In this episode of Mac's Access, Mackenzie sits down with Forge FC’s Victor Klonaridis to dive into his incredible career journey and how his vast international experience has brought a new dimension to Forge FC. They start with his early years at AEK Athens, touch on key moments in champions league and his thoughts on the Canadian Premier League/ Forge!!

Key Takeaways:

• Victor’s journey from signing his first professional contract at 18 with AEK Athens to playing across Europe, including in the UEFA Champions League, has shaped him into a versatile and experienced player.
• Victor’s father wanted to be a professional football player, he pushed Victor to play because he thought he had something special.
• Dealing with injuries at Panathinaikos and bouncing back to score key goals at AEK Athens taught Victor resilience and adaptability.
• His 14-year professional soccer career has given him valuable insights and leadership skills, which he now brings to Forge FC.
• Victor’s initial impressions of Hamilton, his adjustment to a new league, and the Greek connections within the coaching staff at Forge have made his transition smooth.
• People still ask

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction & Welcome

3:00 Early Career at AEK Athens

7:00 Loan Experience in Belgium

8:30 “Mental is the most important”

12:00 Panathinaikos & Overcoming Injuries

13:50 UEFA Champions League Success with AEK Athens

15:00 “Why didn’t you pass?”

17:20 Discovery of Forge FC & the CPL

20:00 Closing Thoughts (28:01 - 30:00)

The Forge Audio Network provides Forge FC fans with the most comprehensive, entertaining and informative news and information about their favourite soccer team. Featuring Steve Milton, Mackenzie Barwell, Kyle Bekker, Mitch Houlahan, Bobby Smyrniotis, Forge players and coaches, other Canadian Premier League experts, and many more. Regular shows include Forge Daily, The Captain's Log, Behind The Beard, Mac's Access, and so much more. Forge Audio Network content can be found on the Forge FC YouTube channel, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, at forgefc.canpl.ca and anywhere else you find podcasts. Please follow, like, leave a review wherever you find our content, and follow Forge FC social media channels to keep up to date with all Forge Audio Network content.
Twitter: @ForgeFCHamilton
Insta: @forgefc
TikTok: @forgefchamilton
Facebook: ForgeFCHamilton

Forge FC's final home match of the regular season
vs Atletico Ottawa
Saturday October 12
4:00pm
Tim Hortons Field
Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/forge-fc-vs-atletico-ottawa-hamilton-ontario-10-12-2024/event/10006061897F0D95

Behind the Beard S2E22!! In this episode, Coach Bobby & Mackenzie break down Forge FC's commanding 2-0 victory over York United. We revisit the key moments from the match, including the halftime adjustments that helped Forge take control. Coach Bobby also offers insights on the upcoming match against Valour FC and the implications of reaching 50 points in the CPL season, clinching the CPL Shield, and marking Forge's 100th win in all competitions!!

Key Takeaways:

• Forge FC's tactical adjustments after a challenging first half against York were crucial to their 2-0 win.
• The absence of Tristan Borges didn’t hinder Forge’s midfield, with players like Ale, Noah Jensen, and Kyle Bekker stepping up to make the team tick.
• Special recognition for Kyle Bekker, Noah Jensen, and Alex Achinioti-Jönsson for making the CPL Team of the Week, highlighting their significant impact in transition and counterattacks.
• A win against Valour FC this weekend could secure Forge 50 points, the CPL Shield, and a Champions Cup spot, along with celebrating their 100th victory in all competitions.

Chapters:

0:00 Catching Up

4:30 York Match Recap

6:30 ‘Midfield Masterclass’

9:00 Role of Alex Achinioti-Jönsson1

14:00 Clinching Regular Season Title

15:30 Valour FC Preview

18:00 Plane Snacks!!

The Forge Audio Network provides Forge FC fans with the most comprehensive, entertaining and informative news and information about their favorite soccer team. Featuring Steve Milton, Mackenzie Barwell, Kyle Bekker, Mitch Houlahan, Bobby Smyrniotis, Forge players and coaches, other Canadian Premier League experts, and many more. Regular shows include Forge Daily, The Captain's Log, Behind The Beard, Mac's Access, and so much more. Forge Audio Network content can be found on the Forge FC YouTube channel, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, at forgefc.canpl.ca and anywhere else you find podcasts. Please follow, like, leave a review wherever you find our content, and follow Forge FC social media channels to keep up to date with all Forge Audio Network content.
Twitter: @ForgeFCHamilton
Insta: @forgefc
TikTok: @forgefchamilton
Facebook: ForgeFCHamilton

Forge FC's final home match of the regular season
vs Atletico Ottawa
Saturday October 12
4:00pm
Tim Hortons Field
Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/forge-fc-vs-atletico-ottawa-hamilton-ontario-10-12-2024/event/10006061897F0D95

Forge FC extended their lead in the standings by 7 points after yet another home win this past weekend against York United. In today’s episode, Mackenzie breaks down all the action from the 905 Derby, the impact on the standings after Matchweek 25, and takes a look at where Valour FC stands ahead of their upcoming clash with Forge FC this weekend.

Key Takeaways;

• Forge FC secured a 2-0 victory in the 905 Derby against York United, with goals from Noah Jensen and Nana Ampomah.
• Noah Jensen's goal in the second half brought his season total to 5, trailing only Tristan Borges. Nana Ampomah sealed the game with a late goal, aided by new signings Victor Klonaridis and Alex.
• Both Amadou Kone and Tristan Borges were absent from the starting lineup, and Forge had to adapt when Elimane Cissé left the match due to injury. Jordan Hamilton, Dav Choinière, and Benni Badibanga led the attack.
• The episode highlighted results from Matchweek 25, including Cavalry's 0-0 draw with Vancouver and a 1-1 draw between Ottawa and Halifax. These results affect playoff positions, especially with Valour FC and Pacific FC fighting for the 5th playoff spot.
• Forge will face Valour FC next, with Forge on the verge of clinching the regular season title and Valour fighting to stay in the playoff race.

Chapters:

0:00 Recapping the 905 Darby

6:55 Individual Stats and Matchweek 25

8:00 Valour v. Forge FC

The Forge Audio Network provides Forge FC fans with the most comprehensive, entertaining and informative news and information about their favorite soccer team. Featuring Steve Milton, Mackenzie Barwell, Kyle Bekker, Mitch Houlahan, Bobby Smyrniotis, Forge players and coaches, other Canadian Premier League experts, and many more. Regular shows include Forge Daily, The Captain's Log, Behind The Beard, Mac's Access, and so much more. Forge Audio Network content can be found on the Forge FC YouTube channel, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, at forgefc.canpl.ca and anywhere else you find podcasts. Please follow, like, leave a review wherever you find our content, and follow Forge FC social media channels to keep up to date with all Forge Audio Network content. Twitter: @ForgeFCHamilton Insta: @forgefc TikTok: @forgefchamilton Facebook: ForgeFCHamilton

Forge FC's final home match of the regular season
vs Atletico Ottawa
Saturday October 12
4:00pm
Tim Hortons Field
Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/forge-fc-vs-atletico-ottawa-hamilton-ontario-10-12-2024/event/10006061897F0D95

In this lively episode of The Captain's Log, Forge captain Kyle Bekker and Mitch Houlahan bring their signature humor and candid style to the Forge Audio Network. They dive into everything from team dynamics to personal reflections, all while keeping the conversation fun and engaging. Kyle shares stories about his family, including some hilarious anecdotes about his son, and the duo discusses their experiences from the latest Forge games. With a bit of roasting and some heartfelt moments, this episode is sure to keep you entertained.

Takeaways:

• Kyle Becker opens up about his son’s soccer experiences and family life, adding a personal touch to the episode.
• The pair dive into recent team performances, focusing on standout players like David Choinière and Alexander Achinioti-Jönsson.
• A deep dive into the intricacies of being a central midfielder and what makes controlling the game's tempo so important.
• A hilarious reflection on old TV shows like Mad Men and how it connects to their ideas on marketing and storytelling.
• The hosts’ thoughts on referees and the impact of officiating on match flow.
• Breaking down Forge’s latest win and the impact of Borges and an "ass pass" moment.

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction

05:15 – Benny Bekker: Future Star

10:20 – Previous Forge Game

18:45 – Standout Performances and Key Players

24:30 – Hilarious commentary on Mad Men and marketing ideas

30:15 – Controlling the Game

38:00 – Wrap-up and final thoughts on the season

Forge FC's final home match of the regular season
vs Atletico Ottawa
Saturday October 12
4:00pm
Tim Hortons Field
Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/forge-fc-vs-atletico-ottawa-hamilton-ontario-10-12-2024/event/10006061897F0D95

Matteo returns for another episode of Mac’s Access! Today, he and Mackenzie dive into a range of topics including his first professional goal, his earliest soccer memories, and his experience coaching at the all-girls skills clinic. Plus, much more! Later, Matteo picks his team for the "FALL Stuff" draft - a game played during Behind the Beard.

Chapters
1:00 Matteo's First Professional Goal
2:15 Goal Celebration & Family
3:00 Earliest & Most Embarrassing Soccer Memory
4:30 Social Media Challenge
5:30 Malik's Brand & Matteo’s Modelling
7:00 All-Girls Skills Clinic
8:50 Coaches on the Team
10:00 Education
12:00 Fall stuff draft!

Key Takeaways

• Matteo's goal celebration was inspired by Luca Toni, happening spontaneously in the moment.
• Matteo praises his family, calling them “THE BEST” and highlighting how they often travel in large numbers from Montreal to support him.
• He recently modelled for Malik’s clothing brand 'Arcane,' an experience he enjoyed.
• Matteo and Ale led the shooting drills at the girls' skills clinic, where he appreciated the presence of the McMaster women's team. He noted how the girls were more excited to take photos with the university players than with them!
• Matteo credits Garven Metusala for being exceptionally patient and great with kids during the clinic.
• Matteo is currently in a 'social' program at school, taking an extra two years to prepare for university.

Forge Audio Network
The Forge Audio Network provides Forge FC fans with the most comprehensive, entertaining and informative news and information about their favorite soccer team. Featuring Steve Milton, Mackenzie Barwell, Kyle Bekker, Mitch Houlahan, Bobby Smyrniotis, Forge players and coaches, other Canadian Premier League experts, and many more. Regular shows include Forge Daily, The Captain's Log, Behind The Beard, Mac's Access, and so much more. Forge Audio Network content can be found on the Forge FC YouTube channel, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, at forgefc.canpl.ca and anywhere else you find podcasts. Please follow, like, leave a review wherever you find our content, and follow Forge FC social media channels to keep up to date with all Forge Audio Network content.
Twitter: @ForgeFCHamilton
Insta: @forgefc
TikTok: @forgefchamilton
Facebook: ForgeFCHamilton

Forge FC's final home match of the regular season
vs Atletico Ottawa
Saturday October 12
4:00pm
Tim Hortons Field
Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/forge-fc-vs-atletico-ottawa-hamilton-ontario-10-12-2024/event/10006061897F0D95

Behind the Beard: Season 2, Episode 21
In this episode, Mackenzie and Coach Bobby dive into everything York United, Forge FC's recent win over Vancouver FC, and the league record they could potentially break in their next 2 home games. Coach Bobby also shares his thoughts on his favourite aspects of Fall… or perhaps lack thereof..

Key Takeaways:

• Coach Eddie doesn’t handle turbulence well, unlike Coach Bobby, who’s unfazed by it.
• Dav has been a standout all season, providing the team with consistent energy and a reliable presence in behind the opposing defensive line.
• Cissé excels at picking his moments, maintaining balance, and not forcing the attack.
• Coach Bobby reflects on the importance of bouncing back after their loss to Halifax.
• He expects York United to come into this weekend’s match hungry and ready for a challenge — especially considering they are fighting for a playoff spot.
• Coach Bobby is NOT a fan of fall, they play a fun game to end the episode.

Forge Audio Network
The Forge Audio Network provides Forge FC fans with the most comprehensive, entertaining and informative news and information about their favorite soccer team. Featuring Steve Milton, Mackenzie Barwell, Kyle Bekker, Mitch Houlahan, Bobby Smyrniotis, Forge players and coaches, other Canadian Premier League experts, and many more. Regular shows include Forge Daily, The Captain's Log, Behind The Beard, Mac's Access, and so much more. Forge Audio Network content can be found on the Forge FC YouTube channel, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, at forgefc.canpl.ca and anywhere else you find podcasts. Please follow, like, leave a review wherever you find our content, and follow Forge FC social media channels to keep up to date with all Forge Audio Network content.
Twitter: @ForgeFCHamilton
Insta: @forgefc
TikTok: @forgefchamilton
Facebook: ForgeFCHamilton

Forge FC's final home match of the regular season
vs Atletico Ottawa
Saturday October 12
4:00pm
Tim Hortons Field
Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/forge-fc-vs-atletico-ottawa-hamilton-ontario-10-12-2024/event/10006061897F0D95

Welcome to another episode of Forge Daily! Matchweek 24 has wrapped up, and Forge FC now hold a 5-point lead following their 3-1 win over Vancouver FC on the road this past weekend! Today, we'll dive into that match, what the result means for Forge and the current standings, and who they’re gearing up to face this coming Saturday! Plus, hear from some of the guys as they share their travel experiences coming back from Vancouver.

KeyTakeaways:

Away Win: Forge FC earned a crucial 3-1 victory over Vancouver, improving their away form this season.

Player Impact: Dav Choiniere contributed a goal and assist, while Benni Badibanga scored off a 1v1, showcasing key performances.

Playoff Secured: Forge locked in a playoff spot and a five-point lead, ensuring home advantage.

Standings Shift: Cavalry’s win and Halifax/Valour’s draw tightened the race for the final playoff spots.

York United Next: Forge faces York United this weekend, a crucial match after their last 0-0 draw.

Chapters:

0:00 Reflecting on Vancouver Win

4:30 Clinching Playoffs!

6:30 Depth & Experience as Advantages

8:00 Looking ahead!

Forge Audio Network
The Forge Audio Network provides Forge FC fans with the most comprehensive, entertaining and informative news and information about their favorite soccer team. Featuring Steve Milton, Mackenzie Barwell, Kyle Bekker, Mitch Houlahan, Bobby Smyrniotis, Forge players and coaches, other Canadian Premier League experts, and many more. Regular shows include Forge Daily, The Captain's Log, Behind The Beard, Mac's Access, and so much more. Forge Audio Network content can be found on the Forge FC YouTube channel, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, at forgefc.canpl.ca and anywhere else you find podcasts. Please follow, like, leave a review wherever you find our content, and follow Forge FC social media channels to keep up to date with all Forge Audio Network content.
Twitter: @ForgeFCHamilton
Insta: @forgefc
TikTok: @forgefchamilton
Facebook: ForgeFCHamilton

Forge FC's final home match of the regular season
vs Atletico Ottawa
Saturday October 12
4:00pm
Tim Hortons Field
Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/forge-fc-vs-atletico-ottawa-hamilton-ontario-10-12-2024/event/10006061897F0D95

Kyle Bekker and Mitch Houlahan are joined by Louis Butko as he shares his journey from being the first digital host for Forge FC to his current role at CHCH. The discussion covers memorable experiences from the Island Games, the challenges of broadcasting, and the importance of team culture in sports. Louis offers valuable advice for aspiring broadcasters and reflects on the unique dynamics of working in sports media. The episode concludes with a light-hearted sign-off, showcasing Louis's charismatic personality.

Takeaways

• The Island Games provided a unique experience for all involved.
• Team culture is crucial for success in sports.
• Broadcasting requires adaptability and a strong work ethic.
• Louis B emphasizes the importance of saying yes to opportunities.
• The role of media is to support and enhance the sports experience.
• Morning television demands high energy and commitment.
• Building relationships with players is essential for media professionals.
• Louis learned a lot from observing professional athletes.
• The challenges of broadcasting can be mentally and physically taxing.
• Louie encourages aspiring broadcasters to embrace their passion and commitment.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Technical Setup

03:02 - The Journey of Louie B

06:00 - Memories from the Island Games

09:01 - The Role of Media in Sports

12:01 - Life as a Digital Host

15:02 - Experiences in Morning Television

17:57 - The Importance of Team Culture

21:55 - Challenges of Broadcasting

29:05 - Advice for Aspiring Broadcasters

35:01 - Game Analysis and Reflections

40:02 - Closing Thoughts and Sign-Off

Forge FC's final home match of the regular season
vs Atletico Ottawa
Saturday October 12
4:00pm
Tim Hortons Field
Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.ca/forge-fc-vs-atletico-ottawa-hamilton-ontario-10-12-2024/event/10006061897F0D95