In this episode of Chat By The Pitch, Mike & Stacey Collodi give a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to raise a professional goalkeeper. From Michael’s first steps into goal at six years old to winning the MLS Next Pro Championship with North Texas SC, they share the realities of youth soccer, the academy experience, and the transition to professional play.

They discuss the emotional rollercoaster of watching their son go through setbacks, navigate college soccer, and finally break through to the pro ranks. Whether you’re a parent, coach, or aspiring player, this episode offers invaluable insights into the sacrifices and lessons learned along the way.

Key Talking Points

• How Michael discovered his passion for goalkeeping at six years old

• The impact of FC Dallas Academy training & structure

• The mental toughness needed to be a goalkeeper

• How college soccer differs from academy & pro levels

• What parents should know about supporting their child's soccer journey

• How leadership and character impact success on and off the pitch

• The transition from youth to pro soccer and what it takes

• What it was like watching Michael win an MLS Next Pro Championship

• The role of humility, teamwork, and professionalism in a player’s career

• Advice for parents navigating the competitive world of youth soccer

Tune in to Learn:

• The truth about academy soccer, college, and the road to pro

• Why mental resilience is crucial for young goalkeepers

• How a strong support system can make or break an athlete’s journey

• The differences between MLS Next Pro & NCAA soccer

• How to raise a competitive athlete while keeping them grounded

Quotes from Mike & Stacey Collodi

Mike Collodi:

• “When you find a kid who actually wants to play goalkeeper longer than 60 seconds, you don’t move him out.”

• “College soccer was both a blessing and a challenge—it built Michael’s leadership skills more than anything.”

• “Michael took his shot and punched it in the face—he made the absolute most of his opportunity.”

• “We always told him, ‘We care more about the person you are than your success on the field.’”

• “This journey has been a wild ride, and we’re just excited to see what’s next.”

Stacey Collodi:

• “We just wanted him to get a shot, and he took it and ran with it.”

• “Finding the right coach for your kid is more important than finding the best team.”

• “Kindness and humility will take a player further than talent alone.”

• “We wanted him to know he always had our support, but his path was his choice.”

• “The best advice I can give parents? Be kind to the refs, coaches, and other parents—this is a small world.”

🎥 Michael Collodi’s Highlight Reel: ⁠Watch Here⁠

🎥 Michael’s First Game: ⁠Watch Here⁠

Follow Michael Collodi:

🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/collodi

📷 Instagram: @mikecollodi

🐦 X (Twitter): @collodi

📘 Facebook: facebook.com/mike.collodi

▶️ YouTube: youtube.com/user/collodi

🌐 Website: collodi.org

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