A conversation on player pathways, local talent, and building the next generation through community.

Hosts

Megan
Liam

About This Episode

In Episode 33 of The Soccer Ladder, we sit down with Jose Angulo (@j_angulo), Scout and Manager of Youth Partnerships for the New York Cosmos (@nycosmos).

A North Jersey native from Paterson, Jose Angulo’s journey through the local soccer scene led him to a professional career — where he was named USL Championship MVP. Today, he’s giving back to the game by identifying talent, building pathways, and strengthening relationships between clubs and communities across New Jersey.

We also touch on the legacy of Pelé (@pele) and the lasting impact the Cosmos brand has had on the global game.

In This Episode

Jose Angulo’s journey from Paterson, NJ to the professional level
What it takes to stand out in the New Jersey soccer landscape
The transition from player to scout and youth development leader
How the New York Cosmos identify and develop talent
The importance of local pipelines and community relationships
What scouts are actually looking for in young players
Why exposure alone isn’t enough — and what really separates players
The role of mindset, consistency, and coachability
How youth clubs can better connect with higher-level opportunities
The balance between development and competition
The long-term vision for soccer growth in North Jersey

Key Takeaways

✔ Your environment matters — but your habits matter more
✔ Exposure doesn’t guarantee opportunity — preparation does
✔ Relationships in soccer open doors
✔ Development pathways are not one-size-fits-all
✔ The best players are consistent, coachable, and disciplined

Notable Mentions

New York Cosmos legacy and global impact
Pelé’s influence on the club and the sport
Growth of soccer in North Jersey
Youth-to-pro development pathways

Connect

Jose Angulo
📸 Instagram: @j_angulo

New York Cosmos
📸 Instagram: @nycosmos
🔗 https://t.mtrbio.com/nycosmos

🔗 www.nycsomos.com

Pelé
📸 Instagram: @pele
🔗 www.pelebrand.com

🎙 Hosted by @meganlinkeofficial & @liamlinke18
🎧 Listen now on The Soccer Ladder