Offside in the Bay: 2 the Pitch and Beyond

Tommy Hodul (Oakland Roots SC)

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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.

Episode Summary


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!

Key Takeaways

  • 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

    • Timestamps & Highlights

    • 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


        • Memorable Quotes


        “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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        Offside in the Bay: 2 the Pitch and BeyondBy KTVU Fox 2 (Bay Area)