Jeff Carlisle is one of the best known soccer reporters in America. He career covering the sports has mirrored its ascension in the United States. After transitioning out of a job in corporate America, Jeff tried his hand in writing with a focus on the beautiful game. Within a few years, she was working for ESPN and quickly emerged as one of the lead writers covering Major League Soccer and the US Men's National Team.

As a result, he watched enthusiasm for soccer grow in America as both the national team and top-flight domestic league gave fans big, memorable moments. Jeff also witnessed any number of perceived setbacks; the USMNT's failure to qualifying for the 2018 FIFA Men's World Cup, the roster's subsequent transition to a younger group of talent, and then the redemption of qualifying for the 2022 World Cup is an example of seeing the ups and downs of this country's soccer growth all within a four year cycle.

Carlise joined the showed to talk about that time. He first shares the story of how he go into sports writing, then discusses his perspective on the importance of the USMNT qualifying for the 2022 World Cup after missing out in 2018.

Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America.

Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at kent@foundingfutbol.com

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Host: Kent Malmros

Guest: Jeff Carlisle (Senior Writer, ESPN)

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Extra Time: ESPN's Jeff Carlisle