This week, we celebrate two champions of the summer: Vermont Green FC in Burlington and Hickory FC in South Carolina. Adam Pfeifer, sporting director of Vermont Green FC, joins the show (6:00) to reveal how he put together a roster that went undefeated and won the USL League 2 championship. Then, Hickory FC head coach Carlos Rubio shares his team’s journey to a historic 3-2 win over defending champion El Farolito to capture the National Premier Soccer League title in only the program’s second year (26:30). 

We wrap up with an interview with Ross Brady, head coach of the United States Boys’ U-15 national team that seeks to defend their crown at the Concacaf Boys’ U-15 Championship in Costa Rica (40:00). The U.S. won their opening match, and the tournament continues through August 10. 

The U.S. Soccer Podcast is a production from U.S. Soccer hosted by David Gass, Meghan Klingenberg and Alejandro Bedoya. The podcast tells stories in service to soccer and the people who live it, amplifying player voices and the stories behind the game. Episodes drop weekly on Wednesdays. 

Hosts: David Gass, Alejandro Bedoya 

Guests: Adam Pfeifer, Carlos Rubio, Ross Brady 

Producers: Brad Fosler, Matthew Nelson 

To learn more, visit ussoccer.org/podcast  

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices