A lifelong love of soccer and Oakland fuels Tommy Hodul’s journey—from originally dreaming of music education to co-founding Oakland Roots SC, a club where culture, activism, and winning come together on and off the pitch. Join Claudine Wong, Alex Lobban, and Tommy for a passionate conversation about building community through soccer, the thrill of the game, and why bowling just might be Tommy’s hidden talent.
Tommy Hodul shares his inspiring story of how a childhood passion for soccer and deep ties to Oakland shaped his path to co-founding Oakland Roots SC. Alongside Claudine and co-host Alex Lobban, Tommy reflects on the club’s vision, the importance of winning with purpose, and how fostering community remains at the heart of everything they do. Plus, discover the surprising story behind Tommy’s perfect 300 bowling game!
Soccer as a lifelong passion and tool for community empowerment
Founding Oakland Roots SC with a mission blending sport, culture, and activism
How winning on the field strengthens community pride and momentum
The importance of building facilities and infrastructure for future growth
Tommy’s fun side: achieving a perfect 300 bowling game
00:00 – Welcome & introductions
01:30 – Tommy’s original plan to study music and music education and the injury that changed everything
07:45 – Founding Oakland Roots & Soul SC: vision and values
17:45 – Fusing soccer with culture and activism
20:50 – The importance of winning
22:50 – Tommy’s perfect 300 bowling game revealed
28:10 – Future plans and growing Oakland Roots community and why facilities matter
Claudine Wong
Facebook & Instagram: @claudinewongktvu
TikTok: @claudinektvu
Alex Lobban (Co-host)
Instagram: @thealexlobban
Oakland Roots SC
Website: www.oaklandrootssc.com
“Soccer’s always been part of who I am — it’s about Oakland, community, and bringing people together.” – Tommy Hodul
“The club is about more than just winning; it’s about culture, activism, and giving back.” – Tommy HodulGuest Snapshot
Tommy Hodul is a co-founder of Oakland Roots SC, a soccer club deeply rooted in the Oakland community. With a lifelong passion for the sport and commitment to activism, Tommy helps drive the club’s vision of building a team and culture that truly represents its city. Outside soccer, he’s a passionate bowler, recently hitting a perfect 300 game.
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