In Episode 6 of the iATAC Soccer Podcast, we sit down with Ike Opara—former MLS star, NCAA champion, and current assistant coach at Sporting Kansas City II. Known for his defensive dominance and leadership, Ike’s career is a powerful example of what it means to grow through adversity and rise to the highest levels of the game.

In this conversation with Michael Wright and Chris Martinez, Ike reflects on being overlooked in the recruiting process, his development as a multi-sport athlete, and the mindset that helped him bounce back from multiple injuries. From winning a national championship at Wake Forest to earning Best XI honors in the MLS, Ike shares lessons from every phase of his journey—on and off the field.

In Episode 5 of the iATAC Soccer Podcast, we’re joined by Cole Bassett, midfielder for the Colorado Rapids and U.S. Men’s National Team. A homegrown talent from Colorado, Cole has carved out a remarkable path to professional soccer—rising through academy ranks, playing in Europe, and becoming a key player in Major League Soccer by age 23.

In this conversation with Michael Wright and Chris Martínez, Cole shares the behind-the-scenes realities of becoming a pro—from extra reps after training to developing confidence, resilience, and the habits that sustain elite performance. He also reflects on his time in the Netherlands, the mental skills that help him play “free,” and the daily routines that keep his body and mind sharp.

In Episode 4 of the iATAC Soccer Podcast, we’re joined by Joey Harty, Director of Sports Performance and Science at Sporting Kansas City. With over a decade of experience helping athletes, from academy prospects to MLS professionals, Joey specializes in optimizing performance.

In this conversation with Michael Wright and Chris Martinez, Joey explains how smart, age-appropriate training and recovery strategies can dramatically shape a player’s long-term development. He shares practical insights on movement, strength, nutrition, sleep, and how to build performance—even without access to a gym.

In the third episode of the iATAC Soccer Podcast, Texas Tech Head Coach Tom Stone shares expert guidance on what it really takes to be recruited to play college soccer. With a background that includes scoring the winning goal in the 1986 National Championship at Duke, leading Texas Tech to a Big 12 title, and scouting for the U.S. Women’s National Team at multiple World Cups, Tom brings a unique perspective shaped by decades at every level of the game.

Joined by hosts Mike Wright and Chris Martinez, Tom dives deep into the recruiting process—breaking down what coaches look for in players, how to build a compelling profile, and the importance of communication, character, and consistency. His insights are a must-hear for families navigating the journey to college soccer.

In the second episode of the iATAC Soccer Podcast, professional defender Cori Dyke shares her journey from youth soccer in Fort Collins, Colorado to becoming a record-setting player at Penn State and a champion in her rookie season with the Orlando Pride in the NWSL.

Cori joins Michael Wright and Chris Martinez for a deep conversation about elite performance, long-term consistency, and what it takes to stand out in the college and pro levels of the game.

In the first episode of the iATAC Soccer Podcast, Jamie Franks, head coach of the University of Denver men’s soccer team, shares his insights on player development, leadership, and building a winning team culture. With over a decade of experience guiding young athletes, Jamie has developed a unique approach that prepares players for success both on and off the field. In this conversation with Mike Wright and Chris Martinez, he reveals the key strategies that help athletes transition from Competitive Youth soccer to the Collegiate ranks.

In Episode 7 of the iATAC Soccer Podcast, we sit down with Eric Quill—Head Coach of FC Dallas and one of the most respected talent developers in American soccer. From his early days coaching youth national teams to leading pros in MLS and USL, Eric has built a reputation for turning potential into performance.

In this conversation with Michael Wright and Chris Martinez, Eric breaks down what’s missing in American player development today—and how coaches, players, and parents can build more complete athletes. He shares powerful insights from years on the field: from why we need to reclaim athleticism and direct play, to how clubs can better support individual growth in a team setting.

Eric also discusses the value of multisport backgrounds, how to train players to be resilient, and the importance of creating technical and tactical freedom without sacrificing structure or identity.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why U.S. soccer must bring back athleticism, speed, and verticality
• The role of individual development plans in unlocking elite potential
• How late bloomers can thrive—and what coaches need to recognize early
• Why technical mastery leads to creative freedom on the field
• How clubs and coaches can better use analytics and video to teach 
• The mental traits that separate consistent pros from short-lived talents

Whether you’re a coach working with teams, a parent guiding the process, or a player chasing the next level, this episode delivers timeless advice from someone who’s seen—and shaped—it all.

👉 To enjoy the full episode, access exclusive content, and apply to our programs, join our Premium Membership today at iatacsoccer.com/become-a-member

In Episode 7 of the iATAC Soccer Podcast, we sit down with Eric Quill—Head Coach of FC Dallas and one of the most respected talent developers in American soccer. From his early days coaching youth national teams to leading pros in MLS and USL, Eric has built a reputation for turning potential into performance.

In this conversation with Michael Wright and Chris Martinez, Eric breaks down what’s missing in American player development today—and how coaches, players, and parents can build more complete athletes. He shares powerful insights from years on the field: from why we need to reclaim athleticism and direct play, to how clubs can better support individual growth in a team setting.

Eric also discusses the value of multisport backgrounds, how to train players to be resilient, and the importance of creating technical and tactical freedom without sacrificing structure or identity.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

Whether you’re a coach working with teams, a parent guiding the process, or a player chasing the next level, this episode delivers timeless advice from someone who’s seen—and shaped—it all.

👉 To enjoy the full episode, access exclusive content, and apply to our programs, join our Premium Membership today at iatacsoccer.com/become-a-member

In this Educational Session of the iATAC Soccer Podcast, Michael Wright and Chris Martinez dive into one of the most pivotal moments of the year for youth players and families: the showcase and playoff season.

As national tournaments approach and hundreds of college coaches prepare to scout talent, this conversation delivers actionable advice on how to approach these events with clarity, confidence, and preparation. From mental focus to in-game behavior, Michael and Chris offer practical tools for players aiming to make a lasting impression—and for parents looking to provide the right support from the sidelines.

Whether you're stepping into one of your first showcase experiences or aiming to secure a college offer, this episode gives you the insight to show up at your best when it matters most.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

⚽ Why the end of season, playoffs, and showcases are critical moments in the recruiting journey.

⚽ What players should keep in mind with college coaches watching closely.

⚽ The kind of preparation and mindset needed to perform at your best.

⚽ Simple tools and tips to approach high-stakes games with confidence.

⚽ Why this time of year matters for both players and parents in the recruiting process.

👉 Want access to more resources and the chance to apply to our position-specific training programs? Join our Premium Membership at iatacsoccer.com/become-a-member/

In Episode 6 of the iATAC Soccer Podcast, we’re joined by Ike Opara—MLS Defender of the Year (twice), NCAA champion with Wake Forest, and current assistant coach at Sporting Kansas City II. From overcoming injuries to lifting trophies, Ike’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and elite performance at the highest level.

In this conversation with Michael Wright and Chris Martinez, Ike shares his unique path: being overlooked in the recruiting process, playing multiple sports as a youth, and pushing through adversity to become one of MLS’s top defenders. Now as a coach, he reflects on the habits, mindset, and lessons he brings to the next generation.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

⚽ How Ike used setbacks—like injuries and being underestimated—as fuel for growth.

⚽ Why playing multiple sports shaped his defensive skills and athletic IQ.

⚽ What youth players and parents should understand about the college recruiting process.

⚽ How mental strength, patience, and daily consistency define long-term success.

⚽ The transition from pro player to coach—and what Ike now teaches the next generation.

Whether you’re a player chasing the next level or a parent guiding the journey, this episode offers honest insight into what it takes to succeed—and stay—at the top.

👉 To enjoy the full episode, access more exclusive content and be able to apply to our programs, visit iatacsoccer.com and become a member.