarterback: Patrick Mahomes, the Kansas City Chiefs, and How a Once-Swingin' Cowtown Chased the Ultimate Comeback and Perfect Pitch: How Kansas City Became the Heart of American Soccer and Landed the World Cup.In this episode, Dodd:Breaks down the Peak story he's learned the most fromDives deep into some of his most unique reporting, including studying the routine of Seattle Seahawks kicker Jason MyersExplains how studying top athletes can help you do your dishes betterAnd much moreThe Mental Game podcast is produced by Sam Brief and music is courtesy of David Brief and Channel J. You can subscribe on ⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Google Podcasts⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠TuneIn⁠⁠⁠.

Send us Fan Mail                           Welcome to the GP Soccer Podcast!  (S14 E12)Proud member of the Sports History Network and endorsed by the National                                                  Soccer Coaches Association of Canada.     Host Giovanni Pacini welcomes his worldwide audience to yet another exciting show. Don't forget this season will feature World Cup "bonus content" throughout the season and beyond!This week's "Conversation with the Coach" is with the legendary American soccer broadcaster, JP Dellacamera. "Coaches Corner" features Erik Eisenhut where he talks about the role of the goalkeeper while in possession. "News and Analysis" will feature Giovanni Pacini with news from the AP and Ralph Ferrigno checks in with the European Soccer Report where he talks about Euro teams competing in the World Cup. The "American Soccer Revolution" features Dr. Nick Pocius and the topic of youth sports having a retention problem. The GP Soccer Podcast features new shows every Wednesday and can be found anywhere you listen to your podcasts. Listeners are encouraged to "Like" and "Subscribe" the GP Soccer Podcast and share the show amongst those within their social media network! Those interested in advertising on the show can contact host Giovanni Pacini at gp4soccer@yahoo.com. And be sure to check out the show website at www.gpsoccerpodcast.com.                     GP Soccer Podcast enjoys continued support from-United Goalkeeping Alliance - Music Meets Sports - National Soccer Coaches Association of Canada - The Sports History Network - Feedspot.com - GP Voice Over Services - Zone 14 CoachingGP Soccer Podcast welcomes a new sponsor- Zone 14 Coaching! Check it out at Zone14coaching.com. Use promo code GP20 for 20% off!To purchase a signed copy of Dr. Joe Machnik's book- "From the Sandlots to the World Cup: 7 Decades of American Soccer", e-mail "Dr. Joe" at joemachnik@no1soccercamps.com. Be sure to mention the GP Soccer Podcast!Enjoy the show!Support the show

Nate Bukaty, who calls games for Major League Soccer on Apple TV and previously served as a television announcer for Sporting KC, is out with a new book titled "Perfect Pitch: How Kansas City Became the Heart of American Soccer and Landed the World Cup." He'll speak at a Rainy Day Books event with co-author Rustin Dodd on May 28.

Send us Fan MailBall Watching hosts, Jake Koenig and Justin Graham, kick off the "Road to '26" interview series with a foundational figure in American soccer, Francisco Carlos. As the founder of what became the United Soccer League (USL) and a 2024 National Soccer Hall of Fame inductee, Francisco provides a masterclass on how the "machine" of the American game was built from the ground up.In this conversation, we dive into:The $15 Investment: How a simple idea and a trip to City Hall in 1986 birthed the Southwest Indoor Soccer League (SISL), the precursor to today's USL.The Architect's Journey: From arriving in the U.S. from Portugal at 16 to his time at Hartwick College, where he balanced the pitch with student journalism and radio, shaping his future in sports PR and publishing.Building the Pyramid: Francisco discusses his role in creating a multi-tiered league system, including the first national youth leagues (Super Y) and the W-League for women, and why the "pyramid" is essential for soccer to thrive in cities like Des Moines and Boise.1994 vs. 2026: Reflections on how the 1994 World Cup redefined the sport's trajectory and what he anticipates for the 2026 tournament, including concerns about ticket prices and the "sheer magnitude" of the event.The Business of "Soccer Wars": Candid thoughts on the friction between competing leagues (MLS and USL) in the same markets, citing examples like St. Louis and Austin, and the need for a unified "soccer family" in the U.S.Lamar Hunt and Legacy: Stories from his time working with Lamar Hunt and the importance of instilling a "24/7 football culture" across the country.Whether you're a tactical nerd or a business-of-sports enthusiast, this episode traces the legacy of American soccer through the lens of one of its most influential builders.Follow the show on X and/or Instagram (@BallWatchingSTL)! Find our guest interviews and all episodes in video form on YouTube by searching https://www.youtube.com/@ballwatchingSTL. Be sure to hit subscribe and turn notifications on!Hoffmann Brothers is the 2025 presenting sponsor of Ball Watching! Headquartered right here in St. Louis for over 40 years, Hoffmann Brothers is a full-service residential & commercial provider, providing Heating, Air Conditioning, Plumbing, Drains, Sewer, Water Heaters, Duct Cleaning, Electrical and Appliance Repair services. Visit them online at hoffmannbros.com!Make The Pitch Athletic Club & Tavern (thepitch-stl.com) your St. Louis CITY SC pregame and postgame destination for all your food and drink needs! Tell them your friends at Ball Watching sent you... Shop in-store or online at Series Six (seriessixcompany.com) and receive a 15% discount  on all orders storewide using code "BALLWATCHING" at checkout!

Send us Fan Mail                        Welcome to the GP Soccer Podcast!  (S14 E11)Proud member of the Sports History Network and endorsed by the National                                                  Soccer Coaches Association of Canada.     Host Giovanni Pacini welcomes his worldwide audience to yet another exciting show. Don't forget this season will feature World Cup "bonus content" throughout the season and beyond!This week's "Conversation with the Coach" is with Hal Phillips, author of "Sibling Rivalry: How Mexico and the US Built the Most Contentious Feud in World Soccer".  "Coaches Corner" features Erik Eisenhut where he talks about the role of the goalkeeper when dealing with free kicks. "News and Analysis" will feature Giovanni Pacini with news from the AP and Ralph Ferrigno checks in with the European Soccer Report where he talks about Euro teams competing in the World Cup. The "American Soccer Revolution" features a quote from Gianni Infantino regarding pay to play. Secondly, there is content from the Concrete Football Club and the movement towards street soccer.The GP Soccer Podcast features new shows every Wednesday and can be found anywhere you listen to your podcasts. Listeners are encouraged to "Like" and "Subscribe" the GP Soccer Podcast and share the show amongst those within their social media network! Those interested in advertising on the show can contact host Giovanni Pacini at gp4soccer@yahoo.com. And be sure to check out the show website at www.gpsoccerpodcast.com.                     GP Soccer Podcast enjoys continued support from-United Goalkeeping Alliance - Music Meets Sports - National Soccer Coaches Association of Canada - The Sports History Network - Feedspot.com - GP Voice Over Services - Zone 14 CoachingGP Soccer Podcast welcomes a new sponsor- Zone 14 Coaching! Check it out at Zone14coaching.com. Use promo code GP20 for 20% off!To purchase a signed copy of Dr. Joe Machnik's book- "From the Sandlots to the World Cup: 7 Decades of American Soccer", e-mail "Dr. Joe" at joemachnik@no1soccercamps.com. Be sure to mention the GP Soccer Podcast!Enjoy the show!Support the show

Send us Fan Mail                         Welcome to the GP Soccer Podcast!  (S14 E10)Proud member of the Sports History Network and endorsed by the National                                                  Soccer Coaches Association of Canada.     Host Giovanni Pacini welcomes his worldwide audience to yet another exciting show. Don't forget this season will feature World Cup "bonus content" throughout the season and beyond!This week's "Conversation with the Coach" is with Jim Harte, who returns to the show to talk about street soccer. "Coaches Corner" features TJ Kostecky again as he discusses improving group field vision while under pressure. "News and Analysis" will feature Giovanni Pacini with news from the AP and Ralph Ferrigno checks in with the European Soccer Report with the second installment about the Euro teams competing in the World Cup. The "American Soccer Revolution" features an audio clip from "Coerver Coaching" about letting players learn from their mistakes.  The GP Soccer Podcast features new shows every Wednesday and can be found anywhere you listen to your podcasts. Listeners are encouraged to "Like" and "Subscribe" the GP Soccer Podcast and share the show amongst those within their social media network! Those interested in advertising on the show can contact host Giovanni Pacini at gp4soccer@yahoo.com. And be sure to check out the show website at www.gpsoccerpodcast.com.                     GP Soccer Podcast enjoys continued support from-United Goalkeeping Alliance - Music Meets Sports - National Soccer Coaches Association of Canada - The Sports History Network - Feedspot.com - GP Voice Over Services - Zone 14 CoachingGP Soccer Podcast welcomes a new sponsor- Zone 14 Coaching! Check it out at Zone14coaching.com. Use promo code GP20 for 20% off!To purchase a signed copy of Dr. Joe Machnik's book- "From the Sandlots to the World Cup: 7 Decades of American Soccer", e-mail "Dr. Joe" at joemachnik@no1soccercamps.com. Be sure to mention the GP Soccer Podcast!Enjoy the show!Support the show

Brian is joined in studio by his brother, Jim Kilmeade, to discuss the upcoming 2026 World Cup and the state of American soccer. They dive into the "pay-to-play" crisis in youth sports, Jim's new academy for the American Soccer Club, and a decades-old family grudge over a soccer trip to Holland. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jason goes live on a Thursday night to cover two of the biggest stories in American soccer right now: the ongoing saga around the future of the Vancouver Whitecaps — including a wild "liar liar pants on fire" tweet from someone on Don Garber's account — and the breaking news that private equity giant KKR is investing in MLS Next Pro through a new entity called Hometown Soccer Holdings. He also reacts to comments from USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino about American soccer culture that are, let's just say, bothering him a little. Save the Caps: savethecaps.com Jason's Newsletter: Jason Davis Soccer Eagle (search it, sign up) Morning Kickaround "Stick to Football" podcast: The Overlap with Gary Neville — Pochettino interview Jeff Rueter's writeup of Pochettino's comments: The Guardian The Athletic reporting on the Whitecaps: Tom Bogert, Paul Tenorio, Jeff Carlisle Hometown Soccer Holdings / KKR x MLS Next Pro: mlssoccer.com / Business Wire Simon Evans' Soccer Business Newsletter — recommended by Jason for MLS Next Pro coverage Love the show? Want more Jason Davis in your life? Join the Best Soccer Show Patreon at patreon.com/thebestsoccershow and become a Bestie. Perks include:

Send us Fan Mail                           Welcome to the GP Soccer Podcast!  (S14 E9)Proud member of the Sports History Network and endorsed by the National                                                  Soccer Coaches Association of Canada.     Host Giovanni Pacini welcomes his worldwide audience to yet another exciting show. Don't forget this season will feature World Cup "bonus content" throughout the season and beyond!This week's "Conversation with the Coach" is with Jim Harte, one of the key proponents for the organization of a high school "Champions League". "Coaches Corner" features TJ Kostecky again as he discusses improving group field vision. "News and Analysis" will feature Giovanni Pacini with news from the AP and Ralph Ferrigno checks in with the European Soccer Report where he talks about Euro teams competing in the World Cup. The "American Soccer Revolution" features an audio clip from "Unfiltered Soccer" co-host Tim Howard where he describes youth soccer in the US "horrific". The GP Soccer Podcast features new shows every Wednesday and can be found anywhere you listen to your podcasts. Listeners are encouraged to "Like" and "Subscribe" the GP Soccer Podcast and share the show amongst those within their social media network! Those interested in advertising on the show can contact host Giovanni Pacini at gp4soccer@yahoo.com. And be sure to check out the show website at www.gpsoccerpodcast.com.                     GP Soccer Podcast enjoys continued support from-United Goalkeeping Alliance - Music Meets Sports - National Soccer Coaches Association of Canada - The Sports History Network - Feedspot.com - GP Voice Over Services - Zone 14 CoachingGP Soccer Podcast welcomes a new sponsor- Zone 14 Coaching! Check it out at Zone14coaching.com. Use promo code GP20 for 20% off!To purchase a signed copy of Dr. Joe Machnik's book- "From the Sandlots to the World Cup: 7 Decades of American Soccer", e-mail "Dr. Joe" at joemachnik@no1soccercamps.com. Be sure to mention the GP Soccer Podcast!Enjoy the show!Support the show

Send us Fan Mail                       Welcome to the GP Soccer Podcast!  (S14 E8)Proud member of the Sports History Network and endorsed by the National                                                  Soccer Coaches Association of Canada.     Host Giovanni Pacini welcomes his worldwide audience to yet another exciting show. Don't forget this season will feature World Cup "bonus content" throughout the season and beyond!This week's "Conversation with the Coach" is with "Eyes Up" author, TJ Kostecky where he talks about his most recent trip to Senegal. "Coaches Corner" features TJ Kostecky again as he discusses improving field vision. "News and Analysis" will feature Giovanni Pacini with news from the AP and Ralph Ferrigno checks in with the European Soccer Report where he talks about the UEFA Quarter Final Second Leg. The "American Soccer Revolution" features an audio clip from Harrison Szep where he addresses the issue- "Why rich parents have hacked US soccer".The GP Soccer Podcast features new shows every Wednesday and can be found anywhere you listen to your podcasts. Listeners are encouraged to "Like" and "Subscribe" the GP Soccer Podcast and share the show amongst those within their social media network! Those interested in advertising on the show can contact host Giovanni Pacini at gp4soccer@yahoo.com. And be sure to check out the show website at www.gpsoccerpodcast.com.                     GP Soccer Podcast enjoys continued support from-United Goalkeeping Alliance - Music Meets Sports - National Soccer Coaches Association of Canada - The Sports History Network - Feedspot.com - GP Voice Over Services - Zone 14 CoachingGP Soccer Podcast welcomes a new sponsor- Zone 14 Coaching! Check it out at Zone14coaching.com. Use promo code GP20 for 20% off!To purchase a signed copy of Dr. Joe Machnik's book- "From the Sandlots to the World Cup: 7 Decades of American Soccer", e-mail "Dr. Joe" at joemachnik@no1soccercamps.com. Be sure to mention the GP Soccer Podcast!Enjoy the show!Support the show

Send us Fan Mail                           Welcome to the GP Soccer Podcast!  (S14 E6)Proud member of the Sports History Network and endorsed by the National                                                  Soccer Coaches Association of Canada.     Host Giovanni Pacini welcomes his worldwide audience to yet another exciting show. Don't forget this season will feature World Cup "bonus content" throughout the season and beyond!This week's "Conversation with the Coach" is with author Mark C. Franek who wrote- "American Soccer Nation". "Coaches Corner" features Giovanni Pacini where he talks about the importance of children playing outside. "News and Analysis" will feature Giovanni Pacini with World Cup news and Ralph Ferrigno checks in with the European Soccer Report where he talks about the Champions League Quarter Final First Leg. The "American Soccer Revolution" features an audio clip from Beast Mode Soccer where the topic is youth players getting enough touches on the ball.The GP Soccer Podcast features new shows every Wednesday and can be found anywhere you listen to your podcasts. Listeners are encouraged to "Like" and "Subscribe" the GP Soccer Podcast and share the show amongst those within their social media network! Those interested in advertising on the show can contact host Giovanni Pacini at gp4soccer@yahoo.com. And be sure to check out the show website at www.gpsoccerpodcast.com.                     GP Soccer Podcast enjoys continued support from-United Goalkeeping Alliance - Music Meets Sports - National Soccer Coaches Association of Canada - The Sports History Network - Feedspot.com - GP Voice Over Services - Zone 14 CoachingGP Soccer Podcast welcomes a new sponsor- Zone 14 Coaching! Check it out at Zone14coaching.com. Use promo code GP20 for 20% off!To purchase a signed copy of Dr. Joe Machnik's book- "From the Sandlots to the World Cup: 7 Decades of American Soccer", e-mail "Dr. Joe" at joemachnik@no1soccercamps.com. Be sure to mention the GP Soccer Podcast!Enjoy the show!Support the show

Soccer America & American Soccer Now Writer Brian Sciaretta returns to chat the latest news and updates on the FIFA World Cup including what could happen if Iran are unable to attend the event & more Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us Fan Mail                       Welcome to the GP Soccer Podcast!  (S14 E6)Proud member of the Sports History Network and endorsed by the National                                                  Soccer Coaches Association of Canada.     Host Giovanni Pacini welcomes his worldwide audience to yet another exciting show. Don't forget this season will feature World Cup "bonus content" throughout the season and beyond!This week's "Conversation with the Coach" is with George Perry, Past-President and Senior National Staff Coach for United Soccer Coaches (Formally NSCAA). "Coaches Corner" features Eric Capone, where he talks about the damage done to players by coaches who yell and scream. "News and Analysis" will feature Giovanni Pacini and Ralph Ferrigno checks in with the European Soccer Report where he talks about the final European World Cup places being settled.  The "American Soccer Revolution" features an audio clip from CNBC where Landon Donovan talks about changing the youth and club landscape here in the US.The GP Soccer Podcast features new shows every Wednesday and can be found anywhere you listen to your podcasts. Listeners are encouraged to "Like" and "Subscribe" the GP Soccer Podcast and share the show amongst those within their social media network! Those interested in advertising on the show can contact host Giovanni Pacini at gp4soccer@yahoo.com. And be sure to check out the show website at www.gpsoccerpodcast.com.                     GP Soccer Podcast enjoys continued support from-United Goalkeeping Alliance - Music Meets Sports - National Soccer Coaches Association of Canada - The Sports History Network - Feedspot.com - GP Voice Over Services - Zone 14 CoachingGP Soccer Podcast welcomes a new sponsor- Zone 14 Coaching! Check it out at Zone14coaching.com. Use promo code GP20 for 20% off!To purchase a signed copy of Dr. Joe Machnik's book- "From the Sandlots to the World Cup: 7 Decades of American Soccer", e-mail "Dr. Joe" at joemachnik@no1soccercamps.com. Be sure to mention the GP Soccer Podcast!Enjoy the show!Support the show

Send us Fan Mail                              Welcome to the GP Soccer Podcast!  (S14 E5)Proud member of the Sports History Network and endorsed by the National                                                  Soccer Coaches Association of Canada.     Host Giovanni Pacini welcomes his worldwide audience to yet another exciting show. Don't forget this season will feature World Cup "bonus content" throughout the season and beyond!This week's "Conversation with the Coach" is with Nico Calabria, a member of the US Amputee Soccer Teram. "Coaches Corner" features Don Norton where he talks about the 10 tips for an effective training session. "News and Analysis" will feature Giovanni Pacini and Ralph Ferrigno checks in with the European Soccer Report where he talks about the European World Cup playoffs.  The "American Soccer Revolution" features an audio clip from Eric Wynalda's show, "Unleashed" where he asks the question- "Why doesn't the US develop creative players?"The GP Soccer Podcast features new shows every Wednesday and can be found anywhere you listen to your podcasts. Listeners are encouraged to "Like" and "Subscribe" the GP Soccer Podcast and share the show amongst those within their social media network! Those interested in advertising on the show can contact host Giovanni Pacini at gp4soccer@yahoo.com. And be sure to check out the show website at www.gpsoccerpodcast.com.                     GP Soccer Podcast enjoys continued support from-United Goalkeeping Alliance - Music Meets Sports - National Soccer Coaches Association of Canada - The Sports History Network - Feedspot.com - GP Voice Over Services - Zone 14 CoachingGP Soccer Podcast welcomes a new sponsor- Zone 14 Coaching! Check it out at Zone14coaching.com. Use promo code GP20 for 20% off!To purchase a signed copy of Dr. Joe Machnik's book- "From the Sandlots to the World Cup: 7 Decades of American Soccer", e-mail "Dr. Joe" at joemachnik@no1soccercamps.com. Be sure to mention the GP Soccer Podcast!Enjoy the show!Support the show

Send us Fan Mail                           Welcome to the GP Soccer Podcast!  (S14 E4)Proud member of the Sports History Network and endorsed by the National                                                  Soccer Coaches Association of Canada.     Host Giovanni Pacini welcomes his worldwide audience to yet another exciting show. Don't forget this season will feature World Cup "bonus content" throughout the season and beyond!This week's "Conversation with the Coach" is with the legendary Dr. Joe Machnik where he shares his perspective on the game throughout his illustrious career. The conversation also includes "Dr. Joe's" new book- "From the Sandlots to the World Cup: Inside 7 Decades of American Soccer". "Coaches Corner" features David Hart where he discusses the value of bringing in guest coaches. "News and Analysis" will feature Giovanni Pacini and Ralph Ferrigno checks in with the European Soccer Report.  The "American Soccer Revolution" features an article entitled- "The Sickness at the Center of Youth Sports".The GP Soccer Podcast features new shows every Wednesday and can be found anywhere you listen to your podcasts. Listeners are encouraged to "Like" and "Subscribe" the GP Soccer Podcast and share the show amongst those within their social media network! Those interested in advertising on the show can contact host Giovanni Pacini at gp4soccer@yahoo.com. And be sure to check out the show website at www.gpsoccerpodcast.com.                     GP Soccer Podcast enjoys continued support from-United Goalkeeping Alliance - Music Meets Sports - National Soccer Coaches Association of Canada - The Sports History Network - Feedspot.com - GP Voice Over Services - Zone 14 CoachingGP Soccer Podcast welcomes a new sponsor- Zone 14 Coaching! Check it out at Zone14coaching.com. Use promo code GP20 for 20% off!To purchase a signed copy of Dr. Joe Machnik's book- "From the Sandlots to the World Cup: 7 Decades of American Soccer", e-mail "Dr. Joe" at joemachnik@no1soccercamps.com. Be sure to mention the GP Soccer Podcast!Enjoy the show!Support the showSupport the show

John and Tim invite Apple TV's Nate Bukaty around The Bonfire ahead of the Fire's upcoming clash against DC United. Bukaty has a warning for the Chicago Fire; DC is going to slow down the game. How will GGG structure his attack as the offense looks to build some consistency in 2026. Nate calls for Zinkernagel to be unlocked and sings the praises of surprise game ball winner Dylan Borso.Pre-order Nate's new book, Perfect Pitch: How Kansas City Became the Heart of American Soccer and Landed the World Cup, here: https://www.triumphbooks.com/soccer-city--usa-products-9798898550004.php?page_id=21

Inter Miami's attack wakes up in the second half as they comeback from a 2-0 deficit with 4 goals in the second half to get their first ever road win against Orlando City. Messi had a masterclass and plenty of other players performed at a high level. We go live after the match to break down what went wrong the first half and what change Mascherano made to flip the script in the second half.#InterMiami #messi #orlandocity #Intermiamicf 

Jimmy Obleda on Keeping Your Coaching Values, Restoring Competitiveness, and Why U.S. Soccer Is Soft In episode 416, we talk with nationally renowned Uruguayan American coach Jimmy Obleda about staying true to your values, refusing to compromise standards, and not “selling your soul” to parents, players, clubs, or owners. Using Tab Ramos's comparison of Uruguay […]

January 31, 2026- Peter and Andy dive into the world of soccer, discussing the latest news and updates from the Premier League and Champions League. They break down the drama-filled week, including Wrexham's impressive win and the USL's plans for a new Premier League. They also touch on the US men's national team, discussing the recent comments from coach Pochettino and the implications of the team's upcoming World Cup. With their signature blend of humor and insight, Peter and Andy tackle the biggest stories in the soccer world. (can you tell AI wrote this?) Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X Listen to past episodes on The Ticket’s Website And follow The Ticket Top 10 on Apple, Spotify or Amazon Music See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

January 31, 2026- Peter and Andy dive into the world of soccer, discussing the latest news and updates from the Premier League and Champions League. They break down the drama-filled week, including Wrexham's impressive win and the USL's plans for a new Premier League. They also touch on the US men's national team, discussing the recent comments from coach Pochettino and the implications of the team's upcoming World Cup. With their signature blend of humor and insight, Peter and Andy tackle the biggest stories in the soccer world. (can you tell AI wrote this?)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello Good Internet Soccer People, I had the pleasure of attending the US Soccer Coaching Convention in Philly last week and I was completely blown away. Over 12,000 American Soccer people came into town to talk all aspects of the game and it was like I died and went to the big field in the sky. I will be bringing you new podcast content for 10 straight weeks and am starting with Keith Tozer's presentation on the growth of futsal in the United States. A fantastic look into this little microcosm of football that I have grown to love. I am a massive believer in the growth of futsal and its affect on technical ability in the country. Hope you enjoy the session. Thanks, Rooster and the Villain

American Youth Soccer and the Road to World-Class Players In this episode, we dive deeper into why the US hasn’t produced world-class soccer players, despite massive participation numbers. We address misguided views from Instagram comments, debunking myths like pay-to-play, athlete preferences for other sports, and cultural differences. We explain how the lack of an open […]

Welcome to It Was What It Was, the football history podcast. This week co-hosts Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper continue onto part two of a four-part special on the North American Soccer League (NASL). They discuss the initial attempts to establish professional soccer leagues in America, including the rivalries between the NASL and the National Professional Soccer League (NPSL). The episode covers the impact of foreign teams, the financial and logistical hurdles, and the ongoing struggle to gain popularity and acceptance in the U.S. market. With input from past experiences and key figures, they provide an in-depth look at why American soccer faced numerous setbacks and what was done to overcome them. Join us next week for part three!01:09 The Early Years of Soccer in the USA01:34 The Impact of the Wall Street Crash06:46 Post-War Challenges09:43 The Decline of American Soccer in the 1950s21:46 The 1960s: A Decade of Missed Opportunities27:15 The Birth of the NASL33:25 Lack of American Players in Early Leagues34:55 Rival Leagues: NPSL vs NASL35:42 Initial Matches and Attendance Issues40:11 Discipline Problems and Game Abandonments48:10 Financial Struggles and Legal Battles49:13 National Team Struggles and Attempts at Growth50:31 Foreign Influence and Pre-season Tours54:48 Financial Instability and League Contraction58:20 NASL's Unconventional Season Format01:00:32 Legacy and Future Prospects of NASL Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros react to Pellegrino Matarazzo becoming the first American coach in La Liga. Can Matarazzo succeed at Real Sociedad, and what would a successful stint mean for his future and U.S. Soccer's future?Then, Christian and Alexis bring on American film producer and soccer fanatic Franklin Leonard to discuss English media bias in soccer and whether England is ready to accept a Black superstar on the national team.Later, they also chat about Leonard's soccer fandom, the direction of the film industry, and his recent foray into politics. Timestamps:(10:30) – Can Pellegrino Matarazzo succeed in La Liga?(30:00) – Franklin Leonard joins The Cooligans(42:00) – Is there media bias against Black soccer players?(52:00) – Diving into the ever-changing film industry Subscribe to The Cooligans on your favorite podcast app:

Despite hosting a major international tournament and having the best player of all time in the top-flight domestic league, attendance across American soccer — especially the USMNT — dropped in 2025. In this episode, Bart and Thomas chat with Lawrence Dockery, author of "2025 American Club Soccer Attendance Super Table" for Beyond the 90.Hear the reasons why attendance may have dipped, and what it means for the leagues and U.S. Soccer going forward. Read the articles:https://beyondthe90.substack.com/p/2025-american-club-soccer-attendancehttps://beyondthe90.substack.com/p/top-25-largest-american-soccer-crowds-2f5https://beyondthe90.substack.com/p/usmnt-attendance-down-26-in-2025https://beyondthe90.substack.com/p/uswnt-attendance-takes-slight-3-dipSupport the show: buymeacoffee.com/soccerforuspod

He's been called "American soccer's renaissance man," and in this episode, Dr. Joe Machnik returns to trace the remarkable arc of a life spent pushing the sport forward in the United States. When Machnik first joined us for Episode 24 back in 2017, he brought a rare, firsthand view of American soccer's highs and lows. Today, with his new memoir, "From the Sandlots to the World Cup: Inside Seven Decades of American Soccer" freshly in hand, we revisit that conversation with even richer context and perspective. Dr. Joe's story began in Brooklyn, where an immigrant neighborhood and a love of the game planted the seeds for a career that would — like the domestic trajectory of the sport itself — defy easy categorization. From playing as an All-America goalkeeper at Long Island University and helping win the U.S. Open Cup with the New York Ukrainians, to coaching college teams deep into NCAA championship territory, Machnik's early years were defined by a deep connection to the grassroots of American soccer. He went on to assist the U.S. Men's National Team during its historic qualification for the 1990 World Cup — the country's first appearance in four decades — and even helped the U.S. futsal team earn a bronze medal on the world stage. But Machnik's influence didn't stop with players and coaches. In the chaotic early years of modern professional soccer in the U.S., he was one of the architects of the rules themselves. He helped devise the original rulebook for the Major Indoor Soccer League, later served as commissioner of the smaller-market American Indoor Soccer Association, and even coached the MISL's New York Arrows — bringing structure and professionalism to a game still trying to find its identity in the American sports landscape. Outdoors, his imprint has been equally deep. Machnik led refereeing operations for Major League Soccer during its formative years, establishing standards that helped turn a fledgling league into a stable, competitive professional circuit. He also directed officiating for national collegiate bodies and served as a FIFA and CONCACAF match commissioner, carrying the credibility he built in American soccer onto the global stage. Today, "Dr. Joe" is widely known as FOX Sports' Soccer Rules Analyst—the authoritative voice millions hear during World Cups, Gold Cups, MLS matches, and international tournaments — explaining the game's most controversial calls with clarity and patience. But beyond the broadcast booth, Machnik's legacy lies in the countless players, referees, coaches, administrators, and fans who came to love the game because he helped make it possible. Machnik reflects not only on the milestones of his own career, but on the larger narrative of how soccer in America has grown, stumbled, reinvented — and ultimately endured — over decades.  PLUS: Tim and Dr. Joe fret over the crassly commercial optics surrounding the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 next summer, and lament their shared frustrations — so far — in trying to obtain reasonably-priced tickets! + + +    SUPPORT THE SHOW:  Buy Us a Coffee: https://ko-fi.com/goodseatsstillavailable The "Good Seats" Store: https://www.teepublic.com/?ref_id=35106 BUY THE BOOK (AND SUPPORT THE SHOW!): "From the Sandlots to the World Cup: Inside Seven Decades of American Soccer": https://amzn.to/4pW6aRL SPONSOR THANKS (AND SUPPORT THE SHOW!):  Old School Shirts.com (10% off promo code: GOODSEATS): https://oldschoolshirts.com/goodseats Royal Retros (10% off promo code: SEATS): https://www.503-sports.com?aff=2 FIND AND FOLLOW: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/GoodSeatsStillAvailable Web: https://goodseatsstillavailable.com/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/goodseatsstillavailable.com X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/GoodSeatsStill YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@goodseatsstillavailable Threads: https://www.threads.net/@goodseatsstillavailable Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodseatsstillavailable/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GoodSeatsStillAvailable/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/good-seats-still-available/

What happens when a group of creative friends pile into a retro-fitted Soccer Bus, hit the American highways, and follow the heartbeat of U.S. soccer across the country?   In this episode, the ClubEleven crew—Gabriel, Pablo, Tyler, and Justin—join The Footy Travelers to share stories from their cross-country journey during the 2025 U.S. soccer season, where they followed the US Open Cup, caught Club World Cup fever, connected with fans and fellow creators, and turned their bus into a rolling tribute to American soccer culture.   This episode is for anyone who believes the soul of the sport is found beyond the stadium—but sometimes parked just outside it!   Want to know more about ClubEleven's work? Check them out on Instagram: @clubeleven.     00:00 – Intro: A Soccer Bus Story 04:12 – Who Is ClubEleven? 11:20 – Why the Soccer Bus? 18:45 – Life on the Road: Challenges & Chaos 26:10 – US Open Cup Moments & Fan Encounters 35:22 – Creating the Magazine: The Soccer Odyssey 42:47 – The Culture of American Soccer, City by City 51:55 – What's Next for ClubEleven?

With a lull between USMNT camps, Jason and Jared hit the pod to take questions from the Besties. There's talk about MLS, the USMNT player pool, and more. Then Jared throws Jason 8 iconic American soccer stadiums and forces him to rank them blind. This is a classic TBSS: A little bit of bullshit, plenty of soccer, and some laughs. If you want to join the Besties community and get access to things like The Best Soccer Show Newlywed Game that got mentioned in the episode, go to patreon.com/thebestsoccershow and join. Make sure you subscribe to get the video version of the show and to get notified when the live episodes are going down. The show is always better when you can see our beautiful faces. Thanks for your support! Please spread the word any way you can. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Best Soccer Show on YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support the show and get extra stuff⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.  (it don't cost much) to get access to the Besties Slack (the best soccer community ever), The Best Bonus Show, and much more. All the stuff we can't say on the main show ends up on the bonus episodes. You get the back catalog of bonus posts, plus Jason's Daily Davis videos/short podcasts. If you don't want to make a full commitment, you can just ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠throw us a buck or five at Ko-Fi⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. We'll even throw in access to the Besties Slack. Just reach out of if you want to be added. GO SUBSCRIBE TO JASON & ROBERT KERR'S NEW SHOW, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MORNING KICKAROUND⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ . We go live every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 9:30 ET and clips from the show are available after every show on YouTube. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get some Best Soccer Show gear⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and show off your OG American soccer podcast allegiance. Subscribe and Review the show! We really want to spread the word about the show and the only way to do that is through reviews and word of mouth. Tell a friend about The Best Soccer Show. ANOTHER ONE. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Go to Apple Podcasts  and give us a review⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. We're *this close* to 300. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rog sits down with USMNT stars Clint Dempsey and Herculez Gomez live in Columbus, OH to preview the USMNT-Japan friendly, team selection and they discuss their thoughts on the current state of the squad heading into next year's World Cup. Then Rog is joined by a few special guests from the Columbus Crew, Wilfried Nancy and Frankie Hedjuk, as they salute the USMNT's return to their Magical Kingdom and marking the unique role Columbus and its fans have played in US Soccer history.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.