Like many, we discovered Northern Colorado FC’s (NoCoFC) introduction into USL League One via twitter (they can be found @NoCoUSL). Although there had long been rumored to be interest in a club in the state, the announcement came as somewhat of a surprise. So of course, Ira had to get on the phone with one of the owners, and Casey Katofsky obliged. Casey is the Executive Director of Operations for Future Legends and Co-owner of the new club.

Future Legends is a 180 acre mutli-use, sports focused development coming in the future – the center piece of which will be the professional baseball/soccer stadium. The two discuss the concept behind NoCoFC as a franchise, the groups goals, and the area of Windsor, CO which is in the heart of Northern Colorado.

After the club kicks off, Colorado will have one team at least professional tier along with eastern range of the Rocky Mountains. Besides NoCoFC, Denver host the Rapids (MLS) and Colorado Springs the Switchbacks (USLC).

What is League One Fun?

Ira is @irajersey, Jason is @homesweetsoccer, and the show is @league1fun. The Black Players Alliance of the USL can be found here.

League One Fun is the Beautiful Game Network podcast that covers the entirety of USL League One. Jason and Ira discuss the third and lowest tier of professional soccer. The two conduct player, coach and front office interviews as well as review matches and league news.

The league’s independent franchises include Greenville Triumph, South Georgia Tormenta, Richmond Kickers, Chattanooga Red Wolves, Forward Madison and Union Omaha (Owls), FC Tucson, and newly self relegated North Carolina FC.

There are now four MLS “2” sides. These include Fort Lauderdale CF (InterMiami), New England Revolution II, Toronto FC II, and North Texas SC (FC Dallas).

We’re sponsored by

• The Beautiful Game Network
• Ruffneck Scarves
• Icarus FC Shop 

The post League One Fun – Episode 91: NoCoFC Co-Owner Casey Katofsky appeared first on Beautiful Game Network.

John Bradford, Head Coach of Self Relegated North Carolina FC

North Carolina FC based in Cary, NC will be playing in USL League One in 2021 after spending years in the USL Championship. On January 19th the club named former assistant coach John Bradford their head coach. In the announcement, the club discussed their new focus on youth development. Coach Bradford discusses his coaching style, pathway and why NCFC decided to move down to League One.

If your new to the league, such as a North Carolina FC fan, we suggest you listen to our 2020 Season Wrap Up.

What is League One Fun?

Ira is @irajersey, Jason is @homesweetsoccer, and the show is @league1fun. The Black Players Alliance of the USL can be found here.

League One Fun is the Beautiful Game Network podcast that covers the entirety of USL League One, including the final to be held October 30th. Jason and Ira discuss the third tier and lowest tier of professional soccer. The two conduct player, coach and front office interviews as well as review matches and league news. Independent franchises include Greenville Triumph, South Georgia Tormenta, Richmond Kickers, Chattanooga Red Wolves, Forward Madison and Union Omaha (Owls). The league also includes USL Championship Phoenix Rising’s second team FC Tucson. There are now five MLS “2” sides. These include Fort Lauderdale CF (InterMiami), New England Revolution II, Toronto FC II, North Texas SC (FC Dallas), and Orlando City B.

We’re sponsored by

• The Beautiful Game Network
• Ruffneck Scarves
• Icarus FC Shop 

The post League One Fun – Episode 90: North Carolina FC’s John Bradford appeared first on Beautiful Game Network.

Season Wrap Up

While there may not have been a USL League One Championship this year, there are plenty to wrap up. We provide awards and notorieties for players who stood out in this bangers only league. Whether it was goal scoring, defense, goal keeping, or creating chances, Ira and Jason give out awards to the players who stood out this season and impacted the league the most. Including a debate between the two best players of the league and who deserved MVP. A debate they just can’t wrap up.

League One Fun Best XI

The duo also gives their best XI lineups of the year and talk the latest news, a retiring player, why the final wasn’t played, and whether or not it was the right decision.

Thank you everyone for an entertaining season and we will (hopefully) see you soon!

For a recap of the Richmond Kickers season we suggest River City 93

What is League One Fun?

Ira is @irajersey, Jason is @homesweetsoccer, and the show is @league1fun. The Black Players Alliance of the USL can be found here.

League One Fun is the Beautiful Game Network podcast that covers the entirety of USL League One, including the final to be held October 30th. Jason and Ira discuss the third tier and lowest tier of professional soccer. The two conduct player, coach and front office interviews as well as review matches and league news. Independent franchises include Greenville Triumph, South Georgia Tormenta, Richmond Kickers, Chattanooga Red Wolves, Forward Madison and Union Omaha (Owls). The league also includes USL Championship Phoenix Rising’s second team FC Tucson. There are now five MLS “2” sides. These include Fort Lauderdale CF (InterMiami), New England Revolution II, Toronto FC II, North Texas SC (FC Dallas), and Orlando City B.

We’re sponsored by

• The Beautiful Game Network
• Ruffneck Scarves
• Icarus FC Shop 

The post League One Fun – Episode 89: Season Wrap Spectacular appeared first on Beautiful Game Network.

To prepare yourself for the USL League One finals, after you listen to this episode try these interview specials:

Tyler Polak of the Greenville Triumph

Ethan Vanacore-Decker of Union Omaha.

Decision Day Injury Time Drama

Three games, three possible outcomes, and three stoppage time goals brough all the drama for USL League One’s decision day! And after it was all said and done, Union Omaha, in their inaugural season, will travel to a sell-out Greenville, to play the Triumph in their 2nd attempt in 2 years to try and raise Silverware. Ira and Jason preview the exciting final while also discussing the Richmond Kicker’s late season collapse, North Texas’ late season resurgence, why this season was more entertaining than last season, who would be MVP of the league if it were a full season, and who has the advantage on Friday Night. The duo also presents their ready for the next level starting XI, where they take a player at each position who is ready for the next level playing in USL Championship and/or MLS. A packed episode for a packed week leading to the USL League One Championship

What is League One Fun?

Ira is @irajersey, Jason is @homesweetsoccer, and the show is @league1fun. The Black Players Alliance of the USL can be found here.

League One Fun is the Beautiful Game Network podcast that covers the entirety of USL League One, including the final to be held October 30th. Jason and Ira discuss the third tier and lowest tier of professional soccer. The two conduct player, coach and front office interviews as well as review matches and league news. Independent franchises include Greenville Triumph, South Georgia Tormenta, Richmond Kickers, Chattanooga Red Wolves, Forward Madison and Union Omaha (Owls). The league also includes USL Championship Phoenix Rising’s second team FC Tucson. There are now five MLS “2” sides. These include Fort Lauderdale CF (InterMiami), New England Revolution II, Toronto FC II, North Texas SC (FC Dallas), and Orlando City B.

The post League One Fun – Episode 88: It All Happens in Injury Time appeared first on Beautiful Game Network.

Ethan Interview

Ethan Vanacore-Decker is the latest in seven generations of soccer players in his family. Ira speaks with Ethan’s about his journey from New Jersey, through college and into the professional ranks. They talk about the new team, the locker room, and Ethan’s shin-guards that he’s had since high-school.

To hear Ira’s interview with Tyler Polak from the Greenville Triumph and a replay of an interview with Daryl Grove click here.

What is League One Fun?

Ira is @irajersey, Jason is @homesweetsoccer, and the show is @league1fun. The Black Players Alliance of the USL can be found here.

League One Fun is the Beautiful Game Network podcast that covers the entirety of USL League One, including the final to be held October 30th. Jason and Ira discuss the third tier and lowest tier of professional soccer. The two conduct player, coach and front office interviews as well as review matches and league news. Independent franchises include Greenville Triumph, South Georgia Tormenta, Richmond Kickers, Chattanooga Red Wolves, Forward Madison and Union Omaha (Owls). The league also includes USL Championship Phoenix Rising’s second team FC Tucson. There are now five MLS “2” sides. These include Fort Lauderdale CF (InterMiami), New England Revolution II, Toronto FC II, North Texas SC (FC Dallas), and Orlando City B.

Special thanks to Ethan Vanacore-Decker for appearing on our show.

The post League One Fun – Episode 87: Union Omaha’s Ethan Vanacore-Decker appeared first on Beautiful Game Network.

Tormenta’s Win vs. Kickers Opens Finals Spot Wide Open

South Georgia Tormenta’s 1-0 win against the Richmond Kickers had major playoff implications. Richmond still hold their own destiny but their margin for error is now razor thin. Union Omaha had an impressive win against Greenville, but North Texas SC’s draw away at New England reduced their chances to near zero.

Episode 85 from earlier this week with an interview with Tyler Polak and a replay of an earlier interview with Daryl Grove the of Total Soccer Show.

It’s the final countdown

With Richmond unable to take care of business, it all comes down to the final week to see who will be playing in Greenville for the USL League One Championship!

Chattanooga looked like they would stay in the hunt after taking a 1-0 lead at home against Forward Madison, but a lackluster 2nd half allowed Forward to draw and end Chattanooga’s playoffs hope. Speaking of lackluster, the Richmond Kickers also could have placed themselves a foot into the championship game, but also put up a disappointing performance at home, falling 0-1 to South Georgia Tormenta. They now must win their last 2 to reach the promise land, can they do it?

One team hoping they can’t, is Union Omaha, who did something no other team did, beat the Greenville Triumph in Greenville. Showcasing why we call this league bangers only, this week’s most meaningful game was also the most exciting, showing why Omaha potentially could bring home a championship their inaugural year.

Tucson, North Texas, and New England Revs II continue to play well, and Ira and Jason discuss the final week, potential upsets, and the latest USL news and drama.

 

What is League One Fun?

Ira is @irajersey, Jason is @homesweetsoccer, and the show is @league1fun. The Black Players Alliance of the USL can be found here.

League One Fun is the Beautiful Game Network podcast that covers the entirety of USL League One, including the final to be held October 30th. Jason and Ira discuss the third tier and lowest tier of professional soccer. The two conduct player, coach and front office interviews as well as review matches and league news. Independent franchises include Greenville Triumph, South Georgia Tormenta, Richmond Kickers, Chattanooga Red Wolves, Forward Madison and Union Omaha (Owls). The league also includes USL Championship Phoenix Rising’s second team FC Tucson. There are now five MLS “2” sides. These include Fort Lauderdale CF (InterMiami), New England Revolution II, Toronto FC II, North Texas SC (FC Dallas), and Orlando City B.

The post League One Fun – Episode 86: Tormenta Helps Omaha (and North Texas) appeared first on Beautiful Game Network.

Greenville Triumph Captain Tyler Polak

Tyler Polak has been key to Greenville’s success on both sides of the ball. Tyler discusses the team’s success this season, their journey to the finals, and his role as a leader of the team.

Replay of Interview with Daryl Grove

Replay of an interview with Daryl Grove the Total Soccer Show first appearing in Episode 63. Start at the 42nd minute. They discuss Daryl’s roots, his journey to Richmond, find soccer in the US and of course both TSS and Soccer 101. For those who do not know, Daryl’s battle with liver cancer has taken a turn for the worse. For details, we suggest listening to the most recent episode of the Total Soccer Show for details.

What is League One Fun?

Ira is @irajersey, Jason is @homesweetsoccer, and the show is @league1fun. The Black Players Alliance of the USL can be found here. Tyler Polak can be found on twitter @TylerPolak.

League One Fun is the Beautiful Game Network podcast that covers the entirety of USL League One, including the final to be held October 30th. Jason and Ira discuss the third tier and lowest tier of professional soccer. The two conduct player, coach and front office interviews as well as review matches and league news. Independent franchises include Greenville Triumph, South Georgia Tormenta, Richmond Kickers, Chattanooga Red Wolves, Forward Madison and Union Omaha (Owls). The league also includes USL Championship Phoenix Rising’s second team FC Tucson. There are now five MLS “2” sides. These include Fort Lauderdale CF (InterMiami), New England Revolution II, Toronto FC II, North Texas SC (FC Dallas), and Orlando City B.

The post League One Fun – Episode 85: Tyler Polak & Daryl Grove appeared first on Beautiful Game Network.

Phill Grooms joins Ira and guest host Elliot Barr from the River City 93 podcast to talk “2” teams. Earlier this week, Phill broke the story that Multiple MLS “2” Sides to Leave USL Championship & League 1, noting Orlando City B may be dropping out of USL League One next year. The other “2” teams departing were from the USL Championship. The three discuss the ramifications of such a move and if other teams could follow.

After the “2” team discussion, Elliot and Ira discuss the week’s news – how Jason swept the week’s Pick ‘Em, Ira was shut out. They review all the week’s action, with a special focus on Elliot’s side Richmond’s good and not-so-good performance. Plus they preview this week’s matches.

What is League One Fun?

Ira is @irajersey, Jason is @homesweetsoccer, and the show is @league1fun. The Black Players Alliance of the USL can be found here.

League One Fun is the Beautiful Game Network podcast that covers the entirety of USL League One, including the final to be held October 30th. Jason and Ira discuss the third tier and lowest tier of professional soccer. The two conduct player, coach and front office interviews as well as review matches and league news. Independent franchises include Greenville Triumph, South Georgia Tormenta, Richmond Kickers, Chattanooga Red Wolves, Forward Madison and Union Omaha (Owls). The league also includes USL Championship Phoenix Rising’s second team FC Tucson. There are now five MLS “2” sides. These include Fort Lauderdale CF (InterMiami), New England Revolution II, Toronto FC II, North Texas SC (FC Dallas), and Orlando City B.

The post League One Fun – Episode 84: Are “2” Teams Departing? appeared first on Beautiful Game Network.

Owls Get Two Big Wins

Just when it looked like USL League One’s finals were set, a Richmond Kickers loss and double win week for Union Omaha keep the race going! This week, Ira and Jason discuss the late goal win against Fort Lauderdale mid-week, leading into an Omaha 3-0 win against Tormenta as the owls are looking to take their high-flying offense on a run into the playoffs. Speaking of runs, New England Revolution II continue to be Jason’s playoff spoiler team, with their 3rd win and 3rd clean sheet in a row. This time, thrashing Richmond on the road and setting (most likely) a USL League One record of thirty-six interceptions!

How Many Chances?

Forward Madison struggle to score again FC Tucson for a 2nd win a row and settle for a draw, after 33 chances and 40 shots in the two games against FC Tucson have resulted in only 1 goal for the Mingos. Does this leave them out the dark horse hunt with North Texas and Chattanooga Red Wolves?

The duo also preview this week’s must watch matchups, news on USL’s attempts to progress the inclusivity and awareness of topics involving POC, and USL League One’s debut on big boy TV with the finals being played on ESPN Deportes.

What is League One Fun?

Ira is @irajersey, Jason is @homesweetsoccer, and the show is @league1fun. Last week’s show can be found here. The Black Players Alliance of the USL can be found here.

League One Fun is the Beautiful Game Network podcast that covers the entirety of USL League One, including the final to be held on Holloween. Jason and Ira discuss the third tier and lowest tier of professional soccer. The two conduct player, coach and front office interviews as well as review matches and league news. Independent franchises include Greenville Triumph, South Georgia Tormenta, Richmond Kickers, Chattanooga Red Wolves, Forward Madison and Union Omaha (Owls). The league also includes USL Championship Phoenix Rising’s second team FC Tucson. There are now five MLS2 sides. These include Fort Lauderdale CF (InterMiami), New England Revolution II, Toronto FC II, North Texas SC (FC Dallas), and Orlando City B.

The post League One Fun – Episode 83: Owls Still Airborne appeared first on Beautiful Game Network.

Richmond to the Finals?

This week, Jason and Ira discuss another Greenville win, 1-0 victory, and another MVP performance from Alex Morell (surprise surprise). As they’ve solidified 1st place, Richmond Kickers have also enlarged the gap for 2nd and have officially made it theirs to lose. Jason calls Emiliano Terzaghi “the most dangerous man in USL League One” and has the stats to back it up. And speaking of stats, the duo speaks on Omaha with the highest number of crosses in a game this season and why their offense has looked stale. Is it too late for their playoff hopes?

Forward Stepping Up?

One team who will also be wondering this, is Forward Madison. They couldn’t get a win against FC Tucson thanks to Amal Knight’s Man of the Match 9 saves. Yet Forward got it done over the weekend in a convincing win against a tired Chattanooga Red Wolves. With Vang producing 60% of their goals, can the Vang Train lead them to a late run for 2nd? Their path to the final is difficult.

Fort Lauderdale a Spoiler?

The duo also discusses why Fort Lauderdale is still one of the most entertaining teams in the league. They may also be a spoiler for some hopefully to make the final. FTL CF has  players who are ready to make the jump, and how experienced coaches like John Harkes and Jason Kreis are the determining factors for crucial wins.

What is League One Fun?

Ira is @irajersey, Jason is @homesweetsoccer, and the show is @league1fun. Last week’s show can be found here. The Black Players Alliance of the USL can be found here.

League One Fun is the Beautiful Game Network podcast that covers the entirety of USL League One, including the final to be held on Holloween. Jason and Ira discuss the third tier and lowest tier of professional soccer. The two conduct player, coach and front office interviews as well as review matches and league news. Independent franchises include Greenville Triumph, South Georgia Tormenta, Richmond Kickers, Chattanooga Red Wolves, Forward Madison and Union Omaha. The league also includes USL Championship Phoenix Rising’s second team FC Tucson. There are now five MLS2 sides. These include Fort Lauderdale CF (InterMiami), New England Revolution II, Toronto FC II, North Texas SC (FC Dallas), and Orlando City B.

The post League One Fun: Episode 82 – Richmond to the Final? appeared first on Beautiful Game Network.

Rundown for the Week: Greenville on Top

Jason and Ira discuss every match in week 10 with Greenville at the top of the table. The two discuss the news, including some overturned red cards, and a two game suspension. With Greenville remaining at the top, Richmond seems poised to remain in contention for the finals. However other teams remain nipping at their heels.

The guys also review the first match of week 11. They discuss the Richmond Kicker’s win over Fort Lauderdale CF.

What is League One Fun

Ira is @irajersey, Jason is @homesweetsoccer, and the show is @league1fun. Last week’s show can be found here. The Black Players Alliance of the USL can be found here.

League One Fun is the Beautiful Game Network podcast that covers the entirety of USL League One. Jason and Ira discuss the third tier and lowest tier of professional soccer. The two conduct player, coach and front office interviews as well as review matches and league news. Independent franchises include Greenville Triumph, South Georgia Tormenta, Richmond Kickers, Chattanooga Red Wolves, Forward Madison and Union Omaha. The league also includes USL Championship Phoenix Rising’s second team FC Tucson. There are now five MLS2 sides. These include Fort Lauderdale CF (InterMiami), New England Revolution II, Toronto FC II, North Texas SC (FC Dallas), and Orlando City B.

The post League One Fun – Episode 81: Greenville, Richmond, et al appeared first on Beautiful Game Network.