Path to Play

Path to Play

Real talk and honest advice on competitive youth sports based on lived experiences. No fluff, no sales pitch, just real, transparent conversations to support families navigating their own journeys.

  1. 4d ago

    World Cup Special

    It's almost World Cup time! Join us in a fun conversation as we talk about our all time world cup favorites and what has made the tournament so special. We look forward to the upcoming weeks and how we think the World Cup will pan out.

    17 min

  2. May 15

    Emanuel Vallejo: Coaching Perspectives in Youth Soccer

    In this episode, we shift from Eman’s playing journey to the experiences that shaped him as a coach. Eman walks us through how he first got into coaching, and what he loves about working with youth soccer players. He also breaks down the different leagues and pathways in youth soccer right now, offering his perspective on what each environment provides and how families can navigate them. Eman shares the advice he gives players who are considering college soccer and why fostering a genuine love for the game at a young age is essential for long‑term growth. This episode is full of practical insight for anyone trying to better understand the youth soccer landscape from a coach’s point of view.

    25 min

  3. May 8

    Emanuel Vallejo: Different Paths Through Youth Soccer

    Join us for a conversation with Eman Vallejo as he reflects on his journey through youth soccer, from local club beginnings all the way to elite level club soccer. Eman shares how differences between smaller and larger clubs, coaching influences, support systems, and personal challenges shaped both his development as a player and his perspective on the game today. Eman also reflects on some of the most memorable moments from his playing career and shares advice for younger players trying to find their own path through the game.

    23 min

  4. Apr 30

    Pilar Bernal: 20 Years of Soccer Mom Wisdom

    Join our invaluable and heartfelt conversation with Pilar Bernal, a dedicated soccer mom and sports parent. Pilar shares her firsthand experiences from 20 years of supporting her two daughters throughout their youth soccer journey across various levels and even countries. Discover the unique challenges, lessons, commitments, and character-building aspects of youth sports from a parent's perspective.

    31 min
  5. Overrated or Underrated?

    Apr 18

    Overrated or Underrated?

    Relax and enjoy this week’s conversation where we share our personal takes on themes and questions we hear all the time in the youth soccer space, along with a few general hot takes you've definitely debated on. As always, we want to hear your thoughts as well.

    19 min
  6. Special Holiday Episode: Would You Rather?

    Apr 3

    Special Holiday Episode: Would You Rather?

    Happy Easter weekend! Join another fun, lighthearted conversation to get to know us a little better through a game of "Would You Rather'".. you're invited to ask more or share your own answers!

    12 min
  7. I'm an Athlete: I Haven't Been Recruited Yet

    Mar 28

    I'm an Athlete: I Haven't Been Recruited Yet

    In this episode, we talk through what it really looks like if you haven’t been recruited yet. From sophomores just starting to think about college to seniors with no offers, we break down realistic options, share our own experiences, and offer practical ways to take action. The goal is to bring clarity to the process and reinforce that your path doesn’t have to look like everyone else’s to be successful.

    23 min
  8. Youth Soccer Tryouts 101

    Mar 20

    Youth Soccer Tryouts 101

    Our conversation on youth soccer tryouts offers transparent insights for parents and players on real expectations, honest thoughts on preparation, and how to handle outcomes positively. We both share our personal experiences that helped us navigate the tryout process with confidence and resilience and we emphasize our belief in every experience being a valuable step forward.

    21 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Real talk and honest advice on competitive youth sports based on lived experiences. No fluff, no sales pitch, just real, transparent conversations to support families navigating their own journeys.

Information

  • Creator
    Path to Play
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    30
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Path to Play
  • Show Website
    Path to Play