Over The Ball with Kevin Flynn and Dave Gallego Kevin Flynn and Dave Gallego

Join us for an engaging episode of the Over The Ball podcast featuring Phil West, a seasoned professional writer and editor, and author of two influential books on soccer, ‘The United States of Soccer,’ and ‘I Believe That We Will Win.’ Phil brings his extensive knowledge and passion for the sport to our discussion, covering a wide range of topics.

In this episode, we delve into the development of Austin FC, the potential move of Kevin De Bruyne to MLS, and the impact of international players in the league. We also examine the performance and challenges faced by the U.S. women's national team, the history and evolution of Major League Soccer (MLS), and the role of college soccer in player development.

Phil shares insights into the vibrant soccer environment in Austin, influenced by Latino culture and the unique presence of Matthew McConaughey as a minority owner. We touch on the influence of music on soccer culture, the impact of European players in the MLS, and even explore the grunge music scene in Seattle.

Tune in for "Getting to Know You", OTB's rapid-fire Q&A session and an in-depth look who Phil West is and what he likes, as he opines on all things soccer and pop culture. This episode promises a comprehensive and entertaining exploration of soccer's past, present, and future.

Ted Westervelt, known as @soccerreform on social media, is a prominent advocate for promotion and relegation in U.S. soccer. Born in Elgin, Illinois, he attended Scattergood Friends School and Earlham College. Westervelt's passion for soccer has made him a leading voice in the #ProRelForUSA movement, which seeks to implement a promotion and relegation system in American soccer.
The discussion explores the challenges and opportunities of promotion and relegation, focusing on the impact of closed leagues, the NFL owner's possible influence, and missed opportunities in women's soccer. It also highlights the potential for growth in the USL and other lower divisions and considers the historical significance of older soccer clubs.
Kevin and Dave also cover the weeks hottest stories in the world of global soccer, including Kevin's recent travel experiences in Asia, recent promotion and relegation in Premier leagues, and players like Cristiano Ronaldo selling out to play in the Saudi League. The episode ends with a hilarious edition of "Getting to Know You."  So come celebrate the Beautiful Game on this week's edition of Over the Ball.

In this episode of the Over the Ball podcast, the Philadelphia Inquirer's beloved Chief Soccer Correspondent, Jonathan Tannenwald, joins Dave and John Bolster (who is sitting in for Kevin), stirring up some controversy about his feelings for his hometown team the Union, uncovers some insight about the Philadelphia Union's incredibly successful youth programs, Jim Curtin's future at the USMNT, 14-year-old phenom Cavan Sullivan, and Emma Hayes.

The OTB boys also dig into an incredibly eventful week over the pond including Man City's dominance in the Premier League, Leverkusen's unbeaten season in the Bundesliga, Pep Guardiola's potential departure from Man City, the appointment of a new manager at Liverpool, the turmoil at Barcelona, and the US Men's National Team training camp roster.

Tannenwald shares his insights on USMNT's lineup, potential surprises, and the challenges they may face, while also opining on the importance of the US Open Cup and the history of soccer in Philadelphia. Additionally, he discusses the youth development program of the Philadelphia Union and their success in MLS Next Pro, delves into the success of the youth development process in Philadelphia and the structure of the Academy system, and highlights the YSC Academy, a high school for the union's elite prospects. The conversation also touches on the success of the Philadelphia Union in developing players in various positions, including creative midfielders and center backs.

In this episode of Over the Ball, soccer referee and podcast host David Gerson joins Dave and guest co-host John Bolster to delve into the challenges and changes in soccer refereeing. They tackle the rise in technicality and competitiveness in the game, while addressing the concerning lack of civility and excessive competitiveness among parents and coaches at all levels.
Gerson sheds light on the inadequate training and support for referees, their encounters with abuse, high turnover rates, and the pressing need for enhanced training opportunities. His mission is to humanize referees, fostering understanding and respect for their crucial role in the game.
The discussion also ventures into recent events in the English Premier League, including matches like Tottenham versus Manchester City and Aston Villa's draw with Liverpool. Additionally, they touch upon noteworthy developments such as Jesse Marsch becoming coach of the Canadian Men's National Team, Olivier Giroud joining LAFC, and 14-year-old midfielder Cavan Sullivan signing with the Philadelphia Union.

Legendary Washington Post reporter Steven Goff joins the boys at OTB to discuss all things US soccer, including the performance of DC United, his favorite World Cup memories, and the upcoming Copa America tournament. Goff also shares his thoughts on the United States national team and their chances in the tournament. In this conversation, the hosts and guest discuss various topics related to soccer, including the performance of DC United, the lack of a developmental team, and the challenges of player development. They also touch on the US men's national team and the excitement and nervousness that comes with supporting the team. The conversation concludes with a discussion about soccer coverage in the US and the impact of the South Africa World Cup.

Grant Wahl seems to touch everybody he came in contact with his undeniable passion, integrity, honesty, and simple ethic of trying to write the truth without agenda or bias. Friends and accomplished journalists Grayle Howlett and Alexander Wolf both spent years writing for Sports Illustrated, Wolff having spent 36 years there covering basketball, the Olympics, soccer’s World Cup, the World Series, every Grand Slam tennis event, and the Tour de France. Both men share their glowing admiration and praise for Grant Wahl and explain how this book celebrating his talents, unique writing style, and universal appeal came about. They join Kevin and Dave to discuss his impact on the game and explore how he crafted insightful articles that resonated with fans worldwide. In 2019, he launched his Substack, “Fútbol with Grant Wahl,” which became a must-read for anyone passionate about the beautiful game. The remarkable new book: “World Class: Purpose, Passion, and the Pursuit of Greatness On and Off the Field,” which Wolff co-edited with Mark Mravic, features Wahl’s most memorable pieces, from in-depth player profiles to gripping World Cup coverage. It’s a journey through the heart of soccer, capturing the drama, the triumphs, and the human stories that make this sport so captivating.