Knox Soccer Podcast: Recent Episodes

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That’s right, folks. The ride is sadly over, as your gracious hosts bid you adieu after three years of episodes covering the best of Knoxville soccer.

Over that time, we’ve chronicled the birth and rise of One Knoxville SC and spoken to some legends of the local game, including youth coach Junior Santos, former Lady Vol and broadcaster Tori Beeler-Watson, eventual NCAA D1 national champions Taylor Huff and Brian Pensky, Maryville College head coach Pepe Fernandez (3x!), and current USL Championship professional Tyler Gibson.

We covered Bearden girls’ soccer’s run to a second consecutive state title, powered by the current Florida Gator Brinley Murphy. We tried time after time to devise new ways to engage our listeners, including a merch store that, unfortunately, went nowhere.

After a solid run, the revenue was simply not there to continue moving forward. But the door is not fully closed. Who knows what’s next?

For now, listen in as we take you back through our favorite moments of the podcast and predict what’s to come as we, for the last time, attempt to answer the fateful question: is Knoxville really a soccer town?

Listen to our full archive of episodes.

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time we post new Knox soccer content.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In our final interview of 2024, Brian spoke with two-time KSP veteran Pepe Fernandez, head coach of the Maryville College men’s and women’s soccer teams, who recently broke the record for most wins (847) in NCAA D3 soccer history.

That’s right, one of our very own is now in the national college soccer record books!

Fernandez, a Franklin native and former Tennessee Wesleyan player, is a seven-time conference Coach of the Year (most recently in 2023). Since we last spoke in 2022, he led the Maryville College women’s program to consecutive Conference of the South Tournament championships.

Besides discussing another historic season, Fernandez talks about the evolution of college soccer, his philosophy of the beautiful game, recruiting locally and internationally, and raising up another generation of coaches. He also participates in a lightning round, shedding light on his favorite warm-up drill, the funniest sideline moment, proposed rule changes, the standout moment of 2024, and more!

Listen to our earlier episodes with Pepe Fernandez in 2022 and while he was at the World Cup in Qatar.

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time we post new Knox soccer content.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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No better way to start the Christmas season than with the big news that One Knoxville SC has hired former Minnesota United assistant Ian Fuller as its next head coach!

In this episode, Patty and Brian sit down with Fuller for an extensive conversation about what drew him to the Scruffy City, his days as a professional in the MLS and lower leagues of American soccer, and what he hopes to bring in approach and mentality to the USL League One club ahead of its 2025 season in the Old City Stadium!

Biographical notes:

Fuller, a son of the Pacific Northwest, is a former Clemson Tiger drafted by the MLS’s New England Revolution in 2002. He went on to win three titles in prior iterations of the USL with the Charleston Battery (2010) and Orlando City (2011, 2013), with stints as an assistant at both clubs. He followed former Everton legend Adrian Heath to Minnesota ahead of its inaugural MLS season in 2017. During his time there, the club finished as runners-up in the 2019 US Open Cup.

Related links:

• Buy tickets to see One Knoxville in 2025 at Old City Stadium.

• Listen to Ian Fuller on the Minnesota United podcast in 2020.

• Follow the latest USL League One news.

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time we post new Knox soccer content.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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The last time Patty and Brian had Tim Vacek, chairman of The Scruffs supporters group, on the show was ahead of One Knoxville’s (9-6-5) home opener against Lexington SC. After a season of highs and surprises, the Capo returns with the Boys in Blue guaranteed a playoff spot. Only one point separates them from the Top 4 and a shot at home-field advantage in the USL 1 Quarterfinals!

In our conversation with Tim, we touch on everything from the club’s fortunes to new relationships with players and fans, favorite moments, and what things may look like in 2025 at the Old City Stadium.

PLUS, we challenge Tim to assign superlatives, including Best ‘Stache, Best Onfield Bromance, and The Player You’d Most Like to Crack Open a Cold One With (aka the Beer Me! Award).

Related links:

• Became a member of the supporters group for just $20.

• Help fund One Knoxville youth club scholarships.

• Buy tickets to see One Knoxville in 2025 at Old City Stadium.

• Follow The Scruffs on Instagram.

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time we post new Knox soccer content.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In this episode, Patty and Brian sit down with Kempes Tekiela, the man behind more than half of One Knoxville SC’s goals across all competitions this season. The Big German moved to Knoxville from Luxembourg First Division side Union Titus Pétange earlier this year and has been making the most of his time in America.

Listen in as we get to know Kempes, from his story of joining Borussia Dortmund’s youth academy as a boy and debuting as a pro to making the big move across the pond in search of goals, glory, and a bit of the American life he experienced growing up with shows like One Tree Hill and Friday Night Lights.

All that, plus the return of Know Your Knox Trivia—you don’t want to miss this!

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thank you for reading Knox Soccer Podcast. This post is public so feel free to share it.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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Big news across the board this week, as U.S. Soccer announced Argentine Mauricio Pocchetino as the head coach of the men’s national team AND One Knoxville parts ways with its first coach Mark McKeever. Plus, Patty talks with OKSC General Manager Drew McKenna about the club's plans for its future home at Old City Stadium.

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thank you for reading Knox Soccer Podcast. This post is public so feel free to share it.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In our July soccer recap, Patty and Brian talk about everything that’s been going on in the world of professional football this month.

We discuss One Knoxville’s hunt for the USL1 playoffs and qualifying for the semis of the Jagermeister Cup; the finals of the Copa América and Euros; preview the U.S. men’s and women’s tournaments at the Paris Olympics; and brainstorm who’s going to be the coach to take the helm for the deservedly departed Gregg Berhalter with the USMNT.

This month, make sure to visit Schulz Brau Brewing Company in North Knoxville to enjoy the Olympics game with our friends in the American Outlaws.

Related links

• One Knox SC results and upcoming games

• 2024 Olympics: What to know about the U.S. men’s, women’s soccer

• Follow American Outlaws Knoxville on Facebook and Instagram

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thank you for reading Knox Soccer Podcast. This post is public so feel free to share it.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In this America Week episode, Patty & Brian chat with Kyle Clark and Giles King, two of the leaders of American Outlaws’ Knoxville chapter, following the painful elimination from the Copa América.

We break down the U.S. men's performance, look ahead to the Olympic men’s and women’s soccer tournaments, and discuss how soccer fans in Knoxville can get together to cheer on the Stars and Stripes ahead of the World Cup in 2026.

This month, make sure to visit Schulz Brau Brewing Company in North Knoxville to enjoy a game with these superfans!

Related links

• Follow AO Knoxville on Facebook and Instagram

• Check out the full U.S. men’s, women’s, and youth soccer calendar

• Meet up at Schulz Brau

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thank you for reading Knox Soccer Podcast. This post is public so feel free to share it.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In this very special episode, Brian chats with Farragut-born goalkeeper Mateya Dessieux, a University of Texas commitment and member of the US women’s national team under-17 pool.

Mateya’s story takes her three hours from home, where her father, Luc, traveled twice a week with her since her freshman year at Farragut so she could compete with Tophat Soccer Club, one of the best in the United States.

Besides being an incredible player, Mateya is a testament to what you can accomplish when committing to the dream. She’s also extending her love for the game to young kids as a coach for One Knoxville SC’s Monsters program. You don’t want to miss this one!

Related links

• Follow Mateya on Twitter/X

• Mateya’s TopDrawerSoccer profile

• Watch Mateya’s clips on Hudl

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thank you for reading Knox Soccer Podcast. This post is public so feel free to share it.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In our June episode, Patty and Brian catch up on everything that’s been going on in the world of professional soccer, from the UEFA Champions League Final and upcoming Copa América on U.S. soil to One Knoxville’s performance in the USL League One and Jägerbomb Cup.

Patty also shares some lessons learned from his first season as an assistant coach with AYSO under-8s and his Pentagonal Principles of Prosperity for coaching rec players.

Related links

• One Knox SC results and stats in USL 1.

• The official US Youth Soccer coaching manual

• Interview with Tom Byer, author of Soccer Starts at Home.

• The infamous Getafe Burger King sponsored jersey from 2009-10.

• Our episode with Jared Khan of Khan Soccer Academy on training young players.

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thank you for reading Knox Soccer Podcast. This post is public so feel free to share it.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In this week’s episode, we spoke to Jared Khan, co-founder of Khan Soccer Academy, about his journey from the AYSO fields of Knoxville and Halls High School to starting one of the fastest-growing youth training programs in our Big Town, Little City.

The conversation touches on everything from the influence of growing up in a soccer-loving home, how players can develop their skills outside expensive club programs, and when apparent failures may lead you to pursue your dreams. Are you ready to be inspired? This one’s a treat. You may want to have a soccer ball at your feet as you listen!

Khan Soccer Acadamy, which Jared operates with his brother Darius, is a family affair. His wife Meagen is also a trainer and, fun fact, former teammate of Brian’s wife, Haley, at Halls. Go Red Devils! Learn more about their private training, group classes, homeschool program, and upcoming summer camps on their website.

You can also follow Khan Soccer Academy on Instagram.

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thank you for reading Knox Soccer Podcast. This post is public so feel free to share it.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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This Friday at Regal Soccer Stadium, One Knoxville attempts to set a Guinness world record for the most people simultaneously waving a foam finger in the air for Union Omaha’s visit.

To hype the game, we had co-captain and veteran Angelo Kelly, who featured in last year’s Hispanic Heritage Month special, come on and talk to us about the club’s hot start to the season, what’s changed from last year, the new arrivals, and who would emerge victorious in a battle royale.

Buy tickets to see One Knoxville at Regal Soccer Stadium.

We hope to see you there at 6:30 p.m. on Friday to make history and cheer on the boys to a fourth win this league campaign.

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time we post new Knox soccer content.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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Ahead of One Knoxville’s home opener against Lexington SC, Patty and Brian sat down with Tim Vacek, chairman of The Scruffs supporters group.

We discussed coping with the off-season blues, traveling to Charlotte for the USL1 opener vs. the Independence (a 2-1 win for the Good Guys), establishing governance and community initiatives for the group, big plans for Lexington (yes, there will be a Chili Cook-Off), and much more.

Related links:

• Became a member of the supporters group for just $20.

• Help fund One Knoxville youth club scholarships.

• Cheer on the “Scruffies” as they raise money by competing in the Knoxville Marathon relay.

• Buy tickets to see One Knoxville at Regal Soccer Stadium.

• Tailgate info ahead of gameday.

• Follow The Scruffs on Instagram.

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time we post new Knox soccer content.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In this special bonus episode of the pod, Brian traveled to Fort Lauderdale in February to see Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami face off against Newell’s Old Boys in a special pre-season friendly. And then Patty jumps on the Knox Brew Stories Podcast to hype up the One Knox season & special events happening at the Hub.

Listen to our dispatches and get hyped for One Knoxville’s season opener this Saturday away to Charlotte Independence. Knox Brew Hub is hosting a watch party for that away match, so come on down to cheer on the Boys in Blue with us! In case you missed it, enjoy our season preview episode. We’ll see you at Regal Soccer Stadium for the latest iteration of the Battle of the Barrel against lowly Lexington SC.

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time we post new Knox soccer content.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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After a winter hiatus, Patty and Brian return for their first episode of 2024 with a comprehensive One Knoxville SC Season Preview, including:

• Discussion about the schedule, including the home opener against Lexington SC—whose captain One Knox stole away in the off-season—on March 23.

• Special dates, including a planned World Record Foam Finger Night (4/12) and Beer Fest (9/7).

• Changes to the USL League One picture, including a new expansion team and cup competition.

• Overview of departed and incoming players on the roster.

Also in the episode, we discuss the preseason, US Open Cup debacle—One Knox is in!—, the new streaming/viewing options via CBS Sports and Paramount+, and more!

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thanks for reading Knox Soccer Podcast! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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We are breaking news here on the pod today!

Drew McKenna, chairman of One Knoxville SC joins us to discuss the announcement a brand new Mid-Season Cup that USL1 has elected to start up as well as a balance 22 game regular season schedule.

But’s not all just high-brow journalism here at the Knox Soccer Pod, we get into our totally serious suggestions for the name of the cup as well as One Knox Roster speculation & gossip.

This is our gift to you, a lil One Knoxville SC hype news before Christmas! Ride that soccer wave & grab some Knox Soccer Pod merch.

Happy Holidays & Merry Christmas dear listener we’ll see y’all in the New Year!

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Another big thank you to Union Place Bar & Grill.

With 12 beers on tap, a full lunch and dinner menu featuring delicious burgers and wings, 18 televisions, a decked-out gameroom, and live music on weekends, Union Place is the spot to enjoy the beautiful game in Knoxville. Watch English Premier League and other professional televised matches inside or from the spacious outdoor patio. Visit unionplacebar.com for more information.

Thanks for reading Knox Soccer Podcast! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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For our latest episode, Patty and Brian put together the KSP Holiday Soccer Gift Guide with recommendations for all your soccer-loving friends and family.

There’s no better place to start than by buying from the Knox Soccer Merch Store, where we’re currently running a special on tees, sweaters, hats, and tote bags. Use the promo code HOLIDAY20 for 20% off your order.

We also recapped the latest happenings in the world of soccer, from former KSP alums Brian Pensky and Taylor Huff winning the Women’s College Cup with Florida State, the Copa América dates and groups being released this week, Everton’s point deduction and run of form, and One Knoxville’s announcement of returning players for the 2024 season.

2023 Knox Soccer Podcast Holiday Gift Guide:

• Local Club/Supporter Scarfs - $20-30

• From The Scruffs, American Outlaws: Knoxville Chapter, One Knox Holiday Scarf

• Soccer Books - $6-20

• A few holiday book recommendations: Fever Pitch, How Soccer Explains the World, The World is a Ball, The National Team, Soccer in the Sun and Shadow, and Gods of Soccer

• Mystery Soccer Kit - $35

• Vuvuzela - $12

• A shout out from a Soccer Celeb, via Cameo - $25-250

• Round Trip Flight to watch Everton vs Arsenal on the last day of the EPL schedule! - $1600

• Knox Soccer Podcast Merch! - $22-50

Related links:

• One Knox returning players and a sad farewell to the “Bulldog” Sam Fletcher and Peter “Swinkel Toes” Swinkels

• 194 days left until the Copa América in the USA.

• Help us build the first-ever Knoxville pro & college player database. We want to track where all our men and women from the 865 are playing competitive soccer (NAIA, DI–III, and pro). Comment or email us to let us know who should be on the list!

• Buy or listen to Brian’s book of stories, with at least three for the crazed soccer fanatic.

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Another big thank you to Union Place Bar & Grill.

With 12 beers on tap, a full lunch and dinner menu featuring delicious burgers and wings, 18 televisions, a decked-out gameroom, and live music on weekends, Union Place is the spot to enjoy the beautiful game in Knoxville. Watch English Premier League and other professional televised matches inside or from the spacious outdoor patio. Visit unionplacebar.com for more information.

Thanks for reading Knox Soccer Podcast! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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For our November Roundup, Patty and Brian talk about EVERYTHING happening in the world of high school, college, and professional soccer.

From Bearden winning its third straight state championship, the Lady Vols advancing in the NCAA Tournament, the USL League One and Championship season finales, and the USMNT, we cover precisely what Knoxville soccer fans want to hear.

And we’ve got news!

• KSP merch is here!

• We’re building the first Knoxville pro & college player database. And we need your help! Just like Yanks Abroad helped U.S. soccer fans keep up with our Baby Eagles abroad for so many years, we want to track where all our men and women from the 865 are playing competitive soccer: NAIA, DI–III, and pro. Comment or email us to let us know who should be on the list!

Related links:

• Bearden beats Ravenwood 4-1 for third straight state title

• Final MaxPreps Knoxville area girls high school soccer rankings

• Sizzy Lawton's game-winner for the Lady Vols vs. #17 Xavier in the NCAA Tourney

• Pellissippi State men’s and women’s soccer final stats

• NWSL FINAL: Gotham FC vs. OL Reign

• USL1 FINAL: North Carolina FC vs Charlotte Independence

• USL Championship FINAL: Charleston Battery vs Phoenix Rising

• Watch the trailer for Next Goal Wins, the story of the American Samoan national soccer team

• Buy or listen to Brian’s book of stories, with at least three for the crazed soccer fanatic.

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Another big thank you to Union Place Bar & Grill.

With 12 beers on tap, a full lunch and dinner menu featuring delicious burgers and wings, 18 televisions, a decked-out gameroom, and live music on weekends, Union Place is the spot to enjoy the beautiful game in Knoxville. Watch English Premier League and other professional televised matches inside or from the spacious outdoor patio. Visit unionplacebar.com for more information.

Thanks for reading Knox Soccer Podcast! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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For our October Roundup, co-hosts Patty and Brian debut a new format for the podcast.

After recapping what’s been happening in our hectic lives, we discuss the disappointing end of One Knoxville’s (9-11-12) first professional season.

On the field, the team finished its USL League One campaign two places out of the playoff positions with the lopsided achievements of being tied for the second-best defensive record in the league while also being joint-bottom for goals scored. We also discuss the club’s impact off the field with The Collective and other bright spots as we head into the winter break.

Also in this episode:

• Knoxville high school soccer, including top dogs Bearden, which is undefeated and looking for a third straight state championship national teams

• Tennessee Lady Vols (6-4-4) struggle in the SEC with just three regular-season games left

• The English Premier League and the misery of being an Everton supporter ahead of derby weekend

• Waking up to the nightmare that Gregg Berhalter is still the USMNT coach

And more!

Related links:

• USL League One final regular season table and stats

• MaxPreps Tennessee High School Soccer rankings

• Uno Reverso Card - Max Fosh

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Another big thank you to Union Place Bar & Grill.

With 12 beers on tap, a full lunch and dinner menu featuring delicious burgers and wings, 18 televisions, a decked-out gameroom, and live music on weekends, Union Place is the spot to enjoy the beautiful game in Knoxville. Watch English Premier League and other professional televised matches inside or from the spacious outdoor patio. Visit unionplacebar.com for more information.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time we post new Knox soccer content.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In the first-ever Spanish episode of the pod, Brian chats with Angelo Kelly, Rodolfo Castro, and Gio Calixtro of One Knoxville SC about growing up Latino, how they fell in love with the beautiful game, and what it means to represent their communities and serve as role models to the next generation.

We also discuss childhood nicknames, favorite players, Latin food and music, and the disappointment immigrant parents feel that we’re not lawyers and doctors.

Be there for the club’s penultimate regular season home game, as the Boys in Blue take on the Greenville Triumph with a spot in the USL League One plays potentially up for grabs. Tickets to the remaining four home matches can be found here.

Recorded LIVE at Alliance Brewing Co. at 1130 Sevier Ave.

Hispanic Heritage Month runs from September 15—October 15 in the United States.

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Another big thank you to Union Place Bar & Grill.

With 12 beers on tap, a full lunch and dinner menu featuring delicious burgers and wings, 18 televisions, a decked-out gameroom, and live music on weekends, Union Place is the spot to enjoy the beautiful game in Knoxville. Watch English Premier League and other professional televised matches inside or from the spacious outdoor patio. Visit unionplacebar.com for more information.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time we post new Knox soccer content.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In this episode, Drew McKenna, partner of One Knoxville SC, and head coach Mark McKeever join Patrick to discuss the club’s inaugural USL League One season so far.

As of this morning, One Knox (7-7-9) sits 7th in the league table, four points behind Greenville Triumph for a playoff spot.

Drew and Mark share their honest thoughts on:

• The team’s performance

• Departures of fan-favorite Sebastian Andreassen and fellow striker Ahinga Selemani

• Arrivals of Gio Calixtro and Rodolfo Castro

• Front-office plans for the four remaining home fixtures against Lexington, Charlotte Independence, Greenville, and the Richmond Kickers.

Be sure to be a part of the biggest crowd in club history on August 18 at 7:30 p.m. as the Boys in Blue battle it out for the Barrel against our noisy neighbors from the north.

The fight for the playoffs is still on. Let’s go KNOXVILLE—be the 12th man in the stands & show our hometown team that we are behind them all the way!

Tickets to the remaining four home matches can be found here.

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Another big thank you to Union Place Bar & Grill.

With 12 beers on tap, a full lunch and dinner menu featuring delicious burgers and wings, 18 televisions, a decked-out gameroom, and live music on weekends, Union Place is the spot to enjoy the beautiful game in Knoxville. Watch English Premier League and other professional televised matches inside or from the spacious outdoor patio. Visit unionplacebar.com for more information.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In this episode, Brian speaks with Joe Kirt, who is entering his second season as head coach of Tennessee women’s soccer.

In his first year at the helm, the Lady Vols claimed their third straight SEC East Division Championship, while finishing second overall in the league with 22 points. For the first time in program history, Tennessee went undefeated on the road against conference opposition before falling in the first rounds of the SEC and NCAA tournaments. But this year, the team has added 10 players and return to Regal Soccer Stadium with a taste for vengeance and silverware.

Listen for the latest updates on the Lady Vols roster and preseason preparation, a preview of the upcoming season, and what qualities and values Kirt believes will be important for the team to have a successful year.

Related links:

• Lady Vols 2023 schedule

• Current and former Lady Vols at the World Cup

• Ten new players join the Tennessee soccer roster this year

• Recap of the 2022 fall season

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Another big thank you to Union Place Bar & Grill.

With 12 beers on tap, a full lunch and dinner menu featuring delicious burgers and wings, 18 televisions, a decked-out gameroom, and live music on weekends, Union Place is the spot to enjoy the beautiful game in Knoxville. Watch English Premier League and other professional televised matches inside or from the spacious outdoor patio. Visit unionplacebar.com for more information.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In this episode, Patty and Brian speak with the two head coaches who will lead out the men’s and women’s soccer teams at Pellissippi State for their inaugural season this fall.

Josh Scott, the men’s coach, is a veteran of the East Tennessee soccer scene. Since moving from England in the mid-2000s, he’s played at Hiwassee College and Milligan University and coached at Emory & Henry College and Longwood University (Virginia), Tusculum University, and ETSU, in addition to various roles with local youth clubs.

Mariana Diazis a Mexico native who relocated to Knoxville and played at Halls High School and Inter Futbol Academy before becoming a five-year women’s soccer captain at Lincoln Memorial University, where she went on to serve as an assistant coach.

Listen to learn about how soccer came to Pellissippi, the playing and coaching journeys that led Josh and Mariana to their posts, the junior college soccer landscape in the region, and the impact their programs can make for youth and high school soccer players in Knoxville.

Related links:

• Intern or work part-time with Pellissippi Athletics

• Pellissippi men’s and women’s schedules for 2023

• Follow Pellissippi men’s and women’s soccer on Twitter

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Another big thank you to Union Place Bar & Grill.

With 12 beers on tap, a full lunch and dinner menu featuring delicious burgers and wings, 18 televisions, a decked-out gameroom, and live music on weekends, Union Place is the spot to enjoy the beautiful game in Knoxville. Watch English Premier League and other professional televised matches inside or from the spacious outdoor patio. Visit unionplacebar.com for more information.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In this episode, Patty and Brian speak with two of the leaders behind 865 Alliance, which has senior men’s and women’s teams competing in the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) and Women’s Premier Soccer League (WPSL), respectively.

Guests:

• Jon Schneider, president of 865 Alliance and executive director of FC Alliance

• Josh Gray, VP of 865 Alliance and director of coaching and Girls ECNL director for FC Alliance

Related links:

• NPSL and WPSL standings

• Follow 865 Alliance on Twitter and Instagram

• Follow Jon and Josh on Twitter

• Schneider on the Soccer Down Here podcast

• Learn more about FC Alliance youth soccer club

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Another big thank you to Union Place Bar & Grill.

With 12 beers on tap, a full lunch and dinner menu featuring delicious burgers and wings, 18 televisions, a decked-out gameroom, and live music on weekends, Union Place is the spot to enjoy the beautiful game in Knoxville. Watch English Premier League and other professional televised matches inside or from the spacious outdoor patio. Visit unionplacebar.com for more information.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time we post new Knox soccer content.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In this episode, Patty and Brian break down One Knoxville’s crucial 2-nil win over Charlotte Independence thanks to two goals (including a potential Goal of the Year candidate) by the Scottish Wunderkind Frank Ross.

Features interview clips with head coach Mark McKeever and Ross.

The current USL League One table has One Knox SC (5-4-4) in 6th place (19 pts).

Join us for the next home match, July 8, as McKeever’s Merry Men look for sweet revenge against currently table-topping North Carolina FC (7-2-4).

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Another big thank you to Union Place Bar & Grill.

With 12 beers on tap, a full lunch and dinner menu featuring delicious burgers and wings, 18 televisions, a decked-out gameroom, and live music on weekends, Union Place is the spot to enjoy the beautiful game in Knoxville. Watch English Premier League and other professional televised matches inside or from the spacious outdoor patio. Visit unionplacebar.com for more information.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time we post new Knox soccer content.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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Our end-of-season High School Recap features a conversation with correspondent Carter Moore, who talks district tournaments, state championship runs, and what it’s been like to cover area high school soccer in 2022-23.

Relive KSP’s boys high school soccer coverage:

• Bearden 3-1 Hardin Valley

• West 9-0 Karns

• William Blount 0-5 Bearden

• South Doyle 2-0 Gibbs

• Catholic 4-4 Webb

• Powell 1-6 Oak Ridge

• Halls 2-0 Austin-East

• Carter 0-4 Gibbs

• West 6-2 Farragut

Tennessee high school soccer rankings (May 29, 2023): Bearden (2), West (8), HVA (15), Webb (25).

For all high school soccer coverage, past and present, visit this section of our site.

This High School Recap Episode is brought to you by Onrise Care:

Onrise Care takes a team-based approach to delivering high-quality, compassionate mental health and athlete player care. Learn more at onrisecare.com or call 865-288-8970 to learn about their tele-psychiatry and other services.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time we post new Knox soccer content.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In this episode, Patty hosts KSP’s first-ever live pregame show at Knox Brew Hub with guests Drew McKenna, a partner in One Knoxville SC, and assistant coach and player Ilija Ilic. He interviews the duo about the season so far and leads some Knox soccer trivia before hopping on the Brew Bus to Regal Soccer Stadium, where he, Brian, and more than 2,000 fans in attendance witness the club’s 1-2 loss to the Northern Colorado Hailstorm.

The current USL League One table has One Knox SC (2-2-3) in 9th place (8 pts).

Join us for the next home match, May 16, an in-state rivalry against the 10th-place Chattanooga Red Wolves (2-1-3).

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Another big thank you to Union Place Bar & Grill.

With 12 beers on tap, a full lunch and dinner menu featuring delicious burgers and wings, 18 televisions, a decked-out gameroom, and live music on weekends, Union Place is the spot to enjoy the beautiful game in Knoxville. Watch English Premier League and other professional televised matches inside or from the spacious outdoor patio. Visit unionplacebar.com for more information.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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BREAKING NEWS: You no longer have to drive to any One Knox Home matches, just take the BUS!

Zack Roskop, owner and operator of Knox Brew Tours & Knox Brew Hub, sat down with us during the Forward Madison match to share how he hopes it adds to the soccer atmosphere in downtown Knoxville.

Join us LIVE this Saturday at 5 p.m. at Knox Brew Hub (421 Union Ave) as we record a Pre-Match Show, with special guests, giveaways, & trivia! Then hop on the 6 or 6:30 p.m. bus to get to stadium to watch One Knox take on Northern Colorado Hailstorm.

See y’all at the Hub!

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time we post new Knox soccer content.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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Our April and May High School Monthly Recap features a conversation with correspondent Carter Moore, who reminisces on his favorite moments from his recent coverage and describes the boys soccer landscape heading into district playoffs.

Relive KSP’s boys high school soccer coverage:

• South Doyle 2-0 Gibbs

• Catholic 4-4 Webb

• Powell 1-6 Oak Ridge

• Halls 2-0 Austin-East

• Carter 0-4 Gibbs

• West 6-2 Farragut

Tennessee high school soccer rankings (April 27, 2023): Bearden (2), West (10), HVA (17), Webb (23), Lenoir City (25).

For all high school soccer coverage past and present, visit this section of our site.

This High School Recap Episode is brought to you by Onrise Care:

Onrise Care takes a team-based approach to delivering high-quality, compassionate mental health and athlete player care. Learn more at onrisecare.com or call 865-288-8970 to learn about their tele-psychiatry and other services.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time we post new Knoxville soccer related content.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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Patty and Brian discuss One Knoxville’s 0-0 draw with Forward Madison at Regal Soccer Stadium. Featuring interviews with head coach Mark McKeever, midfielder Angelo Kelly, and goalkeeper Sean Lewis.

The current USL League One table has One Knox SC (2-2-2) in 7th place (8 pts).

Join us for One Knoxville SC’s next home match, May 13, against the Northern Colorado Hailstorm (1-1-2).

Thank you, as always, to our sponsor Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

We’re also excited to announce a new sponsor, Union Place Bar & Grill.

With 12 beers on tap, a full lunch and dinner menu featuring delicious burgers and wings, 18 televisions, a decked-out gameroom, and live music on weekends, Union Place is the spot to enjoy the beautiful game in Knoxville. Watch English Premier League and other professional televised matches inside or from the spacious outdoor patio. Visit unionplacebar.com for more information.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time we post new Knox soccer content.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In this episode, Brian chats with Jenny Pleasant Rhodes, a fixture of Knoxville’s adult soccer league scene who in 2012 founded the Knoxville Kickin Cancer Adult Soccer Tournament.

The tournament exists to bring together the Knoxville soccer community in support of individuals suffering from cancer or organizations engaged in the fight against cancer.

The tournament has grown significantly each year, and recipients have used funds for treatment, research, outreach, and education. This year’s tournament takes place from April 21-23 at Dick’s House of Sport.

Related links:

• Follow Knox Kickin’ Cancer on Facebook and Instagram

• Read about the cancer survivors who are recipients of donations. This year’s recipient is Tori Beeler Watson, who appeared in Episode #47 of our podcast.

• Donate and buy merchandise.

• Participate in the 5K Run on May 13.

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Another big thank you to Union Place Bar & Grill.

With 12 beers on tap, a full lunch and dinner menu featuring delicious burgers and wings, 18 televisions, a decked-out gameroom, and live music on weekends, Union Place is the spot to enjoy the beautiful game in Knoxville. Watch English Premier League and other professional televised matches inside or from the spacious outdoor patio. Visit unionplacebar.com for more information.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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Patty and Brian discuss One Knoxville’s 1-1 draw with Central Valley Fuego at Regal Soccer Stadium. Featuring interviews with head coach Mark McKeever and skipper Jordan Skelton.

Join us for One Knoxville SC’s next USL League One home match, on April 21 against defending champs South Georgia Tormenta.

Thank you, as always, to our sponsor Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

We’re also excited to announce a new sponsor, Union Place Bar & Grill.

With 12 beers on tap, a full lunch and dinner menu featuring delicious burgers and wings, 18 televisions, a decked-out gameroom, and live music on weekends, Union Place is the spot to enjoy the beautiful game in Knoxville. Watch English Premier League and other professional televised matches inside or from the spacious outdoor patio. Visit unionplacebar.com for more information.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time we post new Knox soccer content.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In this episode, Brian speaks with Kevin Cardona, associate director of coaching for One Knoxville, to recap the club’s debut at the USL Academy Cup in Tampa, Florida.

Two U-19 teams—one boys, one girls—represented the club as it faced others from throughout the USL, which runs professional second (USL Championship), third (USL 1), and amateur fourth (USL 2) division leagues in the United States soccer pyramid.

One Knox’s U-19 boys went 2-2 in the Legacy bracket:

• 2-0 W Swan City

• 0-1 L North Carolina Fusion

• 1-3 L West Virginia United

• 2-0 W Miami City

One Knox U-19 girls went 2-1-1 the Premier bracket

• 4-0 W Miami AC

• 1-0 W Western Massachusetts

• 1-1 TWest Virginia United

• 0-4 L Lexington SC

Related links:

• USL Academy Cup list of champions (U-13, U-15, U-19)

• Learn more about the USL Academy platform, and how it bridges amateur and professional football

Thank you, as always, to Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Another big thank you to Union Place Bar & Grill.

With 12 beers on tap, a full lunch and dinner menu featuring delicious burgers and wings, 18 televisions, a decked-out gameroom, and live music on weekends, Union Place is the spot to enjoy the beautiful game in Knoxville. Watch English Premier League and other professional televised matches inside or from the spacious outdoor patio. Visit unionplacebar.com for more information.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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Patty and Brian discuss One Knoxville’s last-second, extra-time loss to USL Championship side Memphis 901 FC in the club’s U.S. Open Cup debut.

Join us for One Knoxville SC’s next USL League One home match, on April 12th against Central Valley Fuego FC.

Thank you, as always, to our sponsor Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time we post new Knox soccer content.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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Patty and Brian discuss One Knoxville’s 2-1 win over Lexington SC at Regal Soccer Stadium in the nascent rivalry matchup between the fellow USL 1 newcomers.

We also hear from gaffer Mark McKeever, goalscorer Jimmie Villalobos, and wingback James Thomas, who, like McKeever, made his debut in the professional ranks.

Join us for One Knoxville SC’s next home match, April 1st against Union Omaha!

Thank you, as always, to our sponsor Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

We’re also excited to announce a new sponsor, Union Place Bar & Grill.

With 12 beers on tap, a full lunch and dinner menu featuring delicious burgers and wings, 18 televisions, a decked-out gameroom, and live music on weekends, Union Place is the spot to enjoy the beautiful game in Knoxville. Watch English Premier League and other professional televised matches inside or from the spacious outdoor patio. Visit unionplacebar.com for more information.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time we post new Knox soccer content.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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This Saturday, March 18, One Knoxville SC makes its long-awaited professional debut in USL League One. The opponent is the league’s other new club: Lexington SC (yes, the Battle of the Barrel is back).

Patty and Brian break down the league, what fans can expect, and share predictions and expectations for this season. They also speak with One Knox head coach Mark McKeever about how the team has been preparing for its home debut at Regal Soccer Stadium.

Related links:

• Full USL League One Schedule.

• 2023 USL League One Season Preview: Top Newcomers.

• 2023 USL League One Season Preview: One Knoxville SC.

• Walkin 90 Podcast previews One Knoxville SC’s season.

• Other USL1 podcasts you’ll enjoy: USL League One Review, One League Under the C, The USL Show, League One Updater, USL desde Argentina

• Knox News’ One Knox SC season preview

• One Knoxville SC Season & Single Tickets

• The Scruffs Facebook Page w/ tailgate Info

Thank you, as always, to our sponsor Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

We’re also excited to announce a new sponsor, Union Place Bar & Grill.

With 12 beers on tap, a full lunch and dinner menu featuring delicious burgers and wings, 18 televisions, a decked-out gameroom, and live music on weekends, Union Place is the spot to enjoy the beautiful game in Knoxville. Watch English Premier League and other professional televised matches inside or from the spacious outdoor patio. Visit unionplacebar.com for more information.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In this episode, Brian chats with Tyler Gibson, a Knoxville-born midfielder who currently plies his trade for Louisville City of the USL Championship.

Tyler, who played for a state-championship-winning Knoxville Crush side and Knoxville Catholic, is the most high-profile Knoxville player active in professional soccer. After graduating from Catholic, Tyler starred for UNC Charlotte, where he was a four-year starter. He went on to play for then second-division North American Soccer League (NASL) sides San Antonio Scorpions, Rayo Oklahoma City, and the San Francisco Deltas, which he helped lead to a national title in 2017. Afterward, he played for FC Cincinnati and Indy Eleven of the USLC, before transferring to Louisville.

Brian and Tyler discuss his introduction to the beautiful game, his early career as a club and high school player in Knoxville, what it takes to succeed in the pros, and what it means for him to see his birth city on the soccer map.

Before you leave, take a moment and fill out our KSP Listener Survey. Your responses will go a long way to helping us plan and push our content in 2023!

Related links:

• Louisville city player profile.

• Tyler’s best plays and other highlights (video).

• Game-winning goal for SF Deltas vs. North Carolina FC in 2017 NASL semis.

• USL Tactic’s Show describes Tyler as a player.

• Patty & Brian talk about whether Knoxville is a soccer town on The Scruffy Stuff podcast with Ryan Wilusz.

Thank you, as always, to our sponsor Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

We’re also excited to announce a new sponsor, Union Place Bar & Grill.

With 12 beers on tap, a full lunch and dinner menu featuring delicious burgers and wings, 18 televisions, a decked-out gameroom, and live music on weekends, Union Place is the spot to enjoy the beautiful game in Knoxville. Watch English Premier League and other professional televised matches inside or from the spacious outdoor patio. Visit unionplacebar.com for more information.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In this episode, Patty chats with Knox News reporter Ryan Wilusz about the plans for the Old City Stadium, which will host the Tennessee Smokies minor league baseball team and One Knoxville SC in 2025 (pending construction delays).

Ryan delves into the project's history, his conversations with Smokies owner Randy Boyd, the development of the Old City in preparation for the stadium, and his reporting trips to Durham, North Carolina, which underwent a similar stadium project.

If all goes as expected, One Knox will move from Regal Soccer Stadium, where it will play its inaugural USL 1 season in 2023, to the new stadium and become one of very few professional soccer teams in the nation sharing a home ground with a baseball team (the most famous, of course, is MLS’s NYCFC’s sharing of Yankees Stadium).

Ryan also hosts The Scruffy Stuff podcast about life in Downtown Knoxville.

Before you leave, take a moment and fill out our KSP Listener Survey. Your responses will go a long way to helping us plan and push our content in 2023!

Related links:

• Read Ryan’s latest reporting on the Old City Stadium for Knox News

• Renderings of the Old City Stadium from July 2022

• Read Ryan’s article about One Knox SC’s move to pro soccer

• Listen to The Scruffy Stuff podcast (psst…we’re on it in March!)

• Follow Ryan on Instagram and Twitter

• Listen to Patty’s interview on Knox Brew Stories 02/20/23

Thank you, as always, to our sponsor Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In this episode, Brian and Patty chat with members of three Knoxville-based English Premier League supporter clubs: Aaron Clabo of Arsenal, Wesley Bergeron of Manchester City, and Gary Rowcliffe of Manchester United.

We get into takes on the season so far, predictions for what’s to come, which manager would win a fistfight, and they each make their pitch for why undecided soccer lovers should choose their club.

Related links:

• Our first EPL Supporter Club chat with Wes and Liverpool’s Rodolfo Cortes in March 2022

• KnoxGooners on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram

• MCFC Knox on Facebook and Twitter

• Manchester United Knoxville social media links

• England National Team Supporters Club - Three Lions Knox

• USMNT Supporters Club - American Outlaws: Knoxville Chapter

Thank you, as always, to our sponsor Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Where to watch EPL in town:

• Arsenal — Union Place

• Manchester City — Xul Brewing

• Manchester United — Knox Brew Hub

• Liverpool — Finn's Tavern and Restaurant

• West Ham United — The Corner Lounge

• Chelsea — Central Flats & Taps

• Tottenham Hotspur / Everton — Alliance Brewing Co.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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The two announcements One Knoxville SC fans have been waiting on since the club entered the professional ranks were finally made this week. The Spanish Bull Dani Fernandez and Thor himself, Sebastian Andreassen, are returning home.

Fan favorites who poured their blood, sweat, and tears into the club’s inaugural 2022 season, they finished their college careers and received Christmastime phone calls from the gaffer Mark McKeever with the best present of all: their first professional contracts.

We spoke with Fernandez and Andreassen to talk about how it all went down, what they're most excited about as the team begins training in February for the USL League One season, and what fans should expect from the duo.

Related links:

• Brian’s February 2022 profile of Andreassen before the USL 2 season.

• Relive Andreassen’s breakout performance for One Knoxville SC’s first club win last summer.

• Andreassen’s towering header over Peachtree City (video).

• Fernandez scores twice as One Knox claimed the division title with a 7-1 victory over SSA Kings (includes video).

• Andreassen’s 2022 highlight reel (video).

• Review the entire One Knox roster.

• Dani Fernandez: the bull or the bullfighter?

• Oh yeah…and the Sebasphere.

Thank you, as always, to our sponsor Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Note: Dani’s interview was conducted a week ago; Seba’s was done the morning before the club’s announcement. _

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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We’re celebrating a milestone: 50 episodes. You’ve been here with us, listening and following along on social media, since this all began in February 2022.

After 10,200 downloads last year, we’ve got a big 2023 planned with more coverage of high school soccer, One Knoxville SC, the Lady Vols, and interviews with current and former professionals and coaches.

Listen as Patrick and Brian dig into it all, with some of our favorite responses to the question of whether this big little city of ours really is made for this beautiful game.

Email us your thoughts, questions, and ideas: knoxsoccerpodcast@gmail.com.

Related links:

• Our first-ever episode, where we dug into the question, “Is Knoxville a soccer town?”

• Coach Mark McKeever of One Knoxville SC; from the outside looking in

• Coach Pepe Hernandez of Maryville College; emphatic & passionate

• Junior Santos; optimistic & expectant

• Tori Beeler Watson; honest & hopeful

• Follow us on Instagram

• Follow us on Twitter

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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The 2022 Qatar World Cup has come and gone. Our brackets were busted, and our predictions were left in the desert. Patty and Brian look back on the first-ever tournament held in the Middle East.

Related links:

• Brian’s essay, “Kings of the World,” about what he went through during the Argentina-France final

• Qatar dispatch from Maryville College coach Pepe Fernandez

• Patty and Brian’s pre-WC predictions episode

• The Athletic’s rankings of World Cup’s best and worst games, from No. 1-64

• ESPN’s key stats from the World Cup

• Verdicts on the World Cup from The Guardian’s team of journalists

• Was Qatar worth it? A take from NY Times reporter Tariq Panja, who has been covering the tournament since Qatar first bid in 2009.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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LIVE from the FIFA World Cup, we check in with Pepe Fernandez as he galavants around Qatar! Shortly after a premature end to Maryville College’s NCAA tourney run, the World Cup called and Pepe answered.

This boots-on-the-ground report from Doha about the friendly atmosphere, incredible games, and passionate fans, will scratch your World Cup itch and prepare you for the final push.

Quarterfinals kick off this Friday with Croatia vs. Brazil at 10 a.m. and Argentina vs. Netherlands at 2 p.m. ET. Send us your predictions.

Related links:

• Our June interview with Pepe Fernandez

• Follow Pepe’s World Cup adventure on Instagram

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In the second episode of our new series, LEGENDS of the Local Game, brought to you by First Watch, we sit down with former Lady Vol soccer player and current SEC soccer commentator and Knox Reds president Tori Beeler Watson.

Brian and Tori bring it all the way back to her time as a girl playing on boy’s teams in Knoxville before joining the Bearden Lady Bulldogs and eventually the Tennessee Lady Vols, where she and her pre-99er teammates were inspired by Pat Summitt to achieve the impossible.

After transitioning out of college soccer, Tori briefly coached collegiately before transitioning into color commentary and then pouring any additional time into youth development, including stints as a coach for Emerald Force Soccer Club and currently running the Knox Reds organization.

Now she’s set her sights on a new battle: breast cancer.

Listen in to learn more about Tori’s story, the growth of the women’s game in Knoxville, and how the lessons she learned on the field prepared her for her biggest fight yet.

Related links:

• Listen to the first episode of the LEGENDS series with Junior Santos, director of Emerald Force Soccer Club and former pro in his native Brazil

• Follow along with Tori’s personal journey battling breast cancer at The Pink Haze as well as Knox Reds on Instagram.

• Watch the VFL Films piece about that time Tori stared down USWNT all-time leading goalscorer Abby Wambach (rad VHS footage included).

Show some love to our sponsor:

First Watch is your go-to spot, for anything Breakfast, Brunch, and Lunch. Every First Watch is open daily from 7:00 a.m. -2:30 p.m. with several locations across East Tennessee and Western North Carolina. Visit FirstWatch.com to find a restaurant near you!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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The Wolves is a raw, honest, depiction of modern adolescence, about a high school girls club soccer team, that will run December 2nd through the 18th at Old City Performing Arts Center.

Patrick sits down with the Director Grechen Lynne Wingerter (a former goalie) & Kim Quigley (sports psychiatrist) of Onrise Care to discuss the pressures that all athletes face and those especially facing women. The intersection of theatre and sports is more than meets the eye so cue this one up for a unique look of the beautiful game.

Related links:

• Tickets to The Wolves from Dec 2-18 from River & Rail Theatre Company

• Watch all the USA Matches & Finals on the largest screen in Knoxville at the Old City Performing Arts Center.

• Onrise Care serving all levels of athletes, including One Knoxville SC.

Follow KSP on Twitter and enter the Instagram giveaway by commenting on who will make it into the World Cup Final and tag two people you’ll watch it with, for a chance to win a USA Soccer Scarf from Dick’s House of Sport!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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The greatest time of every four years is here: the World Cup in Qatar kicked off Sunday with a 1-nil win for Ecuador over the hosts—the first time the home nation loses in the tournament opener.

The tournament is full of storylines. And it’s not without its controversy.

Patty and Brian discuss the U.S. Baby Eagles, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo’s final Cup, FIFA’s corruption and Qatar’s human rights abuses, and give their take on the group stage and which nations can make a run at the final.

Related links:

• Brian goes into World Cup hibernation, signing off with his essay about suffering, sports fandom, and Lionel Messi

• Follow some of our favorite coverage of the World Cup over at The Athletic, The Ringer, The New York Times, Guardian Football, and Men in Blazers

• WATE put together a list of places to watch the tournament in Knoxville. Follow The American Outlaws for updates on where they’re watching our Baby Eagles.

• Patty is serving as marketing director for The Wolves, a play about high school girls soccer running from Dec. 2-18 at The Old City PACA (which, by the way, will air World Cup games on the biggest screen in the city). Get your tickets and listen in as he speaks with director Grechen Wingerter in an upcoming episode

Follow KSP on Twitter and Instagram and shoot us your predictions and hot takes on the world’s biggest tournament!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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You’ve heard his viral Twitter commentaries, now listen to Carlos Lopez—the man who Tennessee sports fans are affectionately calling “Juan Ward”—share his story.

An immigrant from Venezuela, Lopez found a home on the (American) football field as a student at Seymour High School. He went on to play for Carson-Newman University and MTSU before becoming only the third Venezuelan to sign a professional gridiron football contract (he played briefly for the Tampa Bay Storm of the Arena Football League).

Since 2014, Lopez has been a kicking coach for powerhouse Alcoa High School. He’s now making his move into Spanish-language commentary, after his live video of a Tennessee touchdown during its big win over Alabama went viral in October.

Our very own passionate (i.e., crazy) Hispanic commentator Brian goes one-on-one with Carlos in this intimate, high-energy, and first-ever SPANGLISH KICKABOUT episode, featuring a WORLD CUP FINAL prediction!

[This episode was recorded on Wednesday, Nov 9, so go check out the Tennessee basketball video that Carlos teased about!]

Related links:

• Carlos Lopez on WBIR during Hispanic Heritage Month 2019 to talk about coaching Alcoa football

• Carlos on WVLT after his videos commentating on Tennessee touchdowns during the Kentucky game

• Popular Twitter videos: the first viral video; Juan Ward compilation

• Brian’s essay, “The Redemption Song of Lionel Messi,” after Argentina won the 2021 Copa America.

Follow Carlos on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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Our October High School Monthly Recap features a conversation with correspondent Carter Moore and interview clips with Bearden Lady Bulldogs head coach (and former Bearden state championship midfielder) Ryan Radcliffe and Brinley Murphy, who leaves for South Carolina in the summer with two state rings.

Carter reminisces on his favorite memories from covering high school soccer and helps us relive crucial moments from his October coverage. Will he be back to cover the boys in the spring? Help us persuade him in the comments.

Relive our October coverage:

• Bearden defeats Houston to claim state championship

• Bearden overcomes West for the regional title

• Powell beats Central, 3-0, in district semis

• Oak Ridge earns big away win, 5-2, at Carter

Listen to our last episode about One Knoxville’s rise to USL League One, featuring owner Drew McKenna, gaffer Mark McKeever, captain Jamesy Thomas, and fans at the announcement event at The Press Room.

Get ready for the NCAA Tournament with this sit-down conversation with Lady Vols star Taylor Huff.

This High School Recap Episode is brought to you by Onrise Care:

Onrise Care takes a team-based approach to delivering high-quality, compassionate mental health and athlete player care. Learn more at onrisecare.com or call 865-288-8970 to learn about their tele-psychiatry and other services.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time there’s new Knox soccer content.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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It’s official: One Knoxville will play in the USL League One—the third tier of professional men’s soccer in the U.S.—in 2023.

The club ascends a division after a successful first season under head coach Mark McKeever (that we recapped right here) and now has a guaranteed spot in the iconic U.S. Open Cup. But, more importantly, with the announcement, One Knoxville becomes the first fully-professional club in the city’s history.

For this episode, we sat down with general manager and owner Drew McKenna, captain James Thomas—who was announced as the first official signing for the club—and the gaffer to break down how the move came together. We discuss what Knoxvillians can expect once the team opens its season in April 2023 at Regal Soccer Stadium, home of the Lady Vols.

We also attended the big event at The Press Room and pulled aside some fans and listeners to get their take on the USL 1 announcement.

Show KSP love on Twitter, Instagram, or send our link to our newsletter to a soccer-loving friend who needs this in their life.

Interested in sponsoring the podcast? Only your support makes this sustainable. Write us at knoxsoccerpodcast@gmail.com.

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Ohio native Taylor Huff is one of the most hyped players to put on a Lady Vol soccer jersey since Jamaica international Bunny Shaw.

The four-time High School All-American and 2020 National Player of the Year joined Tennessee in 2021. In her first season, she made the SEC All-Freshman Team and All-SEC Second Team, helping the team to its first SEC Tournament crown in more than a decade.

Huff was called into the U.S. women’s national team’s under-20 roster in the spring. This season, she leads an all-star Lady Vols squad with five assists (on top of three goals).

We chat with her about her ambitions of professional soccer, the reason she plays with the #13 (which was retired at Madison Comprehensive High school after her graduation), and why Krystal’s is the best fast food for ultimate soccer performance (psst…please sponsor us).

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time there’s new content.

We see you Wrexham AFC. We Believe! Chat soon.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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Our first High School Monthly Recap episode is brought to you by Onrise Care. We’ve got a full episode for you today!

First Brian and I have a chat with our high school correspondent, Carter Moore, who’s been writing weekly articles on the website about the great high school soccer happenings. Then Brian spoke with Brinley Murphy, the center-forward of the #1 team in the country - BEARDEN HIGH SCHOOL - about her career and aspirations. This episode is packed full. Let’s get into it!

This High School Recap Episode is brought to you by Onrise Care:

Onrise Care takes a team-based approach to delivering high-quality, compassionate mental health and athlete player care. Learn more at onrisecare.com or call 865-288-8970 to learn about their tele-psychiatry and other services.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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One month on from the end of One Knoxville’s historic first season, we are bringing you our end-of-season review.

Joining us for this special episode are gaffer Mark McKeever, skipper James Thomas, and partner Drew McKenna.

Listen in to hear their standout moments, favorite memories, hilarious behind-the-scenes antics, and predict what’s next for the club.

This review episode is brought to you by Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Also brought to you by Alliance Brewing Company.

Alliance Brewing Company, partner of One Knox SC & brewers of One Knox Club Lager welcomes soccer fans whether locals or visitors to town. Venue-of-choice for several local European supporters clubs, Alliance has been the home of Soccer in K-town for years AND if a match is available for viewing in the US, they most likely have it on. 12 taps of delicious craft beer allow for a proper pint while cheering on your favorite club. Whether it’s a Dry Irish Stout on a “Premier League Morning” or a Czech Pilsner during a “European night.” Alliance will have the match on & the beer flowing. “The beautiful game” deserves a beautiful pint. Find both at Alliance Brewing Company, 1130 Sevier Avenue.

Thank you to Markman’s & Alliance for supporting local soccer & the only local soccer podcast, US!

Be sure to come back weekly for our High School Game of the Week, brought to you by OnRise Care. Subscribe via email to get notified any time a new Knoxville soccer post goes live!

Rob McElhenney & Humphery Ker, when you read this: One Knoxville SC and Wrexham AFC share so much in common, so let’s chat about it! Drop us a line. And yeah you can bring Ryan Reynolds if you have to…

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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In the first episode of our new series, LEGENDS of the Local Game, brought to you by First Watch, we sit down with Emerald Force Soccer Club’s director of coaching Adelmo “Junior” Santos.

A former professional soccer player for Esporte Clube Vítoria in Brazil, Junior has coached in Knoxville for more than a decade, first for Blount United, then for FC Alliance, and most recently for Emerald Force. He is a known face around town and on the Sansom fields where youth soccer players from around the region gather every weekend for games.

Junior’s knowledge of the beautiful game (and penchant for stylish bicycle kick goals in adult rec league games) was inherited by his son, Leo, who has played in MLS club Nashville SC’s academy and was the youngest player (at 15) named to One Knoxville’s roster this summer.

Tune in to our conversation. And make sure to show your love for our sponsor: a place synonymous with full stomachs, happy memories, and the place where Brian chose to spend his 33rd birthday breakfast with his kids, decked out in full Everton gear, this past February.

First Watch is your go-to spot, for anything Breakfast, Brunch, and Lunch. Every First Watch is open daily from 7:00 a.m. -2:30 p.m. with several locations across East Tennessee and Western North Carolina. Visit FirstWatch.com to find a restaurant near you!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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A bittersweet end to the One Knoxville SC season. A 1-2 loss to North Carolina Fusion in the Southern Conference Finals. Here’s our subdued car take of the match but a bright reflection on the season and outlook on what the fans have created here in Knoxville.

This playoff recap episode is also brought to you by Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thank you to Markman’s for supporting local soccer & the only local soccer podcast, US!

We have tons more content cued up for you dear listener: from UT Soccer to local soccer legends to High School matches of the week! So stay tuned & share this pod with a friend.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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Be sure to grab the coolest podcast shirt ever! Order your Hellbender SC Shirt right here!

Get your One Knox Playoff Tickets here!

We did it, we’re one of the final EIGHT teams in USL2. AND we are hosting the Eastern & Southern Conference Championship matches on Friday. THEN the Eastern vs Southern SEMIFINALS of USL2. What a weekend of soccer!

We dive deep into all eight teams, so get ready! Press play & we’ll see ya at Austin East Highschool on Friday. Be sure to bug out of work early for the 4:30 match, it’s gunna be a doozy. GRAB A FRIEND & GET THERE EARLY for the 7:30 match to cheer on those Smokey Mountain Boys!

(I won’t apologize for the CAPSLOCK & Exclamation Marks, it’s that EXCITING!!!)

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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Be sure to grab the coolest podcast shirt ever! Order your Hellbender SC Shirt right here!

Round 2 playoffs, done & dusted - your One Knoxville Lads in Cream bested West Virginia United 2 - 0 at West High School. On this episode, Brian gives a reflective & relieved dispatch followed by interviews from the Scotsman - Coach Mark McKeever, the Swede - Lucas Sunesson, & the Dutchman - Diego Konnicks.

This recap episode is also brought to you by Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thank you to Markman’s for supporting local soccer & the only local soccer podcast, US!

One Knoxville SC will host Rounds 3 & 4 of the Playoffs at Austin East High School. Mark your calendar you won’t want to miss these matches!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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Be sure to grab the coolest podcast shirt ever! Order your Hellbender SC Shirt right here!

What a crazy 120mins of fútball in Tennessee last night! On this episode, Brian has a late-night dispatch followed by Coach Mark McKeever, Captain James Thomas, & concluding with Leading Goal Scorer, Steven Afrifa. Tune in, rest up, and see ya tomorrow!

This episode is brought to you by Nothing Too Fancy.

Nothing Too Fancy is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast! Locally owned and operated t-shirt boutique, NOTHING TOO FANCY is located in downtown Knoxville just off of Market Square. Celebrating their 10 year anniversary this Labor Day Weekend. Visit nothingtoofancy.com.

Use the promo code: KNOXSOCCERPOD online or in person for 10% off your entire purchase. Thank you to Nothing Too Fancy for supporting local soccer & the only local soccer podcast, US!

This recap episode is also brought to you by Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thank you to Markman’s for supporting local soccer & the only local soccer podcast, US!

Be sure to grab your tickets for round 2 of playoffs at West High School, 7:30 pm tomorrow night at oneknoxsc.com! See ya there!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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Be sure to grab the coolest podcast shirt ever! Order your Hellbender SC Shirt right here!

To celebrate & promote our Hellbender SC shirt (new link, no minimum, plus three new styles!) we are matching up the characters of Stranger Things to where we think they’ll slot in on the pitch to take down Vecna & the demogorgons!

Let us know how we did!

See you tonight at PLAYOFFS! Let’s pack it out! Get your tickets at oneknoxsc.com!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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3 days left to grab the coolest podcast shirt ever! Order your Hellbender SC Shirt right here!

Get your One Knox Playoff Tickets here!

It’s our first year in USL2 and we’re hosting playoffs! What a time to be alive! We break down each team to gear up for this weekend chocked full of footy. Don’t snooze on the non-One Knox games they’re gunna be great. Cue up this pod for a lil stats & a lil soccer narrative, it’s a good one!

Also, we announce the winner of the Hellbender SC shirt giveaway! Be sure to grab your own Knox Soccer Podcast shirt before Thursday! Jump on our Instagram Story to see which Stranger Things character would make the best striker.

Be sure to grab your tickets to the playoffs at West High School for Friday the 22nd & Sunday the 24th at oneknoxsc.com! See ya there!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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6 days left to grab the coolest podcast shirt ever! Order your Hellbender SC Shirt right here!

A bittersweet end to the regular season, 0-1 loss to East Atlanta at home after a 2+ hour rain delay. BUT we are hosting Conference Playoffs on July 22nd & 24th. We got One Knoville SC partner Drew McKenna, Team Captian James Thomas, and Head Coach Mark McKeever all on the pod today! Press play for the whole One Knox download.

This recap episode is brought to you by Nothing Too Fancy.

Nothing Too Fancy is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast! Locally owned and operated t-shirt boutique, NOTHING TOO FANCY is located in downtown Knoxville just off of Market Square. Celebrating their 10 year anniversary this Labor Day Weekend. Visit nothingtoofancy.com.

Use the promo code: KNOXSOCCERPOD online or in person for 10% off your entire purchase. Thank you to Nothing Too Fancy for supporting local soccer & the only local soccer podcast, US!

This recap episode is also brought to you by Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thank you to Markman’s for supporting local soccer & the only local soccer podcast, US!

Be sure to grab your tickets to the playoffs at West High School for Friday the 22nd & Sunday the 24th at oneknoxsc.com! See ya there!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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Order your Hellbender SC Shirt right here!

The boys are back in town and they’re USL2 SOUTH CENTRAL DIVISION CHAMPS! First came a 7-1 victory over Southern Soccer Acamedy Kings and then with Asheville City tieing Tennessee SC, our Boys In Blue bring home their first conference silverware.

This episode is jammed pack full of soccer goodness so press play, but keep your phones handy… We have plenty of opportunities for you to support the pod!

WE HAVE POD MERCH! Get the Hellbender SC x Stranger Things mashup Tee, right here! (The order window is only open until July 21st, so get yours now! We need 22 of them to get it printed, so start Christmas shopping early!)

Tag two friends on our Hellbender Instagram post, to be entered to win a FREE shirt!

Head on over to Nothing Too Fancy on Union Ave or online. Use the promo code: KNOXSOCCERPOD for 10% off your entire purchase. (Just mention the podcast if you are shopping in person.)

This recap episode is brought to you by Nothing Too Fancy.

Nothing Too Fancy is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast! Locally owned and operated t-shirt boutique, NOTHING TOO FANCY is located in downtown Knoxville just off of Market Square. Celebrating their 10 year anniversary this Labor Day Weekend. Visit nothingtoofancy.com.

Thank you to Nothing Too Fancy for supporting local soccer & the only local soccer podcast, US!

This recap episode is also brought to you by Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thank you to Markman’s for supporting local soccer & the only local soccer podcast, US!

One last regular-season game on Tuesday then it’s THE PLAYOFFS. Don’t worry we’ll be there & we’re gunna tell you all about it!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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We did it! WE GOT MERCH!

Get your Hellbender SC x Stranger Things mashup Tee, right here! (The order window is only open for 13 days, until July 21st, so get yours now!)

Give this episode a listen for the whole t-shirt origin story and a poetic One Knox recap/preview before tomorrow’s home match against Southern Soccer Academy at Maryville College. The match starts at 7:30, get your tickets here!

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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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What a wonderful Saturday Night to witness a 1-0 VICTORY over Tennessee SC! This is the Car Take Reaction to One Knox besting fellow first-time USL2 side, Tennessee SC. This match was not weather delayed unlike our first meet-up earlier this season. But it was the same score. It wasn’t “sexy soccer” but it did get the job done. Patrick & Brian break it all down & grabbed some honest interviews from the Gaffer, players, & staff.

This recap episode is brought to you by Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thank you to Markman’s for supporting local soccer & the only local soccer podcast, US!

Enjoy this pod as we watch the Lads in Cream travel down to ATL for a Saturday match away. They will be back to finish the season with the last two matches at home. Then it’s playoff time… fingers crossed.

Stay tuned to your pod feeds, we have a lot of fun content coming your way & as always we’d love to hear from you: with an Apple Podcast review, on the socials, or even in the comments below. Let us know what you love about the pod!

P.S. If anyone has a LAMBORGHINI that they are willing to bring to a special event later in the summer, hit us up! 😆

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WE ARE TOP OF THE TABLE! WE BEAT ASHEVILLE CITY!

That’s really all you need to know for this episode, but if you’d like more info, we can oblige. Brian & I (as well as my wife) traveled away to downtown Asheville to cheer on our Lads in Cream. And those lads came on strong, avenging our home opener defeat with a decisive 3-1 victory! Buckle up for this Car Take, literally, for we recorded it in the wee hours of Tuesday night as we wound our way through the mountains back home to the 865.

This recap episode is brought to you by Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thank you to Markman’s for supporting local soccer & the only local soccer podcast, US!

This Saturday we host Tennessee SC on their return leg & we couldn’t be happier going into this one. The top of the table feels really good. Grab your tickets here & join us at Maryville College for a great SACCA’ Saturday.

(We are both on double duty this match: Brian on the LIVE stream with Color Commentary & Patrick on the PA trying not to screw up the lineups! Swing by the press box to say HI!)

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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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Finally a HOME match w/ the Boys in Blue! This time around we packed out Maryville College as we hosted Peachtree City MOBA. In this Car Take get into how good it felt playing at home, how the lads did, cue up 3 player interviews + Coach Deano, & checked in with some fans on the touchline. This episode is jammed-packed. BUT before you press play - grab your AWAY tickets to Asheville City here and join Brian & Patrick as we cheer on One Knox to a table-topping victory!

This recap episode is brought to you by Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thank you to Markman’s for supporting local soccer & the only local soccer podcast, US!

See you in Asheville!

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We are only halfway through One Knox’s Inaugural Season but it feels like we’ve had 3+ seasons of drama, Ups & Downs, and Wins-Ties-Loses. In this episode, we get into all of it as well as all of the away matches that have kept the Boys in Cream on the road.

Dakota Booth, founding member of the Scruffs gives us his own Car Take of the match against Tri-Cities Otters.

Mark McKeever sits down with Brian to reflect on the season as a whole, introduces us to his favorite word: ADVERSITY, & then brings it home as the boys come home to Maryville College on June 18th.

Rounding it out, Brian whispers a sweet recap of the Tormenta match before getting PUMPED about the Smoky Mountian Series.

This midseason recap episode is brought to you by Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thank you to Markman’s for supporting local soccer & the only local soccer podcast, US!

Speaking of, June 21st (Tuesday) in downtown Asheville, One Knox SC will take on Asheville City SC! This is the moment that we’ve all been waiting for when One Knox will topple our mountain rivals (avenging our season opener!) and begin their proper reign at the top of the South Central table.

Brian & I will be there in attendance, join us! Get your away tickets here!

The Boys in Blue return home to Maryville College this Saturday, June 18th against Peachtree City. Come on out to welcome them home!

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On social media after the announcement that One Knoxville would play the majority of its home games in Maryville, some folks questioned why the team would venture a 20-minute ride down the road in Blount County.

What I (Brian) knew from my year of covering Maryville College men’s and women’s soccer in 2014 for The Daily Times was that Pepe Fernandez had been one of the sport’s familiar faces in East Tennessee for more than three decades. In 2015, when I wrote a magazine story about the culture and history of indoor soccer in Knoxville, we sat down for the first time, in his office, and talked about his time as both a coach at Maryville and for the Knoxville Force as well as a player for the Knoxville Impact, a semi-pro indoor soccer team from the ‘90s.

In 33 seasons at the helm of Maryville College, Fernandez has won four USA South Tournament titles and led the men and women to 16 NCAA Division III Tournament appearances. He is ranked in the Top 10 for wins all-time in men’s DIII soccer.

In this interview, we discuss:

Why Pepe’s first name is not pronounced how you expect it to be

His history of playing soccer for Father Ryan High School, in the defunct Dixie Amateur Soccer League, and for Tennessee Wesleyan

What brought him and has kept him at Maryville College for more than three decades

His and his current and former players’ contributions to soccer in the community

His favorite coaching memories

What makes soccer such a special sport

Whether or not Knoxville is a soccer town

Enjoy!

Fernandez’s Maryville College bio

One Knoxville’s game schedule

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What a Memorial Day Weekend! SIX POINTS from a Home & Away match!

We have a double feature for you in this episode: Brian’s passionate recap of the pandamonium at Tormenta & then Patrick with special guest Casey Beaman give you their Car Take reaction to “The Seba-Show” AKA One Knox vs Dalton Red Wolves.

This recap episode is brought to you by Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thank you to Markman’s for supporting local soccer & the only local soccer podcast, US!

Be sure to show Casey some love, listen & subscribe to his podcast, House of Sport!

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This past weekend, One Knoxville SC visited Tennessee SC for the away leg of the Music City vs. Scruffy City Derby. You may have noticed, that there was no LIVE stream of the game available. Instead, we got Ami Rabiei, Director of Soccer Ops for the club, live-tweeting on Twitter. 

Ami hopped on a call with us to give us the backstory of the match. He addressed some of the unanswered questions you had for him on Twitter. It was weird & wacky away game so we got some weird & wacky questions.

Press play & enjoy!

One Knoxville’s next home game is against Dalton Red Wolves at Knox Catholic this Saturday, May 28, which will be followed by a quick trip down to Georgia to take on the Tormenta on Monday. Be sure to wear all BLUE, so we can show these Red Wolves how it’s really done.

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Second Home Game, FIRST WIN! Let’s GOOO! Patrick & Brian give their car take right after the match. Fueled by the generosity of Mario’s Pizza Cones! Brian delivers the low down of the match & chats with Seba, the goal scorer, Finn, the “Big Red Wall”, and Mark McKeever, the gaffer. Patrick reacts to the crowd & chats with a repeat supporter.

This recap episode is brought to you by Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thank you to Markman’s for supporting local soccer & the only local soccer podcast, US!

We still have sponsorship slots open for these match recap episodes, so if your local business is interested in sponsoring us, email us at knoxsoccerpodcast@gmail.com.

Be sure to check out Brian’s Match Recap blog post from yesterday.

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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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Brian & Patrick give you their hot take of the inaugural home match of One Knox SC. From the fan turnout, to the gameplay, to the food selection, to the reaction of Coach McKeever & Team Captain James Thomas.

This recap episode is brought to you by Markman’s Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Markman’s is a proud sponsor of the Knox Soccer Podcast and One Knoxville SC. Located at 6932 Kingston Pike, Markman’s has been Knoxville’s choice for diamonds and fine jewelry since 1976. Visit markmansdiamonds.com.

Thank you to Markman’s for supporting local soccer & the only local soccer podcast, US!

We still have sponsorship slots open for these match recap episodes, so if your local business is interested in sponsoring us, email us at knoxsoccerpodcast@gmail.com.

Be sure to check out Brian’s Match Recap blog post from yesterday. (Also welcome to all of Brian’s One Knox Chronicler subscribers!)

Thank you for pushing play!

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This is the final week until the season opener of One Knoxville SC! So we thought it would be a great idea to release BONUS content EACH DAY leading up until the match.

IT’S FINALLY HERE! The start of One Knoxville SC’s inaugural season. We check in on our hype levels, bask in the Gaffer’s wisdom, & discuss who we’re looking out for on the pitch. It’s game time! See ya there.

Listen, enjoy, share, & tune in tomorrow.

If you haven’t already gotten your tickets to the first match (7:30 pm) vs Asheville City SC for tonight at Austin East High School, do so here! (Tickets are available on-site, but everyone is encouraged to purchase them prior. Parking is Free. Kids under 5 years old are FREE)

Thank you for pushing play!

Brian always has more to say about ⚽ on his Substack. As well as on the One Knoxville Chronicles.

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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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This is the final week until the season opener of One Knoxville SC! So we thought it would be a great idea to release BONUS content EACH DAY leading up until the match.

24 hours to go, so who do you call? Team Captain JAMES THOMAS! He gives us sound advice about what he & the boys in blue need from us, the fans, on match day. It might involve instruments…

Cue up Episode #6 for more of James Thomas & a breakdown of the squad.

Listen, enjoy, share, & tune in tomorrow.

If you haven’t already gotten your tickets to the first match vs Asheville City SC on May 14th at Austin East High School, do so here!

Thank you for pushing play!

Brian always has more to say about ⚽ on his Substack. As well as on the One Knoxville Chronicles.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time a new episode drops.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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This is the final week until the season opener of One Knoxville SC! So we thought it would be a great idea to release BONUS content EACH DAY leading up until the match.

Today we preview One Knoxville’s inaugural match against Smoky Mountain rivals Asheville City SC. In the episode, you’ll hear from head coach Mark McKeever and Jimmy Wheeler, GM of Asheville City, about the state of their clubs, the budding rivalry, and the competitiveness of the South Central division, which both men are calling the toughest in USL League Two.

The teams face off Saturday, May 14th, at the home of Austin-East High School. If you haven’t already gotten your tickets to the Smoky Mountain Series match—the first in One Knox’s history— do so here!

One small announcement:

Brian has merged his work as the club’s independent chronicler with the work we do here at the KSP podcast. You may now read his in-depth introduction to McKeever, his breakdown of the division and the USL 2 landscape, and his profiles of five players in the Chronicles section of this Substack.

Listen, enjoy, share, & tune in tomorrow.

Thank you for pushing play!

Brian always has more to say about ⚽ on his Substack.

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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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This is the final week until the season opener of One Knoxville SC! So we thought it would be a great idea to release BONUS content EACH DAY leading up until the match.

Today we check back in with Austin-East Roadrunners head soccer coach Jonathan Netherland after the team’s first season in Class 2A (and their first since making history by winning the school’s first-ever state championship in 2021).

The team has had some incredible moments, including downing local powerhouse Farragut, who play a division up in Class 3A, 2-1 when the teams met for the first time ever in April. Just yesterday (Tuesday), Netherland’s men defeated Gibbs in the Class 2A District 4 semifinals, 5-1, to advance to the final.

Austin-East will play Halls, at home, for the District 4 Championship on Thursday at 6:30 p.m. The team automatically qualified for regionals.

You can listen to our full interview with Coach Netherland from March 3 here.

Listen, enjoy, share, & tune in tomorrow.

If you haven’t already gotten your tickets to the first match vs Asheville City SC on May 14th at Austin East High School, do so here!

Thank you for pushing play!

Brian always has more to say about ⚽ on his Substack. As well as on the One Knoxville Chronicles.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time a new episode drops.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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This is the final week until the season opener of One Knoxville SC! So we thought it would be a great idea to release BONUS content EACH DAY leading up until the match.

Today we’re revisiting our conversation with One Knoxville SC partners Mark McComas and Drew McKenna. In our interview, we hit them with the question we’re asking so many of our guests: “Is Knoxville a soccer town?” Their answer, built on extensive research, may surprise you. If you want to hear their full interview tune into episode #2: What’s One Knoxville SC?

Listen, enjoy, share, & tune in tomorrow.

If you haven’t already gotten your tickets to the first match vs Asheville City SC on May 14th at Austin East High School, do so here!

Thank you for pushing play!

Brian always has more to say about ⚽ on his Substack. As well as on the One Knoxville Chronicles.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time a new episode drops.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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This is the final week until the season opener of One Knoxville SC! So we thought it would be a great idea to release BONUS content EACH DAY leading up until the match.

Today we’re recapping the inter-squad scrimmage from this past Saturday at Webb School of Knoxville. A thrilling nil-nil draw after three 30-minute “thirds.” Ended up with an 11-11 penalty shoot-out, with homegrown keeper Wyatt Brace of West High School making the game-deciding block.

Listen, enjoy, share, & tune in tomorrow.

If you haven’t already gotten your tickets to the first match vs Asheville City SC on May 14th at Austin East High School, do so here!

Thank you for pushing play!

Brian always has more to say about ⚽ on his Substack. As well as on the One Knoxville Chronicles.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time a new episode drops.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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Ten episodes in and we finally get to crack open a cold one, just like the Men In Blazers! Throughout our Knoxville soccer pilgrimage, we found a common thread or common meeting place: Alliance Brewing Co. So we sat down with Adam Ingle & Chris Howard to chat about why beer goes so well with soccer (and other sports & activities.)

So crack open a One Knox Clug Lager, sit back & enjoy this refreshing episode!

You can find Alliance Brewing’s beer collaboration with One Knoxville SC at Soccer Taco, J.C. Holdway, and Texas Roadhouse.

Thank you for pushing play!

Brian always has more to say about ⚽ on his Substack. As well as on the One Knoxville Chronicles.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time a new episode drops.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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On Monday, April 25, the news broke that Tennessee head soccer coach Brian Pensky—who we had just had on the pod last week to talk about Lady Vols’s spring season and what was to come in the fall—had signed for women’s footy powerhouse FLORIDA STATE.

The news, to us, was a shock because of the timing. For others, it was a surprise; Pensky had just been named SEC Coach of the Year and was rewarded by the university with contract extension with a notable pay bump up, from $185,000 to $250,000/year.

Former FSU head coach Mike Krikorian, who’d led the Noles to three national titles (2014, 2018, 2021) over his 17 seasons in charge, had transformed the school into one of the more dominant forces in women’s soccer. His winning percentage while in charge was nearly 80% (Pensky’s, by comparison, was 65% over 10 seasons with the Lady Vols). He was the also highest paid coach in women’s soccer, with an annual salary of $450,000. His winning

Read more about Pensky’s departure and Krikorian’s arrival at these sources:

Brian Pensky of Tennessee named coach of reigning champion Florida State women's soccer (Knoxville News Sentinel)

FLORIDA STATE NAMES CURRENT SEC COACH OF THE YEAR AND FORMER ACC AND NATIONAL COACH OF THE YEAR BRIAN PENSKY AS THE SEMINOLES’ NEW WOMEN’S SOCCER COACH (Seminoles.com)

Mark Krikorian steps down (FSUNews.com)

Florida State Sports Notebook: New Soccer Coach Edition (Tomahawk Nation)

Florida State hires Tennessee head coach Brian Pensky as next head soccer coach (Yahoo Sports/Tallahassee Democrat)

We’ll see you in a few weeks—or months?—to introduce you to whoever Tennessee brings in to take the reins for the 2022 fall season!

Thank you for pushing play!

Brian always has more to say about ⚽ on his Substack. As well as on the One Knoxville Chronicles.

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We had the immense honor to chat with Matt Wolff, the premiere soccer designer, who crafted One Knox SC's brand identity. An avid lover of the beautiful game, Matt (and Drew McKenna) pull back the curtain of how the beloved badge, the Mountain Kit, & the BRAND NEW Cream Kit, came to be! Sport your new kit & enjoy this nerdy design episode!

Thank you for pushing play!

Brian always has more to say about ⚽ on his Substack. As well as on the One Knoxville Chronicles.

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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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Coach Brian Pensky of Tennessee women’s soccer is our first guest for a segment we’ve dubbed COACH CALLS, where we catch up with Knoxville area coaches at the college, high school, club, and soon-to-be professional levels about what’s happening with their teams.

And we’ve got some exciting news to break. The Lady Vols, who finished the season ranked #11 in the nation, will open their fall season against 21-TIME NATIONAL CHAMPIONS North Carolina on Aug. 18. The team’s home opener at Regal Soccer Stadium will take place a week later, on Aug. 25, against another ACC powerhouse, three-time NATIONAL FINALISTS Duke.

Last season was one of the best in Lady Vols history, as the team went 20-3, claimed its second consecutive SEC East title, and took home the SEC Tournament trophy. The team, which wraps up its spring season on 4/23 against Virginia Tech, returns 10 starters in the fall. Is there more history-making to come? We’d put our money on it.

Let us know what local coaches you’d like us to catch up with in the comments or on Instagram.

Thank you for pushing play!

Brian always has more to say about ⚽ on his Substack. As well as on the One Knoxville Chronicles.

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This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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Casey Beaman host of the House of Sport podcast is our guest for our seventh episode. He’s full of sports stories and love for the beautiful game. And finally, someone gets on the board with Know You Knox Trivia! Root him on!

Thank you for pushing play!

Brian always has more to say about ⚽ on his Substack. As well as on the One Knoxville Chronicles.

Thanks for listening! Subscribe to receive an email every time a new episode drops.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit knoxsoccerpodcast.substack.com

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On this Kickabout, YOU are on the pod! Giving your LIVE reactions to the new “Mountain Kit” and y’all’s response was LOUD! Take a listen.

Thank you for pushing play!

Brian always has more to say about ⚽ on his Substack. As well as on the One Knoxville Chronicles.

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Episode Six coming at you with James Thomas, the veteran team captain! Our chat covers all the bases. From the character of the squad, to personnel break down, to chant topics, to “the local lads”, to the quarry at Ijams. Sit back & enjoy this one!

For a more in-depth look at each of the players mentioned & the local signings, Brian profiled each of them over at the One Knox Chronicles.

Be sure to say “HI!” at the kit reveal party tonight & let Patrick record your Hot Take / LIVE Reaction to the kit & the coming season!

Thank you for pushing play!

Brian always has more to say about ⚽ on his Substack.

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We’re trying a new thing called: Kickabout. A delightfully short & fun episode of whatever didn’t make it into the regular episode. Some would say, a BONUS EPISODE!

On this Kickabout, Patrick surprised Brian with the “Know Your Knox” trivia game. How do you think he did?

Thank you for pushing play!

Brian always has more to say about ⚽ on his Substack.

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In this fifth episode of the Knox Soccer Podcast, your co-hosts sat down with two local Premier League supporters to talk about the title race. Will league leaders Manchester City retain their crown? Wesley Bergeron, a member of City's local supporters club, certainly thinks so. But, Rodolfo Urquieta Cortes, a Liverpool supporter, isn't convinced. He's sure Jurgen Klopp's Reds will snatch the title away at last.

It's going to be a slobberknocker!

We discuss the current EPL table, Knoxville's Premier League supporter culture, and why you (yes, you!) should consider taking a trip to one of the many Knoxville bars where supporters rally together to cheer their clubs onto glory every weekend.

Curious about where you can find your kin? Here's a list of some of the official and unofficial groups and where they meet:

Manchester City — Bearden Beer Market

Liverpool — Finn's Tavern and Restaurant

Manchester United — Knox Brew Hub

West Ham United — The Corner Lounge

Chelsea — Central Flats & Taps

Arsenal — Hops and Hollers

Tottenham Hotspur / Everton — Alliance Brewing Co.

Thank you for pushing play!

Brian always has more to say about ⚽ on his Substack.

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With the amazing success of last year’s State Championship, we decided to check in with Coach Netherland of AE Soccer to see how the season is starting and what’s his plan to repeat!

ESPN article by Jeff Carlisle

Thank you for pushing play!

Brian always has more to say about ⚽ on his Substack.

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One Knoxville SC’s first coach graced us with his presence, voice, and passion for the third episode. Who’s ready to follow this seasoned lad onto the pitch? After this chat, we surely are!

Thank you for pushing play!

Brian always has more to say about ⚽ on his Substack.

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For episode 2, we sat down with two of the owners of One Knox SC, Drew McKenna & Mark McComas on how the club got its name. We came away pumped for this team & for this city. There is TRULY only one Knoxville!

Thank you for pushing play!

Brian always has more to say about ⚽ on his Substack.

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In our inaugural episode we try to explain themselves. Answering these questions:

Why two thirty-somethings are starting a podcast in 2022?

Is Knoxville a soccer town?

Is it, “slide into our DMs”?

Thank you for pushing play!

Brian always has more to say about ⚽ on his own Substack.

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It’s finally here, a podcast about everything soccer in Knoxville!

Tune in & subscribe to follow along.

Also, tell a friend.

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