Explore every episode of the podcast New England Soccer Journal’s The Goal

In this episode of New England Soccer Journal's The Goal Podcast, host Matt Langone is joined by Siemens Media Managing Editor and Girls Prep Soccer Writer Mike Zhe. They delve into the upcoming NEPSAC soccer tournaments, providing a comprehensive breakdown of both girls and boys teams. They discuss potential top teams, analyze their performances during the season, and predict who might make it through to the finals. The episode also features 'Extra Time' where the hosts respond to thought-provoking soccer-related quotes. This episode is a must-listen for serious soccer players and their supporters looking to navigate the high-stakes environment of New England prep soccer.

Topics

01:01 NEPSAC Tournament Overview

03:14 Girls Prep Soccer: Top Teams Analysis

06:15 Class A Contenders Breakdown

13:51 Class B Insights and Predictions

17:02 Boys Prep Soccer Preview

18:44 Milton and Berkshire: The Teams to Watch

19:33 Contenders for the Boys' Championship

21:22 Filling Out the Field: The Final Teams

23:52 Class B Championship Predictions

26:46 Bracketology and Final Thoughts

28:28 Extra Time: Soccer Quotes and Insights

In this episode of the New England Soccer Journal's 'The Goal' podcast, hosts Matt Langone and Matt Doherty sit down with Eric Klein, New England Revolution II midfielder and the Revolution Academy Player of the Year for the 23-24 season. Klein opens up about his journey from Pennsylvania to the Revs Academy, highlighting the honor of his award and the significance of adaptability on the field. The episode delves into his physical and skill development, the importance of fitness, and the challenges of professional soccer. Notable discussions include the value of mentorship, the nuances of player-coach relationships, and parental support in youth sports. The conversation is enriched with Klein's personal soccer memories, aspirations, and the essential qualities that make a great coach.

Topics

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:31 Meet Eric Klein: Revolution Academy Player of the Year

01:05 Eric's Journey and Achievements

03:39 Life in the Academy and Residency Program

06:08 Transition to Professional Soccer

10:45 Personal Growth and Future Goals

17:54 Producer David's Toughest Questions

18:38 Memorable Soccer Moments

22:39 Advice for Soccer Parents

27:17 Qualities of a Good Soccer Coach

31:27 Closing Remarks and Farewell

In this episode of New England Soccer Journal's The Goal Podcast, host Matt Langone interviews Dave Barrett, head coach of Fairfield University women's soccer team. Dave discusses his insights and strategies as a college recruiter and coach, emphasizing the importance of athleticism, character, and transparency in the recruitment process. He shares experiences from his coaching career, talks about the blend of technical ability and character he seeks in players, and highlights the critical nature of fit for both the program and the athlete. The discussion also covers the importance of managing expectations, handling rejection, and the evolving role of social media in recruitment. As Fairfield prepares for another competitive season, Dave expresses optimism about the team's prospects and reflects on the significant emotional moments in his coaching journey. 

Topics

00:45 Recruiting Insights and Philosophy

04:58 Handling Rejection and Thick Skin

13:03 Geographical Recruitment Strategy

15:03 Social Media's Role in Recruitment

19:21 The Importance of Live Interaction in Recruiting

19:50 Evaluating Player and Family Dynamics

20:46 The Initial Contact Process

21:44 Challenges with Player Parents

24:01 Goalkeeper Perspective in Coaching

25:48 Program Expectations for 2024

29:15 Extra Time: Fun and Insightful Questions

38:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The guest is Ally Giovino, a forward transitioning from Colgate University to the University of New Hampshire for a graduate year. Ally discusses her bittersweet emotions about leaving Colgate, her reasons for choosing Colgate over other schools during her recruiting process, her development as a player, and how the COVID-19 pandemic affected her college experience. She also talks about her plans for the future, her strong work ethic, and her experiences coaching younger players during the summer. 

Topics:

00:37 Reflecting on Colgate Experience 03:17 Navigating the COVID-19 Challenges 04:57 Choosing UNH for Grad Year 08:16 Leadership and On-Field Role 10:32 Recruitment and Transfer Insights 15:43 Early Soccer Journey and Multi-Sport Background 17:35 The Benefits of Playing Multiple Sports 19:07 The Impact of Club Soccer on Development 19:36 Summer Training Plans and Personal Coaching 20:17 Future in Coaching and Training Young Players 21:57 Extra Time: The Best Coach

New England Soccer Journal contributor, Frank Dell'Apa discusses the current state of the New England Revolution, their struggles in the Eastern Conference, and the broader context of soccer development and superstar influence in MLS. The conversation delves into the Revolution's performance, historical context under Bruce Arena's management, and prospects for improvement. Also, the transformative effect of Lionel Messi's arrival in MLS with Miami, comparing the impact of star power on soccer dynamics in the U.S. to global trends. Additionally, the pod covers the role of youth development, the future of American soccer leading up to the 2026 World Cup, and the potential ramifications of sports gambling on the game.

00:42 Diving Deep into the New England Revolution's Current Struggles 02:04 Analyzing the Revolution's Performance and Potential Turnaround 05:00 The Impact of Youth and Homegrown Talent on the Revolution 07:33 Caleb Porter's Optimism and the Challenges Ahead 12:52 Miami's Game-Changing Approach to MLS 18:07 The Future of the Revolution in the Competitive MLS Landscape 19:52 The Game-Changing Potential of Soccer's Accessibility 19:59 The Spontaneity of Soccer and Its Fans 21:17 The Messi Effect: A Case Study in Star Power 24:17 The Future of Soccer: Star Players and Team Strategies 28:35 Extra Time: Deep Dives into Soccer's Evolution, Challenges, and Gambling

In this episode of The Goal Podcast, Matt Langone and producer David Yas discuss the television docuseries 'Welcome to Wrexham,' which follows Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney as they purchase and manage Wrexham AFC, a historic yet struggling Welsh soccer team. They delve into the show's influence on soccer's popularity, its appeal to a broader audience, and its representation of the sport's emotional and competitive aspects. The episode also covers the concept of relegation in soccer, the team's challenges and successes under new management, and the unique community support around Wrexham AFC. Additionally, they touch on a new venture by Reynolds and McElhenney into Mexican soccer with Club Nacaxa. Interviews, clips from the series, and discussions highlight key moments, fan culture, and the personal investment of the owners in the team's turnaround.

Topics:

00:27 Diving Deep into 'Welcome to Wrexham' 02:18 The Hollywood Effect: Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney's Impact 03:25 The Emotional and Financial Investment in Wrexham AFC 04:04 Exploring the Cultural Phenomenon of Soccer Through 'Welcome to Wrexham' 11:36 Understanding Soccer's Relegation System and Its Impact 19:32 Rob and Ryan's Strategy: Star Power and Community Engagement 22:37 Fan Engagement and Ownership Dynamics 23:31 SportsCenter Parody and Team Performance Analysis 24:17 The Power of Self-Deprecation in Sports 25:37 Cultural Impact and Audience Connection 27:35 The Unique Charm of Soccer Chants 30:57 The Evolution of Rob and Ryan's Public Persona 32:28 Season Recap and Looking Ahead 40:00 Expanding the Empire: New Ventures

The guests are Steve McAuliffe, Executive Director, and Brendan Hamilton, Academy Director, from South Shore Select. The episode delves into the club's significant transition to ECNL girls from the Girls Academy for the 2024-25 season, marking a major milestone. McAuliffe and Hamilton discuss the club's joy and competitive ambitions with this move, highlighting their long-term effort in fostering soccer talent and the club's development over the past 30 years. They share success stories, including nurturing players like number one NWSL draft pick Ally Sentnor. The conversation also touches on the club's strong community ties, the importance of maintaining a competitive yet respectful club culture, and their perspectives on future growth and challenges within the changing landscape of club soccer. The podcast concludes with a light-hearted Celebrity Soccer Fantasy Draft.

More at https://selectma.com/

Topics

00:00 Welcome to The Goal Podcast with South Shore Select Leadership 00:41 Major Club Announcement: Transition to ECNL 02:38 Reflecting on Club Success and Player Development 07:50 The Competitive Spirit and Future Aspirations 16:22 Navigating the Club Soccer Landscape and Focusing on Self-Improvement 19:07 Exploring the Club's Unique Approach and Community Impact 19:38 The Importance of Familiarity and Personalization in Club Sports 20:59 Expansion Strategies and Maintaining Club Identity 21:57 Transitioning to a New League: Expectations and Preparations 23:14 Club and Community Excitement for the Upcoming Season 23:56 Celebrity Soccer Fantasy Draft: A Fun Divergence

Scott Halpern was named head coach of Loomis Chaffee's soccer teaam in 2023. Halpern previously worked with the men’s soccer program at the University of Connecticut.

He joins the show to talk about this off-season, including adding some new students and off-season training and conditioning programs.

New England Revolution forward Olger Escobar joins the show to talk about the team's training in Florida and the excitement surrounding the new season.

Also covered in the show: Olger shares insights into his transition from youth soccer to professional soccer, emphasizing the motivation he draws from seeing young players progressing through the ranks and his determination to adapt quickly to the demands of professional play.

The conversation touches upon Older's accolades, such as being named the Revolution Academy Player of the Year for 2022-23, highlighting his journey from joining the academy to receiving recognition for his performance and dedication.

Olger discusses his international experience, including his call-up to the Guatemalan national team and his debut, offering insights into the emotions and significance of representing his country on the soccer field.

Olger also reflects on his personal soccer journey, discussing his early dedication to the sport, family influences, and experiences playing for various teams. He shares memorable moments, such as crucial penalty kicks and the impact of watching and learning from soccer legends like Lionel Messi

The guests are Boston Bolts MLS Next Director Shawn Napier and Director of Coaching Greg Robertson who join the show to look ahead to the MLS season and discuss how the Bolts are distinguished from the rest of the club landscape in New England.

The guest is Aztec Soccer Junior Boys Director Jeff Winterton. Jeff, a veteran of the club, discusses its new ownership, changes in structure and more.

Chris Watkins was named the new head women's soccer coach at Boston College this past December.  Watkins previously coached seven seasons at Gonzaga, where he compiled a 79-33-16 record.

Host Matt Langone introduces new soccer reporter Matt Doherty. The episode highlights Matt's background, including his experience in sports journalism and his focus on club and academy soccer in the New England region. They discuss the dynamic soccer landscape, especially in the context of youth clubs and academies, such as MLS Next and ECNL. Matt shares his excitement about covering the burgeoning soccer scene and the opportunity to share untold player stories. The podcast also features a segment of 'extra time', where hypothetical scenarios about soccer movies and fascinating rules are discussed.

Topics

00:36 Meet the New Reporter: Matt Doherty

01:34 Matt Doherty's Background and Experience

03:31 Insights on MLS Next and Club Soccer

07:24 High School vs. Club Soccer

10:37 Future Coverage and Club Dynamics

17:44 Extra Time: Fun and Random Questions

31:03 Conclusion and Farewell

Milton Academy recently claimed the the Class A championship, after a "gauntlet" of a tournament. Coach Chris Kane joins the show to talk about the achievement.

Host Matt Langone is joined by Seamans Media Managing Editor and Girls Prep Soccer writer Mike Zhe to preview the New England prep school playoffs.

The guest is Jennifer Epstein, one of the owners of Boston's brand new National Women's Soccer League franchise that will begin play in 2026.

Rick Warren, head coach for Suffield Academy, is the guest.  Prior to arriving at Suffield, he was the assistant men’s soccer coach at Kenyon College. Rick is a native of Jamaica who played for his country at the youth level.

Sam Lopes was named the ninth head coach of the Providence women’s soccer program in 2014 

In his first nine seasons as head coach, Lopes has guided the Friars to seven winning seasons, one appearance in the NCAA Tournament (2021) and appearances in seven of the last eight Big East Tournaments. In 2021, Lopes guided the Friars to their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 1993. 

New England Soccer Journal's Matt Langone and Mike Zhe preview the upcoming prep school soccer season for both the boys and girls squads.

Just days away from the start of the season, Coach Jen Hughes joins the show to talk Amherst College soccer.

The guest is Marc Hubbard, who is in his ninth season as UNH men’s soccer head coach. The Wildcats have recorded 10+ win seasons each of Hubbard's first eight years and is currently a top-25 ranked team.

With the U.S. pursuing a first-ever threepeat at the World Cup, longtime soccer writer Frank Dell'Apa joins the show to talk about the expectations around the Americans team and the New Englanders who will play a role in reaching those goals. He also joins host Matt Langone to break down how the Revolution have played this season (22:18) and the U19 championship won by the Revs' academy team (24:30). They finish with a look at the impact Lionel Messi will have as he joins the MLS in Miami (25:20). 

Curt Onalfo, technical director of the New England Revolution, joins the show to talk about a host of issues including the signing of local soccer phenom Peyton Miller.

In this episode of New England Soccer Journal's The Goal Podcast, host Matt Langone chats with Paul Turner, the new head coach of Thayer Academy Girls Soccer. Turner, who has extensive coaching experience in high school soccer, shares his excitement about the new role, the challenges of leading a team with significant injuries, and his coaching philosophy. He also reflects on his journey from London to the U.S., the modern club soccer landscape, and his hopes for the future of the sport. Additionally, Turner and Langone discuss the growth of the National Women's Soccer League and the pros and cons of artificial turf in soccer.

Topics

00:34 Meet Paul Turner: Thayer Academy's New Head Coach

01:10 Paul Turner's Coaching Journey

02:45 Challenges and Opportunities at Thayer Academy

04:23 Team Dynamics and Player Development

06:12 Coaching Philosophy and Team Strategy

14:01 Paul Turner's Background and Passion for Soccer

17:01 Reflecting on the Evolution of Soccer

17:57 Challenges in Club Soccer

19:56 Defining a Successful Season for Thayer

21:55 Extra Time: Random Questions

22:31 The Future of Women's Soccer

25:42 Debate Over Artificial Turf

28:10 First Memories of Soccer

30:26 Closing Thoughts and Farewell

NEFC Boys Director of Coaching Christian Battaglia joins the show to talk about a host of issues around the spring season of soccer.

Jon Moodey is the founder and CEO of Black Rock Football Club. He previously served as the Head Soccer Coach at Berkshire School for 11 years, where he won three National Prep Championships. 

USA College recruiting and placement expert Don Williams joins the show with a host of advice for the parents of high school soccer players.

James Proctor just finished his 23rd year coaching the Worcester Academy boy's soccer program. During his time at WA, he has compiled a 271-69-53 record.

The guest is Brown University forward Brittany Raphino, who recently got the call from the U23 women's youth national team.

Goalkeeper Max Weinstein is the guest, fresh off signing his first pro contract with the N.E. Revolution II.

Connecticut FC ECL director and co-owner Todd Plourde is the guest. Plourde also serves as women's soccer head coach for Iona.

The guest is the Berkshire School’s Tony Amolo, the men’s  head varsity coach and a 2013 alum of the prep school. Under Amolo’s guidance the team improved to a stellar 14-3-2 last season.

The guest is coach Kyle Dezotell, who In his first year led the Tufts University men's soccer program to the NESCAC championship and into the Elite 8 of the NCAA Tournament.

The guest is Steve Gans, author of Win the College Soccer Recruiting Game: The Guide for Parents and Players.

The book explains each step in the college recruiting process as well as the ways that players and parents can best prepare for them.

Get the book at: https://www.amazon.com/Win-College-Soccer-Recruiting-Game/dp/1735810770

In this episode of New England Soccer Journal's The Goal Podcast, host Matt Langone speaks with New England Soccer Journal high school soccer writer Patrick Donnelly about the upcoming high school soccer season. They discuss top teams and players to watch, challenges posed by the MLS Next factor, the impact of club soccer on high school participation, and share experiences covering high school sports. The episode also includes a fun segment called Extra Time, where the participants answer random soccer-related questions.

Topics

01:12 High School Soccer Insights

02:55 MLS Next Impact on High School Soccer

04:41 Early Season Highlights and Rankings

05:39 Challenges of Covering High School Sports

08:04 Players to Watch This Season

10:41 State Championship Atmosphere

12:16 Comparing High School and Prep School Sports

14:55 Pat's Background and Experience

16:04 Extra Time: Fun Questions

24:34 Conclusion and Sign Off

John Natale enters his 19th season at Hartford as the winningest coach in program history with a career record of 155-114-49 (.576 winning percentage).

Host Matt Langone is joined by Bryant University soccer coach Ruben Resendes. In 2022, Resendes led Franklin Pierce's men's soccer team to the NCAA Division II Championship. The Ravens finished 25-0-1 overall, tying the record for highest winning percentage for a school to claim a national title. Under his guidance for four seasons, the team consistently ranked in the top 10. 

Host Matt Langone is joined by Evan Burokas, co-director of Scorpions SC, and

Scorpions coach Andre Reis.

Kevin Bacher was named Bayside FC's Boys' Director of Coaching in 2021.  Previously he worked at Oakwood Soccer Club for several years where he coached the u17 & u19 MLS Next groups. He also has college experience, coaching at UConn for many years.

Matt is joined by Wilmington Mass. native and Notre Dame forward Olivia Wingate as she recounts her remarkable 2022 season and looks ahead to the NWSL draft.

URI star Patrick Agyemang joins the show to talk about the thrill of being selected in the first round of the MLS draft.

Endicott College goalie standout Jackie Ruggiero joins the show to talk about the decision to partially amputate her finger so she could continue to follow her soccer dream.

Dave Crowell joins the show to talk about his St. John’s Prep team’s magical 22-0-1 championship season. Crowell just completed his 22d year as head soccer coach.

He joins host Matt Langone to discuss:

• The first state championship since 2006;
• How this team compares to the ‘06 title team;
• His goalkeeper’s “crazy” 16 shutouts;
• The ability of his team to “wear teams down”;
• Whether kids should be playing multiple sports; and
• Which of his players will play at a higher level.

Owen Finberg recently wrapped up his final season as head coach of the South Kent School Cardinals, concluding a tenure that began in 2004. 

He joins host Matt Langone to discuss:

• The undefeated 2022 season and a share of the national championship;
• Handling a season where his team was ineligible for the postseason;
• His remarkable record of cultivating college-eligible players;
• His thoughts on World Cup competition.

The guest is Rhode Island FC co-founder Michael Parkhurst, a Cranston RI native who enjoyed a playing career with squads including the U.S. national team and the New England Revolution.

Mike talks about:

• The passion for soccer in Rhode Island;
• The plans for a 10,000+ stadium in Pawtucket, which will be ‘the state’s living room’  
• The recently revealed crest for Rhode Island FC
• The community soccer pride illustrated in ‘Welcome to Wrexham.’

In this episode of New England Soccer Journal's The Goal Podcast, host Matt Langone welcomes Seamans Media Managing Editor and Girls Prep Soccer writer Mike Zhe. They discuss the upcoming NEPSAC 2024 prep soccer season, focusing on top teams and players in both girls and boys prep soccer. Key highlights include in-depth prospects for perennial powerhouses like Buckingham, Brown, and Nichols (BB&N) on the girls' side and Milton Academy on the boys' side, along with insights into other competitive teams like Taft, Northfield Mount Hermon, and Worcester Academy. The episode also features an engaging ‘extra time’ segment with creative and insightful soccer-related questions.

Topics

01:06 Previewing the Girls Prep Soccer Season

01:58 Top Teams to Watch in Girls Prep Soccer

05:12 Founders League Powerhouses

09:15 Class B Contenders: Pingree and Dexter Southfield

11:02 ISL Teams to Watch: Thayer Academy and Nobles

13:38 Teams Outside the Top 10 to Watch

16:08 Transition to Boys Prep Soccer

16:28 Milton Academy: The Team to Beat

17:57 Challengers to Milton Academy

20:53 Western Massachusetts Contenders: Taft, NMH, and Berkshire

22:37 Worcester Academy's Prospects

23:38 Founders League Boys Teams: Loomis Chaffee

23:53 Loomis Chaffee's Promising Season

24:21 Choate: The Team to Beat

24:59 Kimball Union Academy's Rise

25:57 Avon Old Farms and Nobles in the Rankings

26:52 Potential Top 10 Contenders

28:24 The Passion of Prep and High School Soccer

30:11 Extra Time: Fun and Creative Soccer Questions

The guest is longtime soccer columnist Frank Dell’Apa who joins the show to talk about the upcoming World Cup in Qatar.

Jim Hopkins, head coach of Bridgton Academy, joins the show to talk about his unique program. Hopkins spent three years as Associate Head Soccer Coach at his alma mater, the University of Southern Maine, where he was also a three-year captain for the soccer team from 1997-99. 

Matt Langone and Mike Zhe break down the brackets as they look ahead to the postseason for both boys and girls varsity prep soccer.

Loomis-Chaffee coach Linda Hathorn joins the show to talk about the foundations of her program and her methods of inspiration.