"Crossbar Conversations with Don & Blodge" was created to put a spotlight on GK topics that few understand or simply shy away from. This podcast contains honest goalkeeping conversations featuring guests that are knowledgeable on GK specific topics. Laughs included.
AUDIENCE = GKs, GK Coaches, Head Coaches, Directors of Clubs, Directors of GKs at Clubs, & parents
S2, Episode 8 - Dr. Joe Machnik & Frans Hoek - World Cup Review: Goal Players, Rule Changes & Future of U.S. Goalkeeping
AGENDA - World Cup Review: Goal Players, Rule Changes & Future of U.S. Goalkeeping
Goal Player Performances
Lost Art of Catching
Rule Changes
VAR
Changes to Speed Up the Game
Current U.S. Goalkeeper Situation
Future of U.S. Goalkeeping
COACH - Dr. Joe Machnik - 7 Decade Soccer Career. Owner, No. 1 Soccer Camps. Former USMNT Assistant Coach. National Soccer HOF Inductee (2017). Current Rules Analyst for FOX Sports covering the 2026 Men's World Cup. Past Rules Analyst for two Men's World Cups, two Women's World Cups, two Copa Americas, multiple CONCACAF Gold Cups, UEFA Champions & Europa Leagues, F.A. Cup in addition to other global tournaments. Former Referee-in-Chief Major Indoor Soccer League (MILS). Former Commissioner, American Indoor Soccer Association (AISA). Former VP of Game Operations, Major League Soccer (MLS).
COACH - Frans Hoek - One of world football's foremost goalkeeping leaders. Former Goalkeeper Coach with Ajax, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Manchester United, Galatasaray, Netherlands National Team, Saudi Arabia National Team, & the Poland National Team. Coached in the 2006 FIFA World Cup, 2012 UEFA Euros, 2014 FIFA World Cup. Advisor & Lecturer with FIFA, UEFA, the Royal Dutch Football Association & the Japan Football Association.. Author of 1) So Now You Are a Goalkeeper, 2) Match Analysis and Game Preparation, 3) The Coaching Philosophies of Louis Van Gaal & the Ajax Coaches.
13 Aug 2026
S2, Episode 7 - Saskia Webber - Talking Goalkeeping with a "99er"
AGENDA - Talking Goalkeeping with a "99er"
Intro - Saskia Webber
Men's World Cup - Review of Goalkeeping
Women's World Cup Preview
Benefits of Genders Training Together
GK Development & GK Coaches Roles
Lack of GK Coaches
Club's Role in GK Development
Parents Need to Know What's Expected
GK Development Model by Sex/Age
COACH - Saskia Webber - a member of the famed 1999 USA World Cup Championship Team, Webber has had a stellar career. Throughout her career, Webber has earned titles such as All American, Missouri Athletic Club GK Of the Year, Honda Award Winner Finalist, Soccer America Goalkeeper of the Decade, and Hall of Fame member at Rutgers University in NJ. She started her National Team career at age 17 where she was a member of the under 20 team. Her Senior Team debut was in 1992 where she would become a mainstay with the U.S. Team for the next 8 years. Her career with the Women’s National Team saw her earn a bronze medal in the 1995 World Cup and a gold medal in the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. She was also part of the team that won the gold medal in the 1999 World Cup in front of 90,000 people, the largest crowd to ever watch a women’s game.
Webber played professional soccer for 3 years in Japan for Oki FC where she was named the top goalkeeper of the league. In 2001, as a founding member of the WUSA, Webber played the inaugural season for the Philadelphia Charge. She finished her soccer playing career with her home team The New York Power. Inducted into the Mercer County Soccer HOF.
ADDITIONAL PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Assistant Coach: Rutgers University, NC State University
Director: Soccer Plus Goalkeeper Camps
Goalkeeper Coach UNC camps
Elite Level Private Coaching 10years
Goalkeeper Coach: The Archer School
Director of Goalkeeping: LA Bulls
7 Jul 2026
S2, Episode 6 - Frans Hoek - Goal Player
AGENDA - Goal Player
Frans Hoek Intro & Johan Cruyff Influence
Back Pass Rule (in 1992) Changed Everything
Goal Player Influence on Dutch Soccer
Pep Guardiola, Mikel Arteta, and Other Coaches
How to Implement the Goal Player Philosophy
Make Practice = The Game
Do What's Best for Kids
Read, Decide, Action
COACH - Frans Hoek - one of world football's foremost goalkeeping leaders. Former Goalkeeper Coach with Ajax, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Manchester United, Galatasaray, Netherlands National Team, Saudi Arabia National Team, & the Poland National Team. Coached in the 2006 FIFA World Cup, 2012 UEFA Euros, 2014 FIFA World Cup. Advisor & Lecturer with FIFA, UEFA, the Royal Dutch Football Association & the Japan Football Association.. Author of 1) So Now You Are a Goalkeeper, 2) Match Analysis and Game Preparation, 3) The Coaching Philosophies of Louis Van Gaal & the Ajax Coaches.
23 Jun 2026
S2, Episode 5 - Dr. Joe Machnik - Evolution of Goalkeeping within U.S. Soccer
AGENDA - Evolution of Goalkeeping within U.S. Soccer
Dr. Joe Machnik Introduction
Dr. Machnik's Book - From the Sandlots to the World Cup: Inside 7 Decades of American Soccer
Soccer Referee & Rules Analyst
Protecting the Goalkeeper
Essential GK Skills: Leadership, Management, & Presence
Goalkeeping Knowledge for Head Coaches
COACH - Dr. Joe Machnik - 7 Decade Soccer Career. Owner, No. 1 Soccer Camps. Former USMNT Assistant Coach. National Soccer HOF Inductee (2017). Current Rules Analyst for FOX Sports covering the 2026 Men's World Cup. Past Rules Analyst for two Men's World Cups, two Women's World Cups, two Copa Americas, multiple CONCACAF Gold Cups, UEFA Champions & Europa Leagues, F.A. Cup in addition to other global tournaments. Former Referee-in-Chief Major Indoor Soccer League (MILS). Former Commissioner, American Indoor Soccer Association (AISA). Former VP of Game Operations, Major League Soccer (MLS).
9 Jun 2026
S2, Episode 4 - Alexi Lalas & Bob Reasso - Defensive Culture = Team Success
AGENDA - Defensive Culture = Team Success
Defensive Culture at Rutgers = Team Success
Team Trust
Relationships Between HC, Defenders, GKs & GK Coach
Team Defensive Organization is CRITICAL to Team Success
Competitive Advantage
Life Lessons
Photos of Memory Lane at Rutgers University
COACH - Alexi Lalas - Currently, Commentator for FOX Sports. Former USMNT, Serie A & MLS Professional Player. Participated in the 1994 World Cup (Honorable Mention WC All-Star). 96 CAPS (1991 - 1998). Former President & General Manager San Jose Earthquakes, General Manager of the NY Red Bulls, & President of the LA Galaxy. NCAA Player of the Year winning the Herman Trophy & Missouri Athletic Club Trophy while at Rutgers University in 1991. 3-Time NCAA All American.
COACH - Bob Reasso - Acclaimed Collegiate & Prep Soccer Coach with over 430 wins. Former HC at Rutgers University (29 years). Rutgers Athletics HOF. 2015 NCAA DII National Champion w. Pheiffer University. 2-time NCAA National Coach of the Year. 4 Final Four Appearances. 16 NCAA Tournament Appearances. 60 Former Players Played Professionally.
12 May 2026
S2, Episode 3 - Tom Goodman - Club GK Culture: GK Coaches in Team Setting & GK Coaches Licensing
AGENDA - Club GK Culture: GK Coaches in Team Setting & GK Coaches Licensing
Background / Introduction
Invest in the Coaching Staff
"Make it Look Like Soccer"
Developing GK Coaches to Coach During Games
Federation Educational Changes Needed
GK Culture
Head Coaches: GK Knowledge & Understanding
COACH - Tom Goodman - Recognized as an International Youth Soccer Expert. A License Coach. USSF National Youth License. Former U.S. Youth Soccer National Director of Coaching Education. Former USSF National Staff Coach (Region 1). Former USSF & U.S. Youth Soccer National Instructor. Author - 1) The Youth Soccer Coaching Model, 2) Soccer Coaching Made Easy
28 Apr 2026
S2, Episode 2: Tim Mulqueen - Characteristics of the Highest Level Goalkeepers
Agenda: Characteristics of the Highest Level Goalkeepers
Characteristics of Highest Level GKs
GK Training & Competitiveness at the Highest Levels
Experiences Coaching Tony Meola & Zach Thornton
5 Elements of a GK's Development
Experiences Coaching Tim Howard
GK Trainers vs GK Coaches
Head Coach & GK Coach Relationships
Influence on Head Coaches
Importance of Relationships & Trust
GK Coaching Education
Coach: Tim Mulqueen, St. Joseph's University Men's Head Coach - Current Head Coach with St. Joseph's University Men's Soccer. Former USMNT GK Coach. Former Professional GK Coach (Kansas City Wizards, MetroStars, Orlando City). Winner of the MLS Cup (2000), Supporters Shield (2000), & US Open Cup (2004). Former Professional Head Coach (Memphis 901). Former AC @ Rutgers University Men's Soccer. Coached the likes of Tim Howard, Tony Meola, Brad Guzan, Kasey Keller, Zach Thornton, Brad Friedel, Kevin Hartman, Mike Ammann, amongst others.
14 Apr 2026
S2, Episode 1: Anson Dorrance & Chris Ducar - Successful HC & GK Coach Relationship
Agenda: Successful Head Coach & GK Coach Relationship
UNC Women Dynasty
Team Culture Mentality
Core Values & Trust
Competition within the Team Environment
Peer Feedback
GK Leadership
Coach: Anson Dorrance, Retired University of North Carolina (UNC) Head Coach - Head Coach of UNC Women's soccer team from 1979 - 2024, and the men's team from 1977 - 1988. 21-time NCAA National Champion. 7-time NCAA National Coach off the Year. USWNT Head Coach. World Cup Winner (1991). UNC Sports Hall of Fame (2005).
Coach: Chris Ducar, University of North Carolina (UNC) Assistant Coach & General Manager - 30+ years with UNC. UNC GK Coach, 26 years. 9-time NCAA National Champion. 2006 National Assistant Coach of the Year named by National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NCSAA). Former USYNT GK Coach.
24 Mar 2026
S1, Episode 8: Tony Elliott - Worldwide Goalkeeping Development Trends
Agenda: Worldwide Goalkeeping Development Trends
Global Goalkeeping Development Trends
US vs UK vs Worldwide - Differences & Similarities
GK Culture
GK Coach vs Head Coach Relationship
GK Coach Influences within the Club
GK Coaching Education
Influence of the 5 Elements of a GK's Development
Pain Points
Next Steps
Coach: Tony Elliott (Birmingham, England) - UEFA A License GK Coach. Head of Women's International Youth Goalkeeping at the F.A. Head of F.A.'s Para Lead GK Coach. Lead GK Coach, England Men's Blind & Deaf Squad. International Futsal Coach & Educator. 2-time F.A. Disability Coach of the Year. 2025 Nations Cup Gold Medal, International Blind Soccer Association. Author - A Modern Approach to Goalkeeping. Former Professional Goalkeeper (Hereford United, Huddersfield Town, Carlisle United, Cardiff City, Scarborough). Former Professional GK Coach (Birmingham City Women). Former England National Team Futsal GK Coach.
13 Mar 2026
S1, Episode 7: Phil Wheddon - The Evolution & Future Trends of Goalkeeper Coaching
Agenda: The Evolution & Future Trends of Goalkeeper Coaching
Tactical Game Related Training
GK Coaching Education
Goalkeeping Game Model
GK Coach - Official Member of the Coaching Staff
Proper Training Environment
Environment vs Session
Communication Between HC and GK Coach
Mentorships
Coach: Phil Wheddon (Pennsylvania) - Philadelphia Union Assistant Coach & Director of Goalkeeping. FIFA Technical Expert. International Goalkeeper Coaches Conference (IGCC), Director. Former USNT Goalkeeper Coach for the Men & Women. Coached in 3 World Cups & 2 Olympics.
13 Mar 2026
S1, Episode 6: Dr. Bill Steffen - Psychological Pressures of Goalkeeping
Agenda: Psychological Pressures of Goalkeeping
Who Needs to Understand?
Support Group is Needed
How do Coaches Administer Pressure in Training?
How Do Coaches Train the Mind?
Tools to Relieve Pressure
Pressure & Confidence Go Hand in Hand
Life Lessons
Pressure is a Privilege
Coach: Dr. Bill Steffen (North Carolina) - Associate Professor of Sport Science Wingate University. United Soccer Coaches Lead Educator GK Education. 27 Years Collegiate Coach. 2-time National Champion with North Carolina Women's Soccer. 2016 United Soccer Coaches Berticelli Award (Outstanding Contributions to Soccer Education).
13 Mar 2026
S1, Episode 5: Jon Conway - Meaning of "Being the #1"
Agenda:
Skills Acquired in Youth Development
College Competition - Competing to be #1
Professional MLS Competition
Being the #2
How to Deal with Adversity
Earning the #1
Keeping the #1
Coaching In the Professional MLS Game
Pathways & Opportunities - What to Look For
Parent Takeaways to Support Your GK
Coach: Jon Conway (Toronto) - Former 12 Year Professional MLS Goalkeeper (Toronto FC, Chivas USA, New York Red Bulls, San Jose Earthquakes). 2 Time MLS Cup Champion. Former 9 Year MLS Goalkeeper Coach (Toronto FC).
13 Mar 2026
S1, Episode 4: Mike Ammann - GK Coach vs GK Trainer
Agenda:
Define GK Coach & GK Trainer
Purposes of GK Coach & GK Trainer
Difference Between GK Coach & GK Trainer
GK Coach or GK Trainer w/in the Club?
How do We Develop More GK Coaches?
Coach: Mike Ammann (North Carolina) - Founder 247GK. GK Coach w/ UNC Charlotte Mens Soccer. GK Coach @ Charlotte Independence. Former Professional Goalkeeper in English Football (Charlton Athletic) and MLS (Kansas City Wiz, D.C. United, New York MetroStars). 2000 MLS All-Star Game Starter.
15 Jan 2026
S1, Episode 3: Ian Feuer - GK Coach & Head Coach Relationship
Agenda:
GK Coach & Head Coach Relationship
Reality vs Ideal in Club/Academy Environment
Head Coach Goalkeeping Knowledge is Needed
Collaboration is a MUST
How Changes Can Occur
Coach: Ian Feuer (California) - Owner of Ian Feuer Goalkeeping Academy. Former USMNT & US Olympic Goalkeeper. Former Professional Goalkeeper (English Premier League, Major League Soccer). Former USMNT, USWNT, Professional & Collegiate GK Coach. @ianfeuer
6 Jan 2026
S1, Episode 2: Jon Busch - GK Development w/in the Club & the GK Coaches Role
Agenda:
GK Development w/in the Club
Current vs Ideal Status GK Development w/in the Club
GK Coaches Roles w/in the Club
GK Coaches Relationships w/ DOC & Head Coaches
Collaboration is a MUST
Benefits
Coach: Jon Busch (Pennsylvania) - Goalkeeper Coach, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC (USL Championship). Director of Goalkeeping, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC. Former Director of Goalkeeping @ Hibernian FC (Scottish Premiership) & Indy Eleven (USL Championship). Former 20+ year Professional Goalkeeper. MLS GK of the Year 2008. Owner, HP Goalkeeping. @hpg_gk
24 Dec 2025
S1, Episode 1: Brett Rosenberger - GK Culture
Agenda
GK Culture - What is it?
Starting a GK Culture in a Club
Support System
GK Culture - Reality vs Ideal
Coach - Brett Rosenberger (California): UGKA BOD Member. Director, Azteca Proving Grounds. Former Professional Midfielder & Goalkeeper (Germany & USA). @aztecaprovinggrounds
24 Dec 2025
Introduction to Crossbar Conversations
Agenda - Introduction to Crossbar Conversations
- Introduction Don Maples, Paul Blodgett, Erik Eisenhut
- Purpose/Reasons behind Crossbar Conversations
- Preview of the First 5 Episodes
- Promises to the Audience
Coaches
- Don Maples (Tennessee): Owner, Clean Sheet GK Academy. USSF Coach Educational Staff. United Soccer Coaches Educational Staff. USYS ODP Region South Coaching Staff. USYS ODP Director of Goalkeeping for Florida, Alabama, Tennessee. @cleansheetgka
- Paul Blodgett (New Jersey): UGKA BOD Member. Owner, Paul Blodgett Goalkeeper Training School. USYS ODP Director of Goalkeeping New Jersey. Rutgers Univeristy Athletics Hall of Fame. Former Professional and Collegiate Coach. Author: Generational Goalkeeping: A Grassroots Roadmap for Ages U8 - World Class. @Paul.blodgett
- Erik Eisenhut (Pennsylvania): UGKA BOD Member. Owner, UGKA Pittsburgh GK Academy. Former 10 year D1 Collegiate GK/AC. Former USYS Region East GK Coaching Staff. Former USYS PA West Director of GKs. @erikeisenhut
@unitedgkalliance
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
6 ratings
Contact Crossbar Conversations with Don & Blodge
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of Crossbar Conversations with Don & Blodge?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
