In Part 2 of our deep-dive with CJ Sutherland, founder of DFW United SC, we unpack the tough decisions facing independent clubs, including his partnership to bring ECNL-RL NTX to his players. CJ shares candid insights about the pressures of youth soccer today—from managing parent expectations to building a positive team culture while navigating an increasingly status-driven system.

We explore why connection with players matters, how coaches influence kids beyond the field, and what it really takes to survive and thrive in the youth soccer world.

Key Talking Points:

The decision to join ECNL-RL NTX—and why it was necessary

How parent pressure influences club decisions

The double-edged sword of paying for soccer

Building player confidence and mental toughness

Why coaches must educate parents along the journey

Balancing growth and staying authentic as a small club

How recognition works inside the club vs. on social media

The importance of knowing every player’s name

Why coaching is about more than just the game

The mental side of development in a competitive system

🎧 Tune in to learn:

Why CJ believes parents are chasing letters over learning

What ECNL-RL NTX really means for players

The quiet ways coaches support kids off the field

Why “every kid just wants to make their parents proud”

Quotes from CJ:

“At the end of the day, every kid just wants to make their parents proud.”

“I try my best to give every kid a fist bump or high five when I see them.”

“I know every kid’s name in my club.”

“If I didn’t make the move to ECNL-RL, I was going to lose my club.”

“Parents nowadays want this status.”

“I’ve coached some of these kids since they were in diapers.”

“The showcases are great, but no coach is picking your kid just from four games.”

“Coaches are recruiting the parents, too—whether they know it or not.”

“I want to build a culture where kids earn it, not just get handed status.”

“It’s 90% mental, 10% talent.”

📲 Connect with CJ Sutherland

📷 Instagram: @dfwunitedsc

📘 Facebook: DFW United SC

📧 Email: DFWUnitedsoccer@gmail.com

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Mentioned in this episode:

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