Open Mic | The Man Who Watched American Soccer Grow Up
Summary
Paul Kennedy, the retiring editor of Soccer America, joins to reflect on his 41-year career covering US soccer. He shares anecdotes from the NASL era, his time as a correspondent for France Football, and the pivotal 1990 federation election. The conversation explores the growth of college soccer, the impact of the 1994 World Cup, and the current challenges facing MLS, including the lack of promotion/relegation and the need for greater international relevance.
Topics discussed
Introduction and Paul Kennedy's retirement
Early exposure to soccer and personal inspiration
College years, internship in France, and discovering the game
Working for France Football and joining Soccer America
Finding the community: college soccer and early fans
The rarity of soccer conversation and memorable interviews
From law school to becoming editor of Soccer America
Covering the NASL and the early US World Cup bid
Balancing journalism with promoting the sport's growth
The 1990 US Soccer Federation election
Favorite people to cover and the 2002 World Cup match
The formation of MLS and early business conferences
What-ifs: Promotion/relegation and MLS relevance
Historical roots: Immigrant leagues and post-WWII boom
Legends of the game: Manfred Schilscheid and Werner Frick
Early national team matches and personal anecdotes
Has soccer made it in America? The lack of American stars
Future of MLS: Concacaf, Champions Cup, and integration
Impact of the 2026 World Cup on the next generation
Legacy of Soccer America and its editorial standards
Personal story: Meeting his wife at Soccer America
Retirement plans and final thoughts
Listen ad-free on Castria