The Next Level Training Soccer Podcast with host Aaron Byrd and Jeff Suffolk · Jeff Suffolk

Episode 53 - Most Influential Youth Soccer Coaches in the Country - Andrew Kewley

·1 hr 37 min·5 clips

The Rapids can protect 35 academy players plus five in-territory players under the homegrown rule.

Aaron and Jeff start with easy banter before bringing in Andrew. Jeff jokes about landing the good soundbites early, and Aaron keeps the tone light. The conversation briefly drifts into Jeff's Detroit trip and a story from his Under Armour days, which gives the segment a loose, familiar rhythm. Once Andrew joins, the focus shifts to youth soccer coaching and the questions parents bring into those conversations. He speaks as someone who has spent time in an academy and educator role. He says the first job is to understand where each parent is coming from. Some families are local, and some are supporting a kid from far away. He also points out that some academy players are living away from home as homestay players. That reality changes the way a coach has to listen. Andrew keeps returning to the idea that frustration is often only the surface of a deeper issue. A parent saying a child is not playing enough is not the whole story. Coaches need the context before they can help. He does not present himself as having every answer. Instead, he argues for real conversation and room for imperfect moments. The tone stays practical rather than polished. He also reminds listeners that soccer does not last forever. Players eventually carry these experiences into work and everyday life. That is why belief, character, and support matter as much as tactics. The interview closes on appreciation and an open invitation to keep the conversation going. They even toss around the idea of meeting again at a summit and getting together in northern Michigan in the summer.

As heard by us

Parent stress, homestay players, and the long view on development.

Aaron and Jeff set an easy pace before bringing in Andrew, and the episode's main value lies in its practical view of youth soccer coaching, parent pressure, and the mismatch between what families think is happening and what coaches are trying to build.

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Why you'd press play

Straight youth soccer talk about parents, players, and the real life sitting beyond the game.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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