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

Celebrating the World's game from an American perspective

#246 – Skip Gilbert, esteemed CEO of US Youth Soccer and ex-goalkeeper for the Tampa Bay Rowdies, tackles the latest in the world of youth soccer on OTB! 

Skip Gilbert, esteemed CEO of US Youth Soccer and ex-goalkeeper for the Tampa Bay Rowdies, tackles the latest in the world of youth soccer on OTB!

Tune in as Skip Gilbert, esteemed CEO of US Youth Soccer and ex-goalkeeper for the Tampa Bay Rowdies, tackles the latest in the world of youth soccer on OTB! Don’t miss this insightful discussion featuring this week’s top soccer news, scores, and highlights. As a former goalkeeper with the Tampa Bay Rowdies and a two-time NCAA Division 1 All-American, Skip brings a wealth of experience and passion to the beautiful game. Join hosts Kevin Flynn and Dave Gallego as they delve into Skip’s remarkable journey, discussing everything from the highs and lows of soccer in the US to his leadership roles in USA Swimming, USA Triathlon, and USA Tennis. Discover how Skip’s insights and resilience have guided US Youth Soccer during challenging times, and gain valuable perspectives on early specialization, coaching education, and the KISS principle. Don’t miss this engaging conversation with a true soccer luminary!

Legendary Chicago Sting Head Coach, 1981 NASL Coach of the Year, and National Soccer Hall of Famer Willy Roy, joins the boys on OTB

legendary Chicago Sting soccer coach Willy Roy

Legendary Chicago Sting Coach, Willy Roy, joins the boys on OTB to discuss Coach Roy’s transition from player to coach, the demise of the NASL, and the Chicago Sting’s historic win over the Cosmos in the 1981 Soccer Bowl. Dave and Kevin celebrate the Coach’s National Soccer Hall of Fame induction in 1989 and his NASL Coach of the Year honors in 1981. The boys also dig into Daryl Dike’s injury, Gio Reyna’s performance for Nottingham Forest, alongside USMNT teammate Matt Turner, and Brazil’s surprise failure to qualify for the 2024 Olympics. The mics are a buzzing on this week’s episode of Over The Ball.

“Soccer Tom” Mulroy, an American soccer legend and author of the newly released book, “90 Minutes with the King: How Soccer Saved My Life”.

soccer tommy tom mulroy

Join Kevin and Dave on the latest episode of Over The Ball as they chat with the legendary “Soccer Tom” Mulroy. The newly released book, “90 Minutes with the King: How Soccer Saved My Life” is a must-read for all fans, players, and coaches. In this captivating discussion, Tommy takes listeners on a journey through the American soccer scene and shares his passion and dedication for the game. From humble beginnings to playing in the NASL and even guarding Pele himself, Mulroy’s stories highlight the crucial role of street soccer in paving the way for today’s players and coaches. Listen as Tommy talks about his experience playing against Pele and witnessing his infamous bicycle kick goal, as well as delving into individual ability, sportsmanship, memorable moments, and the pure love of the game.

Join 1994 World Cup Superstar and Fox Broadcaster “Gigante Rojo” Alexi Lalas on OTB discuss his career in soccer, his transition to broadcasting, and the growth of American soccer.

soccer tommy tom mulroy

Get ready for some fun and engaging banter as “Gigante Rojo”, better known as the former USMNT stand-out and witty Fox on-air talent Alexi Lalas, join the boys at OTB. They dive into Lalas’ impressive soccer career, his transition to broadcasting, and the ever-growing American soccer scene. Kevin and Dave skillfully coax Lalas into discussing the importance of candor and expressing opinions in soccer broadcasting, all while sharing amusing anecdotes from his world stage experiences. Prepare for a hilarious twist as Lalas reveals his secret passion for making music and the therapeutic power it holds. Not forgetting the impactful 1994 World Cup, they discuss soccer’s transformation in the US, Lalas’ possible venture into politics, and his deep love for the country. Tune in for some exciting takeaways and a memorable outro!

USA Soccer Legend and Herman Trophy Winner Bruce Murray Joins OTB to discuss being one of the first Americans to play overseas, playing as the underdog in the World Cup, and the “billion dollar goal”

soccer tommy tom mulroy

Welcome back soccer lovers, to another exciting episode of Over The Ball. This week, we have a special guest who will surely spark some nostalgia for our die-hard listeners. He’s a former national team player and winner of the prestigious Herman Trophy – none other than Bruce Murray himself! Joined by your favorite hosts Kevin Flynn and Dave Gallego, this episode is filled with insightful conversations about his illustrious career in soccer, playing overseas professionally, and the importance of having an underdog mentality on the field. The boys also pay tribute to the late Franz Beckenbauer and his impact on the game. The conversation covers Beckenbauer’s revolutionary role as a sweeper and his English language lessons. Kevin and Dave also announce the winner of a competition, preview next week’s guest and conclude with a discussion on recent Premier League soccer matches.