Pitch to Pro

Parker Dodson's journey from the heart of traditional American sports territory in Arkansas to a passionate soccer fan is nothing short of fascinating. Growing up in a community where basketball, baseball, and football dominated, Parker's late blooming love for soccer stands out. He shares his early struggles with understanding the sport that wasn't mainstream in his hometown, and how video games like FIFA on Xbox became his unconventional guide to the beautiful game. Parker's story offers a rare glimpse into the challenges and joys of embracing soccer in a region where it wasn't initially appreciated.

We dive into the cultural immersion that follows choosing a Premier League club and Parker's dedicated support for Everton. Discover the charm of Goodison Park, the heartfelt connection to the working-class spirit of Liverpool, and the emotional rollercoaster of following a team through highs and lows. From learning about the game's intricacies to the excitement of global events like the World Cup, Parker explains how his soccer fandom grew to encompass a deep appreciation for the sport's global reach and cultural impact.

This episode also sheds light on the burgeoning soccer scene in the United States, particularly with the rise of the USL in Northwest Arkansas. We discuss the league's potential to transform local communities, the surge in popularity fueled by diverse populations, and the palpable excitement surrounding new developments like dedicated soccer stadiums. Tune in to understand the transformative power of live matches, the importance of supporting local teams, and how the growing soccer culture is reshaping the sporting landscape in America.

Can a region experiencing rapid demographic shifts navigate the complexities of inclusive growth and sustainable urban planning effectively? Join us as we revisit this critical question in our latest episode, highlighting the transformative landscape of Northwest Arkansas. We unpack the region’s demographic evolution, where underrepresented minorities now constitute about one-third of the population, and discuss the impending population boom expected to reach one million in the next two decades. Our guest provides expert insights into the collaborative efforts between local governments and businesses to craft development codes that support affordable living for community backbones like teachers and firefighters.

In this episode, we also delve into the strategic comparisons with regions such as Austin, Texas, to glean lessons on urban growth and avoid common pitfalls. We discuss the annual state of the region report that not only measures economic metrics but also considers traffic and growth patterns to inform future planning. Through education and expert guidance, we aim to empower local decision-makers to shape a vibrant and sustainable community. Tune in to learn how strategic urban planning and inclusive growth can transform the quality of life in northwest Arkansas.

What happens when a community rallies to create a structured soccer pathway for its youth? Join us on Pitch to Pro as we welcome Scott Marksberry, the head coach for the U20 USL Arkansas Academy team, to uncover the burgeoning soccer scene in Northwest Arkansas. Scott sheds light on the region's success in nurturing young talent while also addressing the hurdles faced by older players who lack high-level local competition. Discover how the formation of the U20 team aims to fill this developmental gap, ensuring that players aged 15 to 19 continue to evolve both technically and tactically.

Ever wondered how a soccer tryout for over 130 players is managed? Listen in as we recount the intense and dynamic tryout sessions for the U20 team, which showcased impressive local talent despite weather challenges. From technical skill assessments to 11 v 11 matches, Scott walks us through the meticulous organization and evaluation process assisted by local college and club coaches. Hear about the standout players, the tactical insights gained, and the strategic decisions that culminated in selecting the final roster for the USL Arkansas team.

The launch of the U20 team marks a significant milestone for soccer in Northwest Arkansas, aligning with the USL Academy to offer diverse competition opportunities, including MLS academy games and collegiate programs. Scott shares the palpable excitement among players as they rise to meet professional academy standards and represent their community with pride. This initiative not only aims to retain local talent but also to foster a robust soccer culture in the region. Tune in to share Scott’s optimism for the upcoming year and understand the profound impact this will have on both the players and the community.

Curious about the massive undertaking of building a new stadium from the ground up? This Stoppage Time edition of the Pitch to Pro podcast promises to provide all the insights you need! Join us as we highlight our journey towards the ambitious 2026 goal, featuring compelling stories and unforgettable moments that capture the essence of our soccer community's drive and passion. With Chris Martinovic leading us, we discuss the complexities of construction, funding, and the operational hurdles we’ve tackled along the way.

Eager to snag season tickets for the upcoming games? We’ve got you covered. In this episode, we dive into the buzz and excitement surrounding our anticipated season ticket sales, set for early 2025. We ensure you’ll have ample notice to join the list and be part of this monumental project. Tune in for updates, reflections, and an enthusiastic look ahead as we continue to build momentum for the future of soccer in Arkansas.

Ever wondered how soccer agents navigate the high-stakes world of player transfers? Find out as we unravel the complexities of negotiations, transfer fees, and buyout clauses in our latest episode. We promise to shed light on the pivotal role agents play in securing top deals for their clients, while also deciphering how these financial mechanisms influence club strategies and player movement.

But that's not all—brace yourself for an in-depth discussion on financial fair play, with a special focus on Chelsea's recent spending spree. We explain how clubs amortize transfer fees over the length of player contracts and reveal the clever strategies teams employ to comply with financial regulations. Plus, we capture the drama and excitement that peak during transfer windows, setting the stage for the upcoming season. Tune in to get your comprehensive guide to the financial and emotional stakes of soccer transfers!

Ever wondered how professional sports franchises can not only survive but thrive through challenging times? Today, we've got the answers straight from the source. Join us as Wes sits down with Warren Smith, the mastermind behind the success of USL Arkansas and other prominent sports teams. Warren's journey from a serendipitous entry into professional sports to becoming a heavy hitter in multiple markets is nothing short of inspiring. He takes us through his pivotal moments, including rescuing the Portland Beavers from bankruptcy and learning from the legendary Art Savage.

But it's not just about the game day excitement; Warren and Wes dive deep into the profound impact sports clubs can have on their communities. From fostering local spirit to creating a sense of belonging, they explore the myriad of ways these organizations contribute beyond the pitch. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, an industry professional, or simply love a good comeback story, this episode offers a treasure trove of insights and inspiration. Don't miss this compelling conversation that promises to change the way you look at sports franchises forever.

Ever wondered how soccer clubs manage to pull off those jaw-dropping player transfers? Master the intricate world of soccer transfers in our latest episode of Pitch to Pro. We kick things off by dissecting the different transfer windows, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the summer and winter periods. Learn why these windows are much more than dates on a calendar and how they impact both clubs and the emotional rollercoaster fans ride when their favorite players depart.

Next, we break down the nitty-gritty of player transfers and loans, revealing how clubs navigate this complex terrain. From the initial inquiry to final negotiations, discover how transfer fees and clauses like sell-on percentages come into play. We also discuss the intriguing rules around loans, such as preventing loaned players from playing against their parent clubs, and how these arrangements can sometimes be a win-win for all parties involved. Appreciate the business acumen and strategic maneuvering required to make these transfers happen.

Finally, we shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes of the transfer market—the agents. Learn how agents negotiate contracts, influence deals, and the rise of "super agents" who command staggering earnings. We'll also unpack the financial intricacies, like buyout clauses and how clubs like Chelsea use tactics such as amortization and long-term contracts to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations. With real-world examples and a glimpse into future trends, this episode promises to enrich your understanding of one of soccer's most pivotal aspects.

Have you ever felt the electricity of 70,000 roaring fans in a stadium? Get ready to immerse yourself in the fervent fandom of Atlanta United as we recount the unforgettable atmosphere at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. From the emotional highs of standing among passionate supporters to the game-changing chants that rally the team, we promise to transport you to the heart of this incredible soccer culture. Hear firsthand accounts of how a city's undying support can turn any match into a must-see spectacle and how Atlanta United’s home games are among the best experiences in global soccer.

Switching gears, we explore the burgeoning soccer scene in Northwest Arkansas with insights from our experienced guest, who shares his vision for the region's potential. Learn about the local supporters' group's ambitions to create an atmosphere that rivals the best in the sport and the strategies to make their stadium a fortress. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to the game, discover how the passion of a community can transform the sporting landscape and create a home-field advantage that any team would envy. Don't miss this episode filled with passion, community spirit, and the sheer love of the game!

Experience the inspiring voyage of USL Arkansas, revealed by co-founder Chris Martinovic and your host, Wes Harris, as they recount the club's unforgettable public debut on July 12, 2023. Learn about the overwhelming community support from local leaders and league officials, which truly made the launch event a milestone. Discover how essential public listening sessions have been in shaping the club's mission and vision, making soccer a unifying force in Northwest Arkansas.

Journey with us as we discuss the club's unwavering commitment to values like authenticity, belonging, excellence, passion, and compassion. Uncover how collaborations with University of Arkansas students and various local events have fueled the growth of soccer in the region. Soccer's simplicity and universal charm make it a perfect tool for inclusivity, resonating deeply with the community's spirit.

Get the latest updates on the development of our premier community soccer stadium in Pinnacle Hills, Rogers. Hear about the vision behind this multi-use facility, which aims to host up to 100 events a year. Learn about the crucial role of our supporters group and the progress of our U20 Academy team, designed to keep local talent thriving. Special guests like Mayor Greg Hines and Nelson Peacock enrich this episode with their insights, setting the stage for an exciting future for soccer in Northwest Arkansas.

Ever wondered how the symbols on a soccer club's crest encapsulate its entire history and ethos? Join us as we explore the fascinating design elements that make soccer crests more than just logos. We promise you'll gain a deeper understanding of how clubs like Real Madrid and Manchester United embed their rich heritage into every detail. From royal emblems to regional references, discover the significance behind these iconic designs and their ongoing relevance in connecting clubs to their communities.

In our journey through the history of Manchester United's crest, we even set aside our Liverpool loyalties to objectively appreciate its evolution. Learn about the consistent presence of the merchant ship, a nod to Manchester’s industrial past, and the introduction of the Red Devil emblem in the 1970s, rooted in a nickname from the 1960s. Each element tells a story, painting a vivid picture of the club's identity. This episode is a treasure trove for any soccer enthusiast eager to uncover the hidden meanings and stories behind some of the sport's most recognizable crests.