Ever wondered how professional sports franchises can not only survive but thrive through challenging times? Today, we've got the answers straight from the source. Join us as Wes sits down with Warren Smith, the mastermind behind the success of USL Arkansas and other prominent sports teams. Warren's journey from a serendipitous entry into professional sports to becoming a heavy hitter in multiple markets is nothing short of inspiring. He takes us through his pivotal moments, including rescuing the Portland Beavers from bankruptcy and learning from the legendary Art Savage.

But it's not just about the game day excitement; Warren and Wes dive deep into the profound impact sports clubs can have on their communities. From fostering local spirit to creating a sense of belonging, they explore the myriad of ways these organizations contribute beyond the pitch. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, an industry professional, or simply love a good comeback story, this episode offers a treasure trove of insights and inspiration. Don't miss this compelling conversation that promises to change the way you look at sports franchises forever.

Ever wondered how soccer clubs manage to pull off those jaw-dropping player transfers? Master the intricate world of soccer transfers in our latest episode of Pitch to Pro. We kick things off by dissecting the different transfer windows, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the summer and winter periods. Learn why these windows are much more than dates on a calendar and how they impact both clubs and the emotional rollercoaster fans ride when their favorite players depart.

Next, we break down the nitty-gritty of player transfers and loans, revealing how clubs navigate this complex terrain. From the initial inquiry to final negotiations, discover how transfer fees and clauses like sell-on percentages come into play. We also discuss the intriguing rules around loans, such as preventing loaned players from playing against their parent clubs, and how these arrangements can sometimes be a win-win for all parties involved. Appreciate the business acumen and strategic maneuvering required to make these transfers happen.

Finally, we shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes of the transfer market—the agents. Learn how agents negotiate contracts, influence deals, and the rise of "super agents" who command staggering earnings. We'll also unpack the financial intricacies, like buyout clauses and how clubs like Chelsea use tactics such as amortization and long-term contracts to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations. With real-world examples and a glimpse into future trends, this episode promises to enrich your understanding of one of soccer's most pivotal aspects.

Have you ever felt the electricity of 70,000 roaring fans in a stadium? Get ready to immerse yourself in the fervent fandom of Atlanta United as we recount the unforgettable atmosphere at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. From the emotional highs of standing among passionate supporters to the game-changing chants that rally the team, we promise to transport you to the heart of this incredible soccer culture. Hear firsthand accounts of how a city's undying support can turn any match into a must-see spectacle and how Atlanta United’s home games are among the best experiences in global soccer.

Switching gears, we explore the burgeoning soccer scene in Northwest Arkansas with insights from our experienced guest, who shares his vision for the region's potential. Learn about the local supporters' group's ambitions to create an atmosphere that rivals the best in the sport and the strategies to make their stadium a fortress. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to the game, discover how the passion of a community can transform the sporting landscape and create a home-field advantage that any team would envy. Don't miss this episode filled with passion, community spirit, and the sheer love of the game!

Experience the inspiring voyage of USL Arkansas, revealed by co-founder Chris Martinovic and your host, Wes Harris, as they recount the club's unforgettable public debut on July 12, 2023. Learn about the overwhelming community support from local leaders and league officials, which truly made the launch event a milestone. Discover how essential public listening sessions have been in shaping the club's mission and vision, making soccer a unifying force in Northwest Arkansas.

Journey with us as we discuss the club's unwavering commitment to values like authenticity, belonging, excellence, passion, and compassion. Uncover how collaborations with University of Arkansas students and various local events have fueled the growth of soccer in the region. Soccer's simplicity and universal charm make it a perfect tool for inclusivity, resonating deeply with the community's spirit.

Get the latest updates on the development of our premier community soccer stadium in Pinnacle Hills, Rogers. Hear about the vision behind this multi-use facility, which aims to host up to 100 events a year. Learn about the crucial role of our supporters group and the progress of our U20 Academy team, designed to keep local talent thriving. Special guests like Mayor Greg Hines and Nelson Peacock enrich this episode with their insights, setting the stage for an exciting future for soccer in Northwest Arkansas.

Ever wondered how the symbols on a soccer club's crest encapsulate its entire history and ethos? Join us as we explore the fascinating design elements that make soccer crests more than just logos. We promise you'll gain a deeper understanding of how clubs like Real Madrid and Manchester United embed their rich heritage into every detail. From royal emblems to regional references, discover the significance behind these iconic designs and their ongoing relevance in connecting clubs to their communities.

In our journey through the history of Manchester United's crest, we even set aside our Liverpool loyalties to objectively appreciate its evolution. Learn about the consistent presence of the merchant ship, a nod to Manchester’s industrial past, and the introduction of the Red Devil emblem in the 1970s, rooted in a nickname from the 1960s. Each element tells a story, painting a vivid picture of the club's identity. This episode is a treasure trove for any soccer enthusiast eager to uncover the hidden meanings and stories behind some of the sport's most recognizable crests.

On this Stoppage Time Special, Host Wes Harris sits down with special guest Irvin Camacho. The duo discuss how Northwest Arkansas is rapidly becoming a hotbed for the sport of Soccer, and this episode delves into the factors that are kicking things to the next level. From the influence of the 1994 World Cup to the anticipated frenzy of future global events, we discuss how the demographic diversity and local champions of the game are nurturing its success. Irvin shares insights into the local women’s teams’ achievements and how soccer is much more than a game—it’s a catalyst for connecting people and igniting passions.

But that's not all! Revisit some of the most unforgettable soccer moments, including Loris Karius' infamous blunder and Gareth Bale's jaw-dropping bicycle kick in the Champions League. We'll compare Bale's stunning goal to Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic strike against Juventus and debate which one truly takes the crown. Plus, get the latest buzz on the future of Liverpool's coaching staff, the rising star of Xabi Alonso, and the implications of the Super League concept on European soccer. Whether you’re a die-hard soccer fan or simply love a good story, this episode promises a mix of personal tales, football nostalgia, and engaging speculations that you won't want to miss!

Curious about the future of Northwest Arkansas and how it's being shaped by key players in the region? Join us as we sit down with Nelson Peacock, the president and CEO of the Northwest Arkansas Council. Nelson shares his insights on the council's data-driven strategies, the influence of local giants like Walmart, Tyson, JB Hunt, and the University of Arkansas, and the importance of learning from other regions. Discover how these efforts are fueling economic growth, attracting top talent, and ensuring that Northwest Arkansas continues to be a top-tier place to live and work. Nelson also highlights the significance of tackling present-day challenges, such as maintaining affordable housing, to preserve the region's exceptional quality of life.

In the second part of our discussion, we tackle the critical shortage of medical residencies and its ripple effect on local healthcare. We explore the delicate balance between development and preserving community character, emphasizing the need for essential workers to live close to their jobs. Shifting gears, we dive into the burgeoning world of professional soccer in Northwest Arkansas. Learn about our hopes for the local soccer club and its potential to engage the community, attract new talent, and foster a vibrant local culture. This episode promises valuable insights into building a thriving, inclusive community through strategic development and a shared love for soccer.

What if you could be part of history by helping to establish a national soccer team? In this week's Stoppage Time edition of Pitch to Pro, we share the remarkable story of the Marshall Islands' quest to form their first-ever national soccer team. You'll hear from me and Lloyd as we recount our serendipitous journeys into this project, from stumbling upon an article that sparked our interest to teaming up with Shem Levai and working alongside Justin Wally. This episode is packed with passion, unexpected connections, and the incredible potential of a small island nation to embrace the global soccer phenomenon.

Join us as we take you through the project's evolution from its humble beginnings in late 2022 to its rapid momentum in 2023. We explore the increasing enthusiasm for soccer among the youth in the Marshall Islands, driven by their admiration for global icons like Messi and Ronaldo. Learn how our diverse backgrounds in brand marketing and coaching came together to create a powerful strategy, and discover the challenges and triumphs we've encountered along the way. This is not just a story about building a soccer team; it's about igniting dreams and fostering a community's love for the beautiful game.