New England Soccer Journal’s The Goal

Steve McAuliffe and Brendan Hamilton of South Shore Select

The guests are Steve McAuliffe, Executive Director, and Brendan Hamilton, Academy Director, from South Shore Select. The episode delves into the club's significant transition to ECNL girls from the Girls Academy for the 2024-25 season, marking a major milestone. McAuliffe and Hamilton discuss the club's joy and competitive ambitions with this move, highlighting their long-term effort in fostering soccer talent and the club's development over the past 30 years. They share success stories, including nurturing players like number one NWSL draft pick Ally Sentnor. The conversation also touches on the club's strong community ties, the importance of maintaining a competitive yet respectful club culture, and their perspectives on future growth and challenges within the changing landscape of club soccer. The podcast concludes with a light-hearted Celebrity Soccer Fantasy Draft.
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Topics
00:00 Welcome to The Goal Podcast with South Shore Select Leadership00:41 Major Club Announcement: Transition to ECNL02:38 Reflecting on Club Success and Player Development07:50 The Competitive Spirit and Future Aspirations16:22 Navigating the Club Soccer Landscape and Focusing on Self-Improvement19:07 Exploring the Club's Unique Approach and Community Impact19:38 The Importance of Familiarity and Personalization in Club Sports20:59 Expansion Strategies and Maintaining Club Identity21:57 Transitioning to a New League: Expectations and Preparations23:14 Club and Community Excitement for the Upcoming Season23:56 Celebrity Soccer Fantasy Draft: A Fun Divergence

Loomis Chaffee Coach Scott Halpern

Scott Halpern was named head coach of Loomis Chaffee's soccer teaam in 2023. Halpern previously worked with the men’s soccer program at the University of Connecticut.
He joins the show to talk about this off-season, including adding some new students and off-season training and conditioning programs.

Olger Escobar of the New England Revolution

New England Revolution forward Olger Escobar joins the show to talk about the team's training in Florida and the excitement surrounding the new season.
Also covered in the show: Olger shares insights into his transition from youth soccer to professional soccer, emphasizing the motivation he draws from seeing young players progressing through the ranks and his determination to adapt quickly to the demands of professional play.
The conversation touches upon Older's accolades, such as being named the Revolution Academy Player of the Year for 2022-23, highlighting his journey from joining the academy to receiving recognition for his performance and dedication.
Olger discusses his international experience, including his call-up to the Guatemalan national team and his debut, offering insights into the emotions and significance of representing his country on the soccer field.
Olger also reflects on his personal soccer journey, discussing his early dedication to the sport, family influences, and experiences playing for various teams. He shares memorable moments, such as crucial penalty kicks and the impact of watching and learning from soccer legends like Lionel Messi

Shawn Napier & Greg Robertson of the Boston Bolts

The guests are Boston Bolts MLS Next Director Shawn Napier and Director of Coaching Greg Robertson who join the show to look ahead to the MLS season and discuss how the Bolts are distinguished from the rest of the club landscape in New England.

Aztec Soccer's Jeff Winterton

The guest is Aztec Soccer Junior Boys Director Jeff Winterton. Jeff, a veteran of the club, discusses its new ownership, changes in structure and more.

BC Women’s Coach Chris Watkins

Chris Watkins was named the new head women's soccer coach at Boston College this past December.  Watkins previously coached seven seasons at Gonzaga, where he compiled a 79-33-16 record.

Milton Academy Coach Chris Kane

Milton Academy recently claimed the the Class A championship, after a "gauntlet" of a tournament. Coach Chris Kane joins the show to talk about the achievement.

NE Prep Playoff Preview

Host Matt Langone is joined by Seamans Media Managing Editor and Girls Prep Soccer writer Mike Zhe to preview the New England prep school playoffs.

Women’s Pro Soccer in Boston: Jennifer Epstein

The guest is Jennifer Epstein, one of the owners of Boston's brand new National Women's Soccer League franchise that will begin play in 2026.

Suffield Academy Coach Rick Warren

Rick Warren, head coach for Suffield Academy, is the guest.  Prior to arriving at Suffield, he was the assistant men’s soccer coach at Kenyon College. Rick is a native of Jamaica who played for his country at the youth level.