Natasha Brand and Jenn Ramczyk never had the opportunity to play organized soccer as young girls. Now, they're transforming the landscape for women across America as co-founders of Her Game Too USA.

Growing up in England, Natasha recalls how soccer simply "wasn't for girls" - schools divided sports strictly by gender, leaving girls to play informal street games without proper pathways into the sport. Meanwhile, Jenn's playing career was cut tragically short by injury, redirecting her passion toward fandom and advocacy. Their parallel journeys converged when both independently reached out to Caz May, founder of the original Her Game Too initiative in the UK, hoping to bring the movement stateside.

What makes their work particularly fascinating is how sexism manifests differently across the Atlantic. While British female fans faced blatant hostility with comments like "get back to the kitchen," American women often encounter more subtle forms of discrimination - surprised reactions when they demonstrate knowledge about the game or inappropriate behavior in sports bars. The Her Game Too USA team has also identified unique challenges facing female referees, many of whom lack proper reporting avenues when experiencing abuse.

Operating entirely through volunteer efforts as a registered nonprofit, the team faces considerable challenges in a country five times the size of the UK. Despite their perceived "slow pace," they've already secured partnerships with ten professional clubs while building a network of female club ambassadors across the nation. Their determination speaks volumes about the necessity of their work.

Ready to support this vital mission? Follow Her Game Too USA on social media @hergametoo.us and visit hergametoo.com to learn how you can help create a more inclusive soccer culture for everyone.

What if the journey of American soccer mirrors a thrilling western adventure, complete with risks, leaps of faith, and a relentless pursuit of growth? Join us in this Stoppage Time edition of Pitch to Pro as we unpack the riveting tale of John Harkes, who navigated the soccer landscapes from the UK to the U.S. Amidst the vibrant, chaotic, and rapidly evolving soccer scene in America, John shares his firsthand experiences and insights. From the early days of Major League Soccer to the burgeoning rise of the USL, his story captures the resilience and vision that fuel the sport's development against a backdrop of uncertainty and challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic.

John also sheds light on the indispensable role of community engagement in nurturing successful soccer clubs. Drawing on his vast experience as a player, coach, and executive, he illustrates the transformative power of grassroots involvement reminiscent of the UK, and how it's crucial for U.S. clubs to thrive. His narrative is a testament to the dedication of those who strive to elevate American soccer, underscoring the importance of building community-centered clubs that serve their fans and stakeholders. Whether you're a soccer enthusiast or someone fascinated by the dynamics of sports growth, this episode offers a compelling look into the heart and soul of soccer in the United States.

U.S. soccer legend John Harkes steps into the spotlight as we explore his fascinating journey from a celebrated player to an influential coach. Discover the secrets behind John’s transition to media work with "MLS Wrap" while nurturing his coaching passion through youth clubs. He generously shares his coaching philosophy, rooted in humility and creating opportunities for others, drawing from his time with esteemed mentors like Louis van Gaal and Frank Rijkaard. John recounts his enriching experiences coaching the under-20 national team in Holland alongside the late Sigi Schmid and his professional adventures with the New York Red Bulls under the guidance of Bruce Arena.

In another compelling segment, we shine a light on the pivotal role of the United Soccer League (USL) in shaping the U.S. soccer landscape. We delve into the importance of a robust pyramid structure for both men and women, offering vital platforms for budding talents to hone their skills. Through our engaging conversation, we offer a fresh perspective on the evolution of soccer in the United States and the potential of promotion and relegation systems within the USL. Celebrate the resilience of USL clubs as they navigate challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and witness the exciting expansion of USL League One, all contributing to a thriving soccer community.

What does it take to leave a lasting legacy in the world of soccer? In this episode, we feature the extraordinary journey of a former professional soccer player who has seamlessly transitioned into media and coaching. Hear firsthand how the threads of family and community support have woven a tapestry of character and humility throughout his career. Experience the warmth of a soccer family—where not only did he shine on the field, but his wife also played professionally, and their children are now carving their own paths in the sport. We share touching anecdotes that capture the essence of mentorship, especially through the unforgettable influence of Manny Schellscheidt, a pioneering coach whose wisdom continues to inspire.

Our Stoppage Time segment takes listeners into the strategic heart of modern football. Join the conversation as we dissect the evolving dynamics of the game, unpacking the intricacies of player development, tactical game plans, and influential managerial decisions. We'll highlight key moments from recent matches that have shaped the current soccer landscape, linking these insights back to our guest's lifelong devotion to the sport and the community that nurtures it. This episode is a must-listen for fans eager to gain a deeper understanding of the beautiful game and the stories that enrich it.

Join us for a captivating conversation with US soccer legend John Harkes as we explore his incredible journey from the playgrounds of Kearny, New Jersey—affectionately known as "Soccer Town, USA"—to the world stage. Discover how the tight-knit community of Kearney, fueled by immigrant passion, played a pivotal role in shaping his career and the broader landscape of American soccer. From childhood games under the watchful eye of his father to the pressures and triumphs on the international field, John's story is one of dedication, community, and the power of a shared dream.

In an inspiring narrative, we also reflect on a pivotal lesson learned from the legendary coach Manny Schellscheidt, which reshaped our understanding of the game beyond mere scoring. This episode offers rich insights into the pathways from youth soccer to pro levels, illustrating the distinctions between collegiate success and international achievements. As we highlight career milestones, we emphasize the importance of community engagement and the cultural foundation within teams. Tune in to understand how balancing on-field success with meaningful off-field contributions can create a lasting legacy in the soccer world.

Imagine witnessing a young athlete achieve their dreams and thinking, "If they can do it, so can I." This week on the Pitch to Pro podcast, we're joined by a former high-level player turned coach, who shares his compelling journey through the evolving soccer landscape in Northwest Arkansas. Ryan Williams breaks down the significance of intellectual engagement for young athletes, especially the 2012 age group, and how it shapes their understanding of soccer. Through his personal story, you'll hear about the triumphs and trials of nurturing talent from grassroots to greatness, providing a beacon of hope and possibility for aspiring players.

Our conversation unveils the delicate balance between the thirst for victory and the necessity of player development. Ryan goes beyond just sharing his experiences, offering a raw and honest look at the internal struggle coaches often face between winning and fostering growth. Whether you're a coach, player, or soccer enthusiast, you'll find this discussion both relatable and thought-provoking. We promise you'll leave with a deeper understanding of what it takes to cultivate talent and create clear pathways for young athletes in the ever-growing soccer communities of places like Northwest Arkansas and beyond.

Join us as we chat with Ryan Williams, an inspiring figure in the world of soccer coaching and development. Once a professional soccer player, Ryan now channels his passion for the sport into coaching, sharing insightful stories from his journey. He candidly discusses the transition from player to coach, highlighting the challenges and triumphs along the way. Ryan's experiences with college teams have shaped his philosophy, making him a strong advocate for skill development and player empowerment. With his natural gift for teaching, Ryan brings a fresh perspective on fostering growth and creativity among young athletes, transforming them into cohesive units on the field.

Ryan opens up about the intricacies of coaching at Ozark United FC's U20 Boys Academy, where nurturing talent and competitive success go hand in hand. The excitement of tryouts, the process of integrating players from rival teams, and the importance of building a strong soccer vocabulary are just a few topics covered. We delve into the delicate balance of creativity and structured play, particularly for midfielders, and how this balance is crucial for adapting to the ever-evolving game. Discover Ryan's insights on how fostering autonomy and individuality prepares players for future success, allowing them to excel across diverse playing styles and coaching philosophies.

Ever wondered what it takes to leap from college soccer to the professional arena? Join us for a special Stoppage Time edition of the Pitch to Pro podcast, where we sit down with a player who has navigated that very path, from college soccer to the USL Championship. Our guest shares invaluable insights into the world of professional soccer, shedding light on the differences in skill level and player mentality that set college athletes apart from their professional counterparts. They recount their memorable experiences with New Mexico United, including an exhilarating face-off against Minnesota United in the Open Cup, and discuss the remarkable bond between the team and its supportive community.

We also explore the strategic intricacies that distinguish various leagues, from the Premier League's flair to the USL Championship's organizational prowess. Our guest offers a unique perspective from their coaching stint at John Brown University, emphasizing the attributes that define elite players — impeccable execution and a high football IQ. Whether you're a soccer aficionado or an aspiring pro, this episode is filled with captivating stories and practical lessons that are sure to spark your passion for the game. Tune in and discover what truly elevates a player from good to great in the world of soccer.