Chat By The Pitch

Joy of the People founder and longtime coach Ted Kroeten joins Chat By The Pitch to break down what truly develops creative, intelligent players — and why most of the U.S. youth soccer system gets it upside down. Ted’s “soccer as a language” philosophy reframes how kids learn, why free play must come before instruction, and how mixed-age, low-pressure environments cultivate game intelligence no coach can teach.From the failures of super clubs and the youth sports industrial complex to Joy of the People’s bold commitment to no tryouts, no cuts, and no overcoaching, Ted delivers one of the clearest visions of what American development could be if we trusted kids to play again.If you care about player development, coaching, or burnout in youth sports — this episode will challenge everything you think you know.Key Talking Points• Ted’s journey from late-start player to coaching leader and founder of Joy of the People• Why he walked away from the elite club model and the youth sports industrial complex• “Soccer as a language” — acquisition vs learning, Chomsky, Krashen, and immersion• What kids learn in free play that coaches cannot teach• Why Joy of the People operates with no tryouts, no cuts, no pressure• How mixed-age play, different surfaces, and alternate balls accelerate creativity• Overload vs underload: reading effort, joy, and false intensity in players• Why early free-play kids lag at first—but surpass others by U16–U19• The danger of over-rewarding performance and creating kids who only love winning• Building a true community model where every kid matters and development lastsQuotes from Ted Kroeten• "When I saw kids in play learning things I could not teach them, I knew there was something in play."• "Unstructured play, street play, free play has developed the top players in the world."• "We’ve been teaching soccer only with rules and techniques, not allowing acquisition to occur."• "The best way to learn a complex language is not a teacher — it's immersion."• "Kids who fall in love with explicit training programs are in danger of burning out."• "We don’t have tryouts. We have a mix of everyone — and they bloom on their own timeline."Episode Chapters00:00 — Ted Kroeten’s Late Start and Multi-Sport Roots03:10 — Coaching at the Highest Levels and Seeing the Cracks06:00 — Walking Away from the Youth Soccer Industrial Complex08:30 — Founding Joy of the People and the Decision to Prioritize Play11:45 — Watching Kids Learn What Coaches Can’t Teach14:30 — Poverty of the Stimulus and Why Play Accelerates Learning18:00 — Soccer as a Language: Acquisition vs Instruction22:45 — Chomsky, Krashen, and Immersion on the Field27:30 — The Panenka Penalty and Non-Verbal Soccer Communication31:30 — Why Cone Work Fails Under Real Pressure35:00 — What Parents Miss When They Watch Training38:30 — Early Attempts at Free Play — and Why They Failed42:45 — Building a Community Hub with the City of St. Paul46:30 — Kids “Not Knowing How to Play” and What That Revealed50:45 — Removing Tryouts, Cuts, and External Pressure55:30 — What Joy of the People Looks Like Day to Day59:30 — Losing Games Early to Win Long Term1:03:30 — Why Joy and Belonging Come Before ResultsConnect with Ted / Joy of the People🌐 Website: https://www.joyofthepeople.org/📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/j_o_t_p/✖️ X: https://x.com/JOYofthePEOPLE👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joyofthepeople/Follow Chat By The Pitch✖️ X: @ChatByThePitch📸 Instagram: @ChatByThePitch📘 Facebook: Chat By The Pitch🎧 Subscribe & Review — it helps

In Part 2, Kassandra Ruelas takes us deeper into her journey — from rediscovering her love for the game under Coach Temas, to the fate-driven path that led her to Vial/Villarreal, to leaving home for Spain as a teenager. She shares what life, training, and tempo looked like overseas, how Spanish clubs develop players through structure and intelligence, and what it felt like to finally find her rhythm abroad.This episode also uncovers the hardest chapter of her career: tearing her ACL overseas, navigating the injury alone during a national blackout, and learning her younger sister tore her ACL the same week. Kassandra opens up about her recovery, her mindset, and what she hopes players and parents take away from her story.Key Talking Points• Finding joy again at Sting and the season that rebuilt her confidence.• Earning the first-ever North Texas Player Training Week invite in Spain.• How fate connected her to Vial after a controversial point error.• The Spanish development model: daily structure, zones, rondos, and tempo.• What life looked like: gym, training, Spanish class, film, late-night sessions.• Being “the foreigner” and the pressure of integrating into a new culture.• Highest levels she reached in Spain and how licensing works for minors.• The game where her ACL tore on a routine change of direction.• No trainer onsite, calling Christian at 4 a.m. Texas time for support.• The national blackout that blocked access to her MRI results.• Learning her sister tore her ACL days later.• Returning home for surgery and beginning the long recovery.• Rebuilding mentally while rediscovering who she is beyond soccer.• Leaving the door open for Spain but embracing uncertainty.• Message to parents: support but let players own conversations.• Message to players: attitude and curiosity separate you.Quotes from Kassandra• “Coach Temas brought the love back for the game.”• “Being the first North Texas player selected — I knew I had to go back.”• “I was jumping the entire night when they announced I was going to Spain.”• “In Spain, the ball does the work. The tempo is smarter, not just faster.”• “I spoke Spanish, but I was still the foreigner. That pressure stays with you.”• “I knew the moment it happened — something was wrong with my knee.”• “I was alone in the locker room with no trainer. I just wanted my mom.”• “The blackout hit the day my MRI came in. I couldn’t talk to anyone.”• “Two days later, my sister tore her ACL too. It didn’t feel real.”• “Right now I’m learning who I am outside of soccer.”• “Curiosity and attitude — those two things take you farther than talent.”Connect with Kassandra📸 Instagram: Kass_1123Follow Chat By The Pitch 🐦 X: @ChatByThePitch📷 Instagram: @ChatByThePitch📘 Facebook: Chat By The Pitch#ChatByThePitch #NorthTexasSoccer #DFWSoccer #GirlsSoccer #ACLRecovery #PlayerJourney #WomensSoccer #YouthSoccerStories #SoccerMentality #PlayerDevelopment #TexasSoccer #SoccerCommunityMentioned 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 Soccer Innovations: Award-Winning Soccer Equipment & AccessoriesSoccer Innovations TeamPlayr: Find and join the perfect youth
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In this episode of Chat By The Pitch, Ian sits down with North Texas player and administrator Kassandra Ruelas to unpack what it really looks like to grow up inside one of the most competitive girls’ soccer markets in the country. From yelling “goal” as her first word to playing with the boys and eventually earning a chance to play in Spain, Kassandra’s story is a masterclass in soccer IQ, resilience, and family support. Kassandra talks about the pressure of DFW girls’ soccer, the unspoken politics of youth sports, and what it feels like to be overlooked and benched after being named captain—and why she refused to let that season define her. She shares how her mom’s sacrifices, her cousins’ professional careers (including stints in Mexico and with the Dallas Sidekicks), and training with the boys gave her the tools to navigate setbacks without losing her love for the game. For players, this conversation shows how to use the field as your therapy, build your game around intelligence instead of just being bigger, faster, stronger, and survive the hard seasons. For parents, it’s a real look at travel, pressure, and why the right coach matters more than any alphabet-soup league. For coaches, Kassandra offers a player’s-eye view on communication, favoritism, and how one honest conversation can change a career.Key Talking Points• How soccer has always been part of Kassandra’s life — her first word was “goal,” and the living room was a mini-pitch growing up. • The moment in middle school when soccer shifted from “fun with friends” to serious training, four-year plans, and future dreams on the pitch. • Growing up in a North Texas soccer family — cousins who played pro in Mexico and indoors with the Dallas Sidekicks — and the self-imposed pressure to honor their investment in her. • The Texas girls’ soccer environment: extremely competitive, with teammates and opponents now playing in the NWSL—and how that can mess with your head if you compare timelines. • How her mom’s support and sacrifices (driving 1.5 hours in traffic, always backing her choices) helped balance the pressure. • Soccer as therapy and creative outlet: using the game to disconnect from stress, reset emotionally, and express herself without overthinking. • Learning to separate “family” from “coach” with her three cousins: flipping the switch from joking in the car to professionalism on the field. • Kassandra’s club journey: Odyssey → Liverpool → Solar → FC Dallas → Texans → Sting → Al Nord Texas boys → heading to Spain to play with Villarreal. • Why DFW competition at U13+ felt tougher than most out-of-state tournaments (except maybe California) and how playing the same high-level players for years sharpened her game. • The hardest season: being told she’d be captain, then getting five minutes of game time, feeling overlooked, and wanting to quit—but choosing to control her work rate and attitude instead. • Esteban’s advice on politics and the rollercoaster of soccer—you can’t want the highs without accepting the lows. • How the DFW soccer community is a small world—one name can spark a 30-person chain of connections, from FC Dallas games to Starbucks encounters. • The difference between Texas-style “athlete building” and Spanish tactical football, and why playing with boys forced her to lean on IQ instead of brute force. • Why she turned down a DA opportunity because the coaching style didn’t fit her, even though the letters looked good.• A player’s perspective on alphabet-soup leagues, constant travel, and chasing logos vs. staying local, dominating your backyard, and finding the right environment. Quotes from Kassandra• “My first word was ‘goal’ during a game. Soccer has literally always been there—I can’t remember life without it.” • “If I’m not playing on the field, I’m not happy. It’s when I miss the game that I...

World-renowned development leader Tom Byer joins the show to break down where real soccer development truly begins — inside the home. Tom explains how early touches, simple routines, and parent involvement build confidence, coordination, and long-term potential. We explore culture, neuroscience, at-home training, and why the U.S. continues to struggle with building a true development identity.This episode gives parents, coaches, and clubs practical steps to build a stronger foundation for young players from the very beginning.Key Talking PointsTom’s Story & Global Impact• NY → Japan: How Tom built one of the world’s most successful technical programs• The beginnings of Soccer Starts at Home• Why Japan embraced ball mastery at massive scaleEarly Development Insights• Real development starts before organized soccer• Kids fall in love with the ball first, not the sport• Importance of repetition: one child + one ball• Early comfort becomes confidence and leadershipCulture & Science• What Latin and Asian cultures do differently• Neuroscience behind early learning• Why games don’t teach foundational skills• Why parent involvement shapes long-term potentialPractical Application• Simple at-home routines for ages 2–6• How to support older kids who start later• What clubs can do to reinforce early development• Building better collaboration between parents and coaches💬 Quotes from Tom Byer“Parents are the most important link in the development chain.”“Kids fall in love with the ball first — not soccer.”“If you want to push the ceiling, you have to raise the floor.”“The best coach in the world can’t fix a weak foundation.”“Culture develops players long before coaching ever does.”“Most of what we call development is really just selection.”“For young players, one child and one ball is more valuable than any game.”“Ball mastery is the great equalizer — it gives every child a chance.”“We keep trying to build superstructures on top of shaky foundations.”“Real development starts years before a kid ever joins a team.”🔗 Connect with Tom ByerWebsite: soccerstartsathome.thinkific.comBook: Soccer Starts at HomeInstagram: tom.byerX: @TomSan106📣 Follow Chat By The PitchInstagram: @ChatByThePitchX: @ChatByThePitchFacebook: Chat By The PitchEmail: chatbythepitch@gmail.comLinks: linktr.ee/ChatByThePitch#ChatByThePitch #TomByer #SoccerStartsAtHome#BallMastery #YouthSoccer #PlayerDevelopment#TechnicalTraining #SoccerParents #GrassrootsSoccer#YouthSports #SoccerDevelopment #FootballEducationMentioned in this episode: Soccer Innovations: Award-Winning Soccer Equipment & AccessoriesSoccer InnovationsReeplayer: 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 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
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 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 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