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In Part 2 of our two-part series with Juan Martinez — founder of JMS Soccer and president of DKSC — we move beyond the academy structure and dig into the deeper layers of development that parents rarely see. Juan opens up about the realities of North Texas soccer culture, the misconceptions around “connections,” and how he uses his network not as a selling point, but as a responsibility to serve disciplined players who put in the work.Juan explains what it really takes for an athlete to earn his recommendation, why truth and accountability matter more than hype, and how he keeps kids grounded while helping them chase college, national team, or professional opportunities. We also explore character development, moral skills, parental influence, pathways beyond club soccer, and why the dream must belong to the player — not the parent.If you’re a soccer parent trying to understand the real pathway from ages 12–14 to college or pro, Part 2 delivers the unfiltered truth.📌 Key Talking Points• The misconception around “connections” and what they actually mean• North Texas as a cutthroat, highly competitive soccer market• Parents fearing their child won’t be recruited if they’re not at the “right” club• How Juan uses his network to help players — quietly, without promoting it• Why Juan will not recommend a player who lacks work ethic or attitude• Examples of Juan contacting major programs on players’ behalf• “Real talk”: asking players if they want honest feedback• Keeping kids humble — correcting body language, temper, effort• Why character skills and moral skills matter as much as soccer skills• Teaching athletes to write letters to themselves about who they want to be• How attitude directly affects how teammates experience you• The pathway funnel: dual citizenship, national teams, international scouts• Why discipline and daily habits determine whether a pathway even exists• Educating parents on timing, contracts, rights, and player value• Helping players navigate college offers strategically• Why most pathways depend on player drive, not parental desire• Homeschool vs. private school comparison for elite training• Why JMS Academy will not become a full school• JMS Fit/Futuro as expansion for players not ready for full academy• How success is defined: players going pro, earning scholarships, leadership qualities💬 Guest Quotes • “It’s very cutthroat. North Texas soccer is cutthroat.”• “Most of the time people don’t even know that I’m doing that.”• “I’m not sticking my neck out for just anybody.”• “If you’re not technically sound… if you don’t use both feet… I can’t recommend you.”• “I want to serve as many kids as possible, but in the right way.”• “I don’t have a plan to grow the wrong way — I want to grow the right way with the right people.”• “Everyone has a shelf life. Once I stop coaching, I want to use all my resources to honor God.”• “Kids aren’t being creative anymore because we make every decision for them.”• “Always count on change — we’re always reinventing and trying to get better.”• “You keep everybody humble — you never let them get bigheaded.”• “If it’s not their dream, you’re wasting your time.”• “Know your child. If it’s their dream, it’s worth it. If it’s yours, it’s not.”• “If your child isn’t touching a ball every day, they’re not falling in love with the sport yet.”• “I’ve seen so many parents running the race for their kids — and it never works.”• “Being part of a player reaching their goal… that’s the most fulfilling thing.”• “They do all the work, all the sacrifice. I’m just part of their journey.”Connect with JMS Soccer / JMS Academy📷 Instagram:...

In this episode of Chat By The Pitch, Juan Martinez — founder of JMS Soccer and President of DKSC — opens up about the journey behind JMS Academy, his daytime elite training environment built for disciplined, goal-driven young athletes. Juan walks through how JMS started in 2018, why it shut down during COVID, and how it returned in 2023 with a renewed mission: character, mental toughness, individualized development, and a one-stop shop of services for players chasing big goals.Juan breaks down the full structure of the academy day: early drop-offs, morning training, strength and conditioning with Juan Robles, nutrition habits, multiple school blocks, afternoon sessions, tactical work, recovery routines, and the mental side of the game. He shares how he intentionally builds an environment focused on quality over quantity, creativity over rigid systems, and long-term growth over short-term results.For any parent curious about homeschool-based soccer development, elite training routines, or what it really takes for a player to chase a college or professional pathway — this conversation gives a raw, detailed look inside JMS Academy’s first year.📌 Key Talking Points• Juan’s origins: Classic League player in the late 80s/early 90s; coaching since 2005• Why JMS was originally created in 2018• The impact of COVID shutting JMS down and the decision to relaunch• “Empty the Bucket”: the philosophy behind JMS• Why JMS is a one-stop shop for character, mental toughness, and recruiting• How “Seleção” inspired Juan’s approach to identifying elite players• The launch of JMS Academy in August• JMS Academy is not a school — it is a training program with academic support• How homeschool programs fit into the model (Texas Tech K-12, iPrep, etc.)• The structure of the daily schedule (7 AM–5 PM, Monday–Friday)• Morning technical sessions and strength/conditioning with Juan Robles• Nutrition routines inspired by Brazil: daily fruit/snack breaks• Classroom blocks, supervision, and the expectation of discipline• Why school comes first and how academic accountability works• Weekly training themes: Mental Monday, tactical Wednesdays, competitive Fridays• How JMS avoids overtraining and emphasizes recovery• The five facets of development: mental, technical, tactical, physical, social• The role creativity and pickup play in player growth• Why Juan keeps the program focused on individual development over team structure• Current group size (12 players) and commitment to quality• The goal of eventually growing to ~20 athletes• Balancing self-motivation, discipline, and personal goals• How Juan’s network (college, Mexico youth national team, agents, international scouts) supports players• How JMS educates families on sacrifice, commitment, and realistic pathways• Why Juan intentionally avoids selling himself as a “gatekeeper”💬 Guest Quotes• “J-M-S stands for Juan Martinez Soccer, but it's more than just soccer.”• “I realized I had built a good network of college recruiting and international scouts and didn’t want that to go in vain.”• “One of the sayings for JMS that I use is ‘empty the bucket.’”• “Every program we have started from a simple idea.”• “We are not a school — we’re more of a training program trying to create a professional environment.”• “School is very, very important… if you don’t take care of your school, you’re not going to be able to come and do academy training.”• “We check continuously on their work. We’re not a school, but we provide the environment.”• “We didn’t want to put a standard GPA… players learn differently.”• “It’s not that everybody’s going to be a professional, but if you chase that dream and get college paid for, that’s a good investment.”•...

In Part 2 of The Return on Investment Myth — Rethinking Youth Sports, Dr. Travis Dorsch returns to Chat By The Pitch to go even deeper into the real work of parenting athletes. From accountability and culture to failure and social media, Dr. Dorsch shares how parents can reflect, recalibrate, and reconnect with the reason they signed their kids up in the first place.We talk about how good intentions can cross the line, why “culture is king,” and what clubs can do to build a healthier ecosystem for players and families alike. From letting kids fail to redefining success after COVID, this conversation is a master class in perspective, patience, and purpose for every parent, coach, and club leader.💬 Key Talking Points• Treating kids as kids — not miniature adults• Setting boundaries between good intentions and over-involvement• The power of an accountability partner for parents• How culture outweighs budget in building winning teams• Reflection as a missing habit for most sports parents• Why parents must allow failure to build resilience• Social media and the “Gucci parent” era• Bringing back discipline and the value of the name on the back of the jersey• Inclusion, respect, and cheering for the competition• Helping parents feel unstuck and regain balance• Volunteering and being a helper in club culture• Three keys to supporting your athlete: show up, be present, celebrate both wins and losses• Parent education that works vs. programs that don’t• Defining success for communities and clubs• How COVID reshaped youth sports and perspective• Coaches as the “missing piece” for family balance• The importance of humility and apology as a parent• What today’s generation of athletes is teaching us about resilience Quotes from Dr. Travis Dorsch• “Our kids aren’t miniature adults — we have to stop treating them that way.”• “Accountability partners on the sideline can save you and your kid a lot of pain.”• “Culture is king — and it’s free if you do it right.”• “Parents have the potential to be incredibly reflective, but most of us choose not to be.”• “Failure is a safe space for learning if we let it be.”• “Social media shows the best five percent of every season and hides the 95 percent of growth.”• “Let’s cheer for our kid’s competitors the same way we cheer for our own.”• “Show up. Be present. Celebrate success and failure alike.”• “Competitive outcomes and character development aren’t mutually exclusive — you can have both.”• “Be humble enough to apologize when things go sideways. We only get one shot at this as parents.”Connect with Chat By The Pitch🐦 X (Twitter): @ChatByThePitch📷 Instagram: @ChatByThePitch📘 Facebook: Chat By The Pitch🎧 Listen: Chat By The Pitch on Apple PodcastsConnect with Dr. Travis Dorsch🌐 Families in Sport Lab — Utah State University▶️ TEDx Talk: “Should Parents Expect a Return on Investment?”#YouthSports #ParentingInSports #SportsCulture #SportsParenting #DrTravisDorsch #ChatByThePitch #CultureIsKing #PlayerDevelopment #FamilyInSport #ResilientAthletes #ParentEducation #YouthAthletes #SportsEcosystem #FailureIsLearning #ParentCoachPlayer #SportsPsychology #CommunityCulture #AthleteMindset #PodcastDFW #YouthDevelopmentMentioned in this episode: Soccer Innovations: Award-Winning Soccer Equipment & AccessoriesSoccer Innovations TeamPlayr: Find and join the perfect youth
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In Part 1 of The Return on Investment Myth — Rethinking Youth Sports, Dr. Travis Dorsch joins Chat By The Pitch to explore what families are truly getting from youth sports. As a professor at Utah State University and founding director of the Families in Sport Lab, Dr. Dorsch shares how his research — and his own parenting journey — reveal the tension between performance, pressure, and purpose.We unpack why so many parents chase the wrong outcomes, how goal misalignment drives kids out of the game, and what it really means to “invest” in your child’s sport journey. From NIL deals to the cost of club soccer, Travis challenges families to define success differently — not in scholarships or stats, but in the lessons that last a lifetime.💬 Key Talking Points• Why parents should expect a return on investment — but not the kind they think• The dangers of chasing scholarships and pro dreams too early• Goal alignment: how parents, coaches, and players get out of sync• What keeps kids in the game past age 13• The problem with commodifying young athletes• Systems thinking: placing the child at the center of the sport ecosystem• Communication tips for the car ride home• What questions parents should ask after every game• Modeling behavior and emotional control on the sidelines• How family dynamics shape athlete development• “Snowplow” vs. “scaffolding” parents• Defining success beyond wins and goals• Building lifelong movers instead of short-term stars🗣 Quotes from Dr. Travis Dorsch• “Parents should expect some form of return on their investment — but the real question is how we define that return.”• “When parents define success as scholarships or contracts, the pressure skyrockets for everyone.”• “Goal alignment is everything. If parents and kids aren’t chasing the same thing, conflict is inevitable.”• “The child needs to remain at the center. When parents or coaches make it about themselves, that’s when problems start.”• “If we can just get kids to come back next season, we’re winning.”• “You can’t name Christian Pulisic’s U12 record — because it doesn’t matter. What mattered is that he kept playing.”• “Parents are role models first. Kids don’t just hear us — they watch how we act.”• “Ask better questions on the ride home. Not ‘Did you win?’ but ‘What was the most exciting thing you did today?’”• “Work hard, listen to the coach, and have fun — that’s our family mantra.”• “Youth sport is a vehicle to raise better humans, not just better athletes.”Connect with Chat By The Pitch🐦 X (Twitter): @ChatByThePitch📷 Instagram: @ChatByThePitch📘 Facebook: Chat By The Pitch🎧 Listen: Chat By The Pitch on Apple PodcastsConnect with Dr. Travis Dorsch🌐 Families in Sport Lab — Utah State University▶️ TEDx Talk: “Should Parents Expect a Return on Investment?”#YouthSports #ParentingInSports #SportsCulture #PlayerDevelopment #SportPsychology #YouthAthletes #TravisDorsch #FamiliesInSport #SportsParenting #ChatByThePitch #SoccerCulture #SportsEcosystem #PlayerCenteredDevelopment #NIL #ReturnOnInvestment #ParentCoachPlayer #YouthDevelopment #SportsEducation #AthleteMindset #PodcastDFWMentioned in this episode:Reeplayer: Greater access to footage gives every young athlete the opportunity to develop and be seen. Reeplayer is committed to making footage accessible to teams, families, and athletes of all backgrounds.Reeplayer TeamPlayr: Find and join the perfect youth
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In this episode, Tom Boyce, co-owner of Crossbar and London Calling TX, shares how these two soccer spaces are redefining culture in North Texas.From weekday pickup and late-night leagues to homeschool sessions and family-friendly weekends, Crossbar has created a space where adults can play, relax, and connect while their kids grow up around the game.Tom and Ian dive into:• How the adult-first, kid-friendly model changes the soccer experience.• The “winner-stays-on” pickup system that keeps games competitive and fun.• Why Denton’s cash-rollover challenge became a local legend.• The crossover between Crossbar and London Calling in growing community culture.• How partnerships with leagues, gyms, and coaches expand opportunity across DFW.This episode is a reminder that soccer isn’t just a sport — it’s a community heartbeat.⚽ Key Talking Points• Crossbar’s mission: create adult-first soccer community centers where parents can play too.• Locations: Dallas (formerly Richardson) and Denton, both with full-service bars and turf.• League nights: Open, Co-Ed, and Over-30 divisions.• Pickup culture: 5v5, first to two goals, winner stays — no cleats allowed.• GoodRec and FieldSpace apps for sign-ups and scheduling.• The cash-rollover pickup pot that’s become part of Denton soccer lore.• Daytime blocks for homeschoolers, youth training, and open play.• Community partnerships with gyms, coaches, and local soccer groups.• Expansion plans: new outdoor turf and long-term franchise potential.• “Happy parents = better players.” The ripple effect of Crossbar’s culture.💬 Quotes from Tom Boyce“We’re adult-first, but kids are always welcome. It’s a soccer community center.”“If parents are comfortable, coaches can coach and kids can just play.”“Pickup should be fun — 5v5, winner stays, no pressure, no cleats.”“That cash pot in Denton? It started small, now it’s legendary.”“We’re not here to nickel-and-dime. We’re here to belong.”“Think the Cheers bar — but for soccer.”📲 Connect with Tom Boyce📷 Instagram: @crossbar.dallas📷 Instagram: @londoncallingtx🌐 Websites:🔗 www.crossbardallas.com🔗 www.londoncallingtx.com⚽ Follow Chat By The Pitch🐦 X (Twitter): @ChatByThePitch📷 Instagram: @ChatByThePitch📘 Facebook: Chat By The Pitch#ChatByThePitch #Crossbar #LondonCallingTX #DallasSoccer #DFWSoccer #AdultSoccer #PickupSoccer #IndoorSoccer #DentonTX #RichardsonTX #SoccerCommunity #SoccerParents #YouthSoccerParents #TexasSoccer #NorthTexasSoccer #SoccerCulture #FiveASide #CommunitySoccerMentioned in this episode:***Cursing Warning*** TeamPlayr: Find and join the perfect youth
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In Part 2 of our conversation with Brenden Lee, founder of Project 214, we go deeper into how futsal connects people, purpose, and personal growth. Brenden shares the next phase of his vision — from partnering with Vanta Athletics to bring rooftop futsal to downtown Dallas, to shaping a mentorship culture built on empathy and expression. He opens up about the challenges that shaped him, the role of mental health in coaching, and how Project 214 is evolving into a creative hub where players, parents, and mentors come together through the love of the game. This episode is equal parts inspiration, vulnerability, and vision — a reminder that sport is just the beginning. (138 words)Key Talking Points• Partnering with Vanta Athletics to launch rooftop futsal at Plaza of the Americas• How futsal becomes a platform for mentorship and community impact• Creating safe spaces for kids and families to connect beyond the game• Blending art, culture, and sport into a creative ecosystem• Building confidence and self-expression through the game• The importance of mental health and self-awareness for coaches and players• Lessons from personal struggles and rediscovering purpose through service• Bridging generations and cultures through pickup play and shared experiences• The rise of futsal facilities and grassroots energy across North Texas• How Project 214 is inspiring the next generation to play, create, and belongTune In to LearnHow Brenden Lee is redefining what futsal means for Dallas — as a game, a community, and a space for healing, growth, and connection.Quotes from Brenden Lee• “Project 214 feels like servitude — a way to give purpose and connection to something bigger than me.”• “I want kids to feel seen, heard, and safe — that’s what this project is about.”• “Futsal is just the bridge; what we’re really building is community.”• “Vanta Athletics shares the same ethos — it’s about people coming together through the game.”• “Sometimes you have to shed old versions of yourself to find the authentic you.”• “Sports culture rarely talks about mental health — but it’s okay to say you’re down and seek help.”• “Project 214 was born from pain but built on love — that’s what makes it real.”• “The World Cup will bring energy, but our goal is to sustain that culture long after.”• “Every kid deserves a place to belong, to create, to express who they are.”• “My greatest inspiration is the little kid version of me who just needed a hug and a chance to be seen.”📲 Connect with Brenden Lee📷 Instagram (Personal): @brendenlee17📷 Instagram (Project 214): @project_2.1.4🌐 Website: theproject214.comFollow Chat By The Pitch:🐦 X (Twitter): @ChatByThePitch📷 Instagram: @ChatByThePitch📘 Facebook: Chat By The Pitch🎧 Subscribe & Leave a Review:Please subscribe to Chat By The Pitch on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review! Your support helps us grow and bring more authentic conversations with players, coaches, and creators driving the game forward.#ChatByThePitch #BrendenLee #Project214 #DallasFutsal #VantaAthletics #RooftopSoccer #FutsalCulture #FutsalTraining #PlayerDevelopment #SoccerCommunity #SportsMentorship #CreativeCoaching #YouthSoccer #SoccerPodcast #TexasSoccer #MentalHealthInSports #GrowTheGame #StreetSoccer #DallasSoccer #PlayWithPurposeMentioned in this episode: TeamPlayr: Find and join the perfect youth
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Join Chat By The Pitch for an inspiring and creative conversation with Brenden Lee, founder of Project 214 and a driving force in Dallas’s futsal community. Brenden shares how Project 214 evolved from a simple idea into a cultural movement — blending futsal, art, music, and mentorship into one collective. He dives deep into the roots of street culture, the influence of skateboarding, and why creating safe, expressive spaces for players to grow matters more than ever. From local training sessions to community impact, this episode explores how futsal can reconnect people, creativity, and purpose — both on and off the court. (128 words)Key Talking Points• The origin and inspiration behind Project 214• Bridging futsal, skateboarding, and creative expression• Building a community-first, culture-driven environment• Creating safe spaces for players and families• Balancing structure with freedom in player development• The role of parents in aligning with their athletes’ goals• Mentorship through futsal and creativity• Finding joy and authenticity in the process• How futsal becomes a bridge for art, music, and life• Why Project 214 is always evolving — never finished, always growingTune In to LearnHow Brenden Lee is using futsal as a platform for culture, creativity, and connection — building an ecosystem where athletes, artists, and dreamers can grow together.Quotes from Brenden Lee• “Project 214 is about creating a safe place — safe to train, safe to play, safe to just be creative.”• “Futsal is the bridge between structure and street — it’s raw, expressive, and human.”• “Community is culture. It’s about breaking bread, not breaking each other.”• “We’re all weird in some form or fashion — and that’s what makes us special.”• “I skateboarded growing up, and that freedom of being yourself is what I want players to feel in futsal.”• “If I can help one kid find joy in the game again, that’s success.”• “I’m not trying to own the culture — I’m just trying to add to it.”• “When players and parents align their goals, real growth happens.”• “This project feels like the most authentic version of me.”• “It’s called Project 214 for a reason — it’s always evolving.”📲 Connect with Brenden Lee📷 Instagram (Personal): @brendenlee17📷 Instagram (Project 214): @project_2.1.4🌐 Website: theproject214.comFollow Chat By The Pitch:🐦 X (Twitter): @ChatByThePitch📷 Instagram: @ChatByThePitch📘 Facebook: Chat By The Pitch🎧 Subscribe & Leave a Review:Please subscribe to Chat By The Pitch on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review! Your support helps us grow and bring more authentic conversations with players, coaches, and creators driving the game forward.Thanks to Soccer Coach Weekly for supporting the podcast. Plan - Fast - Coach - Smart (GET YOUR 50% OFF WITH CODE IAN50) at Soccer Coach Weeklyhttps://soccercoachweekly.net/scw-usa...#ChatByThePitch #BrendenLee #Project214 #DallasFutsal #FutsalTraining #FutsalCommunity #SoccerCulture #YouthSoccerDevelopment #CreativeCoaching #StreetSoccer #DallasSoccer #FutsalLife #PlayerDevelopment #SportsCulture #GrowTheGame #SoccerPodcast #TexasSoccer #SoccerMentorship #CommunityThroughSport #PlayWithPurposeMentioned in this episode: TeamPlayr: Find and join the perfect youth
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In Part 2 of our conversation with Sam Junqua, we dive deeper into his MLS journey with FC Dallas and Real Salt Lake. Sam reflects on the realities of trades, adapting across multiple positions, and how mindfulness and journaling keep him grounded in high-pressure moments. He shares the differences in club culture, the value of versatility, and his advice for young players chasing the dream. From resilience to family support, Sam’s story is one of growth, grit, and perspective—with an eye still set on the World Cup stage.Key Talking Points• Transitioning from FC Dallas to Real Salt Lake• Experiencing the shock of MLS trades• Evolving into a consistent, versatile player• Club culture: Houston vs Dallas vs Salt Lake• Mindfulness, journaling, and reframing nerves as privilege• Advice for kids: enjoy the game and embrace pressure• The dream of playing in a World Cup still aliveTune In to LearnHow Sam Junqua built resilience through change, embraced mindfulness, and found consistency across his MLS career.Quotes from Sam“At Dallas, I matured into a player who could perform consistently across 90 minutes.”“In MLS, you can be traded without even knowing—it happened to me on vacation.”“Salt Lake emphasizes grit, and that’s become our identity as a team.”“Versatility is both a blessing and a curse, but it’s shaped who I am as a player.”“Mindfulness and journaling have been game-changers for me.”“Nerves mean the moment matters—you just have to embrace it.”“Pressure is a privilege—it means you’re playing in something that counts.”“You don’t have to be great at everything; you need to master your strengths.”“My parents have been the greatest influence on my career.”“Playing in a World Cup still remains a dream of mine.”Hashtags#ChatByThePitch #SamJunqua #RealSaltLake #FCDallas #SoccerMindset #SoccerJourney #SoccerAdvice #SoccerParents #MLSTrades #SoccerPodcast📲 Connect with Sam Junqua📷 Instagram: @sjunqua Instagram+1🐦 X (Twitter): @SJunqua X (formerly Twitter)🌐 Website / Player Profile: RSL.com – Sam JunquaFollow Chat By The Pitch:🐦 X (Twitter): @ChatByThePitch📷 Instagram: @ChatByThePitch📘 Facebook: Chat By The Pitch🎧 Subscribe & Leave a Review: Please subscribe to Chat By The Pitch on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review! Your support helps us grow and bring more in-depth conversations with players, coaches, and industry leaders.#ChatByThePitch #SamJunqua #MLS #SoccerJourney #CollegeSoccer #HoustonDynamo #SoccerDevelopment #USSoccer #SoccerLife #SoccerPodcastMentioned in this episode: TeamPlayr: Find and join the perfect youth
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Join Chat By The Pitch for Part 1 of our conversation with Sam Junqua, defender for Real Salt Lake in Major League Soccer. Sam takes us through his journey from playing AYSO in Santa Barbara to competing in Japan, rising through Bay Area clubs, and becoming a standout at UC Berkeley. He opens up about the challenges of balancing academics with soccer, navigating the MLS draft, and breaking into the league with Houston Dynamo. Sam also reflects on the unique experience of playing through the COVID-19 bubble and shares how pickup soccer and adaptability shaped his game. Packed with insights for parents, players, and fans, this episode pulls back the curtain on the realities of chasing a professional soccer dream.Key Talking Points• Growing up in Santa Barbara and discovering soccer through family• Playing in Japan and the discipline of youth soccer abroad• The role of pickup play and guesting with teams in development• Journey through De Anza Force, San Jose Earthquakes, and academy soccer• College years at UC Berkeley, balancing economics and athletics• The whirlwind of MLS combines and draft day with Houston Dynamo• Adapting to the unique challenges of MLS contracts and rights• Surviving the COVID-19 bubble and its impact on his careerTune In to LearnHow Sam Junqua turned backyard ball, discipline, and resilience into an MLS career while navigating the challenges of contracts, transitions, and the grind of professional soccer.Quotes from Sam Junqua• “I knew I wanted to play professionally when I was 11 or 12 years old—I just didn’t know the path yet.”• “I was always kicking the ball in the backyard, even when my parents got mad at me for breaking things.”• “Watching Ronaldinho and Cristiano Ronaldo on YouTube made me fall in love with the game.”• “Guest playing and adapting to new teams helped me learn how to adjust in any environment.”• “Academics never came before soccer, but I made sure they never got in the way of soccer.”• “Going through the MLS Combine felt like an open tryout—you had to adapt fast.”• “Being the last player invited to the MLS Combine changed the trajectory of my career.”• “The draft was a whirlwind; I didn’t even know I’d be picked until the morning of.”• “The bubble during COVID was strange but gave me the mental reset I needed.”• “Structure is important, but kids still need freedom to just play the game.”📲 Connect with Sam Junqua📷 Instagram: @sjunqua Instagram+1🐦 X (Twitter): @SJunqua X (formerly Twitter)🌐 Website / Player Profile: RSL.com – Sam JunquaFollow Chat By The Pitch:🐦 X (Twitter): @ChatByThePitch📷 Instagram: @ChatByThePitch📘 Facebook: Chat By The Pitch🎧 Subscribe & Leave a Review: Please subscribe to Chat By The Pitch on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review! Your support helps us grow and bring more in-depth conversations with players, coaches, and industry leaders.#ChatByThePitch #SamJunqua #MLS #SoccerJourney #CollegeSoccer #HoustonDynamo #SoccerDevelopment #USSoccer #SoccerLife #SoccerPodcastMentioned in this episode: TeamPlayr: Find and join the perfect youth
soccer teamTeamPlayrThanks to Soccer Coach Weekly for supporting the podcast. Plan - Fast - Coach - Smart (GET YOUR 50% OFF WITH CODE IAN50) at Soccer Coach WeeklySoccer Coach Weekly Soccer Innovations: Award-Winning Soccer Equipment & AccessoriesSoccer InnovationsReeplayer: Greater access to footage gives every young athlete

In Part 2 of our powerful conversation with Dr. Hillary Cauthen — licensed clinical sport psychologist, author, and President-Elect of the Association for Applied Sport Psychology — we dive deeper into the culture of youth sports, the pressures athletes face, and the role coaches and parents play in creating safe, healthy environments. From the hidden costs of monetized youth sports, to the importance of leadership, to the fine line between resilience and burnout, Dr. Cauthen shares hard truths and practical strategies for building a culture of care in athletics. Whether you’re a coach, parent, or athlete, this episode will leave you rethinking how we measure success on and off the field.🔑 Key Talking PointsHow parents can evaluate clubs and coaches for athlete safety and development.The importance of SafeSport training, background checks, and coach education.Why 70% of athletes quit sports by 13 — and how to fight the dropout crisis.Toxic cultures, sideline fights, and referee shortages: the dark side of youth sports.The impact of monetization and NIL trickling down to youth levels.Simone Biles, Michael Phelps, Kevin Love, and Naomi Osaka — lessons from elite athletes on mental health.The dangers of “mental health days” becoming a crutch vs. being used for recovery.How parents can celebrate small wins and build resilience at home.The power of player-driven culture and empowering athletes as leaders.Dr. Cauthen’s vision for trauma-informed practices in youth sports and her upcoming mastermind projects.Quotes“Culture builds development — and development builds everything else.”“Seventy percent of kids drop out of sports by 13. That’s not just a stat, that’s a crisis.”“We wouldn’t accept certain behaviors in a classroom — why do we allow them on the sidelines?”“It’s never okay to not be okay. If you’re not okay, we need to intervene.”“Simone Biles didn’t quit — she protected her health and came back stronger.”“Every athlete wants to be seen as more than the number on their back.”“The monetization of youth sports is changing culture, and not always for the better.”“As parents, our job isn’t to remove failure. It’s to teach our kids how to respond to it.”“Leadership isn’t about captains — it’s about every player taking ownership.”“Sport should be about fighting with care and empathy, not just competition.”Connect with Dr. Hilary Cauthen🌐 Website: www.txopps.com🎥 YouTube: Watch Here🎙️ Podcast: Highs & Lows of X’s & O’s📚 Book: Hello Trauma, Our Invisible Teammate📸 Instagram: @drcmindset | @toppstalks✖️ X: @TOPPSTIP👍 Facebook: @TXOPPSFollow Chat By The Pitch🐦 X: @ChatByThePitch📷 Instagram: @ChatByThePitch📘 Facebook: Chat By The Pitch🎧 Subscribe & Review: Your support helps us keep bringing conversations with players, coaches, and leaders that matter.#YouthSports #MentalHealthInSports #CultureOfCare #SportsPsychology #CoachingMatters #PlayerDevelopment #ParentingInSports #SimoneBiles #MichaelPhelps #AthleteWellbeing #ChatByThePitch #DrHillaryCauthenMentioned in this episode:Thanks to Soccer Coach Weekly for supporting the podcast. Plan - Fast - Coach - Smart (GET YOUR 50% OFF WITH CODE IAN50) at Soccer Coach WeeklySoccer Coach WeeklyReeplayer: Greater access to footage gives every young athlete the opportunity to develop and be seen. Reeplayer is committed to making footage accessible to teams, families, and athletes of all backgrounds.Reeplayer Soccer...

In this episode of Chat By The Pitch, we sit down with Dr. Hilary Cauthen — clinical sports psychologist, certified mental performance consultant, and author of Hello Trauma, Our Invisible Teammate. Dr. Cauthen opens up about her journey as a competitive runner, her TEDx talk on the toxic culture of sport, and how trauma shows up in ways athletes, coaches, and parents often overlook.We dive into the invisible pressures athletes face — from injuries to fear of evaluation, from peer criticism to the weight of coach expectations. Dr. Cauthen shares how coaches can be emotional role models, why free play matters, and how clubs need to normalize mental performance coaching as a proactive tool instead of a last resort.If you’re a parent, coach, or player, this conversation will change how you view resilience, identity, and wellbeing in sports.Key Talking Points• Why trauma is the “invisible teammate” athletes carry• Lessons from Dr. Cauthen’s running career and early challenges• How coaches shape athletes as emotional role models, not just tacticians• Fear of evaluation and fear of failure: the biggest barriers young athletes face• Free play as a tool for risk-taking, growth, and creativity• Parents’ role in supporting players post-game (car ride conversations that build confidence)• Why professional clubs and youth programs must invest in mental performance coachingQuotes from Dr. Hilary Cauthen• “Trauma is your teammate now. It can be your best teammate that helps you thrive or a detrimental one that keeps you on the bench.”• “Mental health is not mental illness. We all have mental health; it’s about how we manage our thoughts and feelings.”• “Connection is essential. Coaches need to be present, make eye contact, and assess how athletes show up to practice.”• “Free play allows athletes to make mistakes, take risks, and grow without fear of punishment.”• “The two biggest fears athletes carry are fear of evaluation and fear of failure.”• “Coaches are emotional role models. Their feedback can shape an athlete more than a parent’s words.”Connect with Dr. Hilary Cauthen🌐 Website: www.txopps.com🎥 YouTube: Watch Here🎙️ Podcast: Highs & Lows of X’s & O’s📚 Book: Hello Trauma, Our Invisible Teammate📸 Instagram: @drcmindset | @toppstalks✖️ X: @TOPPSTIP👍 Facebook: @TXOPPSFollow Chat By The Pitch🐦 X: @ChatByThePitch📷 Instagram: @ChatByThePitch📘 Facebook: Chat By The Pitch🎧 Subscribe & Review: Your support helps us keep bringing conversations with players, coaches, and leaders that matter.#ChatByThePitch #DrHilaryCauthen #SportsPsychology #YouthSports #MentalHealth #TraumaInSports #Coaching #SoccerParenting #MentalPerformance #Resilience #AthleteWellbeingMentioned in this episode:Thanks to Soccer Coach Weekly for supporting the podcast. Plan - Fast - Coach - Smart (GET YOUR 50% OFF WITH CODE IAN50) at Soccer Coach WeeklySoccer Coach WeeklyReeplayer: Greater access to footage gives every young athlete the opportunity to develop and be seen. Reeplayer is committed to making footage accessible to teams, families, and athletes of all backgrounds.Reeplayer Soccer Innovations: Award-Winning Soccer Equipment & AccessoriesSoccer Innovations TeamPlayr: Find and join the perfect youth
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Join Chat By The Pitch for an engaging conversation with Lana Van Deusen, Angel Cuevas, and Sebastian Östergren from Atlético Dallas Youth. These experienced leaders share their journeys, from military service to international coaching influences, and discuss what it takes to build a positive club culture in North Texas. They break down player development, retaining talent, fostering love for the game, and creating pathways for every level. Tune in for inspiring insights on mentoring young athletes, balancing ambition with life skills, and growing soccer communities. Subscribe on Spotify and follow @ChatByThePitch on X!Key Talking Points• Building a positive club culture and breaking from traditional North Texas norms• Player retention through communication, mentorship, and support systems• Game models, coaching frameworks, and adapting styles for growth• Handling late bloomers, growth spurts, and emotional development• College pathways, alumni involvement, and preparing players for life beyond soccerTune In to LearnDiscover how Lana, Angel, and Sebastian transform teams, inspire players, and navigate the challenges of U.S. youth soccer.Quotes from Guests• “I've never had a player stop playing soccer.” – Sebastian Östergren• “We want to help our players and our families be leaders within our communities.” – Sebastian Östergren• “Soccer isn't gonna be there for most of these people beyond high school.” – Lana Van Deusen• “It's about building those people for the next generation of soccer players.” – Angel Cuevas• “We have to find different ways to cater to everyone.” – Sebastian Östergren• “Creating a culture where they wanna come back to.” – Lana Van Deusen• “We think that soccer should be for everyone.” – Sebastian Östergren• “Over communicate... parents are our customer.” – Angel CuevasConnect with Guests🌐 Website: atleticodallasyouth.comFollow Chat By The Pitch🐦 X: @ChatByThePitch📷 Instagram: @ChatByThePitch📘 Facebook: Chat By The Pitch🎧 Subscribe & Review: Support Chat By The Pitch on your favorite podcast platform!#ChatByThePitch #AtleticoDallasYouth #YouthSoccer #PlayerDevelopment #SoccerCulture #CoachingJourney #CollegePathway #NorthTexasSoccer #SoccerForAll #Mentorship #CommunityLeaders #GameModel #InspirePlayersMentioned in this episode: Soccer Innovations: Award-Winning Soccer Equipment & AccessoriesSoccer Innovations TeamPlayr: Find and join the perfect youth
soccer teamTeamPlayrThanks to Soccer Coach Weekly for supporting the podcast. Plan - Fast - Coach - Smart (GET YOUR 50% OFF WITH CODE IAN50) at Soccer Coach WeeklySoccer Coach WeeklyReeplayer: Greater access to footage gives every young athlete the opportunity to develop and be seen. Reeplayer is committed to making footage accessible to teams, families, and athletes of all backgrounds.Reeplayer

Join Chat By The Pitch for an in-depth conversation with Brian Corcoran, Sporting Director of Atlético Dallas. Brian shares his journey from college and professional soccer to building a brand-new USL club in Dallas. He discusses the pivotal partnership with Renegades, creating youth-to-pro pathways, and laying the foundation for long-term community ties. From the vision of free academies to designing world-class facilities, Brian explains what it takes to grow the game in North Texas.Key Talking Points• Forming Atlético Dallas and partnering with Renegades for youth growth• Building pathways from youth to pro with community-first focus• Challenges in U.S. youth soccer and the push toward free academies• World-class facility plans, education support, and merit-based opportunities• Shifting from league-centric thinking to true club cultureTune In to LearnLearn how Brian Corcoran is shaping the future of Dallas soccer, building opportunities for players, coaches, and families to thrive.Quotes from Brian Corcoran• “We wanna be competitors on the field, but cooperative off the field.”• “Soccer should be free... that’s where we're headed.”• “We want to grow the game and there's plenty of room for everybody.”• “Our ultimate prize is when a local kid can step onto the field.”• “We do not want to be a destination club. We wanna be a stepping stone.”• “Football’s nothing without the community.”• “Iron sharpens iron — the better everyone is, the better we’ll become.”Connect with Brian Corcoran🌐 Website: atleticodallas.comFollow Chat By The Pitch🐦 X: @ChatByThePitch📷 Instagram: @ChatByThePitch📘 Facebook: Chat By The Pitch🎧 Subscribe & Review: Please leave us a review to help the show grow!#ChatByThePitch #BrianCorcoran #AtleticoDallas #YouthPathways #ProSoccer #USL #SoccerForAll #CommunityGrowth #AcademyDevelopment #DallasSoccer #SteppingStone #FreeFootball #ClubCulture #IronSharpensIronMentioned in this episode: Soccer Innovations: Award-Winning Soccer Equipment & AccessoriesSoccer InnovationsThanks to Soccer Coach Weekly for supporting the podcast. Plan - Fast - Coach - Smart (GET YOUR 50% OFF WITH CODE IAN50) at Soccer Coach WeeklySoccer Coach WeeklyReeplayer: Greater access to footage gives every young athlete the opportunity to develop and be seen. Reeplayer is committed to making footage accessible to teams, families, and athletes of all backgrounds.Reeplayer TeamPlayr: Find and join the perfect youth
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In Part Two of our Chat By The Pitch conversation with Tracey Leone—assistant coach for the University of North Carolina Women’s Soccer program, former U.S. Women’s National Team player, and 1991 World Cup champion—we dig deeper into her coaching philosophy, her experiences at the highest levels of the game, and the lessons she’s passing on to the next generation. Tracey shares stories from her time with the national team, the evolution of the women’s game, and why character and joy are just as important as skill. This episode is filled with insight for coaches, parents, and players chasing both success and fulfillment.🧠 Key Talking Points• Transition from player to coach and the challenges that came with it• Coaching at the collegiate, national, and professional levels• Lessons learned from the U.S. Women’s National Team experience• The growth of women’s soccer over the last three decades• Building a competitive yet joyful environment for players• How UNC maintains its winning culture year after year• The role of character and leadership in building successful teams• Advice for young players and their parents in today’s soccer landscape🎧 Tune In to LearnHow Tracey Leone blends competitive drive with a deep love for the game—and why that balance is the key to long-term success on and off the field.💬 Quotes from Tracey Leone• "Coaching is about developing people, not just players."• "The best environments challenge you while making you feel valued."• "You can’t fake passion—players know if you love what you’re doing."• "Character is the foundation for everything we do."• "The game has grown in incredible ways since my playing days."• "We keep the UNC culture alive by focusing on relationships."• "Every generation of players brings new energy and ideas."• "Joy in the game is not a luxury—it’s essential."• "Pressure is part of sports, but so is the love that keeps you playing."• "Winning matters, but so does who you become in the process." Connect with Tracey Leone• Website: UNC BioFollow Chat By The Pitch• X: @ChatByThePitch• Instagram: @ChatByThePitch• Facebook: Chat By The Pitch• 🎧 Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform & leave a review—your support helps us grow!#ChatByThePitch #TraceyLeone #SoccerPodcast #YouthSoccer #WomenInSports #Leadership #SoccerCulture #Motivation #UNCSoccer #Coaching #SoccerJourney #TeamBuilding #PassionForSoccer #AnsonDorrance #WomensSoccerMentioned in this episode:Reeplayer: Greater access to footage gives every young athlete the opportunity to develop and be seen. Reeplayer is committed to making footage accessible to teams, families, and athletes of all backgrounds.ReeplayerThanks to Soccer Coach Weekly for supporting the podcast. Plan - Fast - Coach - Smart (GET YOUR 50% OFF WITH CODE IAN50) at Soccer Coach WeeklySoccer Coach Weekly

Join Chat By The Pitch for Part One of an in-depth conversation with Tracey Leone—assistant coach for the University of North Carolina Women’s Soccer program, former U.S. Women’s National Team player, and 1991 World Cup champion. Tracey shares her journey from pickup soccer in Dallas to becoming one of UNC’s standout players. We explore how neighborhood games shaped her love for the sport, the influence of her family and legendary coach Anson Dorrance, and her perspective on today’s youth soccer culture. Packed with wisdom for coaches, parents, and players, this episode dives into passion, player development, and finding the balance between competition and joy.🧠 Key Talking Points• Growing up in Dallas and discovering soccer through neighborhood pickup games• The role of her single mother and sisters in shaping her love for sports• Transition from unstructured play to organized soccer at age eight• The importance of passion and intrinsic motivation for long-term success• Evolution of youth soccer culture: past vs. present pressures• Early ODP experiences and the rise of girls’ soccer in North Texas• The impact of Anson Dorrance’s coaching style and competitive environment• Balancing growth of the game with preserving its joy and creativity🎧 Tune In to LearnHow Tracey Leone turned backyard pickup soccer into a pathway to the national team—and why she believes passion and free play are still the most powerful drivers of success in today’s game.💬 Quotes from Tracey Leone• "My love for soccer began organically by playing with neighborhood kids."• "The game was the best teacher for me."• "You have to love what you’re doing, from rec to the national team."• "We combined old-school pickup with new-age opportunities—that’s the sweet spot."• "Anson Dorrance’s ability to motivate is off the charts."• "North Texas was the greatest place to grow up as a soccer player."• "Development happens every single day, no matter your level."• "Kids should play because they want to, not because they’re forced."• "With the growth of the game comes opportunity—but also pressure."• "You have to want to be there to get the most out of sports."📲 Connect with Tracey Leone• Website: UNC Bio📢 Follow Chat By The Pitch• X: @ChatByThePitch• Instagram: @ChatByThePitch• Facebook: Chat By The Pitch• 🎧 Subscribe & Review: Your reviews help us grow and bring more inspiring soccer stories to the mic!#ChatByThePitch #TraceyLeone #SoccerPodcast #YouthSoccer #WomenInSports #Leadership #SoccerCulture #Motivation #UNCSoccer #NorthTexasSoccer #Coaching #SoccerJourney #TeamBuilding #PassionForSoccer #AnsonDorranceMentioned in this episode:Thanks to Soccer Coach Weekly for supporting the podcast. Plan - Fast - Coach - Smart (GET YOUR 50% OFF WITH CODE IAN50) at Soccer Coach WeeklySoccer Coach WeeklyReeplayer: Greater access to footage gives every young athlete the opportunity to develop and be seen. Reeplayer is committed to making footage accessible to teams, families, and athletes of all backgrounds.Reeplayer

Join Chat By The Pitch for an inspiring conversation with Kean Barclay, Head Women’s Soccer Coach at Columbia State Community College and Director of Coaching at Clarksville Soccer Club. From playing in Fayetteville, Arkansas, to coaching internationally in Ireland, Bolivia, and Scotland, Kean’s journey has shaped a coaching philosophy built on resilience, culture, and player growth. We explore building strong team culture, the unique role of junior colleges in player development, and balancing coaching with parenting. Kean also reflects on lessons from his podcast, Down the Tunnel. Packed with insights for coaches, parents, and players alike, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the game.Key Talking Points• How Kean’s global soccer experiences shaped his coaching philosophy• The role of junior colleges in recruiting and preparing players for four-year schools• Strategies for building a positive team culture and managing parent influence in youth sports• Balancing the demands of coaching with parenting while fostering player accountabilityTune In to LearnHow Kean mentors players to grow as athletes and people, with a focus on resilience and strong team culture.Quotes from Kean Barclay• “I love the connections, I like the relationships. Whether I’m coaching at the number one Division I school or a Division III community college, it’s about helping players grow.”• “Failure shouldn’t be a word you feel uncomfortable hearing—it’s about what you do after.”• “Every individual’s role is crucial in pushing, evolving, and maintaining team culture.”• “Dissension loves company. Negative influences can spread quickly, especially in youth soccer.”• “I ask my kids, ‘Did you have fun?’ That’s the main question after a game.”• “It’s about building accountability in players, whether in college or club soccer.”• “The familial influence is different in club versus college—it’s more direct in youth sports.”• “I want players to find a school that fits their personality, not just their soccer goals.”• “Coaching at a junior college means recruiting players in and recruiting them out.”• “Your attitude affects your emotions, and your emotions affect your results.”Connect with Kean Barclay• 🎧 Podcast: Down The Tunnel• 📧 Email: DownTheTunnel@gmail.com• 🌐 Website: www.columbiastate.edu/athleticsFollow Chat By The Pitch• 🐦 X: @ChatByThePitch• 📷 Instagram: @ChatByThePitch• 📘 Facebook: Chat By The Pitch• 🎧 Subscribe & Leave a Review: Subscribe to Chat By The Pitch on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review to help us bring more conversations with players, coaches, and industry leaders.#ChatByThePitch #KeanBarclay #SoccerPodcast #SoccerCoachLife #YouthSoccer #CoachingTips #TeamCulture #JuniorCollegeSoccer #SoccerDevelopment #SportsLeadership #SoccerMindset #ClarksvilleSoccer #ColumbiaStateSoccerMentioned in this episode:Reeplayer: Greater access to footage gives every young athlete the opportunity to develop and be seen. Reeplayer is committed to making footage accessible to teams, families, and athletes of all backgrounds.ReeplayerThanks to Soccer Coach Weekly for supporting the podcast. Plan - Fast - Coach - Smart (GET YOUR 50% OFF WITH CODE IAN50) at Soccer Coach WeeklySoccer Coach Weekly

Join Chat By The Pitch for an inspiring chat with Akeem Gordon, founder of VMR Academy (Vision Meets Reality) and a former football player turned elite speed and agility trainer. From his journey playing college football and pro stints in the NFL and CFL, Akeem pivoted to training athletes in Texas, specializing in soccer players' mechanics, acceleration, and mindset. We dive into assessing young athletes, building proper running form, the role of high-energy coaching, and advice for parents on fostering athletic development. Packed with real-talk insights on turning vision into reality! Subscribe on Spotify, follow @ChatByThePitch on X.Key Talking Points• Akeem's athletic journey from Chicago to pro football and founding VMR Academy.• Transitioning from training football to soccer players, focusing on mechanics like arm movement and foot placement.• Assessing athletes through drills, emphasizing safety, results, and family-like environment.• Importance of high energy in coaching to match and elevate kids' performance.• Common issues in youth athletes: improper running, tablet dependency, and lack of problem-solving skills.Tune In to LearnTune in to learn how Akeem Gordon transforms athletes by building proper mechanics, mindset, and speed for game-changing performance on the pitch.Quotes from Akeem Gordon• “Proper repetition equals efficiency.”• “It's not the drill that people are paying for. It's the person behind it.”• “My energy is way higher than theirs because I want them to know that most trainers are putting people through drills that they can't do.”• “In order to make crazy plays, we gotta train crazy.”• “You're paying for the experience.”• “Your speed is different than mine. So you're gonna think you're right until you meet someone like me.”• “I guarantee within the first three sessions, you'll see what you're looking for.”• “This is the place to make a mistake. Once you start playing in the game, mistakes have to be very limited.”• “I see potential that you don't see nor feel.”• “The same way you do anything is how you should do everything.”Connect with Akeem Gordon📲 Instagram: @vmracademy📘 Facebook: VMR Academy🐦 X: @vmracademy🎥 TikTok: @vmracademy📍 Facility: 5034 Hopkins Rd, Krum, TX 76249Follow Chat By The Pitch🐦 X: @ChatByThePitch📷 Instagram: @ChatByThePitch📘 Facebook: Chat By The Pitch🎧 Subscribe & Leave a Review: Please subscribe to Chat By The Pitch on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review! Your support helps us grow and bring more in-depth conversations with players, coaches, and industry leaders.#ChatByThePitch #AkeemGordonInspires #SportsPodcast #YouthSoccer #SpeedTraining #AgilityDrills #SoccerMechanics #AthleteDevelopment #Motivation #SportsTalk #TrainerLife #VisionMeetsReality #TeamBuilding #Leadership #SoccerCoachMentioned in this episode:Reeplayer: Greater access to footage gives every young athlete the opportunity to develop and be seen. Reeplayer is committed to making footage accessible to teams, families, and athletes of all backgrounds.Reeplayer

Join Chat by the Pitch for an inspiring conversation with Warren Cottle, Director of Coaching and Player Development at North Texas State Soccer Association, and Christine Ellis, social media manager for Soccer Innovations. In this episode, Warren and Christine share their passion for youth soccer development, focusing on fostering a player-centric culture. They discuss the transformative Soccer for Success program, the importance of ball mastery at young ages, and the pitfalls of prioritizing winning over development. Tune in for actionable insights on creating environments where kids can learn, make decisions, and grow through soccer, packed with practical tips for coaches and parents alike! (134 words)Key Talking PointsSoccer for Success: Providing soccer education and equipment to schools in underserved communities.Ball mastery: Building technical foundations at home to boost confidence and control.Player-centric coaching: Creating environments for kids to make decisions and learn through play.Small-sided games: Why 4v4 and futsal are critical for maximizing touches and development.Parent education: Shifting focus from winning to long-term player growth.Tune In to LearnTune in to learn how Warren Cottle and Christine Ellis transform youth soccer by prioritizing skill development, decision-making, and inclusive access to the game.Quotes from Warren Cottle and Christine Ellis"The goal is to get soccer education out… it’s unbelievably user-friendly for the elementary perspective as well as the high school PE teacher perspective." – Warren Cottle"If you could take that and tie grades to it… use that as a platform to develop not just soccer players, but also people." – Warren Cottle"I saw it with my oldest… it took about six months, and all of a sudden it transformed the way that he played." – Christine Ellis"It’s so fun to watch and see… it sets them off on the right foot because now they start to feel confident." – Christine Ellis"As a coach, you don’t look at the ball. You look at the players off the ball, what they’re looking at, and what they’re thinking." – Warren Cottle"I’m big on ownership because they gotta feel like it’s their journey, and they will put more into it if it’s theirs." – Christine Ellis"Sometimes your best coaches… put ‘em on the field and let the kids figure it out." – Warren Cottle"I wish everybody knew… there’s something about they’re comfortable, they’re at home, they can have a ball at their foot." – Christine Ellis"Tournaments end up being more about money than they’re actually about development." – Warren Cottle"If they can’t control the ball, how will they be able to play on the field?" – Christine EllisConnect with Warren Cottle📲 Instagram: @NTXODP📘 Facebook: @NTXODP📧 Email: warren@ntxsoccer.org🌐 Website: https://www.ntxsoccer.org/odp/olympic-development-program/Connect with Christine Ellis📲 Instagram: @soccerinnovations📘 Facebook: @SoccerInnovationsUSA🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/soccerinnovationsFollow Chat By The Pitch🐦 X: @ChatByThePitch📷 Instagram: @ChatByThePitch📘 Facebook: Chat By The Pitch🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChatByThePitchPod🎧 Subscribe & Leave a Review: Please subscribe to Chat by the Pitch on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review! Your support helps us grow and bring more in-depth conversations with players, coaches, and industry leaders.#ChatByThePitch #YouthSoccer #SoccerForSuccess #BallMastery #PlayerDevelopment #CoachingTips #Futsal #SoccerEducation #Leadership #Motivation #SoccerInnovations #NorthTexasSoccer...

In Part 2 of Chat by the Pitch with Nate Baker, founder of The Developer’s Way, we dive deeper into the broken U.S. youth soccer system and how to fix it. Nate discusses the dehumanization of players, treated as “slabs of meat” with expiration dates rather than “slabs of clay” to be molded into masterpieces. Through personal stories, like his daughter’s resilience on stage, Nate illustrates how coaches and parents can champion small wins to build lasting values. He shares insights on creating player-centric environments that prioritize potential over short-term results. Tune in for a powerful discussion on fostering resilience, joy, and growth in youth soccer!Key Talking Points• Broken Soccer System: Despite infrastructure growth, U.S. soccer produces fewer top-level American players due to a focus on talent accumulation over development.• Humanizing Players: Nate advocates for seeing players as individuals with endless potential, fostering environments that prioritize growth and resilience.• Celebrating Small Wins: Nate’s story of his daughter overcoming stage fright highlights how celebrating resilience over results builds lifelong values.• Aligning Parents and Coaches: Educating parents and coaches to align with a club’s vision ensures players stay engaged, reducing dropout rates and sustaining development.Tune In to LearnTune in to learn how Nate Baker’s player-centric approach at The Developer’s Way transforms youth soccer by championing resilience, values, and potential, offering practical steps for parents and coaches.Quotes from Nate Baker• “The game is no longer for the players. It’s been flipped, serving coaches, administrators, and egos instead.”• “Winning is just taking that next step and staying in the game.”• “We’re not developing players; we’re giving the impression they’re being developed.”• “Kids need environments where someone believes in their potential and pushes them to keep going.”• “My daughter froze on stage, came back, and finished. That’s the greatest win I’ve ever seen.”Connect with Nate Baker• 📲 Instagram: @thedevelopersway• 🌐 Website: The Developer’s Way• 🐦 X: @NateBakerCoachFollow Chat by the Pitch• 🐦 X: @ChatByThePitch• 📷 Instagram: @ChatByThePitch• 📘 Facebook: Chat By The Pitch🎧 Subscribe & Leave a Review: Please subscribe to Chat by the Pitch on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review! Your support helps us grow and bring more in-depth conversations with players, coaches, and industry leaders.#ChatByThePitch #NateBakerInspires #YouthSoccer #SoccerDevelopment #CoachingCulture #PlayerPotential #Resilience #SoccerParents #Leadership #TeamBuildingMentioned in this episode:Reeplayer: Greater access to footage gives every young athlete the opportunity to develop and be seen. Reeplayer is committed to making footage accessible to teams, families, and athletes of all backgrounds.Reeplayer

Join Chat by the Pitch for Part 1 of an inspiring conversation with Nate Baker, founder of The Developer’s Way and director at Achilles Football Club in Washington, D.C. Nate shares his journey from a youth soccer player captivated by the 1994 World Cup to a coach redefining U.S. soccer culture. We dive into the overuse of “development” in youth sports, exploring how a culture vision rooted in values, combined with a playing vision and game vision, creates a path to unlock players’ endless potential. Nate offers actionable insights for parents and coaches to foster environments where kids grow as athletes and people. Tune in for a fresh perspective on moving beyond the win-at-all-costs mentality! (126 words)Key Talking Points• Nate’s Origin Story: Inspired by the 1994 World Cup, Nate’s Division I and USL career led to his mission to address suboptimal coaching environments through The Developer’s Way.• Redefining Development: Development moves players toward their potential through a culture vision (values and resilience), playing vision (technical/tactical skills), and game vision (applying both in matches), iterated over time.• Parent-Player Unity: Educating parents and players as one unit aligns expectations with a club’s vision, sustaining long-term growth and reducing pressure.• Challenging Short-Term Focus: Nate critiques the win-at-all-costs mentality, advocating for a culture that prioritizes joy, resilience, and holistic growth over weekend results.Tune In to LearnTune in to learn how Nate Baker’s philosophy at The Developer’s Way redefines youth soccer by emphasizing culture, values, and potential, offering parents and coaches a roadmap for transformative development.Quotes from Nate Baker• “Development is taking a person, a player, and moving them as close to their potential as possible.”• “Everyone has potential. You can’t define it, and it’s an endless horizon we’re always pursuing.”• “If you don’t teach culture, you don’t really teach anything.”• “The game is not about the match on the weekend in its finite form. It’s about how you take the lessons and build into the next week.”• “Parent plus player equals one person. You have to educate both together.”Connect with Nate Baker• 📲 Instagram: @thedevelopersway• 🌐 Website: The Developer’s Way• 📧 Email: [Contact via website]• 🐦 X: @NateBakerCoachFollow Chat by the Pitch• 🐦 X: @ChatByThePitch• 📷 Instagram: @ChatByThePitch• 📘 Facebook: Chat By The Pitch🎧 Subscribe & Leave a Review: Please subscribe to Chat by the Pitch on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review! Your support helps us grow and bring more in-depth conversations with players, coaches, and industry leaders.#ChatByThePitch #NateBakerInspires #YouthSoccer #SoccerDevelopment #CoachingCulture #PlayerPotential #Resilience #SoccerParents #Leadership #TeamBuildingMentioned in this episode:Reeplayer: Greater access to footage gives every young athlete the opportunity to develop and be seen. Reeplayer is committed to making footage accessible to teams, families, and athletes of all backgrounds.Reeplayer