Explore every episode of the podcast Full Time: A show about women's soccer
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| NWSL Playoffs: How the Spirit crushed the Thorns & the Royals upset the Wave | 09 nov. 2026 | 00:54:11 | |
The quarterfinals of the 2026 NWSL playoffs are in the books. And what a weekend it was, filled with history, upsets, extra-time and plenty of chaos. On this episode of Full Time, host Jillian Sakovits breaks down all four quarterfinals with our incredible team from The Athletic as they report in from New Jersey, California, and Washington, D.C. From Trinity Rodman’s MVP-level thrashing of the Portland Thorns to Mandy McGlynn’s heroic saves that sealed the Utah Royals’ upset against the San Diego Wave. _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits PANEL: Meg Linehan, Tamerra Griffin, Melanie Anzidei PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: Kansas City secures NWSL quarterfinal win on penalty Angel City coach calls ‘tremendously cheap’ Utah Royals stun San Diego Wave in NWSL playoffs after Mandy McGlynn steals show Gotham FC could lose home-field advantage in NWSL semifinals due to scheduling conflicts Trinity Rodman’s best season yet has Spirit in NWSL semifinals: ‘A nightmare for everybody else’ _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Guide to the 2026 NWSL Playoffs with Sveindis Jonsdottir & Paige Cronin | 05 nov. 2026 | 00:59:26 | |
The NWSL playoffs are officially here. Eight teams are left chasing a Championship title that will be handed out at the final in Washington, D.C., on November 21. On this episode of Full Time, host Jillian Sakovits is joined by The Athletic’s Meg Linehan and Tamerra Griffin to dive into the bracket, the biggest stories of the postseason, and break down all four quarterfinals matchups ahead of the weekend’s action. PLUS: Tamerra sits down with star striker of the red-hot Angel City FC, Sveindis Jane Jonsdottir, to get the latest on what the mood is like in Los Angeles, the power of momentum, and the secret to their extraordinary second half of the season. Then, ahead of the team’s historic first-ever playoff game, Utah Royals captain Paige Cronin stops by to talk to Meg about her leadership style, the mentality of an underdog, and the team’s journey from rejoining the league in 2024 to now. _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits PANEL: Meg Linehan, Tamerra Griffin PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: NWSL’s early kickoff times for the quarterfinals harm the game: ‘It’s getting old’ The business of winning: Owners from the 8 NWSL playoff teams share their keys to success Gotham makes history with first NWSL Shield, but its sights are already set on more _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How Gotham won the Shield & 2026 NWSL Awards picks | 02 nov. 2026 | 00:53:20 | |
Gotham FC are your 2026 NWSL Shield champions, after topping the standings on the final day of the regular season. So, how did Gotham clinch a first-ever Shield in team history, and what other drama unfolded as the playoff spots were locked in? On this episode of Full Time, moments after the final whistle on Decision Day, the podcast breaks down Gotham’s historic win, San Diego Wave’s second-place finish, and the Seattle Reign squeaking into the eighth and final playoff spot. PLUS: With the NWSL regular season complete and ballots due this week, The Athletic’s Meg Linehan and Tamerra Griffin give their picks on who should take home the 2026 NWSL Awards. Can Ashley Sanchez still be MVP even though the NC Courage missed the playoffs? Why does Coach of the Year feel wide open? And, as wild as it sounds, should Defender of the Year be about defending? _______________ HOST: Theo Lloyd-Hughes PANEL: Meg Linehan, Tamerra Griffin PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: NWSL Decision Day 2026 recap: Gotham FC wins first Shield; Spirit, Wave and Current lock home games NWSL original Jess Fishlock takes the spotlight after a career of doing quiet work for Seattle How ESPN is capitalizing on the NWSL’s biggest Decision Day yet _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Should the NWSL Shield mean more? | 29 oct. 2026 | 00:45:25 | |
29 games down, 1 to go. The longest NWSL regular season ever is reaching its climax, and two teams, Gotham FC and the San Diego Wave, are left duking it out for top spot in the standings and the chance to lift the NWSL Shield. So, on the show today, we’re going to be debating what winning the NWSL Shield really means. Should the regular season title mean more than a Championship? How do we increase the value of this trophy? And what would winning it mean to the two clubs left chasing the glory? The podcast also breaks down all things Decision Day. From what will happen on Sunday in the Shield race, who will win the final playoff spot, and which teams can claim a spot in the top four and the right to host a playoff game. _______________ HOST: Theo Lloyd-Hughes PANEL: Meg Linehan, Tamerra Griffin PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: NWSL Decision Day: Explaining what’s at stake on the final day of the regular season _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| What does winning the Ballon d’Or really mean? | 27 oct. 2026 | 01:02:06 | |
On Monday, Alexia Putellas was crowned the best player in the world, as she claimed her third Women’s Ballon d’Or trophy. But what does the Ballon d’Or really tell us about who the best player in the world is? What is the point of this award? Is it really just an exercise in marketing? Or can it truly be a gauge of success and value on the pitch? On this episode of Full Time, Theo Lloyd-Hughes is joined by The Athletic’s Meg Linehan and Tamerra Griffin to debate the biggest award in the soccer calendar. Charlotte Harpur also joins the show to share her perspective from being in London at the awards to see the Ballon d’Or handed out. And Gotham FC president of soccer operations, Yael Averbuch-West, also breaks down what the Ballon d’Or means for elite clubs. PLUS: Theo, Meg and Tamerra give their eulogies for all the NWSL teams that have already been eliminated from the playoffs. Which teams have plenty of hope and which teams don’t? _______________ HOST: Theo Lloyd-Hughes PANEL: Meg Linehan, Tamerra Griffin, Charlotte Harpur GUEST: Yawl Averbuch-West PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Should Chicago & Portland be hosts at the 2031 Women’s World Cup? | 22 oct. 2026 | 00:54:50 | |
This week, reports from The Athletic learned that the cities of Chicago and Portland are returning to the table to place bids to host the 2031 Women’s World Cup, which is expected to be hosted in the United States, Mexico, Jamaica, and Costa Rica. So, on this episode of Full Time, Theo Lloyd-Hughes, Tamerra Griffin, and Meg Linehan debate the case for those two cities to host. What makes a good host city? And what lessons will FIFA and U.S. Soccer have learned from the 2026 men’s World Cup when it comes to making their picks for the women’s edition in five years? PLUS: The Athletic’s Asli Pelit joins the show to give more details on Portland’s bid. While the pod also discusses the viral video from Angel City FC that riled up the Denver Summit after last weekend’s match in the NWSL, and who is the favorite to win the 2026 Women’s Ballon d’Or next Monday? _______________ HOST: Theo Lloyd-Hughes PANEL: Meg Linehan, Tamerra Griffin PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: Portland wants to host 2031 Women’s World Cup games. The Bhathal family is helping lead the charge Chicago want to host the Women’s World Cup after saying ‘no’ to men’s tournament _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| What Sarina Wiegman’s new contract means & how to bridge ‘The Gap’ in the WSL | 20 oct. 2026 | 00:48:11 | |
On Monday, the England women’s national team announced that head coach Sarina Wiegman had signed a two-year contract extension, through the end of the UEFA Women’s Euro 2029 tournament. So, what does Wiegman’s contract extension mean for Wiegman, the Lionesses, and the rest of global women’s soccer? On this episode of Full Time, Theo Lloyd-Hughes is joined by The Athletic’s Megan Feringa to unpack Wiegman’s new contract extension as well as all the latest from the English Women’s Super League, including how the teams lower in the table can bridge ‘The Gap’ on those at the top, whether Manchester City will ever lose again, and the latest on Arsenal’s crisis that continues to embroil head coach Renee Slegers. PLUS: Melanie Anzidei discusses what we learned from the NWSL weekend and gives her predictions on how the top eight places in the league will shake out. Were the San Diego Wave the real winners of the weekend? What happens to Ashley Sanchez’s MVP campaign if the North Carolina Courage miss out on the playoffs? _______________ HOST: Theo Lloyd-Hughes PANEL: Megan Feringa, Melanie Anzidei PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Is Washington Spirit vs. Gotham the biggest game in the NWSL right now? | 16 oct. 2026 | 00:43:41 | |
This week, the Full Time podcast is wondering: Is there such a thing as the biggest game in the NWSL calendar? And if so, right now, is that marquee matchup between Washington Spirit and Gotham FC? Well, with the two teams facing off on Saturday at Audi Field – in a rematch of the 2025 NWSL Championship – what better time to debate what it means to see these two go head-to-head and unpack why this week’s regular season match has so much on the line. How are these squads looking heading out of the international break and back into league action? And what will this match mean for the Shield, the playoffs and the MVP race? _______________ HOST: Theo Lloyd-Hughes PANEL: Meg Linehan, Melanie Anzidei PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| What did the USWNT learn from going winless against Spain? | 14 oct. 2026 | 00:54:36 | |
On this episode of Full Time, host Tamerra Griffin is joined by The Athletic’s Meg Linehan and Melanie Anzidei to discuss the recent friendlies between the U.S. women’s national team and Spain, which finished 2-0 to the European visitors and then 2-2. Is the USA midfield still a problem? Where did Emma Hayes get her team selection right and wrong? Do these results make Spain favorites to next year’s World Cup? Fresh from Audi Field and Subaru Park, our panel breaks down all the lessons learned. PLUS: On Wednesday, U.S. Soccer announced plans for a new national tournament that brings together women’s soccer clubs from different leagues nationwide to compete for a single championship. What do we know about the Crest Cup? The pod reacts to the breaking news. _______________ HOST: Tamerra Griffin PANEL: Meg Linehan, Melanie Anzidei PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: The USWNT and Emma Hayes needed Ashley Sanchez to step forward. She delivered USWNT showed they have depth against Spain. Suddenly, Emma Hayes’ core group is under pressure U.S. Soccer launches Arthur M. Blank Crest Cup, women’s soccer’s equivalent to U.S. Open Cup Sanchez’s, Swanson’s goals lift USWNT to thrilling second-half comeback to draw Spain _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Did Ted Lasso do women’s soccer justice? | 08 oct. 2026 | 00:51:38 | |
This week marked the finale of the fourth season of ‘Ted Lasso’. This was the first season of the incredibly popular Apple TV show that centered around women’s soccer. So, on this week’s Full Time, the podcast wonders: Did ‘Ted Lasso’ do women’s soccer justice? Host Theo Lloyd-Hughes is joined by The Athletic’s Meg Linehan and Asli Pelit, as well as writer Steph Yang to unpack what worked and what didn’t about this high-profile televised comedy that broadcast women’s soccer to millions of homes around the world. PLUS: Theo and Meg give their three things to watch out for in the upcoming U.S.women’s national team vs. Spain friendlies. _______________ HOST: Theo Lloyd-Hughes PANEL: Meg Linehan, Asli Pelit, Steph Yang PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: Ted Lasso and what promotion means in the women’s game ‘Ted Lasso’ tackles women’s soccer’s worst nightmare: Knee injuries Side hustles aren’t just for ‘Ted Lasso’s’ plot, they’re many professional footballers’ reality What ‘Ted Lasso’ gets right about the lack of resources allocated to women’s soccer _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Renee Slegers and Arsenal in crisis & what’s still at stake in the NWSL? | 06 oct. 2026 | 00:56:53 | |
Are Arsenal in crisis? And, what does the future hold for head coach Renée Slegers? On this episode of Full Time, Theo Lloyd-Hughes and The Athletic’s Megan Feringa break down a testing week for Arsenal and their beleaguered head coach that finished with a 4-2 defeat to Manchester City on Sunday. After another poor start to a WSL season, the Gunners find themselves 10th in the table and 10 points adrift of the league leaders. Yet again, a long-awaited title chase feels over before it ever really began. PLUS: What is still at stake in the NWSL? The Athletic’s Meg Linehan also joins the show to analyze the league standings in the NWSL with 27 matches played and three more games left to go in the regular season. Who is in the Shield race? Who can host a playoff game? Who is locked into the playoffs? And who is still clinging to faint playoff hopes? _______________ HOST: Theo Lloyd-Hughes PANEL: Megan Feringa, Meg Linehan PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: Arsenal have lost their self-belief. Rediscovering it won’t be straightforward The Lauren Hemp 2027 Ballon d’Or campaign starts here What are we meant to think of London City Lionesses and their superstars? Houston Dash eyeing fresh start in 2027 is more exciting than concerning USWNT calls up Jaelin Howell to replace injured Sam Coffey for Spain friendlies You can find Alison Gale’s playoff predictor website here _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Five years on from a reckoning & how the NWSL players saved the league | 01 oct. 2026 | 00:49:18 | |
Five years ago, the NWSL was facing a reckoning over systemic abuse within women’s soccer. With play halted and protests from players and fans across the country, no one was sure if the league would survive. Five years on, the league barely resembles the NWSL of the past. But how did we get here? And how did the NWSL players save their league and shape its future? On this special episode of Full Time, host Jillian Sakovits is joined by The Athletic’s Meg Linehan to trace the developments in the league since its biggest crisis in the wake of reporting on abuse in the NWSL in 2021. Former NWSL and U.S. women’s national team player Meghan Klingenberg also joins the show to share her insight from being a player with the Portland Thorns back in 2021, and reflect on the legacy that the NWSL Players Association helped to create in the wake of the reckoning. _______________ HOSTS: Jillian Sakovits, Meg Linehan GUEST: Meghan Klingenberg PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: Five years ago, the NWSL was in crisis. Thanks to its players, it’s flourishing _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| USWNT roster reaction: Ashley Sanchez returns, Jaedyn Shaw & Ally Sentnor miss out | 29 sept. 2026 | 00:45:28 | |
Ashley Sanchez is back with the U.S. women’s national team. The North Carolina Courage star was among 26 players USWNT coach Emma Hayes named to her roster for a crucial pair of friendlies against reigning World Cup champion Spain on Oct. 10 and 13. On this episode of Full Time, host Jillian Sakovits is joined by The Athletic’s Meg Linehan and Melanie Anzidei to unpack the USA’s roster to face off against Spain, as well as Hayes’s press conference on Tuesday. Where will Sanchez fit into the team? Who are the first-time call-ups, and was it wise for Hayes to bring them in for these friendlies? What does it mean for Jaedyn Shaw and Ally Sentnor to be omitted from the squad? PLUS: This week, the 2028 NWSL expansion team from Atlanta unveiled its team name, club colors, and crest. The podcast breaks it all down and holds nothing back to give their take on the designs and rollout. _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits PANEL: Meg Linehan, Melanie Anzidei PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: Ashley Sanchez returns to USWNT roster for Spain friendlies after long absence Atlanta NWSL team reveals name and crest ahead of 2028 debut _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Cloe Lacasse interview & the most underrated NWSL players in 2026 | 24 sept. 2026 | 00:39:07 | |
Cloe Lacasse is having one of the best seasons of her career. The Utah Royals forward co-leads the NWSL in assists, with 10, and could break the league record in the same statistic if she sets up one more goal. She also has seven goals, making her one of the league’s top goal contributors. The Canadian’s form has begged the question: Is Lacasse underrated? On this episode of Full Time, host Jillian Sakovits and The Athletic’s Tamerra Griffin sit down for an interview with Lacasse to learn about her journey to Utah, what she thinks of personal accolades, the tricks of being a good goal creator, and what makes the Royals a team without an ego. PLUS: Jill, Tamerra, and Producer Theo give their picks of who the most underrated players of the 2026 NWSL season are, while also trying to better understand what makes a player underrated. _______________ HOSTS: Jillian Sakovits, Tamerra Griffin GUEST: Cloe Lacasse PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Can Vlatko Andonovski revive the Chicago Stars? | 22 sept. 2026 | 00:35:44 | |
10 days after mutually parting ways with the Kansas City Current, Vlatko Andonovski is back in the NWSL. In a dramatic turn of events, the former USWNT head coach is now the Chief Soccer Officer for the Chicago Stars. So, on this episode of Full Time, host Jillian Sakovits is joined by The Athletic’s Meg Linehan and Tamerra Griffin to discuss whether Andonovski can make Midwestern magic happen yet again and turn the worst team in the NWSL into a contender. Can Andonovski revive the Chicago Stars? PLUS: The latest top stories from the NWSL weekend, from Angel City’s surge into the playoff places and Gotham becoming the first team to book their ticket to the postseason. And the pod takes a look at the state of the USWNT U20 group, which was eliminated from the World Cup by Brazil in the Round of 16 last week. What does another early exit from a world competition mean? _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits PANEL: Meg Linehan, Tamerra Griffin PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: Chicago Stars’ struggles this season were evident. Vlatko Andonovski could revive the team Ex-Chelsea director Paul Green wants to turn Bay FC into a championship team The under-20 World Cup has top players ‘caught in between’ club and country Alex Morgan, Crystal Dunn, Marta among players calling for FIFA to move U-20 Women’s World Cup _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Why is there so much head coaching turnover in the NWSL? | 17 sept. 2026 | 00:46:49 | |
How long does the average head coach last in the NWSL? Why do we see so much turnover at the head coaching position? What are the causes, and what are the solutions (if we need them)? On this episode of Full Time, host Jillian Sakovits is joined by The Athletic’s Meg Linehan and Tamerra Griffin for a deep dive into coaching turnover in the NWSL. The trio unpacks all the data from coaching turnover over the last five years in the NWSL, examining the trends behind the revolving door as well as trying to understand which clubs are showing a different way. Are male and female head coaches given different lengths of tenure? What is the adequate amount of time to evaluate a head coach? _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits PANEL: Meg Linehan, Tamerra Griffin PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: As NWSL grows, ‘head coach retention’ should become a new marker of success Houston Dash fire coach Fabrice Gautrat and technical director Twila Kilgore Vlatko Andonovski’s Kansas City Current departure: ‘The finality of it hurts for the players’ Bay FC close to appointing ex-Chelsea general manager Paul Green as head of football Meet Jimmy Coenraets, the 31-year-old Utah Royals coach leading NWSL’s most unlikely contender _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Unpacking Cat Macario's season-ending injury & an open letter to FIFA about the U20 World Cup | 15 sept. 2026 | 00:41:12 | |
Cat Macario’s debut season in San Diego is over before it ever really began. Wave FC announced on Monday that the U.S. women’s national team attacker would be placed on the season-ending injury list after undergoing knee surgery. So, how did we get here, and what does it mean for Macario, the Wave and the USWNT? Host Jillian Sakovits is joined by The Athletic’s Melanie Anzidei and Tamerra Griffin to discuss a big news week in the NWSL, where, alongside Macario’s injury, we saw the Houston Dash fire head coach Fabrice Gautrat, the Orlando Pride hand out a big contract extension to Barbra Banda, and a group of past and present global soccer stars pen an open letter to FIFA. _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits PANEL: Melanie Anzidei, Tamerra Griffin PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: San Diego Wave place US forward Catarina Macario on season-ending injury list with knee injury Houston Dash fire coach Fabrice Gautrat and technical director Twila Kilgore Orlando Pride signs prolific scorer Barbra Banda to contract extension The under-20 World Cup has top players ‘caught in between’ club and country Alex Morgan, Crystal Dunn, Marta among players calling for FIFA to move U-20 Women’s World Cup _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Jenna Nighswonger on why she joined Bay FC & life back in the NWSL | 11 sept. 2026 | 00:20:55 | |
After 18 months away, Jenna Nighswonger is back in the NWSL and back in her home state of California. So, why has she joined Bay FC, what excites her about head coach Emma Coates, and how is life back in the league where she was a league Champion and Rookie of the Year three years ago? On this episode of Full Time, Nighswonger sits down with The Athletic’s Tamerra Griffin to catch up on life and soccer after returning to the U.S .from Arsenal this summer. _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits, Tamerra Griffin GUEST: Jenna Nighswonger PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: Ballon d’Or Feminin 2026: Who do our writers think should win? The under-20 World Cup has top players ‘caught in between’ club and country Making sense of Vlatko Andonovski's exit from the KC Current _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Making sense of Vlatko Andonovski's exit from the KC Current | 09 sept. 2026 | 00:41:42 | |
This week, the Kansas City Current announced that the team would be mutually parting ways with Sporting Director Vlatko Andonovski. The bombshell news came just 10 months after Andonovski led the Current to a record-breaking NWSL Shield win as head coach, then swiftly restructured his role in Kansas City, moving him from the dugout to head of the front office on the sporting side. On this week’s Full Time, Jillian Sakovits, Tamerra Griffin and Meg Linehan will be trying to make sense of what this divorce means for the Current and Andonovski. How did we get here, and where will both go next? Is Kansas City still an elite destination in the NWSL? _______________ Articles referenced on the show: Kansas City Current and ex-USWNT manager Vlatko Andonovski ‘mutually part ways’ How ‘Ted Lasso’ found a love for women’s soccer in Kansas City Two-time MVP and Golden Boot winner Temwa Chawinga’s aura charges KC Current _______________ HOSTS: Jillian Sakovits, Tamerra Griffin, Meg Linehan PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Inside Alexia Putellas’s WSL debut & Michele Kang’s big-spending with London City Lionesses | 07 sept. 2026 | 00:41:43 | |
A Ballon d’Or winner, in Bromley? Yes! You are hearing that correctly. The Athletic’s Charlotte Harpur takes you inside Alexia Putellas’s debut in the English Women’s Super League, a curious and historic night in Southeast London for big-spending London City Lionesses and owner Michele Kang. The pod also breaks down how London City overcame Manchester United on the pitch in the first match under United’s new head coach, Eva Olid. And, how is Kang trying to balance the books and the WSL’s new spending rules? PLUS: All the top moments from the NWSL weekend, which saw history in Portland, a hat-trick for the unstoppable Ashley Sanchez and an upset at the top of the table. _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits GUESTS: Charlotte Harpur PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: A Ballon d’Or winner in Bromley? Watching Alexia Putellas’ WSL debut with fans from around the world Manchester United and the 45 minutes that put them in the sights of the WSL’s chasing pack North Carolina midfielder Ashley Sanchez sets U.S. scoring record — USWNT could be next WSL investigating rule breach by Crystal Palace Women, as match officials stood down Earps, Putellas and how London City can afford their high-profile transfers _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| What Rose Lavelle’s contract extension means for Gotham and the USWNT | 04 sept. 2026 | 00:33:00 | |
This week, The Athletic confirmed with sources that United States women’s national team midfielder Rose Lavelle has re-signed with Gotham FC through the 2029 season. The story was first reported by ESPN. So, why did Lavelle choose to stay with Gotham? And what does it mean for the USWNT? PLUS: Are we seeing the greatest Golden Boot race in NWSL history? Host Theo Lloyd-Hughes and The Athletic’s Melanie Anzidei break down the Lavelle contract news as well as how all the top scorers in the league match up and who their picks to win the award are come November. _______________ HOST: Theo Lloyd-Hughes GUEST: Jillian Sakovits PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: Rose Lavelle re-signs with Gotham FC through 2029 _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| WSL season preview: Can Manchester City repeat, are Arsenal favorites & will Alexia Putellas steal the show? | 02 sept. 2026 | 00:45:27 | |
The English Women's Super League is back and bigger than ever. Expanded to 14 teams for the 2026-27 season, this week’s Full Time podcast previews the new season’s title contenders, relegation battlers, new players to watch, and biggest narratives to know before it all kicks off. Host Jillian Sakovits is joined by a panel of writers from The Athletic, featuring Tamerra Griffin and Megan Feringa. Can Manchester City repeat for the first time in their history? Are a strengthened Arsenal the top pick to win a first WSL title since 2019? How much spotlight will Alexia Putellas take up as she crashes the party with the big-spending London City Lionesses? Articles referenced on the show: Seven top WSL transfers: From young stars to some of Europe’s most in-demand players Manchester United set to sign Hacken winger Monica Jusu Bah in transfer over £400k Washington Spirit’s Rebeca Bernal nearing Manchester United move Who is Eva Olid, why have Manchester United appointed her and what is she walking into? _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits GUEST: Tamerra Griffin, Megan Feringa PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Will Ashley Sanchez get recalled to the USWNT? | Reaction: Seb Hines sacked by the Orlando Pride | 31 août 2026 | 00:38:28 | |
Host Jillian Sakovits is joined by The Athletic’s Tamerra Griffin to debate what it would take for Ashley Sanchez to return to the USWNT. Sanchez leads the NWSL Golden Boot race with 15 goals but hasn’t played for the national team since October 2024. PLUS: The pod reacts to Seb Hines getting sacked as the head coach of the Orlando Pride on Monday, while also breaking down all the top moments from the NWSL weekend, including Jaedyn Shaw’s accidental goal of the season nominee. Asli Pelit also hops on the show to talk about her article on locker room cliques in women’s soccer, both real and fictional. _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits GUESTS: Asli Pelit, Tamerra Griffin PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Janine Sonis: How she came home to Denver and evolved as a player | 28 août 2026 | 00:25:26 | |
Janine Sonis has played soccer all over the world. She has won an Olympic Gold medal with Canada. But there was nothing quite like when the opportunity arose to come home and launch the NWSL in Denver, especially with one of the most important coaches of her career. On this episode of Full Time, Jillian Sakovits is joined by Sonis to talk about why she made the move to join the Denver Summit in their inaugural NWSL season and what it has been like to finally be playing soccer at home. The interview also touches on Sonis’s love of coffee, her high expectations for the team in year one, and why she is having her best-ever goalscoring season despite playing as a defender. PLUS: Ashley Sanchez breaks more records as she extends her lead in the race for the NWSL’s Golden Boot. _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits GUEST: Janine Sonis PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: NWSL Golden Boot race: Can anyone overtake Temwa Chawinga or Barbra Banda? From Janine Sonis to Sam Kerr: Taking stock of NWSL’s over and underperforming goal scorers Co-captain Janine Sonis is the ‘heart and soul’ of Denver Summit in a crucial expansion year For Courage midfielder Ashley Sanchez, another USWNT call-up should be a matter of ‘when, not if’ _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Is Portland reimagining the future of women’s sports? | 26 août 2026 | 00:44:15 | |
On this week’s Full Time, hosts Jillian Sakovits, Meg Linehan, and Tamerra Griffin are talking all things Portland, the importance of infrastructure, and the future of women’s sports. Last week, the Bhathal family, owners of both the NWSL’s Portland Thorns and the WNBA’s Portland Fire, opened a new first-of-its-kind training center that will house both teams. Coinciding with that grand opening was a conference called Epicenter that brought together some of the biggest names in women’s sports. So, what do all these big infrastructure moves mean, what makes the Rose City such a special place for women’s sports, and can this unique ownership model and special community reimagine women’s sports? ______________ HOSTS: Jillian Sakovits, Meg Linehan, Tamerra Griffin GUESTS: Lindsay Schnell, Annie Peterson PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes ______________ Reference on the show: Building the future of women’s sports, literally Inside the Thorns and Fire’s new home, Portland’s first joint women’s sports facility ______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Marie-Louise Eta: Inside the world of the trailblazing German coach | 24 août 2026 | 00:33:53 | |
Marie-Louise Eta made waves when she became the first woman to lead a men’s soccer team in Europe’s top 5 leagues, after she took charge of Union Berlin in Germany’s Bundesliga as an interim first in 2024 and then again for an extended period of time in 2026. Now, she has been tasked with leading the women’s team in their second-ever Frauen-Bundesliga season. Host Jillian Sakovits is joined by The Athletic’s Megan Feringa, fresh from four days in Berlin with Eta and Union, where she learned all about the club, their unique history, and why the plan all along was to put Eta at the helm of the women’s side despite her interim stint as head coach of the men’s team last April. PLUS: All the top moments from the NWSL weekend, including Mal Swanson’s best performance of 2026. _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits GUEST: Megan Feringa PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Kennedy Fuller & the U.S. U-20 WNT 2026 World Cup roster | 21 août 2026 | 00:27:00 | |
On this episode of Full Time Focus, we’re talking about the USA roster for the upcoming 2026 U-20 World Cup in Poland, which was released this week. Host Jillian Sakovits sat down with Bay FC midfielder Kennedy Fuller to talk about what it means for her to be selected, what her role on the team is, her love of learning under Bay head coach Emma Coates, and how she is learning to let go of the pressure. PLUS: Tamerra Griffin joined the show to go deeper into this USA roster, the future stars to know, the players who didn’t make the cut on Vicky Jepson’s roster, and what the expectations are for the USA as they go in search of a fourth U-20 World Cup trophy, and their first since 2012. _______________ HOSTS: Jillian Sakovits, Tamerra Griffin GUEST: Kennedy Fuller PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: U-20 World Cup roster set after NWSL, college teams grant releases _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Could we see relocation in the NWSL again? | 19 août 2026 | 00:42:57 | |
On this week’s Full Time, hosts Jillian Sakovits, Meg Linehan, and Tamerra Griffin unpack the past, present, and future of relocation in the NWSL. A lot of this conversation has been sparked by noise around Racing Louisville and how owners across the league have to keep up with rising expansion fees, revenues, and operating costs. How has being an owner in the NWSL changed in a short space of time? Asli Pelit joins the panel to add her expertise from the financial side of soccer and her candid conversations with owners in the league. ______________ HOSTS: Jillian Sakovits, Meg Linehan, Tamerra Griffin PANEL: Asli Pelit PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes ______________ Reference on the show: Expansion or relocation? How the NWSL ecosystem makes it hard to keep up with the price of winning Racing Louisville owner seeks new investment, says relocation not off the table An accidental NWSL owner in Louisville: The Suite Level with John Neace ______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How Cameroon won WAFCON while Temwa Chawinga captured U.S. audiences | 17 août 2026 | 00:39:46 | |
The 2026 Women’s African Cup of Nations is in the books. On Sunday night, Cameroon defeated Malawi 3-0 in the final in Rabat, Morocco, to lift their first-ever continental trophy. While the finale proved one game too many for the Chawinga sisters' Cinderella Story, this WAFCON felt different. How has Temwa Chawinga helped to bring more Americans to WAFCON? And what does it mean to have the forward risen to elite sporting superstar status in Kansas City? Host Jillian Sakovits is joined by PJ Green of the KC Star to break down ‘The Temwa Effect’ and the special scenes in Kansas City for WAFCON and beyond. The Athletic’s Tamerra Griffin also joins the show to break down what happened in the final. PLUS: All the best moments from the NWSL weekend, including some major stars returning from extended periods the sidelines. _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits GUESTS: Tamerra Griffin, PJ Green PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: Cameroon crowned WAFCON champions for first time with emphatic 3-0 win over Malawi WAFCON 2026: Cameroon shocks Nigeria, Algeria and Malawi qualify for first Women’s World Cup NWSL stars at WAFCON feel a responsibility to elevate teammates to similar opportunities _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Ashley Sanchez on her incredible 2026 and USWNT ambitions | 14 août 2026 | 00:22:49 | |
Ashley Sanchez has been one of the best players of the 2026 NWSL season. In a career year for the 27-year-old North Carolina Courage attacker, the conversation is turning to whether it is time for a return to the U.S. women’s national team. On this episode of Full Time, Jillian Sakovits is joined by Sanchez to talk all about her incredible 2026. From what new head coach Mak Lind has brought to North Carolina, to how she has refined her game on the pitch, and enjoyed major life changes off of it. She also unpacks what it would mean to win a first-ever NWSL Golden Boot trophy and the latest on whether USWNT head coach Emma Hayes has been in touch. PLUS: The news that the Chicago Stars have parted ways with head coach Martin Sjögren after just 18 matches in charge. _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits GUEST: Ashley Sanchez PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: NWSL Golden Boot race: Can anyone overtake Temwa Chawinga or Barbra Banda? Chicago Stars fire Martin Sjögren, name Karina Báez interim head coach _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The rise of women’s soccer mini-games | 12 août 2026 | 00:57:13 | |
On this week’s Full Time, hosts Jillian Sakovits, Meg Linehan, and Tamerra Griffin dive into the emerging world of web-based women’s soccer mini-games. The pod talks to the people behind viral soccer mini-games ‘Road to 75’, ‘Immaculate Footy', as well as someone who helped develop Fantasy NWSL. What does it take to launch a mini-game? How do they work, and in what ways do they educate fans on women’s soccer data and history? Can these games shape the culture and the fandom of the sport? ______________ HOSTS: Jillian Sakovits, Meg Linehan, Tamerra Griffin GUESTS: Kieran Doyle, Emily Anderson, Izzy Duddy PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes ______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| WAFCON 2026: Semifinals set as Cameroon, Morocco, Algeria and Malawi qualify for 2027 World Cup | 10 août 2026 | 00:32:47 | |
The Kansas City Current’s Temwa Chawinga and Malawi are heading to the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil. In a thriller on Sunday night, Malawi – the lowest-ranked team at the 2026 Women’s African Cup of Nations – came from behind to defeat Ghana 2-1 in the quarterfinals in Casablanca, Morocco. On this episode of Full Time, Jillian Sakovits is joined by The Athletic’s Tamerra Griffin to unpack Malawi’s incredible run to the semifinals and what it means for the nation and their players to reach a first World Cup. Will powerhouse Nigeria miss a women’s World Cup for the first time? What happened to Barbra Banda and Zambia? PLUS: All the best moments from the NWSL weekend, including goals galore as Pietra Tordin scores the fastest-ever hat-trick in NWSL history and the North Carolina Courage stun the Washington Spirit at Audi Field. _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits GUEST: Tamerra Griffin PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: WAFCON 2026: Cameroon shocks Nigeria, Algeria and Malawi qualify for first Women’s World Cup NWSL stars at WAFCON feel a responsibility to elevate teammates to similar opportunities _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Breaking down the NWSL’s 2027 calendar moves, Ted Lasso & more | 07 août 2026 | 00:29:04 | |
On Wednesday, at a press conference in New York City, NWSL commissioner Jess Berman officially unveiled the league’s 2027 calendar outline. In what will be the NWSL’s historic 15th season, the league will have its earliest-ever kickoff on February 11, the same week as the Super Bowl. On this episode of Full Time, Jillian Sakovits is joined by The Athletic’s Melanie Anzidei and Asli Pelit to break down what we learned from the NWSL’s midseason press conference, how the league went about deciding the best way to allow for a lengthy break during the 2027 Women’s World Cup next summer and will the NWSL benefit from the KC Current’s involvement in the new season of Apple TV show Ted Lasso. _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits GUESTS: Asli Pelit, Melanie Anzidei PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Reference on the show: NWSL to start 2027 season in February ahead of Women’s World Cup next summer NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman talks 2027 calendar, media rights deal and weather protocol Will ‘Ted Lasso’ shine a light on the evolution of women’s soccer? Racing Louisville owner seeks new investment, says relocation not off the table _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 2026 Summer Mailbag | 05 août 2026 | 00:51:13 | |
Is Trinity Rodman overrated? Do the U.S. women’s national team need to be playing in more competitive tournaments? Should more NWSL teams follow the Utah Royals and give head coaches more time? This week’s Full Time is a Summer Mailbag special, where hosts Jillian Sakovits, Meg Linehan and Tamerra Griffin answer listener questions on everything and anything about the global women’s game. From 2027 World Cup roster conundrums to picking WAFCON 5-a-side teams and everything in between. ______________ HOSTS: Jillian Sakovits, Meg Linehan, Tamerra Griffin PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes ______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| The week that shook Gianni Infantino, FIFA and global soccer | 03 août 2026 | 00:27:47 | |
Hot off the heels of the 2026 men’s World Cup – FIFA president Gianni Infantino unveiled a proposal to sell a stake in FIFA competitions to private investors. After widespread condemnation from the public and FIFA member associations, the proposal has been scrapped. Now the question is: Can Infantino hold onto his grip on the FIFA presidency? What is next for FIFA? And, what did this all mean for the women’s game? On this episode of Full Time, Jillian Sakovits is joined by The Athletic’s Megan Feringa to take the listener inside the week that shook FIFA and the move that could cost Infantino everything. Megan also reacts to Monday’s breaking news that Manchester United manager Marc Skinner has left the English Women’s Super League club by mutual consent. PLUS: Asli Pelit hops on the pod and breaks down the best moments from the NWSL weekend, including Gotham FC’s journey to the top, the Royals’ big win over the Thorns and Jess Fishlock keeping the time on its toes. _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits GUESTS: Asli Pelit, Megan Feringa PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: Inside the week that shook Gianni Infantino, FIFA and the football world FIFA scraps World Cup private investment plans as Infantino fights for his future UEFA threatens FIFA, Joshua Kushner with legal action over World Cup investment plan English FA to withdraw support for Gianni Infantino’s FIFA re-election Gotham and USWNT defender Emily Sonnett to miss remainder of NWSL season after knee surgery _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| How the NSL plans to fuel Canadian women’s soccer | 31 juil. 2026 | 00:27:01 | |
With the second-ever Northern Super League season underway, the NSL has recently announced that it would be adding its first expansion team. Co-founded by Canadian soccer legend Desiree Scott, Winnipeg is set to become the NSL’s seventh team in 2027. So, what have been the major wins for the NSL after 18 months? What are their plans for growth? And, how vital is the relationship between the league and the Canadian women’s national team? On this episode of Full Time, Jillian Sakovits is joined by Scott to talk about her experience playing in the NSL’s inaugural season and the story behind founding the Winnipeg team. The Athletic’s Melanie Anzidei talks about what she learned from her reporting about what is going on in Canada’s first professional women’s soccer league. There’s also a conversation with NSL chair Mark Cohon about how the league office is driving growth. _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits GUESTS: Desiree Scott, Mark Cohon, Melanie Anzidei PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Reference on the show: Soccer in Canada: How the Northern Super League hopes to fuel Canadian women’s soccer _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Should the NWSL have an All-Star Game? | 29 juil. 2026 | 00:40:16 | |
This week on Full Time, we’re talking: All-Star Games. Fresh from the WNBA wrapping up its All-Star Game in Chicago, IL, this past weekend and the MLS All-Star Game that takes place in Charlotte, NC on Wednesday, it got us thinking: When or will the NWSL have an All-Star Game? Jillian Sakovits, Meg Linehan and Tamerra Griffin debate everything about what an NWSL All-Star Game could and should look like. From who All-Star Games are really for, to how the league could possibly squeeze it into a busy calendar. ______________ HOSTS: Jillian Sakovits, Meg Linehan, Tamerra Griffin PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes ______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| 2026 NWSL MVP rankings at midseason | 27 juil. 2026 | 00:27:52 | |
Now that every team in the NWSL has played at least 15 games, the league is officially at the halfway point. So, on this episode of Full Time, Jillian Sakovits is joined by The Athletic’s Melanie Anzidei to break down who is leading the 2026 NWSL MVP race at midseason. Melanie ranks her top 10 players at the halfway point and who is poised to take the award come November. PLUS: The pod breaks down the best moments from the NWSL weekend. From Morgan Weaver’s return to soccer after 651 days away to Sofia Cantore’s stunning strike that kept the Washington Spirit at the top of the standings. _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits GUESTS: Asli Pelit, Melanie Anzidei PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: Sam Kerr scores first goal after Gotham return, Emily Sonnett taken off on stretcher _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our YouTube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Temwa Chawinga’s WAFCON and World Cup dreams | 24 juil. 2026 | 00:44:10 | |
On a special Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) episode of Full Time, Malawi forward and two-time NWSL MVP Temwa Chawinga joins the talk with Tamerra Griffin about how she’s feeling ahead of her first continental tournament and what it would mean to qualify for her and Malawi’s first-ever World Cup. PLUS: Washington Spirit sporting director James Hocken also joins the pod to explain how NWSL teams prepare their rosters to lose stars during midseason international tournaments, such as WAFCON. Also, after the Spirit signed three African players this summer, he gives his thoughts on why the continent is producing so many NWSL stars. _______________ HOST: Tamerra Griffin GUESTS: Temwa Chawinga, James Hocken PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Being a trailblazing World Cup referee with Tori Penso | 22 juil. 2026 | 00:52:18 | |
This summer, Tori Penso became the first American woman to be a head referee at a men’s World Cup match. That piece of soccer history followed on from her taking the women’s World Cup final in Sydney, Australia, three years ago. Along with her assistants, Brooke Mayo and Kathrin Nesbitt, Penso has been blazing a trail for women referees in the men’s and women’s games. So, what is it like to referee at a World Cup? On this episode of Full Time, hosts Meg Linehan and Tamerra Griffin are joined by Penso to take the listener inside the World Cup from a referee’s perspective. The interview also unpacks Penso’s journey to being one of the world’s elite officials, how technology is impacting her profession, and what she wants fans and players alike to know about what it’s like to be under so much scrutiny on the pitch. ______________ HOSTS: Meg Linehan, Tamerra Griffin GUEST: Tori Penso PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes ______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| What lessons will FIFA and the NWSL learn from the 2026 men's World Cup? | 20 juil. 2026 | 00:30:22 | |
After 104 matches in 39 days, the 2026 Men’s World Cup is officially in the books. Up next - less than one year away - the countdown to the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil has now officially begun. On this episode of Full Time, host Jillian Sakovits is joined by The Athletic’s Meg Linehan and Melanie Anzidei to discuss what lessons are to be learned from the 2026 Men’s World Cup, what impact this summer will have on the women’s game, and how the NWSL can keep the momentum going all the way into Brazil 2027. PLUS: Jill, Meg and Melanie discuss their picks of the best moments from the NWSL weekend. From Rose Lavelle buzzer beaters to a homecoming in Colorado. _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits GUESTS: Meg Linehan, Melanie Anzidei PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: The 1994 World Cup influenced a generation of Americans. What will 2026’s impact be? USWNT star Lindsey Heaps makes Denver Summit debut in hometown return to NWSL The 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup is less than a year away: Key questions for the USWNT Which countries have qualified for the 2027 Women’s World Cup?: Countdown to Brazil _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Vermont Green, Salmon Bay and the importance of grassroots soccer | 17 juil. 2026 | 00:35:37 | |
The USL W League national final between Vermont Green FC and Salmon Bay FC is this Saturday evening. What is the significance of this matchup in the broader American soccer landscape? Hosts Meg Linehan and Tamerra Griffin discuss the developmental value of this pre-professional league and the opportunities grassroots soccer clubs offer players and coaches. Then, Meg and Tamerra are joined by Vermont head coach Abby Carchio and Salmon Bay head coach Malia Arrant to preview the championship match – which could feature an appearance by former Seattle Reign great Lauren “Lu” Barnes. _______________ HOSTS: Meg Linehan, Tamerra Griffin GUESTS: Abby Carchio, Malia Arrant PRODUCER: Karan Lodha _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| What does it mean for Gotham and the NWSL to move into NYC? | 15 juil. 2026 | 00:49:29 | |
As the women’s soccer world prepares for its first-ever NWSL match in the Big Apple, Wednesday’s ‘Queens Classic’ between Gotham FC and the Washington Spirit, it’s time to zoom out and look at the big picture of what is going on between the league and the largest – and arguably most influential – city in the United States. What does it mean for Gotham and the NWSL to move into NYC? Hosts Jillian Sakovits and Meg Linehan talk to Gotham owner Carolyn Tisch Blodgett about how they created their marquee matchup in NYC the same week as the men’s World Cup final, as well as how the club is trying to match ambition with infrastructure by building a new training center and moving the club to a new New York City stadium permanently in 2028. After that, NWSL Chief Operating Officer Sarah Jones Simmer and Vice-President of Sporting Sarah Gregorius join the show to unpack how the league is trying to keep the momentum of the ‘Queens Classic’ and the men’s World Cup rolling, as well as the importance of sporting and business symbiosis with European soccer. ______________ HOSTS: Jillian Sakovits, Meg Linehan GUESTS: Carolyn Tisch Blodgett, Sarah Jones Simmer, Sarah Gregorius PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes ______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Ally Sentnor on joining Angel City and USWNT ambitions | 14 juil. 2026 | 00:22:13 | |
Ally Sentnor and Angel City are 2-0 since the club dismissed head coach Alex Straus. What is the club’s outlook for the rest of the season with the new midfielder in tow? Hosts Jillian Sakovits and Meg Linehan evaluate the changes in Los Angeles and discuss Sentnor’s midseason arrival. Then, Sentnor joins the show to share her perspective on her career with the Utah Royals, Kansas City Current and the U.S. women’s national team as well as her expectations for Angel City. PLUS: Meg and Jill discuss the recent announcement of the two friendly matches scheduled for October between the second-ranked USWNT and top-ranked Spain and what they might tell us about the team’s ambition in the lead-up to the 2027 World Cup. _______________ HOSTS: Jillian Sakovits, Meg Linehan GUESTS: Ally Sentnor PRODUCER: Karan Lodha _______________ Referenced on the show: USWNT will host Spain twice in October for World Cup qualifying preparation _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Alexia Putellas interview: Life, legacy and London City | 10 juil. 2026 | 00:27:53 | |
How did London City and owner Michele Kang sign Barcelona and women's soccer legend Alexia Putellas? Hosts Jillian Sakovits and Meg Linehan go behind the scenes to explain how the former Barcelona midfielder and two-time Ballon d’Or winner ended up in England's Women's Super League despite strong interest from several clubs on both sides of the Atlantic. Then, Putellas sits down with The Athletic’s Laia Cervelló Herrero for an exclusive interview about her momentous decision. _______________ HOSTS: Jillian Sakovits, Meg Linehan GUESTS: Alexia Putellas, interviewed by Laia Cervelló Herrero PRODUCER: Karan Lodha _______________ Referenced on the show: How Michele Kang convinced two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas to join London City Alexia Putellas’ London City Lionesses transfer moves the dial for the club and the WSL _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Does women's soccer have a women's coaching problem? | 08 juil. 2026 | 00:51:22 | |
Four women are leading four different NWSL teams this season. But are the league and its clubs doing enough to empower women to obtain those positions? Hosts Jillian Sakovits and Meg Linehan talk to Seattle Reign’s Laura Harvey, Bay FC’s Emma Coates and San Diego Wave’s Becki Tweed to discuss the hiring trends in the NWSL and whether the issues are unique to the United States. The guests also share their perspective on the women who have mentored and supported them and propose improvements to increase the share of female coaches. ______________ HOSTS: Jillian Sakovits, Meg Linehan GUESTS: Laura Harvey, Emma Coates, Becki Tweed This podcast was produced by The Athletic. ______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Inside Manaka Matsukubo’s transfer from North Carolina Courage to Chelsea | 06 juil. 2026 | 00:38:38 | |
The first weekend of the second half of the 2026 NWSL season is in the books. But in classic NWSL fashion, just as we were sitting down to welcome back league play after a 5-week break, there was a major transfer: 2025 Midfielder of the Year and MVP nominee Manaka Matsukubo moved from the North Carolina Courage to Chelsea in the English Women’s Super League. On this episode of Full Time Review, Jillian Sakovits and Meg Linehan are joined by Chief Soccer Officer for the Courage, Ceri Bowley, to go inside Matsukubo’s move. Bowley candidly talks about how close Matsukubo was to staying in North Carolina and why new arrival, 18-year-old England international Erica Meg Parkinson, is a testament to the team’s transfer strategy and ethos. PLUS: Meg talks about her moment of the opening weekend and what the implications could be for the U.S. women’s national team in the wake of the U.S. president getting involved with FIFA to aid the suspension of the red card for U.S. men’s national team forward Folarin Balogun at their home men’s World Cup this summer. _______________ HOSTS: Jillian Sakovits, Meg Linehan GUESTS: Ceri Bowley PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes _______________ Referenced on the show: Chelsea sign Manaka Matsukubo from North Carolina Courage on five-year deal Trump’s call to Infantino and plot to ‘free’ Balogun that sparked a huge World Cup controversy FIFA’s decision to suspend Folarin Balogun’s ban damages the integrity of this World Cup _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Georgia Stanway’s journey to Arsenal | 03 juil. 2026 | 00:39:16 | |
It’s official! Lionesses and former Bayern Munich midfielder Georgia Stanway is returning to the WSL to join Arsenal. The two-time European champion sat down with The Athletic’s Charlotte Harpur to talk about her journey from Munich to London and which of her England teammates had a part to play in her returning home. Harper also spoke to her former teammates Glodis Viggosdottir and Sarah Zadrazil, as well as her Dad, Paul Stanway. _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits GUEST: Georgia Stanway, Charlotte Harpur This podcast was produced by The Athletic. _______________ Referenced on the show: Georgia Stanway’s journey to Arsenal: How footballers really move clubs (and countries) _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Is the NWSL responsible for developing USWNT players? | 01 juil. 2026 | 00:47:14 | |
Today on the show, host Jillian Sakovits is joined by The Athletic’s Meg Linehan and Tamerra Griffin to dive into one of the biggest questions surrounding the NWSL. The trio discusses if the league should be responsible for developing young players for the USWNT, how head coach Emma Hayes factors into players’ decisions to go abroad and how the league has helped international players grow their game. ______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits, Meg Linehan andTamerra Griffin This podcast was produced by The Athletic. ______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||
| Sam Kerr joins Gotham, NWSL gets strict with cleats | 29 juin 2026 | 00:25:21 | |
The NWSL is back with the Challenge Cup kicking off the second half of the season. Today on the show, host Jillian Sakovits is joined by The Athletic’s Asli Pelit to recap Gotham FC’s Challenge Cup win, discuss Sam Kerr’s transfer to the New Jersey-based side and explain the league’s new footwear framework. _______________ HOST: Jillian Sakovits GUESTS: Asli Pelit This podcast was produced by The Athletic. _______________ Referenced on the show: Gotham FC announces Sam Kerr signing on deal to 2030 NWSL returns with the Challenge Cup, but the question remains: What is its purpose? Gotham FC captures NWSL Challenge Cup in Ohio’s first pro women’s soccer match NWSL launches new footwear framework, limiting brands to those who sign deals with league _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to our Youtube channel: here Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here Visit the Yahoo Women's Sports hub here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. | |||