Over the Ball Soccer Podcast: Celebrating the World's Game from an American Perspective

Celebrating the World's game from an American perspective

#261 – Author, magazine writer, and speaker Elizabeth Rusch visits OTB to discuss her book “A Greater Goal: The epic battle for equal pay in women’s soccer–and beyond”

Author, magazine writer, and speaker Elizabeth Rusch visits OTB to discuss her book “A Greater Goal: The epic battle for equal pay in women's soccer--and beyond”

While Kevin’s lost at sea, Dave talks to author Elizabeth Rusch about her new book, ‘A Greater Goal: The Epic Battle for Equal Pay in Women’s Soccer and Beyond’ to explore the fight for equality in women’s soccer, the challenges faced by the women’s national soccer team, and the need for a coach for the […]

#257 – Emergency Episode: USMNT Once Again Underperforms. Is Berhalter out?

Emergency Episode: USMNT Once Again Underperforms. Is Berhalter out?

Five years ago, Gregg Berhalter was tasked with rebuilding the U.S. men’s national team after their painful failure to qualify for the 2018 World Cup. His mission: to elevate a new generation of talent and restore pride to American soccer. Fast forward to the present, and the USMNT finds itself in a precarious situation at the Copa America. A surprise 2-1 loss to Panama has raised serious questions about Berhalter’s leadership, player development, and tactical choices. With their hopes hanging by a thread, is Berhalter’s job on the line? Dave Gallego dissects the match, analyzes the team’s stagnation, and explores whether the coach’s tenure is in jeopardy.

#256 – Kevin and Dave dig into USMNT, the Euros, ticket prices, grass pitches, the NCAA’s demise, and Alex Morgan being left off USWNT.

over the ball soccer podcast kevin flynn dave gallego

On this episode of OTB, Kevin and Dave discuss USMNT vs. Bolivia, the Alex Morgan controversy, the Euros, overly harsh English fans, temporary grass pitches, skyrocketing ticket prices, changes inside NCAA and D1, and the pros and cons of the NCAA transfer portals.

OTB Executive Producer, Ken Park, joins the boys for the shows new “Getting to Know You” segment to discuss his experiences as a professional skateboarder, his first celebrity crush, and more.

#255 – Mike Woitalla, Executive Editor of Soccer America joins the boys at OTB to dissect USMNT recent performances.

Mike Woitalla, Executive Editor of Soccer America joins the boys at OTB to dissect USMNT recent performances.

Mike Woitalla, Executive Editor of Soccer America, joins Kevin and Dave to review the USMNT’s recent performance. They analyze the team’s lackluster game against Colombia and the friendly match against Brazil. The discussion also includes predictions on the significance of the 2024 Copa América for Coach Gregg Berhalter.
With decades of soccer journalism experience, Mike brings deep insights into game highlights, player transfers, and referee decisions. Additionally, he’s an active volunteer coach, referee, and photographer with SWB Oakland, contributing to the sport from youth leagues to the professional level.
Kevin highlights the tactical adjustments needed for the USMNT to compete effectively on the global stage, emphasizing the importance of a solid defensive strategy and creative midfield play. Dave counters with a focus on improving player development programs within the US, suggesting a long-term approach to cultivate homegrown talent capable of succeeding internationally.
Mike and the hosts delve into the potential impact of upcoming international fixtures and tournaments, providing a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities awaiting the USMNT. Their conversation underscores the critical role of strategic planning and consistent performance in elevating the team’s global standing.