Guest: Fre Frans, former pro defender turned coach at RWDM Brussels
📲 IG: @frefrans

In this inspiring and globe-spanning episode, we sit down with Belgian footballer and coach Fre Frans (@frefrans), who shares his journey from debuting at 17 in Belgium’s top league to coaching one of the youngest squads in Europe today.

Fre played professionally for clubs like Lierse SK, Beerschot, and Partick Thistle in Scotland, and he’s now mentoring rising talent at RWDM Brussels — a club committed to youth development, global scouting (including American talent), and building strong character on and off the pitch.

We dive into:

Fre’s early debut at just 17 and how he handled pressure with ease
His time in Scotland vs Belgium and the cultural & tactical differences
Coaching lessons he's learned from both the best — and worst — coaches
Why mentality trumps talent at the pro level
What it’s like raising a son who dreams of being the next Thibaut Courtois
RWDM’s exciting philosophy on global development and scouting
Advice to academy players dreaming of the first team
And rapid fire questions: toughest opponent, dream stadium, and one young player to watch 👀

🔗 Plus: We get personal about parenthood, mindset, and how creating your own journey (and not comparing it to others) can lead to a long-lasting career in football and beyond.

Whether you're a young player, parent, or passionate fan — this one is packed with life lessons, laughs, and legacy-level wisdom.

📌 Don’t forget to follow the hosts:
🎙️Megan Linke: @meganlinkeofficial
🎙️ Liam: @liamlinke18

🎙️Podcast: @thesoccerladder

💥 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts — Episode 21 is live!

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