Explore every episode of the podcast Founding Futbol

When Freddy Adu joined DC United in 2004, he would become teammates with two other players that had made their professional debute as teenagers. One of those players was Santino Quaranta. The Baltimore native exploded onto the national soccer scene, made his way to IMG Academy like Freddy would, and then became the youngest MLS player ever, beating Bobby Convey's record, when he made his DC United debut. Injuries and challenges with substance abuse derailed Quaranta's career, but also strengthened his resilience. The one-time prodigy made his way back to MLS, then started his own club after retirement. He still leads Pipeline SC and is at the forefront of developing the next generation of youth players in America. Quaranta's story shares many similarities and differences to that of Adu's but parallels it in so many ways. Each is a crucial part of understanding the evolution of soccer in America. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Santino Quaranta (Former MLS and USMNT Player) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jonathan Tannenwald is one of the leading soccer writers in the country. Before he was covering the game for The Philadelphia Inquirer, Tannenwald was a native of the Washington DC area, who watched the Freddy Adu story through the eyes of a fan. He later covered Adu's time with the Philadelphia Union. And he has subsequently written about the most recent surge of teenage talent in the soccer world -- from Cavan Sullivan to the NWSL. Tannenwald joined Founding Futbol to share him memories of how Adu impacted the growth of MLS. He discussed how the league infrastructure has evolved to support players like Sullivan and how the NWSL situation differs in key ways. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Jonathan Tannenwald (Chief Soccer Correspondent, The Philadelphia Inquirer) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The 1999 Women's World Cup in unquestionably one of the most memorable moments in American soccer history. From the record crowds at venues across the United States, to the incredible moments on the field. Few images have been seen more than Brandi Chastain's celebratory moment after her championship winning penalty kick. Winning a second World Cup was a massive accomplishment for the USWNT and US Soccer. But doing it as the host country with an audacious vision for the event made it even more impactful. Marla Messing, President and CEO of the 1999 FIFA Women's World Cup organizing committee had a vision that women's soccer could support an event on par with the 1994 World Cup. She proposed a business plan outlining it, went to work marketing it and developed a strategy that changed the course of the game in America. Messing joined Founding Futbol to discuss her career, organizing the event and memories of the games. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Marla Messing (Former soccer executive) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Many variables contributed to the evolution of Fulhamerica. From new ownership, to ambition, to the growth of American players in England at the right time. But, unbeknownst to many, the door opening moment for US soccer players at Fulham FC may have been a decision Mohamed Al-Fayed made to bring over a trusted executive, American Lee Hoos, from his Harrods business to the front office of the Cottagers. Hoos wasn't a football man, but he was a shrewd business man that worked his way into more influential positions companies in the United States before moving to London for the opportunity to work with Al-Fayed. Hoos, who recently stepped down as CEO of Queens Park Rangers but remained on as Chairman, joined Founding Futbol to talk about his journey to Fulham and beyond. He shares how when he moved to Fulham, there remained a connection to his homeland. American players and agents felt more comfortable picking up the phone and soon, Hoos was able to help the club consider that, maybe, a market opportunity existed with American players. Eventually, some of those players became club legends and are now inextricably intertwined with Fulham's identity. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Lee Hoos (Chairman, Queens Park Rangers) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fulham FC is among the most storied clubs in the history of English football. And, uniquely, it holds a special place in the history of soccer in America as well. After Egyptian businessman Mohamed Al-Fayed bought the club in 1997, he promised the club would return to the England's top flight within five years. The owner began spending in the transfer market to improve the club's roster. And one unexpected source of talent emerged starting in 1999 with the arrival of Marcus Hahnemann from Colorado Rapids on Major League Soccer (MLS) - the United States. Within a few years, Fulham brought key players into its squad from the US, those players became club legends, and the concept of Fulhamerica was born. Tony Banks, journalist and author of The Great Adventure: Al-Fayed’s Rollercoaster Ride with Fulham FC, joined Founding Futbol to walk through the progression of the Fulhamerica evolution. He shares his thoughts on what prompted the influx of American talent, how some players fit and how the new era of American talent at the club differs from the first wave. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Tony Banks (Journalist, Author) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The evolution of youth soccer into the club model, and the founding of clubs such as Players Development Academy (PDA) had a positive impact on the continued growth of the sport in America. But it also accelerated the concept of "pay to play" which has made the game inaccessible to many communities, while simultaneously giving more opportunity to those that can afford participation. However, with increased cost and increased competition, burnout is occurring in volume with kids dropping out of the sports in huge numbers throughout their teenage years. John O'Sullivan wrote Changing the Game after seeing the challenges youth sports faced in this country. The book highlights the ways youth sports, soccer included, has gotten away from us in America. It also provides strategies to help us recapture its essence, giving the sport back to our children in the process. He founded the Changing the Game Project to facilitate speaking engagements and other events to spread the ideas associated with his book. O'Sullivan joined Founding Futbol to talk about ideas in the book, how they combat the problems associated with a "pay-to-play" mindset. He talked about his journey trying to, literally, change the game and much more. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: John O'Sullivan (Author, Coach) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The popularity of youth soccer in America has unquestionably contributed to it's rise on popularity over the years. However, in the late 90s and early 2000s, the continued evolution took on a new form. Clubs like Players Development Academy (PDA), founded in 1998, represented a new approach to organizing youth soccer in a way that broke from the state and regional alignment of USYS, and built resources within one club for better and broader player development. US Club Soccer emerged as a new governing body to reinforce these ideas, and leagues like the Elite Clubs National League (ECNL) formed to give the top teams in the nation a new level of competitive format. Glenn Crooks is a well-known soccer broadcaster, hosting The Coaching Academy on SiriusXM FC and also as the national radio voice of New York City FC. But, he also had a long and accomplished coaching career. Crooks was the head coach of the women's soccer team at Rutgers University and also a long-time coach at PDA. He joined Founding Futbol to talk about the evolution of youth soccer. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Glenn Crooks (Broadcaster, Journalist, Coach) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Soccer's journey in America has been built on a series of events. But within those events -- and the broader context of why they matter -- are individual moments of greatness. The 1996 Olympics exemplifies that idea. The USWNT saw an opportunity to continue its ascension to the top of the women's game with a gold medal in the first ever inclusion of women's soccer in the Olympics. It mattered on so many levels, including an early fight for fair and equitable compensation that took place just a few months earlier. The women needed to win. And, despite an incredible team, they needed the individual brilliance of Shannon Mac Millan to propel the to the Gold Medal. The 2016 National Soccer Hall of Fame inductee has a storied international career. But, arguably, no other accomplishments eclipse her efforts during those game in the US. She joined Founding Futbol to discuss her pivotal goals in the 1996 Olympics, her contributions to the 1999 World Cup and more. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guests: Shannon Mac Millan (USWNT Legend) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Olympics has played a critical role in the evolution of soccer in America. Strong attendance during the 1984 games, hosted in Los Angeles with soccer matches played across the country, was a key factor in FIFA's decision to award the 94 World Cup to the United States. But women's soccer had not been part of the Olympics historically. That changed in 1996, which was also hosted in the US, this time in Atlanta. With one World Cup win to its name, the USWNT saw an opportunity to showcase its excellence on a stage that American sports fans truly understood and embraced -- the Olympics. A legendary group of female athletes dominated headlines at those games, and the USWNT was at the top of the list, marching to the Gold medal and thrusting the team into the consciousness of the sports consuming public. Kristine Lilly played a vital role in the USWNT 1996 Gold Medal run. In total, she in played in five World Cups (winning two) and three Olympic Games (also winning two) and was the most capped player in the history of women’s soccer with 352 full internationals for the United States between 1987 and 2010. Lilly joined Founding Futbol to talk about her storied career, and why the 96 Olympics was a critical step in the emergence of the USWNT and the continued ascension of soccer in America. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Kristine Lilly (Former USWNT Player) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a world of early player identification in the US Youth Soccer system, Steve Ralston's journey to Major League Soccer's first ever Rookie of the Year award was an unlikely one. As he shares with Founding Futbol, he didn't even start on his high school team. A few years later, he was drafted 18th overall in the 1996 MLS College Draft by the Tampa Bay Mutiny; Ralston played in 31 games as a rookie and launched what would become a special professional career. By his second season, the midfielder earned All-Star honors. By 1999, Ralston was named Team MVP, MLS Best Eleven, and MLS Fair Play Award winner after leading the league with 18 assists. He also became Tampa Bay's all-time leading scorer as well as the first MLS player to play 10,000 minutes. He ended his career with 135 assists, the most in league history at the time, and now second behind Landon Donovan on the MLS all-time record list. He joined Founding Futbol to discuss the early days of MLS, his outstanding career and more. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guests: Steve Ralston (MLS Legend) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When the United States was awarded the 1994 World Cup, no top-flight professional league existed in America. But, part of the proposal to FIFA included the creation of a new domestic league, and US Soccer went to work creating Major League Soccer (MLS) in parallel to preparing for the 94 World Cup. The magnitude of the event delayed the start of MLS, but when it finally kicked off in 1996, the league featured US Men's National Team and international stars expected to draw crowds to the inaugural season's games. Jeff Agoos had storied career at the University of Virginia, and was reunited with Bruce Arena as part of the first DC United team. He played in the very first MLS game and was a key part of the league's first great success story. Agoos won MLS championships in five of the league’s first eight seasons, and emerged as a stalwart for the USMNT -- playing in 134 international games. He was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2009. Agoos joined Founding Futbol to share his memories from the early days of MLS and talk about how the league helped move his career forward. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Jeff Agoos (MLS Executive, Former MLS and USMNT Player) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Janusz Michallik is a former US Men's National Team and Major League Soccer player. He later became a coach, and is currently working as a television sports commentator for ESPN and also as a radio commentator for SiriusXM FC. Born in Poland, Michallik lends a unique perspective to the evolutions of soccer in America. He moved to the US as a teenager, after having played un the Poland national team system. He then provided a consistent presence for the US Men's National Team backline in the run-up to the 1994 World Cup. Michallik was later an original member of the Columbus Crew who has played at nearly every level of American professional soccer. He can now be found sharing his soccer insight on TV and streaming services, such as ESPN and YouTube. He joined Founding Futbol to discuss his evolution with the game and how technology has impacted his second career in the sport. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guests: Janusz Michallik (Former USMNT Player) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Freddy Adu story is well known in the world of American soccer. It is one of promise and then unmet opportunity. But, in the end, one of the most important elements of the Freddy Adu story is how he brought so many people to the game of soccer in the United States. His youthful exuberance, his talent and his charisma were all the stuff of marketing fuel. And, as Adu's rose to prominence through the US Youth National Teams and then MLS, the marketing machine thrust him into the spotlight. Thomas Rongen, known for his stint coaching American Samoa that became the move "Next Goal Wins," coached Adu on the U20 National Team and saw his talent immediately. He also grew to care for Adu personally, and saw the challenges the young prodigy faced as he transitioned into the professional ranks. However, Rongen still witnessed first hand how big Adu's impact was on growing soccer in the US. He joined Founding Futbol to talk about it. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Thomas Rongen (Former MLS and U20 USYNT Coach) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

You can now watch soccer at virtually any time, on any device streamed from any location in the world. Yet, before the advent of streaming technology and the first sports streaming event in 1995, that wasn't possible. Linear broadcast networks and a growing, but still limited, number of cable sports television stations determined if and what soccer you could watch in America. But that all started to change in the mid 90's, opening the global world of soccer to American fans and changing the way the game was consumed in the United States (and around the world). ESPN soccer commentator Luis Miguel Echegaray, who has also taught classes on engagement media, joined Founding Futbol to discuss the impact of streaming media on the growth of soccer in America. He talks about how giving fans access to different flavors of the game on different platforms has a magnifying impact. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Luis Miguel Echegaray (ESPN Soccer Commentator) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bob Reasso spent nearly three decades as the head coach of the Rutgers Men's Soccer team. During that time he lead the Scarlet Knights to 13 NCAA appearances, including the 1990 national championship game, three Final fours, six league titles and coached 19 All-Americans. During his 29 seasons at Rutgers, Reasso compiled an overall record of 351-183-71, winning 10 or more matches in 21 seasons and reaching the 15-win mark seven times. He also recruited and coached Alexi Lalas at Rutgers. Bob joined Founding Futbol to talk about what it was like to coach the legendary figure. He shares his experience managing the big personality and much more. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guests: Bob Reasso (Former Coach, Rutgers Men's Soccer) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There were so many factors that made the 1994 World Cup a success. Great marketing. Success on the pitch for the US Men's National Team. And, importantly, a roster full of personalities to whom America could uniquely connect. There's probably no better example of that than Alexi Lalas. The larger-than-life personality looked like a rock star with long red hair, and became indispensable for his play on the field as well. Lalas, now a broadcaster for Fox Sports, joined Founding Futbol to talk about how he combined his love for music with soccer and considered himself an entertainer, first, on the field. He also shares memories from his time at Rutgers, how he progressed to the USMNT, what it was like playing in the 1994 World Cup and how he transitioned into broadcasting. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Alexi Lalas (Former USMNT Player) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Thomas Dooley was a critical piece of the US Men's National Team that made it to the knockout stage of the 1994 World Cup. He played every minute of that tournament, then played a vital role on the 98 World Cup team as well. But, born and raised in West Germany to a German mother, Dooley was focused on his aspirations of playing professionally in Germany and then also playing for the German National Team. He never even considered that, because he was born to an American father, he might be eligible to play for the USMNT. Dooley joins Founding Futbol to share how his journey to the USMNT happened almost by accident, but became one of the most fulfilling aspects of his accomplished career. He shares memories of playing in the 94 World Cup, how he knew America's view on the game changed in real time, and much more. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Extra Time is an additional weekly episode that shares reactions and reflections from the chapters, and brings additional guests into the fold.  Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Thomas Dooley (Former USMNT Player) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gary Hopkins is the founder and CEO of HSE Sports and Entertainment, and the author of Star Spangled Soccer. He is an experienced soccer marketing executive who was intimately involved in the efforts to promote the 1994 World Cup. His book outlines the critical role that marketing played in the growth of soccer in America, overall, specifically drawing on the need to package and sell the game in a way that was appropriate to American industry. He joined Founding Futbol to talk about the critical role of leadership as soccer evolved in America. Hopkins also talked about how his colleagues "packaged" the game to make it familiar to American fans, and much more. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guests: Gary Hopkins (Author, Star Spangled Soccer) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 1988, FIFA awarded the United States hosting rights for the 1994 World Cup. The US Men's National Team appearance in the 1990 World Cup in Italy, thanks to Paul Caligiuri's famous goal in the qualifiers, legitimized America's presence in the tournament. And, when 1994 came along, an emerging community of soccer fans was ready to capitalize on the unique opportunity to see the world's best players compete on domestic soil. The result was the most successful World Cup in the tournament's history, both in terms of fan attendance and revenue generation. It was so successful, in fact, that the 94 World Cup attendance records still stand. Combined with a strong showing from the USMNT, the marketing and promotion around the event launched soccer to new heights in the United States. Sports historian and author Andrei Markovits was there. He joined Founding Futbol to talk about his memories of the World Cup, its impact on the sport in America and the lasting legacy it left on the growth of soccer. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Andrei Markovits (Author and Sports Historian) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kevin Strunk grew up playing soccer and playing soccer video games -- specifically EA Sports FIFA. His playing career took him to Lehigh University where he was Patriot League Defensive Player of the Year in both 2010 and 2011, a feat that had only been accomplished three times in conference history. Kevin's college success earned him an MLS trial, but his professional dreams faded soon after. With a business degree, Kevin moved into marketing and brand roles at various companies. Then, in 2020, his playing days, video game days and business experience came together when he joined EA Sports. Now responsible for regional brand campaigns associated with EA Sports FC, Kevin joined Founding Futbol to reflect on the importance of the video game in his life and as part of America's soccer history. He shared how EA Sports connects with various communities to promote the game and how they view its place in soccer ecosystem. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guests: Kevin Strunk (Director, FC Franchise Activation, Markets at EA Sports) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

By 1993, EA Sports was a well established video game manufacturer with titles like Madden Football, which was released in 1989 and PGA Tour Golf, which was released in 1990 already commercial successes. These franchises began the model of licensing the rights to likenesses, league and team names and beyond to help market the games. But they had been resistant to releasing a soccer title largely because the company didn't think it would sell. But a persistent group of UK employees made their case and, ultimately, convinced executives it was worth a shot. The release of EA Sports FIFA, now EA Sports FC, in 1993 began the ascension of a video game title that would become a runaway success. Along the way, it helped grow fandom in America. That marriage between video games and building a soccer culture may have initially been unexpected but, over time, the marriage was clear. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Michael LoRé (Forbes SportsMoney contributor) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Randy Waldrum has a storied career in the coaching ranks. He was the head coach of the women's soccer team at Notre Dame for 14 seasons years, where he led the program to incredible heights. Under his leadership, Notre Dame became a perennial power. In his time there, Waldrum led the Fighting Irish to two national championships, capturing the College Cup title in 2004 and '10. His teams won eight Big East Tournament titles and appeared in eight NCAA Final Four games in that span. Waldrum was the first coach in NCAA history to lead a team to a national title in his/her first season with a program. He wrapped up his tenure at Notre Dame with a mark of 292-58-17 (.819). He also has coached in the NWSL and two women's national teams (currently Nigeria and previously Trinidad and Tobago). Though less known publicly for his work in soccer coaching education, his contributions in that area are equally impressive and appreciated by the soccer community. Waldrum is a former president of United Soccer Coaches and continues to advance coaching education in a variety of ways. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guests: Randy Waldrum (Women's Soccer Coach, University of Pittsburgh / Head Coach, Nigerian Women's National Team) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 1941, National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) was founded. Now known as United Soccer Coaches, the largest soccer coaches organization in America (and the world) has been a key driver for the continued and evolving education of the coaching ranks. They were an initial investor in the coaching curriculum developed by US Soccer and then created their own programs later. The United Soccer Coaches organizes an annual convention that draws over 15,000 attendees and 200 vendors, connecting the soccer community in a vital way. Former president of United Soccer Coaches, Dr. Missy Price, joined us to share her journey through the coaching ranks and her passion for coaching education. She talks about her tenure at the helm of United Soccer Coaches and how she believes it and other organizations have advanced the discipline of coaching in America. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Dr. Missy Price (Vice President of Education & Development, US Club Soccer ) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jeff Agoos previously joined Founding Futbol to share his memories from the early days of MLS. On this episode of Extra Time, he returns to talk more about his USMNT career, and specifically recount the evolution of the team's rivalry with Mexico. He talks about two games that began to turn the rivalry into something meaningful. Agoos also shares his experience playing in the 2002 World Cup, the critical knockout stage win against Mexico that dawned the "Dos a cero" name, and more. Agoos had storied career at the University of Virginia, and was reunited with Bruce Arena as part of the first DC United team. He played in the very first MLS game and was a key part of the league's first great success story. Agoos won MLS championships in five of the league’s first eight seasons, and emerged as a stalwart for the USMNT -- playing in 134 international games. He was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2009. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Jeff Agoos (Former MLS and USMNT Player) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When the US Women's National Team began winning on the international stage, much credit was given to Anson Dorrance's innovative tactical approach. He deployed a 3-4-3 to counter 4-4-2 setups most commonly utilized by other international programs. Leveraging his team's athleticism, Dorrance relied on pressing to create transitional attacking opportunities. With talents like April Heinrichs, Michelle Akers and Carin Jennings-Gabarra ready to take advantage of those chances, the USWNT had enough fire power to win the inaugural FIFA Women's World Cup in 1991. With all the attention given to the team's attacking prowess, it was easy to overlook the importance of defenders like Linda Hamilton. The 2022 National Soccer Hall of Fame inductee was often given the task of marking and shutting down the oppositions best player. Her intimidating and physical style was important to the success of that 91 World Cup team, allowing that attacking talent to flourish while she solidied the last line of defense. Linda joined the show to share her memories of that team, her career and beyond. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Extra Time is an additional weekly episode that shares reactions and reflections from the chapters, and brings additional guests into the fold.  Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guests: Linda Hamilton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 1991, FIFA staged the first ever Women's World Cup in China. The tournament took place in November, featured 12 teams from six (6)confederations and delivered performances for the ages. When the two weeks of play had ended, The US Women's National Team emerged with not only the first Women's World Cup win ever, but America's first World Cup win of any type. Michelle Akers continued her ascension to super stardom with a tournament-high ten (10) goals en route to Golden Shoe honors. Akers was one of three American scoring threats that, collectively, were dubbed the "triple-edged sword." The other two were team captain April Heinrichs and our guest, Carin Jennings-Gabarra, who scored six (6) goals of her own went on to win Golden Ball honors as the tournament's most outstanding player. Jennings-Gabarra was kind enough to sit down and spend time with us to share her journey to the USWNT, her memories of the epic 1991 season, and what made that team so special. She talks about her now more than 30 years as head coach at the Naval Academy, and why a career in coaching was so important for players in the late 80s and early 90s. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Carin Jennings-Gabarra (Former USWNT Player, Head Coach Women's Soccer US Naval Academy) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the latino community grew in America during the 80s and 90s, Spanish-language television stations such as Univisión played a critical role in expanding the coverage of soccer. Broadcasting the World Cup, UEFA Champions League and top-flight European professional leagues such as La Liga and Serie A, Univisión, Telemundo, ESPN, TV Azteca and others built a culture of soccer fandom among not only latinos but also among the broader American soccer-playing public who turned to those networks to find the broadcasts of the game they loved. That put Spanish-language broadcasters such as Luis Omar Tapia into the spotlight and has, over the last three decades, made him the voice of soccer to so many in America. Tapia is best known as the voice of the UEFA Champions League across the U.S. and Latin America having called the competition for 27 consecutive years. Now with Fox Sports, he spent a decade with Univisión Deportes calling some of the biggest matches and tournaments in soccer for the Spanish-language network, including Major League Soccer, German Bundesliga, U.S. Men’s National Team and Mexico National Team friendlies and more. He has also worked for GolTV, ESPN, TV Azteca and beIN Sports. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Extra Time is an additional weekly episode that shares reactions and reflections from the chapters, and brings additional guests into the fold.  Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guests: Luis Omar Tapia (Broadcaster) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the early 1990s, latino immigration in the United States peaked. As millions moved to the US from Latin America, they brought with them a passion for futbol. At the same time, US Soccer was devising new ways to build and sustain the game in this country. That meant stages the world's largest events, such as the Olympics and World Cup, and proving that fans in this country would fill stadiums to watch the beautiful game. The birth of Major League Soccer brought with it anxiety of failed predecessors, such as the North American Soccer League, and a desire to overcome similar shortcomings. The growing, soccer-crazy latino communities proved as a bedrock of growth for the game throughout those times. Andrés Martinez came to the United States in the 1980s, from Mexico. Futbol had been part of his upbringing, a part of his identity as real as his name or Mexican roots. But, when he arrived and settled in his new home, he felt as though he had to give up futbol to fit in with his new peers. Then, he watched the sport grow over the subsequent decades, in large part based on the rapid expansion of other latino immigrant populations who brought their passion for the game to America. Even as a boy, Andrés had a thoughtful point of view on the sport he loved, and the two countries that he's called home. A veteran of The New York Times, LA Times and other papers, Martinez shares his personal story and how it reflects that of millions more soccer fans in the US just like him. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Andrés Martinez (Journalist, Sports Historian) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On November 19, 1989 the US Men's National Team travel to Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago with a chance to qualify for its first World Cup since 1950. In the 32nd minute, Paul Caligiuri scored the game's first goal on a long, dipping, left-footed strike from distance that ultimately became the game winner. With a one-goal lead, the team needed to remain defensively stout. Paul Krumpe was one of the team's starting defenders, then in the 61st minute John Stollmeyer replaced him to help see out the win. Both joined us for a double episode of Extra Time. Just like that game, Kurmpe starts the episode and Stolly closes it out. They bring amazing and different perspectives on what it was like to participate in that historic game, and even provide insight on that time in US Soccer. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Extra Time is an additional weekly episode that shares reactions and reflections from the chapters, and brings additional guests into the fold.  Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Paul Krumpe and John Stollmeyer (Former USMNT Players) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Paul Caligiuri's iconic 1989 goal that sent the USMNT back to its first World Cup since 1950 is one of the most celebrated moments in the history of American soccer. It's been dubbed the "Shot Heard 'Round the World" and became the central plot point of the CBS sports / Paramount + documentary, "The Billion Dollar Goal." It's impossible to tell the story of soccer's rise in this country without exploring that storied event. As part of our study of the Caligiuri goal, we explore the context of the USMNT leading up to the World Cup qualifiers, and the team's subsequent performance in the 1990 World Cup in Italy. Brian Bliss joins us to talk about his involvement in the goal -- it began on his throw-in -- and his journey as part of the program. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Brian Bliss (Former USMNT player) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Linda Gancitano had just two caps for the US Women's National Team, but they were as part of the first 1985 squad that traveled to Italy to play in the Mundialito. In other words, she was an OG. One of the women that helped open the door to the rise of the USWNT over the subsequent decades Linda joined Founding Futbol to talk about her journey through the soccer world, including a decorated career at the University of Central Florida, where she played with both Kim Wyant and Michelle Akers. Linda was the defensive MVP of the 1982 NCAA Women's Soccer Championship (the first played) and earned All-American honors in 1981. She joined the show to talk about her short-lived but important career, how she's reconnected with the 85ers over the last few years, and more. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Extra Time is an additional weekly episode that shares reactions and reflections from the chapters, and brings additional guests into the fold.  Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Linda Gancitano (Former USWNT Player) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kim Wyant was the starting goalkeeper on the first ever US Women's National Team when it came together in 1985. She defied the odds, overcoming injury and lack of opportunity, to ultimately have a successful playing career in the USL W-League. Kim moved into the coaching ranks and is currently the only female head coach of a men's college team, having been at the helm of the NYU Violets since 2015. Kim joined Founding Futbol to talk about the early days of the USWNT, her experience playing in Italy, overcoming injury and finding her way into an extended soccer career. She shared memories of playing in Italy and how the men's heading coach job at NYU came to pass. Kim talks about how she feels lucky to have always been in the right place at the right time and we tackle the question as to whether or not she is a pioneer. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Extra Time is an additional weekly episode that shares reactions and reflections from the chapters, and brings additional guests into the fold.  Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Kim Wyant (Former USMNT Player) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 1985, the United States finally assembled its first women’s national team. It was a critical step in moving this country towards international relevance – just not the way so many had anticipated. With the men’s team still struggling to gain traction, and the rapid emergence of women’s stars at the college level, a US Women’s National Team had the chance to become immediately relevant both nationally and internationally.  The initial journey was bumpy but the results of the first USWNT games launched players like Michelle Akers to super stardom and showed the world that the US could compete internationally. It was the beginning of America’s first truly great international success in the soccer world.  Our guest on this episode is former USWNT player Emily Pickering Harner, who is credited with assisting the first goal ever scored by the women’s national team, and scoring the second.  Emily also served as the captain of the team in 1986 and beyond. She was a four-time national champion at UNC.  Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Emily Pickering Harner (Former USWNT player) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Perry Van der Beck was one of the first rising young stars in American soccer. Drafted out of high school by the Tampa Bay Rowdies of the North American Soccer League (NASL) in 1978, Perry joined a team that would go on to play in the Soccer Bowl -- the NASL's championship game -- his first two years. Perry quickly emerged as a key talent for US Soccer, specifically approaching the 1980 Olympic Games. As a key part of the US Men's Olympic team, he experienced the frustration of missing out on an opportunity to play for his country when the US boycotted the games. He joined Founding Futbol to talk about his journey to the NASL from high school, as well as his time as part of the National Team and Team America. Perry also provided insight on the challenging times that American soccer faced in the 1980s. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Extra Time is an additional weekly episode that shares reactions and reflections from the chapters, and brings additional guests into the fold.  Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Perry Van der Beck (Former USMNT Player) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The birth of the rivalry between US Men's National Team and Mexico wasn't a rivalry at all for decades. But then, in the late 1990s and early 2000s, that all changed. The US became competitive with its neighbor to the south and finally established itself as not only a threat to Mexico's CONCACAF dominance, but eventually as the regions strongest team. The biggest game in that progression, and one that is most largely responsible for the "Dos a Cero" moniker was the USMNT 2-0 defeat of Mexico in the 2002 World Cup knockout round. That game propelled American soccer into the international spotlight in a new way and changed the nature of its rivalry with El Tri. David Sarachan was an assistant coach for the US on that World Cup team. He joined Founding Futbol to share his memories of how the rivalry emerged and why the USMNT performance at the 2002 World Cup was so impressive. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: David Sarachan (Former Assistant Coach, USMNT) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Founding Futbol is about moments that helped grow soccer in America. But there is one event we’ve decided to cover that breaks that mold – the 1980 Olympic Boycott. The US Men’s National Team was unable to compete in Moscow in 1980, setting the program and this country’s pursuit of international success back years, possibly decades. In many ways, it also contributed to the continuing decline of the North American Soccer League (NASL), and the combination of factors led to possibly the darkest period in modern American soccer history.  While the immediate outcomes were unquestionable negative, it forced executives to reconsider the path our country would take to making soccer a prominent and sustainable sport. This chapter connects the dots of how an event that didn’t happen triggered a series of decisions that put us back on track to embracing the world’s game in a uniquely American way.  Our guest on this episode is former USMNT player Ty Keough.  The son of legendary USMNT player Harry Keough, Ty also coached collegiately at Washington University for eleven years and covered four World Cups as a broadcaster, working for ESPN, ABC and TNT.  Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Ty Keough (Former USMNT player) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Anson Dorrance had a chance to share his story with Founding Futbol. But what is it like to play for him? The legendary coach has recruited and coached some of the best players in American soccer history. Amber Brooks played four years at North Carolina, winning NCAA Championships in 2009 and 2012. She was a two-year captain on Tar Heels teams that included Crystal Dunn and Kealia (Ohai) Watt, before moving on to play professionally in Europe and the NWSL. She joined us to share her experience playing for Dorrance and being part of the North Carolina program. Brooks talked about why her relationship with Anson transcended that of a typical coach and what it's like to be back training with the UNC team now as she settles on her next career move. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Extra Time is an additional weekly episode that shares reactions and reflections from the chapters, and brings additional guests into the fold.  Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Amber Brooks (UNC and NWSL standout) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 1979, Anson Dorrance, already the men’s soccer coach at the University of North Carolina, was hired to coach the women’s team as well. It was transitioning from a club team to varsity team through the opportunities afforded women’s collegiate athletics by Title IX. Despite having the men’s job, Dorrance was tapped to take on a second team and within two years, the landscape of women’s college soccer would be forever changed.  During his tenure at UNC, Dorrance has built one of the best dynasties in sports history. He also is known globally as the coach of the US Women’s National Team that won the first Women’s World Cup in 1991. His contributions to the game are immeasurable.  Our guest on this episode is Anson Dorrance, himself.  Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Anson Dorrance (UNC Coach) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After the North American Soccer League folded in 1984, many of the league’s top American players moved to the Major Indoor Soccer League. Some, in fact, moved with their franchises, who also found a new home as part of the indoor game. One such club was the San Diego Sockers. Their star defender, Kevin Crow, had achieved All-Star status in the NASL and then became five-time Defender of the Year in the MISL. Crow joined Founding Futbol to talk about his journey through four leagues with one franchise. He sheds light on how he managed the challenges of a down era in US Soccer, talks about the differences between the indoor and outdoor game, and recounts how focused on his transition away from the game, while he was still playing.  Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Extra Time is an additional weekly episode that shares reactions and reflections from the chapters, and brings additional guests into the fold.  Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Kevin Crow (MISL Legend) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When ESPN began broadcasting in 1979, no one knew if a 24-hour sports cable station would work. The concept was new. The format was new. And there was no data to suggest the American public would watch.  But ESPN not only worked, it changed the sports culture globally by giving airtime to sports that previously went unbroadcast and by creating a highlight culture. Soccer benefited from these factors – as ESPN broadcast the Major Indoor Soccer League, bringing fans to the game in new and interesting ways. It also gave sports fans distilled key moments from various soccer matches exposing more people to the beautiful game.   JP Dellacamera has broadcast 17 World Cups, making him the voice of soccer for many Americans. He joined the show to discuss the start of his career at ESPN and how the game has evolved with the cable sports networks over the decades. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: JP Dellacamera (Broadcaster) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Journalist Lawrie Mifflin joined us to talk about her experience covering Pelé and the New York Cosmos. Mifflin was the first woman sports reporter at the New York Daily News, which is where she earned the Cosmos beat. During our interview, she recounts how that came to pass. She covered the team for four years, and shares some of her memories of Pelé and her reflections on his time in New York. Mifflin later moved on to become a sports reporter for her first eight years at The New York Times. She stayed with the Times in various roles for 30 years, total. When Pelé passed away in 2022, Lawrie was asked to write his obituary. She is currently managing editor of The Hechinger Report. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Extra Time is an additional weekly episode that shares reactions and reflections from the chapters, and brings additional guests into the fold. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com. Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guests: Lawrie Mifflin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Before there was Beckham or Messi coming to America to play for Major League Soccer Franchises, there was Pelé and his stint with the New York Cosmos. From 1975-1977 the world’s most recognized footballer spent the twilight of his career helping this country fall in love with the beautiful game.  His time playing in the North American Soccer League (NASL) provided a blueprint for what success could look like for the sport in this country. It boosted the NASL to previously unseen heights. Unfortunately, Pelé’s (second) retirement also showed the continued vulnerability of America’s top flight professional league. This episode explores the many layers of his time in New York and it’s long-term impact on the game in the US. Our guest on this episode is Front Row Soccer editor Michael Lewis; he has covered 13 World Cups (eight men, five women), seven Olympics and 25 MLS Cups. He has written about New York City FC, New York Cosmos, the New York Red Bulls and both U.S. national teams for Newsday and has penned a soccer history column for the Guardian.com. He also was the soccer columnist for the New York Daily News for 22 years. Lewis, who has been honored by the Press Club of Long Island, New Jersey Society of Professional Journalists and United Soccer Coaches (formerly National Soccer Coaches Association of America), is the former editor of BigAppleSoccer.com. He has written nine books about the beautiful game and has published ALIVE AND KICKING The incredible but true story of the Rochester Lancers. He is also a member of four Halls of Fame, including the Eastern New York Soccer Hall and Long Island Soccer Football League Soccer Hall. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Micahel Lewis (Writer) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Extra Time is an additional weekly episode that brings additional guests into the fold. After releasing the Prologue and the first four Chapters of Founding Futbol, we share a few reflections on the initial topics and interviews. Then, we are joined by Stefan Szymanski and Silke-Maria Weineck to discuss their book, “It’s Football, Not Soccer (And Vice Versa).” The Michigan professors share what motivated them to write the book and the methodology behind their academic approach to researching it. They explain why this is such an unusual linguistic scenario and share some of their favorite personal anecdotes that came out of their interviews and outreach. It’s a fun listen and enlightening for anyone that doesn’t know the history of the word “soccer” and has ever wondered why Americans (still) use the word when other countries have shunned it.  Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guests: Stefan Szymanski and Silke-Maria Weineck (Co-Authors, It's Football Not Soccer) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Despite the existence of other youth soccer organizations, US Youth Soccer’s formation in 1974 helped organize and cultivate pathways for youth soccer players in America. The approach USYS took to coordinating state, regional and national competition gave structure to a previously localized competitive landscape.  The organization’s connection to US Soccer, and the formation of the Olympic Development Program (better known as ODP) offered clear pathways for youth players to reach the national team. Over the years USYS has served a critical function in fueling the one constant in American soccer’s efforts to be relevant – mass youth participation. USYS CEO Skip Gilbert is our guest. He has been at the helm of US Youth Soccer since 2020 and shared some outstanding insights on the evolution of the youth game and his plans for the future.  Former US Soccer executive Thom Meredith joined Skip for the conversation, bringing historic perspective to the conversation. He is one of the great champions of American soccer growth, organizing many of the biggest events this country has ever seen.  Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guests: Skip Gilbert (CEO, US Youth Soccer), Thom Meredith (Former Executive, US Soccer) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. In 1972, historic legislation was passed intended to create equity in the American education system. Title IX wasn’t about soccer; in fact, it wasn’t originally about sports at all. And, yet, it single-handedly gave women more the opportunity to pursue college through sports in ways that simply weren’t available before.  Soccer, through a combination of factors and then ultimately successes, became one of the primary sports to benefit from Title IX. That spurred growth of female participation in the youth game and also urged the US to ultimately participate internationally as well. Title IX may be one of the biggest contributing factors to how we have now become a soccer nation.  Sports historian Victoria Jackson is our guest. She is a professor at Arizona State University who writes and speaks about the intersection of sport and society, exploring how the games we play (and watch) tell us much about the communities – local, national, and global – in which we live. Her writing has appeared in the Los Angeles Times, Washington Post, Boston Globe, The Chronicle of Higher Education, Slate, Letras Libres (Mexico), El Universal (Mexico), Epoca (Brazil), The Independent (UK),The Athletic, and Sportico. Jackson has appeared on 60 Minutes to discuss American college sports and is a frequent podcast, radio, TV, and documentary film commentator on sport and society.  Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Victoria Jackson (Sports Historian) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Few people truly understand the life that Grant Wahl lived as a soccer writer in America. Gabriele Marcotti not only followed a similar trajectory, but also became close friends with Wahl as he pursued a similar career path. Marcotti, now a senior writer for ESPN and regular contributor on ESPN FC, regularly sat in the same press boxes as Wahl covering World Cups and more. He joined Founding Futbol to talk about what made Wahl such a great journalist. Marcotti gives his perspective on how Wahl contributed to soccer's growth in America and also talks about their friendship. He even recounts why his family considered Wahl the ideal house guest. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Gabriele Marcotti (Senior Writer, ESPN) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 1959, the first year the NCAA staged a national soccer championship, St. Louis University converted its club program to varsity status. It was unlikely that the Billikens would immediately become a powerhouse. After all, some programs had already been in existence for nearly five decades and hundreds of others for at least a decade. How would this upstart team compete? But head coach Bob Guelker built a roster full of St. Louisans that would become an immediate powerhouse and the beginning of a college soccer dynasty. Their model would change college soccer and help forge a path for the sport to become popular in America. Author Dave Lange is our guest. He wrote ⁠⁠⁠Soccer Made in St. Louis⁠ which features rich details about the 1959 NCAA Championship and St. Louis University's soccer history. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Dave Lange (Author, Soccer Made in St. Louis) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Soccer didn’t start in America on June 29th, 1950. But the 1950 US Men’s National team’s impossible victory over England in the World Cup was an anchor moment – our first moment – in the decades long journey that soccer has taken back to prominence in America. In Chapter One of Founding Futbol, we explore why that game had meaning, what made it special and what key information soccer fans should know about that team and match. Author Geoffrey Douglas is our guest. He wrote ⁠⁠The Game of Their Lives⁠⁠, the book about this 1950 game that later become a movie. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Geoffrey Douglas (Author, The Game of Their Lives) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

History simply doesn’t teach that soccer was nearly a mainstream sport in America. Soccer was growing in popularity late in the 1800s then again in the early 1900s, with unquestionable gains in momentum into the 1920s. It was on track to be relevant, maybe even a topflight draw. Then, the Soccer War killed it. Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Before digging into our weekly episodes focused on the sport's growth, this Prologue episode provides a brief history of soccer in the United States, culminating in The Soccer War. Noted soccer historian Roger Allaway is our guest, providing context on the events leading up to and The Soccer War itself. Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Host: Kent Malmros Guest: Roger Allaway (Soccer Historian) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to Founding Futbol, the first podcast brought to you by Football Vision. Founding Futbol is a weekly podcast that explores soccer’s journey in America, analyzing how key moments in the sport’s history have contributed to its rising level of popularity. The show features research and expert guests as it breaks down 52 key events that have influenced growth of soccer in the United States. Host Kent Malmros combines narrated research with long-form interviews in each episode. Founding Futbol will provide in-depth analysis on topics such as Title IX, Pelé’s time in New York, the USWNT’s dominance and Paul Caligiuri’s iconic 1989 goal. Subscribe to Founding Futbol on your platform of choice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices