Tales From the Trail by MatchPlay

by Scot Cooper

Season 1

29. Britta Marmon, NCSA & Justin Chezem, Men's Soccer, Christopher Newport University

In this episode, Justin Chezem, men’s soccer coach at Christopher Newport University and I welcome Britta Marmon, Senior Recruiting Coach at Next College Student Athlete (NCSA) and former women’s college assistant coach. Britta discusses the ins and outs of the service offered by the NCSA.

S1 · E29

Sep 25, 2023

1:12:03

28. Anthony Kjenstad, President, Firefly Recovery

In this episode my guest is Anthony Kjenstad, the president of Firefly Recovery. Firefly is a revolutionary recovery device used by professional & collegiate athletes, Olympians, and weekend warriors. It helps your body to recover faster by increasing blood flow throughout your entire body. Firefly is small and portable, so you can take it with you wherever you go. The evidence of positive results of this device have been researched as well as the fact that over 500+ pro and college programs benefit from using Firefly. I encourage you to visit their website and see it for yourself. If you decide to try out Firefly, use the coupon code ‘MatchPlay’ for a discount. And as always, please share this podcast, subscribe and follow on Instagram, X, and Facebook. Send me your questions and comments through matchplayrecruit.com

S1 · E27

Sep 18, 2023

33:01

27. Aleksey Korol - Men's Associate Head Soccer Coach - University of Illinois-Chicago

In this episode we welcome Aleksey Korol, the Associate Head Coach at the University of Illinois-Chicago. Aleksey moved to the US from the Ukraine when he was in high school and went on to play collegiately at Indiana University. He made 3 college cup appearances and guided the Hoosiers to back-to-back national titles as a junior and senior. Korol concluded his collegiate career at Indiana in 1999 as the leading point scorer in NCAA Tournament history and the fourth-highest point scorer in the illustrious history of IU soccer. Aleksey was recently inducted into the Indiana University Athletics Hall of Fame. Aleksey then went on to be the fifth pick in the 2000 MLS SuperDraft by the Dallas Burn. It was a real privilege for Justin Chezem, who is the men’s coach at Christopher Newport University and I to have Aleksey on the podcast. I hope you enjoy it. Please remember to subscribe and review our podcast and follow us on social media. Also, send any comments or questions through matchplayrecruit.com.

S1 · E27

Sep 18, 2023

1:13:05

26. Student-Athlete Series - Brianna Behm, University of South Carolina & Sofie Fox, Northeastern University

In this episode I welcome Brianna Behm, a current senior on the women’s soccer team at the University of South Carolina and Sofie Fox, a graduate transfer student on the women’s soccer team at Northeastern University. Sofie played four years at Georgetown University before transferring for her fifth year. They share their experiences of playing for renowned programs and their recruiting stories. Please continue to subscribe to and share the podcast and follow MatchPlay on social media. And send me your comments and questions through Matchplayrecruit.com/podcast Summary The conversation covers topics such as building confidence, team culture, maintaining a positive mindset, the impact of negativity, fun and bonding moments, and transferring and overcoming injury. Takeaways Confidence comes from within oneself and cannot be found externally. Team culture and support from teammates are crucial for success and well-being. Maintaining a positive mindset is important, especially during challenging times. Negativity can have a detrimental impact on performance and playing time. Fun and bonding moments contribute to team cohesion and enjoyment of the sport. Transferring to a new school and overcoming injuries require resilience and a positive outlook. Chapters 00:00 Building Confidence and Support 39:07 Team Culture and Mentorship 41:51 Maintaining a Positive Mindset 43:43 The Impact of Negativity 46:23 Fun and Bonding Moments 51:02 Transferring and Overcoming Injury

S1 · E26

Sep 9, 2023

59:26

25. Daniel Hulett of the Hulett Brothers

In this episode we welcome Daniel Hulett of the Hulett Brothers. Daniel and his brother David are trick shot manufacturers who started during the pandemic and have grown into internet sensations and are now working full-time on conceiving and producing trick shots. Daniel started as a college student athlete playing soccer at Christopher Newport University. We cover his recruiting story, how his career in college evolved and how being in quarantine helped hatch the trick shot concept for him and his brother. Their story is a lesson for all in following your passion and putting in hard work. On the surface, producing trick shots seems like a hobby, but make no mistake, the Hulett brothers invest a lot of time and hard work to bring their creations to the world. That diligence is paying off and they’re just getting started.

S1 · E25

Sep 4, 2023

46:01

24. Webb Kosich, William & Mary- Overcoming Illness and Fighting Back to Be With His Team

In this episode I welcome Webb Kosich, a sophomore men’s soccer student-athlete at the College of William & Mary. Webb has a unique story of overcoming a major setback and persevering to return to playing soccer. I’ve spoken to several of his teammates and they are in awe and inspired by Webb’s journey back to campus and the team. This is an emotional podcast that includes his recruiting story, committing to play soccer in college, his first season, dealing with some big life threatening hurdles, and fighting his way back. Webb Kosich shares his journey as a college soccer player, from the recruiting process to his experience on the field. He discusses the challenges of balancing academics and soccer, as well as the ups and downs of the college soccer season. Webb also opens up about his diagnosis of aplastic anemia and the subsequent treatment he underwent, including chemotherapy and radiation. Despite the difficulties, Webb remains grateful for the support of his family, teammates, and medical professionals. Webb Kosich shares his experience of undergoing treatment for cancer and his journey to recovery. He discusses the emotional rollercoaster he went through and the importance of soccer in keeping him motivated. Webb also expresses his gratitude for his sister's sacrifice in donating bone marrow. He talks about the short-term prognosis and health concerns he still faces, as well as his return to school and the impact of his experience on his perspective on life. Webb reflects on how the experience has shaped him as a person and how he plans to use it to become a better leader and teammate. The recruiting process for college soccer requires patience, self-reflection, and realistic expectations. Balancing academics and soccer in college requires discipline, time management, and the ability to prioritize. The college soccer season can be physically and mentally demanding, with ups and downs, but the support of teammates and coaches is crucial. Facing a serious health diagnosis can be challenging, but maintaining a positive mindset and seeking support from loved ones can make a difference. Going through a difficult experience can build character and make a person stronger. Having goals and a positive mindset can help overcome challenges. The support of family and friends is crucial during tough times. Gratitude and appreciation for life can be gained through overcoming adversity. 15:43 Making the Decision to Commit 19:23 Preparing for College Soccer 23:48 Transitioning to College Soccer 29:18 Challenges of the College Soccer Season 34:11 Diagnosis and Treatment 38:34 Quarantine and Preparing for Treatment 42:06 Starting Treatment 43:44 Treatment and Recovery 45:27 Emotional Rollercoaster 47:49 The Importance of Soccer 48:56 The Sacrifice of Webb's Sister 50:54 Short-Term Prognosis and Health Concerns 54:21 Returning to School 56:43 Gaining a Higher Appreciation for Life 57:48 Building Character and Leadership 59:29 Influence as a Redshirt 01:01:36 Valuing the Experience

S1 · E24

Aug 26, 2023

1:05:54

23. Pre & Post Match with Hampden-Sydney College & Christopher Newport University

Explicit

I recently went to the preseason friendly between Hampden-Sydney College and Christopher Newport University both perennial Division III men’s soccer powers. I was able to chat with head coaches Tommy DiNuzzo and Justin Chezem and players, Hampden-Sydney's Uriel Aguirre, Daniel Beb, and CNU's Asher Kuzemka, about the match to get their perspectives on expectations and reaction to the rigors of preseason and the match itself. Thank you to Prince William Soccer and Virginia Development Academy for hosting!

S1 · E23

Aug 26, 2023

10:25

22. U.S. Soccer Legend- Jay DeMerit

Hi and welcome to the Tales From The Trail Podcast by MatchPlay. This episode is a big one for us. We welcome US Soccer legend Jay DeMerit. Jay played his college soccer at University of Illinois-Chicago and then decided and committed to pursuing his goal of becoming a professional footballer in Europe. We get into what he went through to finally see that happen for Watford FC. He was instrumental in them being promoted to the English Premier League (he scored a fantastic goal in their promotion match) and became captain at the club and became a beloved player. He built on that experience and made the US National Team. They bagged some legendary victories and competed in the 2010 World Cup. The next step of his career was becoming the captain of the Vancouver Whitecaps in the MLS. Now retired from competition, Jay focuses on ventures that benefit youth and their development. Our conversation ranges from his recruiting story, his playing career, and how his program Rise and Shine truly is doing great things for kids. Justin Chezem, the men’s coach at Christopher Newport University and I were privileged to have him on the podcast and we’re certain that you’ll enjoy the conversation. Jay D shares his journey from playing soccer in college to becoming a professional player for Watford FC. He emphasizes the importance of preparation and having a positive mindset. Jay also discusses the need for a new way of learning that is device-driven and focuses on individual strengths and interests. He highlights the benefits of playing multiple sports and the impact it has on personal development. Jay shares his experiences with professionalism and the support he received from his family and mentors. He concludes by discussing the Rise and Shine program and the development of an educational app. The conversation covers various topics related to coaching and engaging with fans in the digital age. The guest shares insights on adapting to the changing landscape and leveraging technology to benefit athletes. The host expresses appreciation for the guest's valuable input. Takeaways Be prepared and have a positive mindset to achieve success. Create a new way of learning that is device-driven and focuses on individual strengths and interests. Playing multiple sports can have a positive impact on personal development. Support from family and mentors is crucial in pursuing your goals. Teach high performance and help individuals develop their true potential. Embrace opportunities and be open to new experiences. Adapting to the digital age is essential for coaches and athletes to stay relevant and connect with fans. Technology can be used as a tool to enhance coaching methods and improve athlete performance. Engaging with fans through social media and digital platforms can increase fan loyalty and support. Appreciation and gratitude are important in building relationships and fostering a positive coaching environment. Chapters 00:00 Preparing for Success 08:14 Creating a New Way of Learning 13:16 The Importance of Playing Multiple Sports 23:42 Taking the Leap to Play Professionally 36:07 Support from Family and Mentors 41:08 Playing for Watford FC 47:42 Experiences with Professionalism 57:16 The Rise and Shine Program 01:10:06 Teaching High Performance

S1 · E22

Aug 19, 2023

1:16:39

21. Student-Athlete Series- Kenna McCarthy

In this episode, the second of our players series, we welcome a current women’s soccer student-athlete, Kenna McCarthy, who plays at Christopher Newport University in Newport News, VA. She was a part of the 2021 National Championship team and brings leadership and maturity that her coach, Jamie Gunderson, who also joins us, finds invaluable. Despite things not always going her way, Kenna is a fantastic example of being a role model and someone who her coaches and teammates can count on regardless of the situation. You’re going to enjoy this one. Please continue to subscribe to and share the podcast and follow MatchPlay on social media. Summary Kenna McCarthy, a defensive midfielder at Christopher Newport University, and her coach, Jamie Gunderson, discuss Kenna's soccer journey and the college recruiting process. Kenna shares her experience growing up in a soccer environment and her decision to pursue college soccer. She discusses the importance of finding the right fit in terms of soccer level, school size, and location. Kenna also talks about the role her parents played in guiding her through the recruiting process. Jamie shares his perspective as a coach and the qualities he looks for in recruits. Kenna reflects on her role as a leader on the team and the importance of being yourself during the recruiting process. She also highlights the close-knit relationships and the fun and serious moments she experiences as a member of the team. Kenna McCarthy reflects on her favorite memories and experiences as a soccer player, highlighting the importance of team bonding and camaraderie. She particularly enjoys the bus rides after winning the national championship and the fun games played during practices. McCarthy also emphasizes the significance of dinner with her teammates, where they spend hours together at the dining hall, creating lasting memories. Takeaways Finding the right fit in terms of soccer level, school size, and location is important in the college recruiting process. Parents should support and guide their child through the recruiting process, but it's important for the recruit to take the lead and make their own decisions. Attitude and character are important factors that coaches consider when recruiting players. Being a good teammate and having a positive attitude, even when not starting, can make a significant impact on the team. Building relationships and being yourself during the recruiting process is crucial in finding the right fit. Playing college soccer is a rewarding experience that involves both fun and serious moments. Team bonding and camaraderie are essential for a positive sports experience. Memorable moments often involve fun games and activities with teammates. Shared meals, such as dinner, can foster strong relationships and create lasting memories. Creating a sense of belonging and a supportive team environment enhances the overall soccer experience. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:19 Early Soccer Experience 03:37 Recruiting Process 06:31 Choosing a College 10:06 Division 1 vs Division 3 12:25 Parental Guidance 14:07 Coach's Perspective 18:23 Handling Not Being a Starter 21:46 Playing Time and COVID Year 24:54 Leadership and Hosting Recruits 34:31 Being Yourself and First Impressions 40:10 Playing at CNU 42:33 Favorite Memories 43:24 Favorite Memories and Bus Rides 45:20 Fun Games and Team Bonding 47:14 Dinner and Team Camaraderie

S1 · E21

Aug 16, 2023

49:10

20. College Student-Athletes - Michael Meese, Trinity University & Augie Cooper, The College of William & Mary

This is a special episode, we have current college student-athletes as guests to discuss their recruiting stories and how their careers are going as they enter their senior years. Michael Meese of Trinity University in San Antonio and Augie Cooper of the College of William & Mary join Justin Chezem the men’s coach at Christopher Newport University and I in a conversation that covers a lot of ground including their individual recruiting processes, their experiences as teammates in college, the transfer portal, how their careers are going, and a little reminiscing. The song in the intro and outro is discussed in the podcast and has significance for Michael and Augie and their old youth teammates. Please continue to subscribe and share the podcast and follow MatchPlay on social media. Intro and outro song credit:PUMA HARD CHORUS UNITED KINGDOM TRULY MADLY DEEPLYhttps://youtu.be/Mo2wFptAX3k

S1 · E20

Aug 11, 2023

1:09:19

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