The World Cup’s Biggest Lesson for U.S. Soccer Is Not on the Field

Leaders Under Fire in Sports

Aug 12 2026 | 00:35:01

00:00 / 00:35:01

Show Notes

The World Cup just ended, but the real story is what happens next. Bob Boland, Jeff Chatterton, and Evan Dabby break down why soccer’s biggest opportunity may be off the field, where youth participation, accessibility, and alignment could reshape the game for millions of families. Evan Dabby, who leads New Jersey Soccer and helps coordinate a consortium of 18 state associations representing more than a million players, explains why the tournament’s legacy will be judged less by the final score and more by whether it actually grows the game. From empty-seat controversy and pay-to-play economics to local community events, brand investment, […]

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