Kick It 3v3 Soccer Podcast

About Kick It 3v3 Soccer Podcast

Welcome to the Kick It 3v3 soccer podcast where soccer fans, coaches, parents and players get insights into the beautiful game each week. Your hosts, Danny Stratford and Brent Zico Ward bring you some of the latest in soccer news, coaching, parenting and conversations with guests who are making an impact in their local soccer communities or even around the world.

Publisher

Dan Stratford

Category

sports

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

26 Aug 2025

Latest episode

19 Jul 2026

Latest episodes

13 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   19 Jul 2026

   World Cup Episode 7 of the Kick It 3v3 Soccer Podcast

   https://www.kickitsoccer.com/3v3-soccer-podcast-world-cup-ep-7-7-14-26/ World Cup Episode 7 of the Kick It 3v3 Soccer Podcast features Dan Stratford and Brent “Zico” Ward breaking down the quarterfinals, debating the tournament’s biggest VAR controversies and previewing a heavyweight semifinal field featuring France, Spain, England and Argentina. The episode opens with updates from Kick It 3v3 Soccer, including the Vail World Finals on July 24–26, upcoming tournaments in Charlotte, Pueblo and Boston, and the recent launch of 1v1 competition and 2v2 soccer tennis at the Highlands Ranch event. Dan and Zico then review the quarterfinal action. Spain continued its impressive run by controlling possession and limiting Belgium’s opportunities. France advanced past Morocco with a combination of patience, speed and attacking quality. England showed resilience against Norway, while Argentina continued to survive tight games despite concerns about age, fatigue and controversial decisions. The hosts examine the semifinal matchups in detail. Spain’s possession-based defense will face its biggest challenge against France’s speed, athleticism and counterattacking threat. Spain has conceded very few goals, but Dan and Zico question whether that record is partly the result of controlling the ball for long stretches. France may be willing to let Spain possess the ball before attacking the space behind its defense. England and Argentina bring contrasting strengths, passionate supporters and one of the richest rivalries in World Cup history. Dan and Zico revisit Diego Maradona’s legendary 1986 performance against England, including the “Hand of God” and one of the greatest individual goals ever scored. They also discuss the Falklands War backdrop to the rivalry and the role British sailors played in introducing soccer to Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil. VAR becomes a central debate as the hosts discuss simulation, mandatory yellow cards, inconsistent enforcement, contact in the penalty area and excessive celebrations. Why can one incident be reviewed and punished while another possible yellow-card offense escapes attention? When does a player initiate contact, and when is that player simply trying to avoid a defender? Dan and Zico compare soccer’s replay system with reviews in the NFL and baseball. They also consider whether soccer would benefit from having two referees on the field, giving officials another perspective and reducing the pressure placed on one referee covering an enormous playing area. The conversation then returns to youth soccer and the recent Kick It tournament in Highlands Ranch. Dan describes coaching a newly assembled U7 team and choosing to measure success through effort, dribbling, defending, tackling, decision-making and improvement rather than wins and losses. Despite losing their games, the players continued competing in extreme heat and improved throughout the day. The experience leads to a broader discussion about parent behavior, communication between coaches and families, and the importance of allowing young players to solve problems without receiving constant instructions from the sideline. Dan and Zico also discuss the intensity of 1v1 soccer, why four minutes can feel like an endurance event for young players, and the need for parents to encourage rather than criticize children during competition. Listen for quarterfinal analysis, semifinal predictions, tournament history, VAR debate, youth coaching insight, Kick It event updates and the usual mix of soccer conversation and personal stories from Dan and Zico.

2. 

   19 Jul 2026

   World Cup Podcast Ep 8 | Final Preview |Kick It 3v3 Soccer

   https://www.kickitsoccer.com/world-cup-podcast-ep-8-7-16-26/ Spain and Argentina are set for a blockbuster World Cup Final, and Danny Stratford and Brent "Zico" Ward break down everything that happened in the semifinals while previewing one of the most anticipated championship matches in recent memory. The episode begins with Spain's dominant 2-0 victory over France. Danny and Zico discuss how Spain has evolved since its scoreless opening match, abandoning a narrow attack in favor of using width, speed, and relentless possession. They explain why Spain's performance against France was so complete that it almost took the drama out of a World Cup semifinal, while also debating whether Spain's goalkeeper has truly been tested despite conceding just one goal throughout the tournament. The conversation then shifts to Argentina's dramatic comeback victory over England. England grabbed a 1-0 lead before momentum completely swung in Argentina's favor. Danny and Zico analyze why England suddenly struggled to complete passes, maintain possession, and move up the field after taking the lead. They discuss the psychology of protecting a lead, why "prevent defense prevents you from winning," and the tactical substitutions England could have made to change the outcome. Lionel Messi's performance becomes another major topic. The hosts explore how Messi continues to dominate matches through intelligence, positioning, vision, and timing rather than constant running. They compare his longevity to players like Luka Modrić, Andrea Pirlo, Carlos Valderrama, and Tom Brady, discussing how elite decision-making can extend greatness long after physical abilities begin to decline. Finally, Danny and Zico preview Spain versus Argentina in depth. They examine key matchups, including Spain's young, explosive wingers against Argentina's experienced back line, Messi's ability to manipulate defenses, Spain's improved attacking style under its current manager, and whether Argentina's physical style and "dark arts" can disrupt Spain's rhythm. The episode also touches on the France-England third-place match, World Cup excitement growing across the United States, the legendary Brazil-Argentina rivalry, and how Argentina's stability under Lionel Scaloni has helped build one of the world's most resilient teams. Danny ultimately leans toward Argentina, while Zico—despite his South American roots—backs Spain because of Brazil's historic rivalry with Argentina. Whether you're a lifelong soccer fan or simply getting caught up in World Cup fever, this episode delivers tactical analysis, historical perspective, coaching insights, and lively debate ahead of the biggest match in world football.

3. 

   11 Jul 2026

   World Cup Episode 6 Round of 16 Preview - Kick It 3v3 Podcast

   World Cup Episode 6 of the Kick It 3v3 Podcast delivers a wide-ranging breakdown of the knockout-stage drama, beginning with the United States’ difficult loss to Belgium. Danny and Zico examine the controversy surrounding Folarin Balogun’s suspension being overturned, the added pressure it may have placed on the U.S. team, and how Belgium used the situation as motivation. They also discuss the sharp contrast between the confident U.S. performances in group play and a knockout match in which passing, decision-making, first touches, and defensive execution all broke down at once. Despite the result, Danny remains optimistic about the future of American soccer. The hosts consider whether the national-team coach can establish a recognizable style of play, influence youth development, and encourage a more technical approach throughout the country over the next four years. The conversation then turns to Belgium’s evolution. After a dramatic comeback in the previous round, Belgium leaned more heavily on younger players while using veterans such as Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku in different roles. Danny and Zico explore whether this represents a successful passing of the guard and why Belgium’s combination of youth, experience, speed, and motivation could make its matchup with Spain especially dangerous. They contrast Belgium’s momentum with Spain’s steady, controlled, increasingly direct approach. Next, they analyze England’s win over Mexico. Mexico had long stretches of possession and pressure, but England limited penetration, forced predictable crosses, and relied on its size and defensive organization. The hosts discuss the costly mistakes that changed the match, Harry Kane’s all-around influence, and why “dominating” the ball does not always mean controlling the game. Norway’s victory over Brazil leads to a detailed conversation about Erling Haaland. Danny highlights Haaland’s remarkable efficiency and ability to score with very few touches, while Zico explains why a true number nine can influence an entire defense without constantly receiving the ball. They also critique Brazil’s conservative approach, game management, inability to impose tempo, and recurring failure to turn chances into goals. The episode also covers France’s victory over Morocco and previews Norway vs. England and Argentina vs. Switzerland. The discussion focuses on tactical matchups, team age, coaching continuity, defensive structure, weather, physical advantages, and the pressure of trying to win multiple knockout games in a short period. Finally, Danny and Zico take on one of the tournament’s biggest topics: VAR. They debate whether video review is correcting clear errors or removing the referee’s feel for context, consistency, advantage, physical contact, and the natural flow of the game. From delayed foul reviews and dangerous-play situations to millimeter offside decisions, they ask whether more information is always making soccer fairer—or simply making decisions more complicated. The episode closes with a reminder that soccer’s low-scoring nature does not make it less dramatic, an officiating story about knowing the Laws of the Game, and an update on a major Kick It 3v3 event in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, featuring approximately 130 teams. Follow the Kick It 3v3 Podcast for more World Cup reactions, tactical analysis, coaching insight, and honest soccer conversation. https://www.kickitsoccer.com/3v3-soccer-podcast-world-cup-ep-6-7-10-26/

4. 

   4 Jul 2026

   World Cup Episode 5 Round of 16 Preview - Kick It 3v3 Podcast

   Dan and Zico are back for Episode 5 of the Dan & Zico World Cup Podcast, shifting the format to keep pace with the knockout rounds and the nonstop World Cup schedule. In this episode, they recap the last two days of games and then preview the full Round of 16. The show opens with Spain’s win over Austria, where Spain’s directness and ability to penetrate stood out more than simple possession. From there, Dan and Zico move into Switzerland’s win over Algeria and discuss how national teams are changing through immigration, diversity, and the global movement of players. Portugal-Croatia becomes one of the major conversations of the episode. With the broadcast framing the match as a possible final World Cup game for either Luka Modric or Cristiano Ronaldo, Dan and Zico talk through the emotion of the moment, the role of VAR, and how technology has changed the way fans experience goals, offside calls, and celebrations. They also dig into Ronaldo’s personality, his work ethic, his influence on young players, and the challenge of managing a superstar who still wants every minute. The episode also covers Egypt’s penalty-kick win over Australia, including penalty psychology, goalkeeper gamesmanship, and why Australia may have missed a real opportunity. Colombia’s win over Ghana leads to a conversation about Colombia’s return as a dangerous World Cup team and the legacy of Colombian teams from the 1990s. The most intense recap comes from Argentina against Cape Verde, a match Dan and Zico describe as one of the most incredible World Cup games in recent memory. Cape Verde pushed Argentina physically and emotionally, while Argentina’s age, fatigue, and reliance on moments of brilliance became real talking points. Messi’s timing, late runs, and ability to conserve energy all come into focus, along with the question of whether Argentina may be vulnerable in the next rounds. Then the show moves into a full Round of 16 preview. Canada versus Morocco brings discussion of Canada’s aggressive style, Morocco’s speed, and the danger of getting exposed on counterattacks. Paraguay versus France is framed as a possible underdog story, but France’s athleticism and depth make them a clear favorite. Mexico versus England becomes a fascinating matchup because of Mexico City’s altitude, Mexico’s intensity, and whether England can physically handle the conditions. Brazil versus Norway brings real anxiety for Zico. Norway has size, organization, Haaland, Ødegaard, and a strange historical record against Brazil. Zico still favors Brazil, but he does not feel comfortable about the matchup. Portugal versus Spain is previewed as a true Iberian derby, with Spain’s collective passing style facing Portugal’s individual talent, emotion, and Ronaldo’s looming presence. Argentina versus Egypt, Switzerland versus Colombia, and USA versus Belgium round out the discussion. The episode closes with a detailed look at USA-Belgium. Dan and Zico compare Belgium’s aging stars, including Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku, with the young, energetic, fearless U.S. team. They discuss Christian Pulisic, Tim Ream, U.S. depth, the controversial red card, and why this may be the perfect time for the United States to face Belgium. With Brazil and the USA both facing huge knockout tests, Dan and Zico know the next episode could be a celebration, a therapy session, or both. https://www.kickitsoccer.com/world-cup-ep-5-3v3-podcast-7-4-26/

5. 

   2 Jul 2026

   World Cup Soccer Ep 4 Kick It 3v3 Soccer Podcast

   Dan Stratford and Brent “Zico” Ward are back with another World Cup knockout-stage breakdown on the Kick It 3v3 Soccer Podcast, covering the July 2nd action after several dramatic Round of 32 matches. This episode mixes tactical soccer analysis, player evaluation, coaching philosophy, World Cup history, cultural reflection, and the natural Dan-and-Zico storytelling that makes the conversation feel like two lifelong soccer guys talking through the game in real time. The episode starts with Zico sharing thoughts from a family visit to Mount Rushmore while vacationing in South Dakota. Dan and Zico discuss the monument’s history, the immigrant story behind its design, the complicated history involving Native people, and the way the site draws visitors from all over the world. Zico connects that to bigger themes of identity, national pride, and representation before the conversation shifts into the World Cup. The first major soccer topic is England’s narrow win over Congo. Zico praises Congo’s performance, pointing out how organized, athletic, and technically sound they looked against one of the traditional powers of world soccer. He argues that the expanded World Cup is showing there is more depth in the global game than many expected. Dan agrees, noting that Congo played England straight up and never looked overwhelmed. The conversation then turns to Harry Kane, with Zico making a strong case that Kane is the best all-around number nine in the world because of his finishing, hold-up play, movement, simplicity, and soccer intelligence. Belgium’s comeback against Senegal is next. Zico talks through Belgium falling behind, Rudi Garcia’s decision to take off Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku, and the surprise of Belgium still finding a way to win 3-2. The guys discuss Youri Tielemans’ leadership, his calm penalty, and the recurring theme of underdog teams taking leads but struggling to finish games against countries with deeper World Cup experience. The USA’s win over Bosnia becomes one of the biggest parts of the episode. Dan compares the game to the 1994 World Cup match between the United States and Brazil, when Leonardo elbowed Tab Ramos and Ramos suffered a frightening head injury. Dan uses that moment as a contrast: in 1994, the U.S. went a man up but lost control after losing one of its best players. In this match, the modern U.S. team went down a man after a red card to its leading scorer but showed maturity, composure, defensive organization, and confidence on the ball. Dan praises the way the U.S. stayed compact, kept possession under pressure, defended set pieces, and still created danger on the counterattack. The conversation also highlights one of the best goals of the tournament: Senegal’s long-ball goal, where a player controlled a 50-yard pass over his shoulder with his chest while running at full speed. Dan calls it a perfect example of why soccer is called “the beautiful game,” comparing it to an elite NFL catch — except without hands. The final section previews Spain vs. Austria, Portugal vs. Croatia, and Switzerland vs. Algeria. Zico breaks down Spain’s tendency to overpass and explains why possession without penetration can allow an opponent to settle into a low block. He and Dan discuss the difference between passing for style and attacking with purpose. They also preview Portugal vs. Croatia, focusing on Luka Modrić’s timeless soccer brain, Croatia’s counterattacking danger, Portugal’s inconsistency, and Cristiano Ronaldo’s evolving role. The episode closes with Switzerland vs. Algeria, where Zico sees Switzerland as the favorite but believes Algeria will view the matchup as a real opportunity. https://www.kickitsoccer.com/3v3-podcast-world-cup-ep-4-7-2-26/

6. 

   1 Jul 2026

   World Cup Soccer Episode 3: The Dark Arts of Soccer, Mbappé’s Magic, and a USA Knockout Preview

   Episode 3: The Dark Arts of Soccer, Mbappé’s Magic, and a USA Knockout https://www.kickitsoccer.com/podcast-world-cup-3v3-ep-3-7-1-26/ Preview Welcome back to the Dan and Zico World Cup Podcast! In Episode 3, Danny and Zico dive into the latest World Cup action, breaking down tactical shifts, cultural clashes, and on-field drama. Whether you’re here for the analytical deep dives or the unfiltered opinions on modern football, we’ve got you covered. Norway vs. Côte d'Ivoire: This match proved to be surprisingly even. Zico shares a hilarious story about accidentally sleeping through the game. He ultimately had the result spoiled by a text from a Norwegian friend. Zico also provides a history lesson on why final group stage games are played simultaneously. This dates back to the controversial West Germany vs. Austria match in 1982. France vs. Sweden: France ultimately outclassed a shell-shocked Swedish side. Danny marvels at Kylian Mbappé's ruthless mentality to stop messing around and just put the ball in the goal when it matters. Zico sparks a candid conversation about national team demographics. He notes how many of France's top players have African roots and are coached in a French system. Mexico vs. Ecuador: This was an ugly, physical game that ended with Mexico dominating. Shockingly, Ecuador's coach resigned immediately after the match. This sparks a deep dive into the "dark arts" (malicia/furbo) of Latin American soccer. The hosts discuss the evolution of diving and why everyone from European players to LeBron James seems to be flopping these days. England vs. DR Congo: Can a disciplined Congolese side frustrate an inconsistent England team?. We'll see how the match plays out under the closed roof and air conditioning in Atlanta. Belgium vs. Senegal: Zico predicts a potential upset. He points out that Belgium is past their "golden generation" prime and getting older. Meanwhile, Senegal boasts strong leadership from Sadio Mané. USA vs. Bosnia & Herzegovina: The hosts look ahead to a crucial matchup for the United States. Danny praises Mauricio Pochettino's pragmatic, professional coaching style. He hopes the US can maintain consistency and continue to rely on workhorses like Weston McKennie, who is the only player to have played every minute of the tournament so far for the USA. Grab your favorite snack, make sure you don't fall asleep on the couch, and enjoy the beautiful game! DOCX+ 2⚽ Yesterday's Matches: Recaps & Hot Takes🔮 Today's Previews: Who Advances?

7. 

   30 Jun 2026

   World Cup Ep 2 Kick It 3v3 Soccer Podcast 6-30-26

   Dan Stratford and Brent “Zico” Ward are back with Episode 2 of their World Cup Round of 32 breakdown, diving into one of the most exciting and tactical days of the tournament. The conversation starts with a bigger-picture World Cup topic: how we talk about countries, names, cultures, and identities during international soccer. Dan and Zico touch on Türkiye, Côte d’Ivoire, Czechia, Cyprus, Brazil/Brasil, and how the World Cup helps fans learn more about the people behind each national team. From there, they move into the connection between Morocco and the Netherlands, one of the major storylines of the knockout round. With so many Moroccan players tied to Dutch soccer development, the match carried extra emotion, intensity, and history. Dan and Zico discuss how that relationship shaped the game, the physical matchup, the late drama, and the pressure of a penalty shootout when an entire country is watching. A major focus of the episode is Brazil vs. Japan. Dan points out that Japan continues to earn respect on the world stage because of how bravely they play. Instead of sitting back and trying to survive against Brazil, Japan played with confidence and energy against one of the game’s biggest powers. Zico adds a tactical breakdown of how Japan’s shape, transitions, and pressure created real problems for Brazil. One key coaching point is the danger of the square pass. Zico explains why giving the ball away on a sideways pass in midfield can be so damaging. When a player loses the ball going east-west, both the passer and intended receiver can be taken out of the play, opening up a dangerous counterattack. Dan connects that to coaching lessons he learned years ago about why angled passes are safer and more effective, especially in the back and midfield. The episode also looks at Carlo Ancelotti’s calm leadership for Brazil. Dan and Zico contrast Ancelotti’s composed sideline presence with the emotional style of past Brazilian teams. Brazil may not have been perfect, but Ancelotti’s calm helped the team avoid panic and find a way through a difficult match. Dan and Zico then expand the discussion to how underdog teams can frustrate elite teams by sitting deep, staying compact, and counterattacking. Paraguay’s approach against Germany becomes a major example. Zico explains why “speed needs space,” and how a low block can take away the open field that faster, more talented attacking teams need. That leads into one of the strongest development conversations of the episode: the value of 3v3 soccer. Dan explains that in 11v11 soccer, teams can sometimes hide weaknesses by packing it in defensively, clearing the ball, or relying on physical advantages. In 3v3, there is nowhere to hide. Without a goalkeeper and with constant transition, players are forced to make quicker decisions, pass with purpose, move off the ball, defend immediately, and stay composed under pressure. Dan argues that 3v3 exposes technical and tactical weaknesses in the best possible way. It helps players learn how to break down tight spaces, attack quickly, defend quickly, and solve problems without relying on long balls or defensive bunkering. As Dan puts it, a team can win 11v11 games without being great at 3v3, but it cannot play brilliant 11v11 soccer without the skills that 3v3 develops. The episode closes with previews of Côte d’Ivoire vs. Norway, France vs. Sweden, and Mexico vs. Ecuador. Zico breaks down how Erling Haaland could impact Norway’s chances, why Côte d’Ivoire could grow stronger as the game goes on, how France’s speed could trouble Sweden, and why Mexico vs. Ecuador could become a physical battle shaped by altitude, pressure, and athleticism. This episode blends World Cup analysis, coaching education, player development, tactical breakdowns, cultural context, and knockout soccer emotion. Read more and watch/listen here: https://www.kickitsoccer.com/3v3-podcast-world-cup-ep-2-6-30-26/ (https://www.kickitsoccer.com/3v3-podcast-world-cup-ep-2-6-30-26/)

8. 

   29 Jun 2026

   World Cup Ep 1-Kick It 3v3 Soccer Podcast

   Zico and Dan’s June 29 World Cup podcast focuses on how the tournament is being shaped by tactical evolution, North American momentum, cultural identity, and the need for deeper soccer commentary. The discussion opens with the U.S. Men’s National Team under Mauricio Pochettino, whose approach has brought a more aggressive, modern identity: high pressing, vertical attacking, quick transitions, patient buildup, and a clear focus on fitness and youth development. Dan and Zico contrast this with past U.S. teams that often played more reactively and lacked a defined style. The hosts highlight the U.S. team’s early goals, intensity in warm conditions, and ability to pressure opponents into mistakes. They also note smart squad management, including heavy use of substitutions to build depth, rest key players, and give bench players meaningful World Cup experience. Despite the progress, the U.S. still has clear weaknesses. Defensive transition remains the biggest concern, especially when players overcommit in the defensive third and leave gaps behind them. The hosts question how the back line will respond against elite forwards such as Mbappé or Harry Kane. They also emphasize that the team’s mentality must evolve from simply reaching the knockout rounds to believing it can make a much deeper run. A U.S. final or title run, Dan argues, would dramatically shift soccer culture in America. The episode also previews the North American picture. Canada, under Jesse Marsch, is praised for its aggressive pressing style, physicality, and strong round-of-16 performance after a tense 1-0 win over South Africa. The hosts view Canada as dangerous but still an underdog against higher-level opposition such as the Netherlands or Morocco. Mexico is recognized for winning its group with clean sheets, but the upcoming Ecuador match is framed as a difficult, physical test that could extend Mexico’s long quarterfinal drought. The U.S. matchup with Bosnia and Herzegovina is described as a tactical challenge, with Bosnia expected to defend compactly and counter through experienced striker Edin Džeko. A major theme is the cultural and historical context behind World Cup teams. Brazil vs. Japan is highlighted as more than a stylistic contrast between Brazilian flair and Japanese discipline. The hosts explain Brazil’s deep Japanese community, Zico’s influence on Japanese soccer, and the shared history behind technical ideas such as the Elastico. They also discuss how U.S. and Canadian teams reflect immigrant roots and diverse soccer influences, creating flexible, eclectic styles rather than one traditional national identity. Netherlands vs. Morocco is framed through shared heritage, with many Moroccan players born, raised, or developed in the Netherlands. Criticism of mainstream soccer commentary. Dan argues that many American broadcasts rely too heavily on generic terms like “in-swinger” & “out-swinger” without providing meaningful tactical insight. Zico adds that commentators often judge players without enough context, such as ignoring defensive work, team structure, or opponent quality. They argue that expanded World Cup fields create more underdog stories but also more uneven matches, making it even more important for analysts to explain tactics, history, player roles, and team identity clearly. Tactical details from current matches also stand out, including intentional kickoffs or long balls into defensive throw-ins near the opponent’s goal to trigger an immediate high press. The hosts see this as a clever way to disrupt rhythm, trap teams deep, and create early pressure. The podcast’s broader plan is to provide daily, succinct World Cup recaps and previews that combine match analysis with historical, cultural, and tactical storytelling. Dan and Zico position the show as a smarter alternative to surface-level coverage, built around Zico’s deep soccer knowledge and Dan’s ability to shape the conversation for fans who want more than scorelines and clichés.

9. 

   11 Jun 2026

   Tito Ward/Ward Brothers Interview

   Dan Stratford is joined by Zico and Tito for a raw and insightful conversation about growing up with soccer across Brazil, Canada, and the United States, the lessons learned from playing and coaching, and what it takes to develop better youth players. They discuss coaching philosophy, player motivation, technical development, the growth of soccer in America, and their predictions for the upcoming World Cup. In this episode, Dan Stratford sits down with longtime friends and soccer coaches Zico and Tito for a wide-ranging conversation about soccer, coaching, culture, and the lifelong lessons learned through the game. Tito shares his unique background growing up between Brazil, Canada, and the United States, including how soccer became a common language across cultures, from the Amazon to rural Manitoba. The conversation dives into Tito’s journey from player to coach, the influence of family and mentors, and the coaching philosophies that shaped his approach to youth development. Dan, Zico, and Tito discuss the importance of technical ability, decision-making, attention to detail, defensive organization, player motivation, and why coaching the youngest players can be one of the best ways to truly learn how to teach the game. They also explore the evolution of soccer in the United States, what still separates American players from the world’s top soccer cultures, and why passion, creativity, and self-driven development remain essential. The episode wraps with thoughts on the upcoming World Cup, Brazil’s chances, and the role that heat, talent, coaching, and a little bit of luck may play on the world stage.

10. 

    13 Dec 2025

    Kick It 3v3 Soccer - The Amanda Pierson Episode

    Today we are so excited we got to sit down with Amanda Pearson, the co-head coach of the Texas Spurs Women's team in the UPSL. Kick It 3v3 Soccer Podcast Transcripts (https://www.kickitsoccer.com/blogs-podcasts/https://www.kickitsoccer.com/blogs-podcasts/) She's a longtime youth club coach at the a and at the club's academy level. She used to coach for the Spurs. Now she still coaches the semi-pro team and she's also coaching for Dallas Surf. And we're they hosted a tournament for us this last summer. And the Spurs, or rather the surface hosting another tournament with us in a couple weeks coming up in December. But she has an amazing background, zko, and man, what a bottle of energy. Huh? Yeah, I've known Amanda, I'm gonna say for 15 years 15 years-ish. And, you just introduced her and she's got a title. The truth of the matter is she's way beyond the title really because as you guys will see today, the words that I use to describe her and you're gonna see it is eclectic and always growing. Always growing. She's one of these people who say, Hey, I'm better at 30 than I was at 20, and I'm better at 35 than I was at 30. And better being the, knowledge and everything. So what I also like is that she's a young version of you and I, because she's talking about all this experience and so much of it is, it fell into her lap. She had to step up and do it or nobody else would. And it's really neat. You get a lady who's so good for. Women's sports women's soccer and girls soccer. And she's coached guys and she's played with guys. Yes, ball of energy. Have your ears on and turn that off. Full speed because there's a lot said really quickly and Amanda brings the energy and she's a great friend.

11. 

    16 Oct 2025

    Episode 3: Esse Baharmast – The Referee Who Made History | The Kick It Soccer Podcast |

    In this episode, hosts Dan Stratford (Danny) and Zico sit down with Esse Baharmast — a true legend in the world of soccer refereeing. Known affectionately as “Esse”, he’s not just any referee. Esse has officiated multiple CONCACAF Gold Cups, the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France, and even the first-ever MLS match and MLS Championship game. 🇺🇸⚽🌍 From his early days growing up in Missouri to his deep passion for Brazilian soccer, Esse’s story is filled with inspiration, insight, and behind-the-scenes moments from some of the most memorable matches in soccer history. Now based in Colorado, Esse continues to give back to the game — mentoring referees around the world and helping develop the next generation of officials right here in the U.S. 💬 In this episode, we cover: Esse’s journey from player to world-class referee What it was like to officiate at the FIFA World Cup Stories from the first MLS game and championship How refereeing has evolved over the years His passion for mentoring and developing referees globally 🎧 Whether you’re a player, coach, or lifelong fan, this conversation will change how you see the game — from the man in the middle’s point of view.

12. 

    13 Sept 2025

    Ep 2: Alan Jones Interview - Kick It 3v3 Soccer Podcast

    we had, just an amazing interview yesterday and it was our, the first person we've interviewed on our podcastAlan Jones. I didn't realize his pedigree as much as I do now. And after that conversation, IWI, I felt wow, we were so lucky to have him as our first guest, a guest in, Just in general, right? So he was one of the, founding members of British soccer camps, which became challenger sports. he has been inducted to the Kansas Hall of Fame, which if you don't understand Kansas [00:03:00] City and you just think Kansas, you might think Wizard of Oz and all that stuff. but really in, in Kansas City, the powerhouse, a lot of the soccer there is on the Kansas side where I grew up. sadly because it's a more affluent, suburban area. And sadly, that's where it's where we tend to get our soccer players in the United States until people like Ellen Jones who are putting effort into getting into the inner city, overcoming this pay per play type of thing, and helping out kids who can't afford, where we can find talent that just isn't based on, how much money you have, so you can afford to play ECNL, right?So you can afford to play MLS one or what, whatever the case may be. So just an amazing, coach inducted into the Kansas Hall of Fame coach Matt Beasley. For the majority of his youth, I would say sounds like from about eight to 16 years old who played for the US National team and the KC Sporting. He also coached Seth Kovich, who, played for the KC Sporting.He was also one of my coaching mentors, even though he is only six years older than me. I was 19 or 20 when I met him. [00:04:00] getting to be taught, licensing programs, by him, getting to play with him on amateur teams and, coach for British soccer camp even in my early twenties, was great.He's a Welshman who came to the States. and his story just does a great job of showing what it was like to be an entrepreneurial soccer coach back in the late eighties and early nineties when a lot of us were trying to figure out how do we make a living and how do we build and grow soccer across the country

13. 

    26 Aug 2025

    Kick It 3v3 Soccer Podcast August 21st 2025

    Danny Welcome to the Kick It 3v3 soccer podcast, where soccer fans, coaches, parentsand players get insights into the beautiful game each week. Your hosts, DannyStratford and Brent Zico Ward bring you some of the latest in soccer news,coaching, parenting and conversations with guests who are making an impact intheir local soccer communities or even around the world. So let's kick it! Today,in our inaugural episode, Danny and Zico talk about their soccer backgrounds,how they developed a passion for the game, as well as their insights andpassions in some of the upcoming World cup format changes. Also, we're going todiscuss what team leadership looks like for the national team and soccer teamsin general, as well as provide some youth soccer coaching tips. Now, let's get on with theshow.

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