Tales From the Trail by MatchPlay

Tales From the Trail by MatchPlay

por Scot Cooper
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Temporada 1

58. Julianne Sitch- University of Denver Women's Soccer & Jamie Gunderson- Christopher Newport University Women's Soccer

In this episode I’m fortunate to welcome two coaches who have won college national titles. Julianne Sitch holds multiple school records and accolades at DePaul University and was recently inducted into the school’s athletic hall of fame. Congratulations Julianne! She went on to play professionally in the US, Australia, and Sweden. As a coach, she was the women’s assistant coach at the University of Chicago and in the professional ranks as an assistant with the Chicaco Red Stars in the NWSL. She returned to the University of Chicago and led the men’s soccer team to an undefeated record culminating in a national championship. She is now the head coach of the women’s soccer team at the University of Denver. Returning to the podcast is Jamie Gunderson, who is the head coach of women’s soccer at Christopher Newport University in Newport News, VA. Jamie has yet to lose as head coach. We discuss Julianne’s playing career as a youth player, into college and as a professional. She shares lessons she learned as an athlete and is passing on to her student athletes. We delve into the steps of the recruiting process and get their views on what’s important. Thank you to Julianne and Jamie for a great episode and for sharing so much of their perspective. Summary The conversation explores the challenges and stress of the recruiting process for both coaches and players. The guests discuss the overwhelming nature of finding the right fit academically, athletically, and culturally. They emphasize the importance of building relationships and creating a supportive team environment. The guests share their personal soccer stories and the lessons they learned from playing professionally. They also discuss the culture of women's soccer overseas and the importance of being authentic and vulnerable as a coach. The conversation concludes with advice on how players can differentiate themselves and make a lasting impression during the recruiting process. The conversation covers various aspects of the college soccer recruiting process. It discusses how to handle position changes, set expectations at events, create a game plan after the event, and navigate the timeline for recruiting classes. The importance of asking questions during visits and considering factors on campus is emphasized. The conversation also addresses how to handle offers and manage player expectations and emotions. Takeaways Be open to playing different positions and focus on giving your best effort in any role. Expectations at events should include being open to communication from coaches and understanding different timelines for contact. After the event, be patient with coach correspondence and consider reaching out for follow-up if needed. When considering offers, ask questions about coaching philosophy, program goals, and the overall experience. Chapters 00:00 The Stress of Recruiting 04:38 Challenges in Recruiting 08:54 Personal Soccer Stories 13:21 Overcoming Doubts and Challenges 15:38 Lessons from Playing Professionally 18:07 Women's Soccer Culture Overseas 19:43 Life Lessons from Playing Professionally 23:27 Building Team Chemistry and Trust 30:25 Creating a Supportive Team Environment 36:02 Importance of Team Support in Difficult Times 38:33 Stand Out in Recruiting 42:45 Handling Position Changes 46:48 Expectations at the Event 49:03 Game Plan and Timeline After the Event 51:54 Recruiting Class Status 57:03 Timeline for Recruiting Classes 58:27 Asking Questions During Visits 01:01:35 Factors to Look for on Campus Visits 01:04:47 Handling Offers 01:08:59 Dealing with Player Expectations and Emotions
T1 · E58
7 dic 2023
1:17:34

57. Jourdan Schumacher- Goalkeeper, College of Charleston & Eric Manuel- Expert Mindset Coaching

Hi and welcome to the Tales From the Trail podcast. In this episode I welcome Jourdan Schumacher, student-athlete on the men’s soccer team at the College of Charleston and Eric Manuel of Expert Mindset Coaching. Jourdan and Eric discuss mindset strategies that have helped Jourdan grow as a person and an athlete. This is a fantastic conversation and I believe will be beneficial to all who listen, especially young student-athletes. Please do not hesitate to reach out to Eric if you have any questions or would like to explore working with him. He’s an excellent resource to elevate performance through mindset. Thank you to Jourdan for being open and discussing his process. In this conversation, Jourdan Schumacher, a college soccer player, discusses his journey from high school to college and the importance of mental training in his athletic and personal life. He shares his experiences with the recruiting process, the challenges he faced in his freshman year of college, and the decision to transfer to a new school. Jourdan also highlights the impact of mindfulness and goal setting in his training and performance. He emphasizes the importance of being aware of emotions and developing genuine relationships with teammates. Jourdan's story serves as a valuable lesson for young athletes on the significance of mindset and gratitude in achieving success both on and off the field. The conversation with Jourdan Schumacher covers his approach to leadership, team bonding experiences, and building relationships with younger teammates. Jourdan emphasizes leading by example and allowing his actions to influence and guide his teammates. He also discusses the importance of team bonding experiences and how they contribute to productivity. Additionally, Jourdan highlights the significance of building relationships with younger teammates and helping them navigate their emotions and gain clarity. Overall, the conversation provides insights into effective leadership strategies and fostering a positive team dynamic. Takeaways Start the recruiting process early and be proactive in reaching out to college coaches. Develop a strong work ethic and commit to extra training to improve skills. Be mindful of emotions and learn to manage them effectively. Build trust and genuine relationships with teammates and coaches. Practice gratitude and appreciate the opportunities and experiences in sports and life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:00 Dreaming of Becoming a College Soccer Player 06:48 Transitioning to College 11:13 Dealing with Mental Struggles in College 14:39 Transferring to a New School 16:55 The Importance of Mental Training 19:38 Advice for Young Athletes 21:38 The Impact of Mental Training in Life 24:00 Recognizing and Managing Emotions 26:11 Building Trust and Relationships with Teammates 31:26 The Role of Gratitude in Athletics 33:16 Handling Different Personalities as a Leader 38:16 Developing Trust and Mutual Respect 46:11 Leading by Example 47:06 Team Bonding and Productivity 47:28 Building Relationships 47:48 Closing Remarks
T1 · E57
5 dic 2023
50:00

56. Tommy DiNuzzo- Hampden-Sydney Men's Soccer & Justin Chezem- Christopher Newport Men's Soccer

In this episode Justin Chezem the head coach of men’s soccer at Christopher Newport University and Tommy DiNuzzo, Hampden-Sydney College’s head men’s soccer coach were at the Richmond Strikers College Night. I recorded their conversation about their seasons, recruiting, and the matches they were watching. This is an informative conversation that I’m certain you’ll find helpful. We plan on being at more of these events talking to coaches and student-athletes. Let me know what questions you have!
T1 · E56
5 dic 2023
16:40

55. Mindset Monday #5 with Eric Manuel, Expert Mindset Coaching

Welcome to Mindset Monday! In these less than ten minute episodes, Eric Manuel, of Expert Mindset Coaching and I will address a different facet of mindset which apply to sport and life. To learn more about Eric’s practice, visit his website at www.expertmindsetcoaching.com
T1 · E55
4 dic 2023
8:41

54. Bobby O'Brien- Virginia Reign & Virginia Legacy and Justin Chezem- Christopher Newport Men's Soccer

In this episode, Justin Chezem of Christopher Newport University men’s soccer and I welcome Bobby O’Brien. Bobby is the Technical Director of the Virginia Reign and Virginia Legacy Soccer Clubs in Williamsburg, VA. Bobby grew up playing in the club and went on to be a stand out at Virginia Tech. He shares his recruiting story and goes on to talk about helping youth players find their right spot after high school. It was a pleasure to have Bobby on the podcast. Bobby O’Brien - Show Notes This conversation discusses the process of coaching kids in soccer and the challenges that come with it. It also delves into the recruiting trail for youth soccer players and the evolution of the college recruiting process. The importance of balancing academics, soccer, and social life is emphasized, as well as the need for research and communication when reaching out to coaches. The conversation also highlights the significance of considering the whole college experience and differentiating oneself in the recruiting process. Lastly, the value of off-field experiences and creating lasting memories and connections is discussed. This conversation explores the importance of social connections and finding the right fit when choosing a college. It emphasizes the need to consider social dynamics and the impact of roster changes on the overall experience. The consequences of hasty commitments and the importance of research and homework are also discussed. Specific examples of successful and unsuccessful transfers are shared, highlighting the individuality of the decision-making process. The conversation concludes with a reflection on past decisions and the value of considering all aspects of college life. Additionally, the role of nutrition in athletic performance is briefly touched upon. Takeaways Consider the social connections and dynamics of a college when making a decision. Take the time to do research and homework to ensure the right fit. Transferring can be a positive option if the current situation is not meeting expectations. The decision-making process is individual and should be driven by personal goals and preferences. Nutrition plays a crucial role in athletic performance. Chapters 00:00 Coaching Kids in Soccer 03:07 Youth Soccer and the Recruiting Trail 08:03 The Evolution of the College Recruiting Process 10:34 Navigating Conversations with Parents 13:07 Balancing Academics, Soccer, and Social Life 16:17 Researching and Reaching Out to Coaches 19:14 Considering the Whole College Experience 22:25 Differentiating Oneself in the Recruiting Process 25:47 Differences Between Boys and Girls in Recruiting 29:56 The Importance of Off-Field Experiences 33:07 Creating Lasting Memories and Connections 36:44 The Importance of Social Connections 37:17 Choosing the Right Fit 38:34 Considering Social Dynamics 39:26 The Impact of Roster Changes 40:55 The Consequences of Hasty Commitments 41:40 The Importance of Research and Homework 42:11 Specific Examples of Successful and Unsuccessful Transfers 45:11 The Individuality of the Decision-Making Process 46:20 The Experience of Transferring 47:13 Reflecting on Past Decisions 49:15 The Impact of Life Events on Decision-Making 50:45 The Value of Considering All Aspects of College Life 52:50 Using Challenging Situations to Reevaluate Choices 53:27 The Importance of Doing Research and Finding the Right Fit 54:57 The Benefits of Transferring and Finding a Better Fit 56:27 The Perspective of 16-Year-Olds and the Importance of Considering All Factors 57:30 The Role of Nutrition in Athletic Performance
T1 · E54
30 nov 2023
1:01:30

53. Matt Lacey- Virginia Development Academy & Justin Chezem- Christopher Newport Men's Soccer

In this episode, Justin Chezem of Christopher Newport University men’s soccer and I welcome Matt Lacey. Matt is the Technical Director of the Virginia Development Academy (VDA), one of the top programs in Northern Virginia and the East Coast. VDA is part of the prestigious Elite Clubs National League or (ECNL), which is considered one of the top youth soccer leagues in the country. It was great to have Matt and his insights on the podcast. Matt Lacey Show Notes This conversation discusses the process of coaching kids in soccer and the challenges that come with it. It also delves into the recruiting trail for youth soccer players and the evolution of the college recruiting process. The importance of balancing academics, soccer, and social life is emphasized, as well as the need for research and communication when reaching out to coaches. The conversation also highlights the significance of considering the whole college experience and differentiating oneself in the recruiting process. Lastly, the value of off-field experiences and creating lasting memories and connections is discussed. This conversation explores the importance of social connections and finding the right fit when choosing a college. It emphasizes the need to consider social dynamics and the impact of roster changes on the overall experience. The consequences of hasty commitments and the importance of research and homework are also discussed. Specific examples of successful and unsuccessful transfers are shared, highlighting the individuality of the decision-making process. The conversation concludes with a reflection on past decisions and the value of considering all aspects of college life. Additionally, the role of nutrition in athletic performance is briefly touched upon. Takeaways Consider the social connections and dynamics of a college when making a decision. Take the time to do research and homework to ensure the right fit. Transferring can be a positive option if the current situation is not meeting expectations. The decision-making process is individual and should be driven by personal goals and preferences. Nutrition plays a crucial role in athletic performance. Chapters 00:00 Coaching Kids in Soccer 03:07 Youth Soccer and the Recruiting Trail 08:03 The Evolution of the College Recruiting Process 10:34 Navigating Conversations with Parents 13:07 Balancing Academics, Soccer, and Social Life 16:17 Researching and Reaching Out to Coaches 19:14 Considering the Whole College Experience 22:25 Differentiating Oneself in the Recruiting Process 25:47 Differences Between Boys and Girls in Recruiting 29:56 The Importance of Off-Field Experiences 33:07 Creating Lasting Memories and Connections 36:44 The Importance of Social Connections 37:17 Choosing the Right Fit 38:34 Considering Social Dynamics 39:26 The Impact of Roster Changes 40:55 The Consequences of Hasty Commitments 41:40 The Importance of Research and Homework 42:11 Specific Examples of Successful and Unsuccessful Transfers 45:11 The Individuality of the Decision-Making Process 46:20 The Experience of Transferring 47:13 Reflecting on Past Decisions 49:15 The Impact of Life Events on Decision-Making 50:45 The Value of Considering All Aspects of College Life 52:50 Using Challenging Situations to Reevaluate Choices 53:27 The Importance of Doing Research and Finding the Right Fit 54:57 The Benefits of Transferring and Finding a Better Fit 56:27 The Perspective of 16-Year-Olds and the Importance of Considering All Factors 57:30 The Role of Nutrition in Athletic Performance
T1 · E53
28 nov 2023
1:06:20

52. Mindset Monday #4 - Goal Setting with Eric Manuel

Eric Manuel of Expert Mindset Coaching discusses the importance of goal setting when pursuing high performance. This episode outlines how to utilize the SMART method.
T1 · E52
27 nov 2023
9:57

51. W&M Alum - Bozalongo, Levengood, Messer, & Nwegbo

In this episode, I welcome 4 old teammates. Alfredo Bozalongo, Alexander Levengood, Nathan Messer, and Diba Nwegbo all started at the College of William & Mary together as freshmen. They had great careers as undergrads and after graduation each took their own path. Alexander and Nathan transferred to other schools, Alfredo remained at William & Mary, while Diba signed a professional contract. They share why they made these decisions and how things are going and what’s next. Summary In this conversation, Alexander, Diba, Alfredo, and Nathan discuss their journey as college soccer players and their aspirations to play professionally. They reflect on the special bond they formed during their time at William & Mary and the memories they created together. Each player shares their individual path and the challenges they faced, including transferring to different schools and dealing with injuries. They discuss their plans for the future and the uncertainty that comes with pursuing a professional soccer career. Overall, their dedication, hard work, and support for each other have shaped their journey towards achieving their goal of playing at the next level. Takeaways Building strong relationships and bonds with teammates can enhance the college soccer experience and create lifelong friendships. Transferring to different schools can provide new opportunities and challenges for players looking to pursue a professional soccer career. Injuries and setbacks can impact the path to playing professionally, but perseverance and determination are key in overcoming obstacles. Having a clear goal and working hard towards it, while also staying focused on the present, can help players navigate the uncertainty of their future in soccer. Chapters 00:00 Building a Special Bond 36:43 Living Together and Creating Memories 39:26 Realizing the Goal of Playing Professionally 43:20 Transferring and Pursuing Pro Soccer 53:25 Signing with Birmingham Legion 54:46 Future Plans and Uncertainty 56:18 Playing at San Diego State 58:25 Transferring to Providence and Going Pro 01:05:00 Setting the Goal of Going Pro
T1 · E51
21 nov 2023
1:12:00

50. Mindset Monday #3 - Eric Manuel, Expert Mindset Coaching

Listen to the latest in our Mindset Monday Series with Eric Manuel of Expert Mindset Coaching. Eric works with athletes who are working to be their best and recognize the importance of having a mindset that optimizes their performance. We release Mindset Monday every week!
T1 · E50
20 nov 2023
9:42

49. Phil Kroft - University of Chicago - Head Coach - Men's Soccer

In this episode, I welcome Phil Kroft, the head men’s soccer coach at the University of Chicago. At the time of release of this podcast, his team is headed into the third round of the NCAA tournament as they look to defend the national championship. Coach Kroft discusses his thoughts on recruiting and coaching. Summary In this conversation, Phil Kroft, the head coach of the University of Chicago men's soccer team, discusses the recruiting process and the differences between recruiting at different levels of college soccer. He shares his own experiences and insights into the challenges and considerations of recruiting high academic student-athletes. He also provides advice for student-athletes on how to navigate the recruiting process and communicate effectively with coaches. Additionally, he addresses common misconceptions and myths about college soccer recruiting and offers guidance on financial aid and net price calculators. In this conversation, Phil Kroft and Scot Cooper discuss the college soccer recruiting process. They cover topics such as considering different options, the importance of personalized emails from coaches, the transfer portal, researching schools, observing players' behavior, and the importance of transition moments. The conversation emphasizes the need for players to find the right fit for their four-year college experience. Takeaways Consider all options and be open to personalized emails from coaches. Don't overlook smaller schools or schools you haven't heard of. Think about the status vs starter dilemma and what experience you want at the college level. Do thorough research on schools, including their academic programs and soccer team dynamics. Pay attention to players' behavior on and off the field, including body language and attitude. Transition moments are crucial in soccer, so players should showcase their abilities in those situations. Find the right fit for your four-year college experience, considering factors like location, academics, and personal goals. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:31 Recruiting at Different Levels 05:23 Taking Over a National Championship Program 08:24 Recruiting Process at University of Chicago 13:44 Recruiting Timeline and Communication 15:16 What Coaches Look for in an Email 17:12 Admissions and Financial Aid 19:25 Misconceptions and Myths about Recruiting 24:15 Different Levels of College Soccer 27:34 Financial Aid and Net Price Calculators 32:54 Not Hearing Back from Coaches 35:59 Considering Different Options 37:08 Status vs Starter 38:40 The Transfer Portal 45:01 Researching Schools 48:30 Observing Players' Behavior 54:33 The Importance of Transition Moments 56:06 Finding the Right Fit
T1 · E49
16 nov 2023
58:02
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