Phil West is an Austin based writer who covers soccer in the United States. His work appears on MLSsoccer.com, ProSoccerUSA, in print, and a number of other outlets. He recently wrote the history of Major League Soccer, the United States' top level professional soccer league, and a book about the success of the U.S. Men's National Soccer Team shortly before the 2018 disaster. He holds an optimistic outlook for the team's chances at World Cup 2026. You can follow him on twitter @PhilWest.

 

Read Phil's Work:

The United States of Soccer: MLS and the Rise of American Soccer Fandom

I Believe that We Will Win:The Path to a US Men's World Cup Victory

Some Highlights:

How one comes to write the history of a professional sports league

The origins of Major League Soccer

1994 World Cup

An Americanized game - Old School MLS Shootouts

The MLS downturn and reinvention

The successes and failures of the U.S. Men's National Team

MLS Academies and the U.S. Soccer Development Academy

2026 and the potential for MLS

Austin FC, MLS Fandom, and Supporters Groups

How LAFC Supporters' Groups Influence Stadium Design 

Check out the awesome writing and podcast at Unusual Efforts

Suggestions:

Steven: Go to Karaoke and sing!

Phil: Snapped Ankles - Stunning Luxuries

https://youtu.be/4FZxRESXnJs