In this episode I welcome Matt Lawrey, the academy director of Atlanta United and Chris Norris, the head coach of men’s soccer at the College of William & Mary. This is a wide ranging conversation that explores the MLS Academy process, the development of a professional mindset whether headed to the pros or to play for a college program. All of the aspects discussed are the same at the MLS academy level onto any aspiring athlete.

Summary

The conversation explores the role of an Academy Director at an MLS club, the collaboration among MLS Academy Directors, the recruitment process for MLS Next teams, and the identification of talent at a young age. It also discusses the evolution of youth soccer in the US, the opportunities for players outside of MLS Next, and the pathways out of MLS academies. The conversation highlights the im ...