Offside in the Bay: 2 the Pitch and Beyond

KTVU Fox 2 (Bay Area)
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This podcast covers everything soccer, from the grassroots level of youth soccer and recruiting to the excitement of the World Cup. Get ready for in-depth discussions and one-on-one interviews with players, coaches, and the influential figures shaping the soccer world.

  1. 1d ago

    Chris Dangerfield on the Growth of Soccer in America

    In this episode, Claudine Wong and Alex Lobban sit down with San Jose Earthquakes Hall of Famer Chris Dangerfield for a wide-ranging conversation about his remarkable soccer journey, the evolution of the game in the United States and where American soccer goes next. Originally from England, Dangerfield turned professional at 17 before coming to the United States during the heyday of the North American Soccer League. He shares stories from a career that put him on the field with some of the biggest names in soccer history, including Johan Cruyff, Pelé, Eusébio, George Best and Franz Beckenbauer. Dangerfield also reflects on more than four decades as part of the San Jose soccer community—as an Earthquakes player, broadcaster, club ambassador and Hall of Famer. The conversation turns to the growth of Major League Soccer, the impact of the World Cup, the U.S. national team, youth academies, pay-to-play soccer and what American soccer needs to do to continue closing the gap with the world's top soccer nations. 🎙 Guest Chris Dangerfield Chris Dangerfield has been part of the San Jose soccer scene for more than 40 years. Originally from England, Dangerfield turned professional as a teenager and played in the English system before coming to the United States in the 1970s. He eventually joined the San Jose Earthquakes, scoring 14 goals and recording 14 assists during his NASL career with the club. Dangerfield was an important part of the memorable 1983 Earthquakes team that went unbeaten at home and came within one game of reaching the Soccer Bowl. His career also gave him the opportunity to share the field with some of the sport's greatest players. He played alongside Johan Cruyff with the Los Angeles Aztecs, where he was coached by legendary Dutch manager Rinus Michels, and experienced the NASL era that brought stars including Pelé, Eusébio, George Best and Franz Beckenbauer to North America. After his playing career, Dangerfield remained deeply connected to the Earthquakes as a broadcaster and club ambassador. He was inducted into the San Jose Earthquakes Hall of Fame in 2018. ⏱ Episode Highlights [00:00:30] Introducing Chris Dangerfield Chris joins the podcast to look back at more than four decades in the Bay Area soccer community and his journey from England to San Jose. [00:01:27] From Multi-Sport Athlete to Professional Soccer Player Chris describes growing up playing rugby, cricket, golf and soccer—and the chance encounter with a scout that changed the direction of his life. [00:04:34] Playing for England as a Teenager After joining Wolverhampton Wanderers, Chris earned a spot with England's under-18 national team and began testing himself against some of Europe's best young players. [00:05:13] Why America Changed Everything A summer with the Portland Timbers in 1975 gave Chris a completely different experience from English soccer: packed stadiums, enthusiastic fans and an environment that made the game fun again. [00:07:09] “Get Your Hair Cut” Chris tells the story of returning from playing for England and encountering his manager in the hallway. Instead of asking about the match, the manager had just one piece of advice: get a haircut. [00:08:42] Growing Soccer One Fan at a Time Chris remembers NASL players visiting schools, assemblies, community events and even birthday parties as they worked to introduce American children and families to soccer. [00:10:20] Finding a Home With the Earthquakes Chris explains why San Jose immediately felt like home and how the atmosphere at Spartan Stadium helped make the Earthquakes such an important part of his life. [00:11:53] How Far MLS Has Come The conversation turns to Major League Soccer's growth since its launch in 1996 and how the success of the 1994 World Cup helped establish the foundation for a sustainable professional league. [00:13:38] The World Cup Opportunity Chris believes the World Cup has created another enormous opportunity for American soccer—giving MLS greater visibility internationally while introducing U.S. fans to players and clubs from around the world. [00:15:50] Is MLS Still a Development League? Chris describes MLS largely as a developing and selling league, while acknowledging how much the quality and international reputation of the league have grown. [00:16:53] Niko Tsakiris, Beau Leroux & the Next Generation The group discusses young Earthquakes players Niko Tsakiris and Beau Leroux, the importance of MLS academies and when talented American players should consider opportunities overseas. [00:18:30] Navigating America's Youth Soccer Maze MLS NEXT. ECNL. Academies. ODP. College soccer. The group discusses how complicated the American development pathway can be—and how difficult it can be for parents to figure out where their children belong. [00:20:13] When Can the U.S. Expect to Win a World Cup? How far away is the U.S. men's national team from entering a World Cup with a genuine expectation of winning it? Chris and Alex discuss the long-term development required to build a soccer culture capable of consistently producing world-class players. [00:22:09] Why American Soccer Needs Patience Chris points out that Major League Soccer is still remarkably young compared with the great leagues and clubs of Europe. His message: the U.S. has accomplished a great deal in a relatively short amount of time—and development can't be rushed. [00:24:14] Playing With Johan Cruyff Chris reflects on one of the highlights of his career: playing alongside Johan Cruyff with the Los Angeles Aztecs and being coached by Rinus Michels. He explains Cruyff's belief that soccer is a simple game—and why what players do without the ball can be just as important as what they do with it. The group also discusses Cruyff's enormous influence on Pep Guardiola and modern soccer. [00:27:17] America's More Educated Soccer Fan The World Cup didn't just fill stadiums. It exposed millions of Americans to the details and nuances of the game. Chris, Claudine and Alex discuss how generations of Americans who grew up playing soccer are now creating a much more knowledgeable fan base. [00:30:48] Americans Can Watch the World's Best Every Week Premier League, La Liga, Champions League, MLS and more—the American soccer fan now has unprecedented access to the world's best players and clubs. [00:32:35] What MLS Still Needs to Improve Chris would like MLS clubs to spend more money bringing in experienced, difference-making players who can improve teams while also helping younger American players develop. [00:34:00] Pay-to-Play and Access The conversation turns to whether the pay-to-play system prevents talented young players from getting opportunities. Chris believes pay-to-play isn't likely to disappear, making programs that provide free or subsidized opportunities to underserved communities even more important. [00:35:35] Don't Forget the Fun Chris knew as a teenager that he wanted an environment where he could enjoy playing soccer. Decades later, he still believes enjoyment matters. [00:39:13] When Chris Knew It Was Time to Stop Playing Chris remembers the serious knee injury he suffered while playing indoor soccer with the Earthquakes and how he eventually realized his body could no longer do what he wanted it to do. [00:40:43] Chris Dangerfield's Advice to Soccer Parents His first piece of advice: let young kids play multiple sports. Let children discover what they genuinely love instead of forcing them toward the sport their parents want them to play. [00:43:05] Parents: Watch Soccer Chris has another suggestion for parents of young soccer players: learn the game yourself. Understanding high-level soccer can help parents recognize good decisions, movement and technical development instead of judging everything by goals and the final score. [00:44:44] Chris Grades American Youth Soccer So what grade does someone who has watched American soccer develop for decades give the system today? A strong B. Chris says it's not perfect, but American youth soccer has come a long way, with stronger academies, better coaching and more young players finding pathways to the professional game. ⚽ Why This Conversation Matters Few people have experienced the evolution of American soccer from as many angles as Chris Dangerfield. He arrived when professional soccer in the United States was still fighting to establish itself, experienced the star-filled NASL era, became part of the Earthquakes' history and then watched Major League Soccer build a much more sustainable professional game. His perspective is also a reminder of just how young the American soccer system remains. There are legitimate questions about youth development, pay-to-play, professional pathways, coaching and the national team. But Dangerfield believes the sport has made enormous progress. The next stage will require patience, stronger academies, greater access to the game and continued investment in developing American players. And through all of it, Chris argues that one thing shouldn't get lost: The game still needs to be fun. 🗣 Memorable Quotes “If you are truly a football or soccer fan, go and watch your local team.” — Chris Dangerfield “The history is not on our side. I think the national teams have come a long way in a short time.” — Chris Dangerfield “As long as they’re smiling, that’s the main thing.” — Chris Dangerfield on youth soccer “Watch the game.” — Chris Dangerfield’s advice to soccer parents 🔗 Connect With Us Claudine Wong Facebook: ClaudineWongKTVU Instagram: @ClaudineWongKTVU TikTok: @ClaudineKTVU YouTube: @ClaudineWong Alex Lobban Instagram: @thealexlobban San Jose Earthquakes Website: sjearthquakes.com Instagram: @sjearthquakes Facebook: San Jose Earthquakes X: @SJEarthquakes YouTube: @sjearthquakes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.co

  2. Aug 26

    Building a Soccer Future for Oakland | Cody Pillon, Oakland United & Oakland Genesis

    In this episode, Claudine Wong and Alex Lobban sit down with Oakland native Cody Pillon, Executive Director of Oakland United and co-founder of Oakland Genesis. Cody shares how his journey took him from youth soccer in the East Bay to UC Santa Cruz, coaching and playing overseas, and eventually back home to Oakland, where he is working to remove the financial, transportation, academic and facility barriers that prevent many young people from accessing the game. The conversation explores Oakland Genesis’ soccer-based college and career pathway program, Oakland United’s plans to renovate and maintain public playing spaces, and Oakland’s selection as a U.S. Soccer Soccer Forward community. Through that initiative, U.S. Soccer invested just under $400,000 in Oakland to support field improvements, coaching education and expanded access to quality soccer programs. The episode also examines the challenges of the pay-to-play system and how investment connected to the World Cup can create a lasting legacy for Oakland’s young athletes. Guest Cody Pillon is the Executive Director of Oakland United and a co-founder of Oakland Genesis. Born and raised in Oakland, Cody grew up playing multiple sports before soccer became his primary focus. He competed in the Olympic Development Program, played collegiately at UC Santa Cruz and later pursued opportunities overseas. After returning to the Bay Area, Cody began coaching in the traditional pay-to-play system. That experience highlighted the unequal opportunities available to young players based on their families’ financial resources, transportation options and access to information. In 2019, Cody and former professional player Matt Fondy founded Oakland Genesis to provide Oakland students with free soccer, transportation, academic support, mentorship, and college and career guidance. Cody now leads Oakland United, an organization focused on identifying, renovating and stewarding public athletic spaces throughout Oakland. Episode Highlights [00:00:31] Introducing Cody Pillon Cody discusses growing up in Oakland, playing multiple sports and the coach who gave him an opportunity through the Olympic Development Program. [00:04:16] Why Soccer Brings People Together Cody explains how soccer’s simplicity and diversity distinguished it from the other sports he played growing up. [00:06:46] Choosing UC Santa Cruz Cody reflects on the college recruiting process, choosing a school where he felt wanted and learning to manage the responsibilities of being a student-athlete. [00:08:58] Pursuing the Professional Dream The conversation explores Cody’s decision to play overseas, the opportunities created by his Italian citizenship and the realities of pursuing soccer professionally. [00:11:48] When Playing Becomes a Job Cody discusses the difficult transition away from professional soccer and why playing at that level was not always as glamorous as it appeared from the outside. [00:14:48] The Beginning of Oakland Genesis While coaching in Marin, Cody saw how strongly a player’s opportunities could depend on money, transportation, equipment, nutrition and access to recruiting information. [00:17:53] Discovering the Need in Oakland At Oakland Genesis’ first school program, approximately 60 children attended—but almost none were playing organized club soccer despite wanting the opportunity. [00:20:13] More Than a Free Soccer Club Cody describes Oakland Genesis as a college and career pathway program that “masquerades as a free soccer club.” The program combines soccer with transportation, academic support, nutrition assistance, mentorship and college and career exposure. [00:21:03] The Cost of Providing Access It costs approximately $3,000 per year for Oakland Genesis to support each participant, with funding coming from grants, individual donors and corporate partners. [00:21:54] Growing the Program Oakland Genesis reached its initial goal of providing boys’ and girls’ teams from middle school through high school and has since expanded into elementary school programming. Limited field space remains one of its largest barriers. [00:23:07] Looking Beyond the National Team Cody argues that conversations about improving the U.S. national team often miss the larger issue: every child should have access to a quality local soccer experience, whether or not they become an elite player. [00:24:30] U.S. Soccer Invests in Oakland Oakland’s designation as a U.S. Soccer Soccer Forward community brought just under $400,000 in investment to support field rehabilitation, coaching education and licensing, greater access to quality youth programs, and long-term soccer development. Cody says the backing also gives Oakland United added credibility with future donors and corporate partners. [00:28:44] Why Oakland United Was Created A shortage of safe, affordable and high-quality fields led Cody and his partners to establish Oakland United. Its mission is to renovate and maintain athletic spaces for youth organizations throughout the city. [00:30:17] Making Public Fields Sustainable Cody discusses the challenge of raising millions to renovate a field while also creating a plan to maintain it for the next 20 to 25 years. [00:33:14] Active Parks Are Safer Parks The conversation examines how well-maintained and consistently programmed parks can become safer and more valuable community spaces. [00:34:16] Measuring Success Beyond Soccer Among Oakland Genesis’ graduating class of 23 seniors, five were accepted to UC Berkeley with full academic or financial-aid support. Every senior who has graduated from the program has continued into college, vocational education or another form of post-secondary development. [00:36:51] A Program Without Traditional Tryouts Oakland Genesis does not exist to identify only the strongest players. When space is available, students can join regardless of ability. The goal is participation, personal development and academic readiness. [00:40:24] Fields for the Entire Community Although soccer is driving the current momentum, Oakland United’s renovated spaces are intended for football, baseball, lacrosse and other sports as well. [00:41:04] A Model That Can Be Replicated Cody believes the Oakland Genesis model can be adapted in other cities and sports, particularly because of its commitment to academic support and career exposure. [00:44:02] Technology and Field Maintenance The group discusses hybrid natural-grass fields and how new technology could help maintain and line fields for multiple sports. [00:45:46] Creating a Lasting World Cup Legacy Cody reflects on the energy created by the World Cup and the opportunity to turn that excitement into long-term investment in Oakland’s young people and public spaces. Why This Conversation Matters The pay-to-play system does not only affect players trying to reach the professional level. It can prevent children who simply love soccer from joining a team, finding a coach or experiencing the community that sports can provide. Oakland Genesis demonstrates how soccer can become a vehicle for academic achievement, career exposure and personal development. Oakland United is addressing another major part of the challenge by creating the safe and sustainable public spaces these programs need to grow. U.S. Soccer’s investment of just under $400,000 provides an important foundation for that work. It also demonstrates how national soccer organizations can use the momentum surrounding major tournaments to invest directly in local communities and create opportunities that continue long after the final whistle. Together, Oakland Genesis, Oakland United and the Soccer Forward initiative offer a vision for a youth sports system in which opportunity is not determined by a family’s income, transportation or ZIP code. Memorable Quotes by Cody Pillon “Genesis is essentially a college and career pathway program that masquerades as a free soccer club.” “If your only focus is your national team and not the entire youth ecosystem, we’re just going to consistently have this problem.” “Instead of having fields that generate revenue, we have fields that generate holistic youth outcomes that can really turn a city around.” “The goal is not to develop the next Messi. It’s to make sure kids are graduating high school with academic eligibility.”   Connect with Cody Oakland United: https://www.oaklandunited.org/ Oakland Genesis: https://www.oaklandgenesis.org/ Connect with Us Facebook & Instagram: ClaudineWongKTVU TikTok: ClaudineKTVU YouTube: ClaudineWong Instagram: @thealexlobban Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  3. May 21

    Jason Sacks on Changing the Culture of Youth Sports

    In this episode of Offside in the Bay, Claudine Wong and Alex Lobban sit down with Jason Sacks of the Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) to discuss youth sports culture, positive coaching, burnout, mental health, and the future of soccer development in America. Guest Jason Sacks has spent nearly 20 years helping coaches, parents, and organizations create healthier sports environments through the Positive Coaching Alliance. Episode Highlights [00:00:30] Introducing Jason Sacks [00:13:22] Emotional control for parents and coaches [00:24:35] Why kids need more free play [00:42:46] Coaching with empathy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  4. May 6

    From MLS to Equity — Reimagining Youth Soccer with Matt Fondy

    Former MLS striker and USL MVP Matt Fondy joins Claudine Wong and Alex Lobban to share his journey from professional soccer to community impact in Oakland. After navigating the highs and lows of a pro career—open tryouts, contracts, releases, and resilience—Matt found a new purpose off the field. Through his nonprofit, Oakland Genesis, he’s working to dismantle the pay-to-play model by providing free access to elite soccer, transportation, and academic support for underserved youth. This episode explores how soccer can be more than a game—it can be a vehicle for opportunity, education, and social change. Guest: Matt Fondy - Former MLS striker & USL MVP - Bay Area native (Foster City) - Founder of Oakland Genesis - Focused on equity and youth development through soccer Episode Highlights [00:00] From Pro Soccer to Purpose [05:00] Falling in Love with the Game [12:00] The Reality of Going Pro [20:00] Highs, Lows & Career Turning Points [26:00] Rethinking the Game [30:00] Building Oakland Genesis [33:00] The Three Pillars [38:00] Real Impact [42:00] Challenges & Growth [45:00] The Future of U.S. Soccer Why This Conversation Matters Youth soccer in the U.S. is increasingly expensive—and increasingly exclusive. Matt Fondy is proving there’s another way. By treating soccer as a public good rather than a private luxury, Oakland Genesis is opening doors for the next generation—on and off the field. Connect with Us Offside in the Bay https://www.ktvu.com/tag/podcasts/offside-in-the-bay Claudine Wong Facebook & Instagram: ClaudineWongKTVU TikTok: ClaudineKTVU YouTube: ClaudineWong Alex Lobban Instagram: @thealexlobban Matt Fondy & Oakland Genesis Website: https://www.oaklandgenesis.org/ Instagram: @oaklandgenesis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  5. Apr 11

    The Winding Path to the Pros with Jordan Jeslova

    In this episode, Claudine Wong and Alex Lobban sit down with former professional soccer player Jordan Jeslova to explore a journey that was anything but linear. From falling in love with the game at just three years old to competing at Santa Clara University and reaching the professional level, Jordan’s story is one of passion, resilience, and determination. But it is also shaped by injuries, setbacks, and difficult decisions that ultimately led her to redefine her relationship with the game. Now, Jordan is building something new through the Neighborhood Sports Club in Oakland—creating a space centered on community, inclusivity, and bringing the joy back to soccer. Guest Jordan Jeslova - Former Division I athlete at Santa Clara University - Played professionally with OL Reign (NWSL) and Stabæk (Norway) - Youth National Team experience - Co-founder of Neighborhood Sports Club (Oakland) Episode Highlights [00:00:28] Early beginnings and growing up in a soccer family [00:05:00] The importance of watching the game and self-practice [00:08:31] Role models and early development [00:13:09] A coaching experience that nearly led her to quit [00:14:26] Finding the right environment and support system [00:19:47] Recruiting journey and choosing Santa Clara [00:24:41] ACL injury and the mental toll of recovery [00:27:20] Staying connected to the team during rehab [00:31:36] Health challenges before entering the professional level [00:33:08] Playing abroad and facing additional injuries [00:33:56] Making the decision to step away from playing [00:35:30] Why every athlete’s path is unique [00:36:50] Rediscovering love for the game [00:39:53] Founding Neighborhood Sports Club [00:43:16] Creating inclusive soccer spaces for all levels Key Takeaways - There is no single or perfect path to becoming a professional athlete - Passion and self-driven effort are essential to long-term success - Coaching and environment play a critical role in development - Injuries require both physical and mental resilience - The game can evolve into new forms beyond competition Why This Episode Matters Jordan’s story offers a real and honest look at the journey to professional sports—the highs, the setbacks, and the resilience required to navigate both. It also highlights an important truth: stepping away from playing does not mean losing the game. Soccer can continue to shape identity, community, and purpose in meaningful new way. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  6. Mar 14

    Tommy O'Hare: Getting San Jose Ready for the 2026 World Cup

    Offside in the Bay goes behind the scenes of the 2026 World Cup build-up with Tommy O'Hare-1998 U.S. Olympic short track speed skater and a longtime sports-media/technology executive. San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan tapped Tommy to lead the city's big-event planning-everything from fan experiences to funding to safety. Tommy breaks down what it takes to create a true ‘fan fest' environment, why community sentiment is often the biggest hurdle, and how San Jose's diversity, culture, and downtown energy can turn major sporting moments into something the whole region feels proud of. 🎙 Guest • Tommy O'Hare is a 1998 U.S. Olympic short track speed skater and a sports business executive working at the intersection of media and technology. • Experience: Built major streaming and digital platforms (including Olympic and pro sports initiatives) and brings big-event perspective to city planning. • Role: Leading San Jose's preparations for major events including the World Cup-funding, programming, fan experiences, and coordination. ⏱ Episode Highlights • [00:00:48] Meet Tommy O'Hare: Olympian turned "World Cup czar" for San Jose. • [00:01:48] The "boulder": how perception and skepticism can be the first obstacle to hosting big moments. • [00:02:13] From athlete to exec: Tommy's path through sports media, tech, and the Olympic digital world. • [00:03:55] What athletes want fans to understand: love of sport, sacrifice, and the goal behind the goal. • [00:04:33] Olympics vs. World Cup: different energy, different loyalties, same global magic. • [00:06:08] Building a playbook from the Super Bowl: concerts, sponsorships, and raising $5M+. • [00:07:18] The learning points: security, logistics, and scaling up from one weekend to a month-long event. • [00:16:34] Why watch parties matter: sport as community, connection, and culture. • [00:21:51] Safety planning at scale: 72 agencies working together inside the emergency operations center. • [00:23:39] Best part of the job: seeing residents proud of what the city can pull off. • [00:25:52] The promise: a watch party for every single World Cup game in San Jose. • [00:26:34] Practical tips: microclimates, no humidity, and how visitors can enjoy the city. ⚽ Why This Conversation Matters Episode 24 is a rare look at what it takes to ‘host the world.' Tommy O'Hare explains the real work behind the headlines-funding, planning, security, and community buy-in-while keeping the focus on what sports are supposed to do best: bring people together and leave a city better than it found it. 🔗 Connect with Us • Claudine Wong - Facebook & Instagram: ClaudineWongKTVU | TikTok: ClaudineKTVU | YouTube: ClaudineWong • Alex Lobban - Instagram: @thealexlobban• San Jose World Cup / City initiatives - World Cup Santa Clara: FIFA World Cup 2026 at Levi Stadium Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  7. Mar 13

    Trailblazer: John Harkes on U.S. Soccer's Growth and the Road to 2026

    Claudine Wong and Alex Lobban welcome a true pioneer of American soccer: former U.S. Men's National Team captain John Harkes-MLS champion and the first American to play in the English Premier League. John reflects on breaking barriers overseas, the early ‘Wild West' years of the U.S. game, and why patience has always been part of the American soccer story. The conversation spans 1994's lasting impact, why TV and media mattered to MLS survival, what today's players need to thrive, and how parents and coaches can protect the fun-so the love of the game lasts long after the final whistle.   🎙 Guest ·         John Harkes is a former U.S. Men's National Team captain, MLS champion, and the first American to play in the English Premier League. ·         Coaching/Leadership: Former head coach of FC Cincinnati and Greenville Triumph; currently serves as Technical Director and U.S. Youth National Team (U-15) assistant coach (as referenced in the transcript intro). ·         Legacy: A trailblazer who helped open doors for generations of American players abroad.   ⏱ Episode Highlights ·         [00:00:26] Alex introduces John's groundbreaking career-and what it meant for American soccer. ·         [00:02:11] From ODP to the 1990 World Cup: punching through ceilings in the early days. ·         [00:05:15] "Go home and play baseball": what the reception was like in England-and how it's changed. ·         [00:06:41] Why TV exposure mattered: MLS nearly folding early on, and the turning point for visibility. ·         [00:08:02] Can this generation surpass 1994? John's optimism, reality checks, and what tournaments demand. ·         [00:13:41] Pathways today vs. then: what's improved-and why development still takes time. ·         [00:22:14] The fun factor: keeping joy central in development, even at the highest levels. ·         [00:25:25] Pickup soccer and street play: what we've lost, and why it matters. ·         [00:28:33] Promotion/relegation and system talk: what could push the game forward in the U.S. ·         [00:39:37] World Cup watch list: players to watch, staying healthy, and giving coaches time. ·         [00:41:44] Handling pressure: why every game is high stakes-and what separates teams who advance. ·         [00:43:48] Iconic memories: John relives the 40-yard screamer and other career highlights.   ⚽ Why This Conversation Matters Episode 23 connects the dots between where U.S. soccer came from and where it's headed. John Harkes offers perspective only a trailblazer can-on patience, pressure, pathways, and how we build a culture that helps players (and fans) stick with the sport for the long haul.   🔗 Connect with Us ·         Claudine Wong - Facebook & Instagram: ClaudineWongKTVU | TikTok: ClaudineKTVU | YouTube: ClaudineWong ·         Alex Lobban - Instagram: @thealexlobban Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

  8. Mar 12

    SF Glens: Deep History and a Bright Future with Mike McNeill

    Claudine Wong and Alex Lobban sit down with Mike McNeill, President & GM of the San Francisco Glens' USL League Two and USL W League teams and Executive Director of the Glens Academy. Mike shares how a community club founded in 1961 evolved into one of the Bay Area's most ambitious soccer pipelines-from youth development to pre-pro opportunities. They dig into what it takes to build a true club culture in a crowded youth-soccer landscape, why field access and geography shape development in the U.S., and how projects like Treasure Island can create more space for players to fall in love with the game-especially with 2026 on the horizon. 🎙 Guest • Mike McNeill is President & General Manager of the San Francisco Glens' USL League Two and USL W League teams and Executive Director of the SF Glens Academy. • Background: Grew up playing in Modesto, transitioned from player to coach after college, and has been building the Glens since 2011. • Coaching: Holds UEFA licensing through the FA of Ireland and advanced coaching credentials; coached at University of San Francisco and San Francisco State. • Mission: Build community-first pathways in San Francisco-from grassroots soccer to college, USL, and beyond. ⏱ Episode Highlights • [00:00:31] Meet Mike McNeill and the Glens vision: a pathway from grassroots to MLS Next and USL. • [00:04:05] From the field to the goal: how Mike became a goalkeeper-and what he learned from it. • [00:08:45] How youth soccer changed: from ODP/state cups to MLS Next, ECNL, and a more fragmented (but higher-level) landscape. • [00:11:46] The transition from player to coach: injuries, opportunity, and getting pulled into the Glens project. • [00:16:11] The Glens origin story: leveraging a historic name (1961) while building a new youth club from scratch. • [00:19:55] Why Treasure Island matters: field scarcity in SF and building a home for the community. • [00:27:58] Building a pre-pro pathway: USL League Two/W League growth, pro signings, and local pride. • [00:34:02] Bay Area momentum: how nearby pro teams and facilities can raise the tide for everyone. • [00:42:54] If Mike had a magic wand: aligning leagues, funding standards, and regional development centers. • [00:47:28] What 2026 could unlock: participation growth, pro shifts, and the next wave of soccer culture. • [00:51:01] Community-first World Cup plans: free clinics and programming to welcome new players. ⚽ Why This Conversation Matters From field access to league structure to community identity, Episode 22 is a blueprint for how local clubs can shape the future of the sport. Mike McNeill breaks down the practical realities behind building a sustainable pathway-while keeping the joy and belonging that make soccer stick for life. 🔗 Connect with Us • Claudine Wong - Facebook & Instagram: ClaudineWongKTVU | TikTok: ClaudineKTVU | YouTube: ClaudineWong • Alex Lobban - Instagram: @thealexlobban • San Francisco Glens –www.sfglens.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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This podcast covers everything soccer, from the grassroots level of youth soccer and recruiting to the excitement of the World Cup. Get ready for in-depth discussions and one-on-one interviews with players, coaches, and the influential figures shaping the soccer world.

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