Podcasts about youth soccer

Welcome to episode 260 of Sports Management Podcast. Today's guest is Evan Dabby, CEO of New Jersey Youth Soccer, one of the largest youth soccer organizations in the United States. With over 120,000 players, Evan shares how youth soccer is evolving, why player development should come before winning, and how the FIFA World Cup is creating a once-in-a-generation opportunity to grow the game across America. In this episode, we spoke about: How the FIFA World Cup is inspiring the next generation Why player development should come before winning The challenges of youth sports, parents and coaching Growing participation while making soccer more accessible Episode Time Stamps 00:00 Welcome Evan Dabby 00:29 The World Cup Impact in New Jersey 03:20 Growing 120,000 Youth Players 05:50 Technology & Participation 08:20 Player-Centered Development 10:09 Advice from Tab Ramos 11:08 Parents on the Sidelines 15:12 Girls' Soccer Growth 18:52 Should Kids Specialize? 20:41 Coaching Better Players 21:35 Evan's Career Journey 23:23 The Power of Networking 26:45 Advice for Students 30:19 The Future of Youth Soccer   Follow Sports Management Podcast on social media Instagram Twitter LinkedIn YouTube www.sportsmanagementpodcast.com

Youth Soccer, the World Cup, and America's Pay-to-Play Problem 6 to 8 Weeks: Perspectives in Sports Medicine Runtime:~23 minutes Episode Summary With the World Cup underway, the hosts ask a controversial question: why isn't the US better at men's soccer, given a talent pool that dwarfs countries like Belgium and Norway? The conversation pivots from there into the real subject of the episode — how America's pay-to-play youth sports system is driving both a talent gap and a youth injury epidemic, especially ACL and overuse injuries in young athletes. Timestamps 00:00 — Intro Welcome and standard disclaimer: discussion is for informational purposes only, not professional medical advice. 00:30 — Why isn't the US better at men's soccer? Framing question for the episode: the US has far more people than countries that regularly outperform it (Belgium, population 11.8M; Norway, population 5.6M), yet can't compete at the same level on the men's side — a contrast with the sustained success of the US women's national team. 02:30 — Setting up the real topic: youth injuries Transition into ACL and overuse injuries in young athletes, particularly young females, and how that connects to the US youth development model. 03:00 — The pay-to-play system How youth sports shifted over the past ~10–25 years from school and community leagues to private club/travel teams. Families now spend as much as $20,000/year on travel soccer and baseball. 05:00 — The numbers behind the industry Youth sports is cited as a ~$40 billion industry. Comparison of costs: a recreational league (e.g., AYSO) runs roughly $140–150/year, while an entry-level travel team runs about $1,700 and an academy-level club team about $3,500 — before uniforms, extra practices, or private coaching. 07:00 — Is this just a soccer problem? Discussion of whether this trend is soccer-specific or affects baseball, basketball, and volleyball too (it's across the board). The disappearance of casual pickup games and rec leagues in favor of organized, paid leagues. 09:00 — US vs. European development models European countries emphasize multi-sport participation and general athleticism (coordination, core strength) over early performance and specialization. Cited participation gap: roughly 90% multi-sport participation in some European countries vs. a steep drop-off in the US. 11:00 — The scholarship reality check The odds of a young athlete earning a college scholarship or going pro are extremely low. Recommendation: decisions about youth sports should center on the child's enjoyment and development, not a scholarship or pro chase. 13:00 — Why specialization raises injury risk Explanation of how single-sport specialization leads to repetitive stress on the same body parts, and how kids aren't developing the balanced strength, coordination, and movement patterns that protect against injury. European academy model contrasted as more balance- and skill-focused. 15:00 — Specialization and injuries at the pro level Early specialization linked to earlier injuries in professional athletes — for example, NBA players who specialized young tearing Achilles tendons earlier in their careers, and a rise in Tommy John (elbow) surgeries among teenage baseball players. Also: level of soccer access is often a financial decision, not a quality/skill decision — elite club access can cost $30,000+/year. 17:00 — Socioeconomic and geographic inequity Access to elite club teams correlates with socioeconomic status and geography. Talented kids in lower-income areas may never be discovered because showcases and elite coaching are gated by cost. 19:00 — The one big change If they could change one thing about the system: delay specialization and actively encourage multi-sport participation, especially early on, to reduce overuse injury risk. Advice for parents on how to guide kids toward a broader athletic foundation. 21:00 — Wrap-up and World Cup predictions Lighter closing segment with picks for the World Cup winner Key Takeaways The US pay-to-play youth sports model filters talent by financial access rather than ability — a likely contributor to underperformance in men's soccer relative to population size. Early single-sport specialization is linked to higher rates of ACL tears and overuse injuries in youth athletes, and earlier injuries in those who go on to play professionally. European development models emphasize multi-sport participation and general athleticism over early specialization and performance metrics. The likelihood of a scholarship or professional career is very low — a useful reframe for parents weighing time and financial investment in club sports. Socioeconomic and geographic barriers likely mean talented young athletes go undiscovered simply due to lack of access. Show notes generated from an automated transcription pass; timestamps are approximate. Please subscribe to our podcast at Apple PodcastsCheck out our website on Simplecast

How do you make soccer more accessible for every child in America while building a system capable of producing the world's best players? Chris Wittyngham, Jimmy Conrad, Charlie Davies, Tony Meola, and Benny Feilhaber tackle the biggest questions facing youth soccer, from pay-to-play and coaching standards to U.S. Soccer's role in shaping the next generation of talent.Plus, FC Dallas head coach Eric Quill reflects on helping develop Chris Richards and explains why the game needs more selfless, qualified coaches, and Chelsea's Grassroots Coordinator Terry Bobie offers an insider's perspective on how young players are developed in the English system. And the crew reveals the one change each of them would make to American youth soccer if money were no object.Call It What You Want is available for free on the Audacy app as well as Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever else you listen to podcasts. Follow the Call It What You Want team on X:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@JimmyConrad⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @CharlieDavies9⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@TMeola1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠For more soccer coverage from CBS Sports, visit ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/⁠Subscribe to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Paramount+⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit the betting arena on CBS Sports.com: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/⁠For all the latest in sportsbook reviews and promos: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/sportsbook-promos/

Brooks sits down with Maren McCrary, a Talent ID Scout for US Soccer, to dig into what talent identification actually looks like at the highest level. Maren works on the girls' side at U.S. Soccer, but her path there ran through several college programs, where she coached and scouted before making the jump. They cover a lot of ground: the different roles Maren has held on her way to this position, why the best talent evaluators are upfront about what they're actually looking for instead of playing it close to the vest, and why there's no substitute for watching soccer — a lot of it, at every level. That last point matters more than people think: spotting a late bloomer who hasn't hit their growth spurt yet, or separating a kid who's just bigger and faster right now from one with real long-term potential, is one of the hardest parts of the job.If you loved this episode, drop us a review and rating — it genuinely helps us grow! ⚽

In a new episode of Project NIL with Anthony Gargano & Daniel DiBerardinis discuss how youth soccer has become too expensive and how it has an impact on developing soccer players in the USA, they then discuss how paying thousands of dollars for Youth sports doesn't make any sense on top of all the fees required to be a part of certain teams, the USA not being dedicated to soccer as other countries are & MORE! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I start this episode close to home — walking through how I explain "value" to my own two sons. It comes down to a simple ratio: what you get versus what you pay. Real value creation happens when that gap keeps widening over time.From there, I break the idea into a few core pieces and use them to examine some of the reform proposals circulating in youth soccer today.The central question I'm wrestling with: do these ideas actually generate new value, or do they just shift it from one group of families to another? I share a couple of examples that shifted my own perspective, then close with the one bar I think every serious proposal needs to clear before it deserves a real conversation.

Mike Florio from PFT and NBC joins Dick Fain and Hugh Millen to talk about the World Cup and USA’s loss to Belgium with unnecessary involvement from Donald Trump, the need for a superstar soccer player in the United States and how that kind of a player would develop in this country, the youth soccer system issues and interest in the sport.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ian Barker has spent years training the people who train the players — and he's seen coaching education in the U.S. go through some real changes. In this episode, he sits down with Brooks to talk about what's actually shifted since he started, and what hasn't. They get into the biggest red flag Ian sees in coaching education today (spoiler: it's more common than you'd think), where the system still falls short, and what he thinks needs to happen next. If you're a coach, working toward a license, or just curious what's really being taught behind the badges, this conversation is worth your time.If you loved this episode, drop us a review and rating — it genuinely helps us grow! ⚽

The Drive opened the show discussing what Landon Donovan said about the massive flaws that youth soccer has in America, and why it holds us back in the World Cup.

Carl and Mark close out the show with final thoughts on the comments by Landon Donovan in which he stated he believes the cost of youth/club soccer is partially behind why elite talent never makes it to the USMNT. 

Hour 2 1:12 - Calls on Potential Breakout Players for Commanders + USA Must Fix Youth Soccer 23:12 - Brandon Aiyuk or Jaylen Brown: Which Sports Story Makes Less Sense? 36:17 - Anthony Has Not Touched a Weight in a Full Week…Very Unlike Him

Jen Siess, CITY SC broadcaster, who's daughter will be playing division 1 soccer, joins Chris and Amy to talk about the high cost of youth soccer. She says that her family is paying between 3 and 400 dollars a month for youth soccer fees for her kids. She says when people congratulate her on her daughter's scholarship & no college tuition, she points out that she's already shelled-out the money in those fees. Could the US have a better soccer team if the youth experience was better?

Chris and Amy dive into the world of youth soccer, why aren't the pros that come out of the American system of soccer better?; callers react to the high cost of the programs; how come the Spanish-language calls of World Cup goals are better?; Scott MacFarlane joins from Washington with an update on the health of Sen Mitch McConnell.

The Drive delved into the youth soccer system inside the United States, and how it is flawed and creates issues for the national team.

What has been your favorite moment of the FIFA World Cup coming to North America? Is the Scots taking over pubs in Boston, the Oranje Fanwalk of the Netherland fans, or the reactions of many foreigners experiencing a bit of Americana? Amy and Tim delve into this among other topics including Amy scoring on a penalty — which somehow has escaped her recollection! Thank you for supporting our podcast! It's been great seeing the steady growth of our audience. Please follow us on Spotify (it's free to set up an account!) or wherever you listen. Please share, comment and like as well. For any questions, or topic ideas you can email us at thatsnotwhatmomsaid@gmail.com

Last episode, I proposed renaming "club soccer." But I realized I left something out.In this episode, I break down my value equation: what you receive divided by what you pay. Simple. But when you apply it to youth soccer, things get complicated. There's tangible value—training hours, coach ratios, field time. And perceived value—everything else parents think they're getting.Understanding the difference changes how you evaluate any program.

Dan Raben has done pretty much every job that exists in youth soccer — coach, director of player development, director of operations, coaching educator, you name it. In this episode, he sits down with Brooks to talk about something coaches don't discuss nearly enough: taking care of yourself while you're busy taking care of everyone else's kids. They get into how to handle the tough situations that come up on the sideline and behind the scenes, why communication makes or breaks a coaching career, and how to find some actual balance in a job that tends to swallow people whole. If you coach youth soccer — or any youth sport, really — there's a lot here worth taking notes on.If you loved this episode, drop us a review and rating — it genuinely helps us grow! ⚽

Send us a text and chime in!The City of Surprise Parks & Recreation Department is offering youth soccer, tee ball, baseball, softball, and volleyball leagues, along with sports skills classes and camps this fall! Early bird registration runs from June 29 to July 19 and offers a discount. After the early bird period, regular pricing will apply. Registration will stay open until divisions are full. Youth Soccer, Tee-ball, Baseball, Softball, and Volleyball Leagues for boys and girls ages 4 -17 (age determined on or before November 7, 2026) Season runs early September - early November Games are played on Saturdays and/or weeknights Practice times are...   For the written story, read here >> https://www.signalsaz.com/articles/youth-sports-leagues-in-surprise/ Check out the CAST11.com Website at: https://CAST11.com Follow the CAST11 Podcast Network on Facebook at: https://Facebook.com/CAST11AZFollow Cast11 Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/cast11_podcast_network

Andy and Jeff talk to callers about the issues with youth soccer in the United States and why it could be a cause for soccer's lack of popularity in the US.

Quorum Sports agents Eddie Hudson and Kal Kieren sit down with Brooks to pull back the curtain on the world of sports representation. From building a client base from scratch to navigating the demanding day-to-day grind of the season and the slower pace of the offseason, Eddie and Kal give an honest look at what life as a sports agent is really like. They also break down what it takes to break into the industry — including just how tough the agency exam really is. Whether you're an aspiring agent or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes, this is a conversation you won't want to miss!If you loved this episode, drop us a review and rating — it genuinely helps us grow! ⚽

Brando Babini started a company at 16 because the thing he needed didn't exist. Five years later he's running it from a train seat between Brown and Brooklyn — 1,000 players, a Nike partnership, and 30 million views he shot and edited himself. This one's about how he actually does it.Brando is 21, still finishing his degree, and building Youth 4 Youth FC into one of the largest player-led soccer organizations in the country. He spotted the gap from his own playing career — no mentor, no one who'd walked the path ahead of him — and built the thing he wished he'd had. The 2026 World Cup is on U.S. soil right now and the whole country's suddenly paying attention to soccer. Strip the sport out, though, and you've still got the more interesting story: a Gen Z operator running a real company while most people his age are still picking a major.What We Get IntoSpotting a gap from lived experience and building the company you wished existed at 16Running an eight-state operation while taking the Amtrak back to class twice a week — the "drop-in," not the dropoutTurning 30 million organic views into 4,000 player applications — and what to do when that engine slows downLanding a Nike partnership as a young, unproven founderThe mission-vs-profit tension: building real access without building a handoutGoing need-blind by design — so the best kid plays whether his family can pay or notScaling by "mega sub-regions" instead of chasing franchise growthTeaching 13-year-olds to represent themselves — agency as the actual productChapters00:00 — The drop-in: running a company between Providence and New York01:30 — Starting at 16, and the gap he was trying to close03:45 — When the pro dream faded and the founder showed up04:30 — The question that runs everything: "what do I wish existed?"21:00 — Access without a handout: the mission-vs-profit tension26:00 — Why profit incentives aren't the enemy, and going need-blind33:00 — Teaching agency: parents, players, and an internal locus of control50:00 — 30 million views, 4,000 applications, and rebuilding the funnel52:00 — The Nike street-soccer project he's directing this week58:00 — Rapid fire: the GOAT, the Prem, and a 2026 World Cup readThis first aired on SportsEpreneur. For the full sports-business take — youth soccer pathways, college recruiting, and pay-to-play — listen to the original conversation there.More Soccer Content from SportsEpreneurHydration Breaks, Fox Ads, and the Americanization of the World Cup2026 World Cup: Groups, Schedule, and What to Watch as the Tournament Is HereTop 5 Soccer Leagues in the World (2025 Rankings: Depth, Players & Vibe)Soccer: The World's Most Popular Sport (3.5 Billion Fans, and Rising in the U.S.)Connect with BrandoInstagram: @y4yfc · brandobabini.com · y4yfc.com · LinkedIn: Brando BabiniEntrepreneur Perspectives is produced by QuietLoud Studios — a KazSource brand. Connect with Eric: X / LinkedIn

Most youth coaches never get to see the full arc. They get a team for a season or two, maybe three, and then the team changes, the club changes, the coach changes, or the players scatter. That makes it difficult to truly understand what development looks like over time. In this episode, we speak with […]

I sat down with Andy Barrero, Director of Coaching at OC Premier Academy Futsal, for a fascinating look at how youth soccer development differs between the US and South America.Andy shares his firsthand insights on the cultural and environmental factors that shape players on both continents — from how the game is introduced at a young age to the role futsal plays in technical development. It's a conversation that gives coaches, parents, and players a lot to think about.The Inside Scoop Podcast with Neil CrawfordGuest: Andy Barrero, Director of Coaching — OC Premier Academy Futsalocpremieracademy.com

Leander Sharlockens joins us to discuss his new book about the US Men's National Team, The Long Game: U.S. Men's Soccer and Its Savage, Four-Decade Journey to the Top, or Thereabouts, and we trace the uneven history of the U.S. men's national team, from its early struggles and the 1950 win over England through the long period when the programme was underfunded and disorganised to today's hopes in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.Patreon members get extra time: 15 more minutes, in which you get to see behind the scenes and find out how the book was written. You can subscribe here: https://www.patreon.com/cw/15MinuteBookClubBuy The Long Game: U.S. Men's Soccer and Its Savage, Four-Decade Journey to the Top, or Thereabouts at our Bookshop.org shop. Support authors, indie bookshops and us!US Link: https://bookshop.org/a/118682/9780593653876UK Amazon Link: https://amzn.eu/d/0el47ixpVisit our Bookshop with books from all of our guests via the links below:(UK) https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/15MinuteBookClub(US) https://bookshop.org/shop/15MinuteBookClub0:00 Introduction to U.S. Soccer3:17 Title IX's Soccer Boom6:19 From Glory to Collapse7:34 Team America Disaster10:28 Youth Soccer and Dropout11:51 A Country, Not a Nation13:53 Europe Beckons American Players16:33 Adu's Rise and Fall17:56 Choosing the Book's Profiles19:45 The Berhalter Debate21:24 World Cup ExpectationsPatreon members get extra time: 15 more minutes, in which you get to see behind the scenes and find out how the book was written. You can subscribe here: https://www.patreon.com/cw/15MinuteBookClubWatch the video version: https://www.youtube.com/@15MinuteBook_ClubBuy [INSERT BOOK TITLE] at our Bookshop.org shop. Support authors, indie bookshops and us!UK Link: US Link: Visit our Bookshop with books from all of our guests via the links below:(UK) https://uk.bookshop.org/shop/15MinuteBookClub(US) https://bookshop.org/shop/15MinuteBookClub Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

United States House Representative Adam Smith (WA-9) spoke with Lobbing Scorchers' Noah Riffe about the World Cup in Seattle, Smith's personal experience with youth soccer in America, and the Iran War deal signed by Trump.Follow Lobbing Scorchers: YouTube Instagram Bluesky TikTok Facebook Ari Liljenwall Noah Riffe Niko MorenoSPONSORSQED Coffee - a Seattle based roaster, coffee shop and coffee subscription service. Visit them in person at one of the three Seattle locations or online and use code ‘LS74' for 25% off across the site.Haxan Ferments - Specializing in unique, small-batch fermented hot sauces and vinegars, Haxan Ferments is handcrafted in Georgetown and made with the best local ingredients from across the Pacific Northwest. Use Code LS for a FREE Hot Sauce w/ purchase!Sounder at Heart - Our network host and biggest supporter, Sounder at Heart covers the Seattle Sounders, Seattle Reign, and MUCH MORE! Subscribe and Support to the BEST independent Seattle Soccer coverage.Podium Edmonds - Located at 114 4th Ave N, just off Main Street in the heart of Downtown Edmonds, come shop and explore the best menswear in the Pacific Northwest. Tell them Lobbing Scorchers sent you!Full Pull Wines - Founded in 2009, they the best boutique wines of the world to members, with special focus on our home, the Pacific Northwest.MLS Store - New year, new gear! The 2026 MLS jerseys are here, and MLSStore is the ultimate destination for every fan. Every purchase helps support our show!Lobbing Scorchers is a production of Just Once Media.Lobbing Scorchers is a Seattle Sounders and MLS focused show brought to you by Sounder at Heart. Hosted by Major League Soccer's Ari Liljenwall and Producer Noah Riffe. Join us as we lob our scorching takes on the American soccer landscape, Seattle Sounders, Major League Soccer, USMNT and more.Contact: lobbingscorchers@justoncemedia.com

The Youth Soccer Tournament That Was Never Meant to EndBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dark-mysteries-unsolved-mysteries-forgotten-secrets-unanswered-questions--5684156/support.Darkest Mysteries Online

Host Bill Donohue welcomes author Karen Scholl, whose book Surviving Soccer: The Chill Parent's Guide to Carpools, Calendars, Coaches, Clubs, and Corner Kicks takes a humorous look at the often chaotic world of youth soccer parenting.With the World Cup creating excitement around the sport, Scholl joins the show to share stories from her years as a soccer mom, along with practical tips for handling packed schedules, endless carpools, team politics, and the challenges of supporting young athletes without getting caught up in the pressure.Along the way, she offers plenty of funny and relatable anecdotes that will resonate with parents who have spent weekends on the sidelines, reminding listeners that while youth sports can be hectic, they can also create some of the most rewarding family memories.Show Takeaways:Karen Scholl discusses the unpredictable nature of youth soccer schedules, which change frequently, complicating parents' lives significantly.The importance of carpooling among soccer parents is emphasized, highlighting its potential to ease logistical challenges of getting children to games.Scholl humorously compares navigating youth soccer to a game of Chutes and Ladders, capturing the chaotic journey of soccer parenting.She reflects on the emotional complexities of witnessing injuries, noting the instinct to rush to a child's side despite the necessity for restraint.The show highlights the unique social dynamics of sitting in specific areas during games, where parents navigate team loyalty and community interactions.Scholl shares insights on the pressure of punctuality for parents, equating timely arrivals at games to a reflection of their worth as individuals.

On the June 13 WBGO Journal, the FIFA World Cup's impact on youth soccer, a look back at the Bernie Goetz trial and a chat with champion wrestler James Green

In this episode I'm responding to a comment from our Anytime Soccer Training Facebook group that puts most of the blame on MLS and closed-circle systems for the problems in youth soccer. And honestly, there are some valid points there. We do need a stronger federation, a more open pyramid system, and better accountability across the board.But the more I dug into it, the more I realized — this is a lot more complicated than pointing the finger at one organization.Yes, MLS has influence. But club soccer's high costs aren't primarily driven by league structure. They're driven by what parents want and expect. Paid coaches. Multiple training days per week. National league competition. That demand exists regardless of how the system is set up at the top.I also talk about why bringing in more professional academies doesn't solve the cost problem for the average family, how the lack of a clear ranking system lets clubs market themselves without real accountability, and why those international comparisons you see online are almost always missing key context — coaching compensation, training frequency, facility costs, season length all matter before you can make a fair comparison.There's room to improve the system, no question. But a lot of what's driving costs comes down to cultural expectations around what youth sports should look like in America — and that's the harder, messier conversation nobody wants to have.

Fluent Fiction - Swedish: From Doubt to Triumph: Lars' Journey to Soccer Success Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/sv/episode/2026-05-29-07-38-19-sv Story Transcript:Sv: Vinden susade lätt genom träden runt den gröna fotbollsplanen, och solen lös starkt från den blå vårhimlen.En: The wind lightly rustled through the trees surrounding the green soccer field, and the sun shone brightly from the blue spring sky.Sv: Det var den sista dagen för uttagningarna till skolans fotbollslag.En: It was the last day of tryouts for the school soccer team.Sv: Lars stod på planen, hans händer svettiga trots det svala vårvädret.En: Lars stood on the field, his hands sweaty despite the cool spring weather.Sv: Han såg sig omkring och märkte Ingrid, som redan värmde upp med bollen.En: He looked around and noticed Ingrid, who was already warming up with the ball.Sv: Hennes rörelser var smidiga och naturliga, som om hon alltid hade en fotboll vid sina fötter.En: Her movements were smooth and natural, as if she always had a soccer ball at her feet.Sv: Lars kände en klump i magen men valde att ignorera sina tvivel.En: Lars felt a knot in his stomach but chose to ignore his doubts.Sv: "Jag ska klara det," mumlade han tyst för sig själv.En: "I will make it," he quietly mumbled to himself.Sv: Hans dröm var att säkra en plats i laget, inte bara för att spela fotboll utan också för att visa sig själv och sin familj att hårt arbete kan övervinna naturlig talang.En: His dream was to secure a spot on the team, not just to play soccer but also to prove to himself and his family that hard work can overcome natural talent.Sv: Lars hade redan bestämt sig för att öva extra varje morgon i en vecka.En: Lars had already decided to practice extra every morning for a week.Sv: Han gick upp tidigt, även innan solen, och sprang runt den tomma planen innan skolan började.En: He got up early, even before the sun, and ran around the empty field before school started.Sv: Smärtan i benen hade blivit en ständig följeslagare, men han låtsades inte om det.En: The pain in his legs had become a constant companion, but he pretended not to notice it.Sv: Han fokuserade på att bli bättre, steg för steg.En: He focused on becoming better, step by step.Sv: Den avgörande stunden närmade sig.En: The crucial moment approached.Sv: Tränaren blåste i visselpipan för att starta matchen.En: The coach blew his whistle to start the match.Sv: Lars kände jordens fasta mark under sina fötter.En: Lars felt the solid ground beneath his feet.Sv: Bollen rullade mot honom, och han hade blicken fast på den.En: The ball rolled toward him, and he kept his eyes fixed on it.Sv: Han visste vad tränaren ville se – samarbete, precision, mod.En: He knew what the coach wanted to see—teamwork, precision, courage.Sv: När matchen nådde sitt klimax, fick Lars bollen.En: As the match reached its climax, Lars got the ball.Sv: Ingrid fanns där, redo för en perfekt passning.En: Ingrid was there, ready for a perfect pass.Sv: Det var det säkra valet.En: It was the safe choice.Sv: Men något inom honom tände en gnista.En: But something inside him sparked.Sv: Han såg en öppning mellan de två försvararna och bestämde sig.En: He saw an opening between the two defenders and made his decision.Sv: I nästa ögonblick sparkade han bollen med all sin kraft och fokus.En: In the next moment, he kicked the ball with all his strength and focus.Sv: Lars såg bollen flyga mot mål.En: Lars watched the ball fly toward the goal.Sv: Allt blev tyst i några hjärtslag tills bollen träffade nätet.En: Everything went silent for a few heartbeats until the ball hit the net.Sv: Målet var gjort.En: The goal was scored.Sv: Hela laget rusade mot Lars, jublande, inklusive Ingrid.En: The whole team rushed toward Lars, cheering, including Ingrid.Sv: Tränaren nickade uppskattande, och Lars kände hur axlarna lättade från osäkerhetens tyngd.En: The coach nodded appreciatively, and Lars felt the weight of uncertainty lift from his shoulders.Sv: När han gick av planen, möttes han av Karin, som hade följt matchen från sidan av planen.En: As he walked off the field, he was met by Karin, who had followed the match from the sidelines.Sv: "Du gjorde det!"En: "You did it!"Sv: ropade hon glatt och gav honom en klapp på ryggen.En: she shouted happily, giving him a pat on the back.Sv: Lars log varmt, full av stolthet och lättnad.En: Lars smiled warmly, full of pride and relief.Sv: När den svenska nationaldagen närmade sig kändes varje vitsippa i diket lite ljusare.En: As the Swedish National Day approached, every wood anemone in the ditch seemed a little brighter.Sv: Lars förstod att drömmar och hårt arbete kunde gå hand i hand.En: Lars understood that dreams and hard work could go hand in hand.Sv: Han hade lärt sig vikten av att tro på sig själv och att ansträngning kunde vara minst lika värdefullt som medfödd talang.En: He had learned the importance of believing in himself and that effort could be just as valuable as innate talent.Sv: Det var en vår han aldrig skulle glömma, fylld av insikt och nyfunnen styrka.En: It was a spring he would never forget, filled with insight and newfound strength.Sv: Och när sommaren nalkades, visste Lars att han äntligen hade tagit klivet mot sina drömmars mål.En: And as summer approached, Lars knew he had finally taken the step toward his dream goal. Vocabulary Words:rustled: susadesurrounding: runtnotice: märktesmooth: smidigainnate: medfödddespite: trotssecure: säkradoubt: tvivelovercome: övervinnaconstant: ständigcompanion: följeslagarepretend: låtsadescrucial: avgörandewhistle: visselpipanclimax: klimaxurge: gnistaopening: öppningdefender: försvararnacheering: jublandeappreciatively: uppskattandeuncertainty: osäkerhetsidelines: sidan av planenapproach: nalkadesinsight: insiktstrength: styrkaeffort: ansträngningtalent: talangbelieve: trospotted: märkterelief: lättnad

In this episode, we sit down with West Michigan native BJ Snow, the newly appointed Vice President of Sporting Operations and Strategy for MLS Next Pro expansion side AC Grand Rapids. BJ breaks down what his role looks like day-to-day, how he'll collaborate with Darrius Barnes to build a competitive roster and coaching staff, and what fans in Grand Rapids can expect from this exciting new club. We also dive into the club's plans for developing a grassroots academy deeply connected to the West Michigan soccer community — one built to develop local talent and create a real pathway to the first team. Plus, BJ shares his thoughts on Amway Stadium, the club's brand new 8,500-seat home in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, and why it could be a game-changer for soccer in the region.If you loved this episode, drop us a review and rating — it genuinely helps us grow! ⚽

Brooks Laimbeer sits down with Skip Gilbert, former CEO of US Youth Soccer, for a candid and thought-provoking conversation about the state of youth soccer in America — and what needs to change. Skip recently authored a bold 5-page document titled "The Future of Youth Soccer: A Call for Structural Change," and in this episode, he breaks it all down. From the fragmented landscape of youth soccer organizations to the urgent need for unification under a single governing body — whether that's U.S. Soccer or MLS — Skip makes a compelling case for why structural reform isn't just helpful, it's necessary. The conversation also dives into the value of multi-sport athletes, why specializing too early may be doing more harm than good, and how the soccer ecosystem needs to create meaningful pathways for players who don't reach the elite 11v11 level — because the game should have a place for everyone. Whether you're a parent, coach, club director, or simply passionate about the growth of the game in America, this is a must-listen episode.If you loved this episode, drop us a review and rating — it genuinely helps us grow! ⚽

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

Karen Scholl, author of Surviving Soccer, joins We Are Soccer to talk about the hilarious — and sometimes chaotic — reality of life as a soccer parent. From logging endless miles on the road to soccer tournaments, to hunting down a decent dinner after late-night practices, to doing a last-minute gear check before the big match, Karen gets it. She's lived it — and she wrote the book on it. Literally. Surviving Soccer is a witty, relatable read packed with fun quizzes to help you figure out exactly what kind of soccer parent you are. Whether you're the sideline screamer, the carpool hero, or the snack-bag legend, this book will have you laughing out loud and nodding along.

Former college soccer star and Met Oval's Sporting Director Jeffrey Saunders joins SportsJam with Doug Doyle

American soccer has a way of selling people the dream while hiding the machinery underneath. In this episode, we sit down with Kirk Kinsey to unpack what he calls “McSoccer” — the fake development pathways, the tournament-win marketing, the college-scholarship sales pitch, and the closed-system incentives that keep parents, players, and coaches trapped inside a […]

Carlos Bocanegra joins Jason Longshore to talk about Atlanta FC, his new boutique youth club built on a model American youth soccer rarely sees: one team per age group, one dedicated coach per team, and a family-first environment where parents get the training session plan after every practice and are welcome at team talks. Bocanegra talks about why he stopped playing soccer for nine months in high school because of a bad coaching experience, why the late bloomer is the player most at risk in the current system, and what he hopes Atlanta FC can do to start changing the culture of youth development nationally. Jason adds context on the staff: Liam Curran, nine years at Atlanta United and currently working with U.S. Youth National Teams, as Director of Goalkeeping, and Dr. Ryan Alexander, founding High Performance Director at Atlanta United, in the same role at Atlanta FC. Tryouts are May 18 through 20 at Oglethorpe University in Brookhaven. More at atlantafootballclub.com. Then it's What's On Tap, sponsored by Michelob Ultra, official beer sponsor of FIFA World Cup 26. Arsenal are going to Budapest for their first Champions League final in 20 years. Jason breaks down the most statistically dominant European campaign any English club has put together in the modern format, what Mikel Arteta has had to manage to get there, and why dismissing the PSG-Bayern first leg as poorly defended is the wrong take entirely. Preview of tomorrow's second leg in Munich, where Bayern need two goals and both managers have said neither team is coming to defend. The 3-4-3, brought to you by Ford, closes the show. Local stories cover the AU2 road win over Carolina Core, the full boys high school quarterfinal bracket with all four classifications, and the girls semifinal picture including Model's 6-0 win in Rome with Emily Gentry's first-half hat trick. Four headlines: Arsenal's Premier League title door opens wider after City drop points against Everton, the Neymar assault allegation at Santos involving Robinho Jr., Mourinho extension talks accelerating at Benfica with Real Madrid circling and a ten-day release clause window approaching, and Hearts three points clear of Celtic with three matches left chasing the first Scottish title by a club outside the Old Firm since Sir Alex Ferguson's Aberdeen in 1985. Three smile stories: the Rosario Central dog who turned out to belong to a Newell's Old Boys family, Cooper Sanchez getting better every single match and deserving national attention he is not getting, and the crowd in Rome for Model's state quarterfinal win.

Merzi founded the 703 Warriors, a free, high-quality youth soccer program in Arlington, Va. He joins Belz to talk about how it got started, how he runs training, whether what he's doing is scalable and some of the nitty-gritty challenges and triumphs of the work. Check out the 703 Warriors YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@703warriors And their website: https://www.703warriors.com/ Skip the ads! Subscribe to Scuffed on Patreon and get all episodes ad-free, plus any bonus episodes. Patrons at $5 a month or more also get access to Clip Notes, a video of key moments on the field we discuss on the show, plus all patrons get access to our private Discord server, live call-in shows, and the full catalog of historic recaps we've made: https://www.patreon.com/scuffedAlso, check out Boots on the Ground, our USWNT-focused spinoff podcast headed up by Tara and Vince. They are cooking over there, you can listen here: https://boots-on-the-ground.simplecast.comAnd check out our MERCH, baby. We have better stuff than you might think: https://www.scuffedhq.com/store Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This one cuts deep. Gary Kleiban goes straight at Landon Donovan's latest round of youth soccer criticism and explains exactly why it misses the mark by a mile. Donovan, like many former American pros, points the finger downward at youth coaches, parents, and clubs. Gary, drawing from decades of real experience across every level of […]

Jimmy Conrad, Charlie Davies, and Tony Meola look back on a weekend filled with notable milestones for the likes of Mathis Albert, Joe Scally, and Alex Freeman. With Christian Pulisic on a 16-game run without scoring in Serie A, the guys discuss whether Max Allegri's tactics are to blame or if something deeper is at play. Then, former USMNT captain Carlos Bocanegra joins to discuss his newly-launched youth club Atlanta FC, his thoughts on the current national team's backline, and his expectations for the 2026 World Cup. And the guys talk movers and shakers in their projected 26-man roster. Does Matt Turner's form in MLS warrant a starting spot? Will Gio Reyna and/or Diego Luna crack Mauricio Pochettino's list? Call It What You Want is available for free on the Audacy app as well as Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever else you listen to podcasts.  Follow the Call It What You Want team on X:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@JimmyConrad⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @CharlieDavies9⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@TMeola1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit the ⁠betting arena on CBSSports.com⁠ for all the latest in ⁠sportsbook reviews⁠ and ⁠sportsbook promos⁠ for ⁠betting on soccer⁠ For more soccer coverage from CBS Sports, visit ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/⁠ To hear more from the CBS Sports Podcast Network, visit ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/podcasts/⁠ Watch UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Europa Conference League, UEFA Women's Champions League, EFL Championship, EFL League Cup, Carabao Cup, Serie A, Coppa Italia, CONCACAF Nations League, CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers, Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, NWSL, Scottish Premiership, AFC Champion League by subscribing to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Paramount+⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit the betting arena on CBS Sports.com: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/⁠ For all the latest in sportsbook reviews: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/sportsbook-promos/⁠ And sportsbook promos: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/sportsbook-promos/ To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Every club in my area says the same thing — high quality, low cost, player-centered. So how do you actually choose? In this episode, I share how I'm thinking through it, what my non-negotiables are, and the one thing I look for that at least points me in the right direction.

We just wrapped one of our favorite episodes with Rory O’Neill, a passionate 14-year veteran coaching youth soccer in central Pennsylvania. Rory came on fresh from the emotional grind of tryouts for his U13 MLS Next team — evaluating 150 kids and delivering tough news that no one enjoys. We explore why tryout season feels […]

Clint Dempsey headlines a good-to-great episode, but first Jimmy Conrad, Charlie Davies, and Benny Feilhaber get to the mystery of Tony Meola's whereabouts and react to Türkiye star Arda Güler being shut down for the rest of the club season. The crew also breaks down a busy midweek for Americans abroad. Benny wonders how Mauricio Pochettino might shape the USMNT midfield, and if there is a logical case for benching Christian Pulisic at the World Cup... Then, it's time to hear from USMNT legend Clint Dempsey who opens up about his new docuseries “You Don't Know Where I'm From Dawg,” and doesn't hold back on the current state of youth soccer, Poch's substitutions, and his thoughts about the team's chances at the World Cup. Plus, the guys try to make sense of a wild night in MLS where defending was optional, and look ahead to the weekend's slate of games. Call It What You Want is available for free on the Audacy app as well as Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever else you listen to podcasts.  Follow the Call It What You Want team on X:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@JimmyConrad⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @CharlieDavies9⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@TMeola1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit the ⁠betting arena on CBSSports.com⁠ for all the latest in ⁠sportsbook reviews⁠ and ⁠sportsbook promos⁠ for ⁠betting on soccer⁠ For more soccer coverage from CBS Sports, visit ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/⁠ To hear more from the CBS Sports Podcast Network, visit ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/podcasts/⁠ Watch UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Europa Conference League, UEFA Women's Champions League, EFL Championship, EFL League Cup, Carabao Cup, Serie A, Coppa Italia, CONCACAF Nations League, CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers, Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, NWSL, Scottish Premiership, AFC Champion League by subscribing to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Paramount+⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit the betting arena on CBS Sports.com: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/⁠ For all the latest in sportsbook reviews: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/sportsbook-promos/⁠ And sportsbook promos: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/sportsbook-promos/ To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Vince and Belz sat down with Wolfgang Heilmann, who oversees Borussia Monchengladbach's "international academy," in the hours before Gladbach drew 1-1 with Mainz on Sunday (we saw a Scally goal). Most of the conversation is about youth development in general: how Gladbach's U9 team plays small-sided games on the weekends vs other clubs, why academy players are expected to be humble, and much more. Skip the ads! Subscribe to Scuffed on Patreon and get all episodes ad-free, plus any bonus episodes. Patrons at $5 a month or more also get access to Clip Notes, a video of key moments on the field we discuss on the show, plus all patrons get access to our private Discord server, live call-in shows, and the full catalog of historic recaps we've made: https://www.patreon.com/scuffedAlso, check out Boots on the Ground, our USWNT-focused spinoff podcast headed up by Tara and Vince. They are cooking over there, you can listen here: https://boots-on-the-ground.simplecast.comAnd check out our MERCH, baby. We have better stuff than you might think: https://www.scuffedhq.com/store Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

I saw a post that said you can't develop Ronaldinhos unless you let kids try Ronaldinho things — and while part of me agrees, most of me pushes back hard. In this quick audio diary, I explain why I don't believe structured, sanctioned games are the place for kids to upskill, and why "be creative, try stuff" can quietly become code for a lack of accountability. If you haven't practiced the move a thousand times on your own, the game isn't the stage to debut it — and I'll tell you exactly what I'd rather see instead.

Today's question in the Anytime Soccer Training Facebook group was a familiar one: winning or losing at the youth level has little to no correlation with development — true or false? In this quick gut-reaction episode, I explain why I think "no correlation" is a cop-out, what it actually means to define development in a youth soccer context, and why if you're going to dismiss the scoreboard you'd better replace it with something just as measurable. I also get into the elephant in the room most coaches won't touch — the accountability piece — and lay out the specific markers I'd want to see instead.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we spin through a series of completely normal conversations that somehow include fashion critiques no one asked for, identifying your spouse by their sneeze, and the weaponization of the phrase “my love.”Winthrop is back on the field after a long break, and it turns out youth sports are not just about winning (although… there was some winning).Also:Preventing beverage-related disastersAmanda continues to live like it's 1989Listener emailsBeing a tourist in your own townIt's marriage, parenting, minor arguments, and the ongoing process of raising children while also raising ourselves.Super Familiar with The Wilsons  Find us on instagram at instagram.com/superfamiliarwiththewilsonsand on YoutubeContact us! familiarwilsons@gmail.comA Familiar Wilsons Production

What does real player development actually look like—and why are so many systems missing it?In this episode of Chat By The Pitch, Ian Babcock sits down with Erin Medina, COO of Forms Residency and Forms Academy, to break down a completely different approach to youth soccer development.From her journey through the Canadian national team to building one of the largest youth clubs in the country, Erin shares what she's learned about development, structure, and what kids actually need to succeed.They dive into the reality of today's youth soccer environment, the pressure of competition, and why a residency-style model focused on individual growth, education, and balance may be the future of the game.This conversation is for players, parents, and coaches trying to understand how to truly develop—not just compete.Key Talking PointsErin Medina's journey from Canada's national team to youth soccer leadershipThe impact of early coaching and development environmentsWhy player development is not a linear pathTransitioning from player to business leader in youth soccerBuilding Sting into a national powerhouseThe importance of early technical development windowsWhy traditional training models fall shortThe role of individual development vs team trainingWhat makes Forms Academy's methodology differentWhy residency programs require a different type of athleteQuotes from Erin Medina“Nobody's journey is linear.”“We're not just developing players—we're developing people.”“There's only so much time before that technical window closes.”“The youth game is where you can really impact kids.”“Development requires meaningful time—not just an hour and a half twice a week.”“We're creating an environment where kids can focus on development without pressure.”“The model is not for everyone—and that's okay.”“Kids need balance to avoid burnout.”“We're building athletes that can move and think differently.”“It's about preparing them for performance, not just chasing wins.”Connect with Erin Medina / FormsErin Medina

Coaches: Order the new MSC Youth Coaching eBooks below: https://www.modernsoccercoach.com/shop In this episode of the Modern Soccer Coach Podcast, Gary is joined by Haris Memisevic, Technical Director and Head of Coaching at Virginia Revolution, for a deep conversation on youth session design and coach development. One of the big themes we explore is how often coaches confuse high tempo with high learning. We talk about why fast sessions don't automatically lead to intelligent players, how over-coaching and over-explaining can limit understanding, and why the design of the session should do the heavy lifting, not constant coach intervention. We also dive into: - Simplifying session planning for youth players - Intervention strategies that protect flow and learning - Freedom within a framework in club curriculum design - Why game-day pressure pulls coaches away from their beliefs - The overlooked importance of coach personality at the youth level This is a conversation for youth coaches, technical directors, and club leaders who want to build better learning environments, not just busier sessions. Check out the latest youth coaching resources, session ideas, and eBooks at ModernSoccerCoach.com Explore MSC Insider for webinars, session drops, and full access to our growing youth library. If you enjoyed the episode, please like, subscribe, and share with a coach who's thinking deeply about session design.

In this episode, we tackle the heated debate around futsal in US soccer. We affirm that futsal is a fantastic tool for building technical skills and tight-space play, but we’ve seen it morph into a grift where it’s sold as the magic fix for America’s systemic issues. We address backlash from figures like Eddie Johnson, […]