In this high-energy episode of The Soccer Ladder, we’re joined by the inspiring brothers behind @game_awareness, the Canadian-based trainers revolutionizing youth soccer with cutting-edge awareness training.

From scanning and shoulder checks to creating elite-level soccer IQ, these coaches are showing young players what it really takes to stand out on the pitch—not just with skill, but with vision, intelligence, and mindset.

💡 What We Cover:

• The origin story of @game_awareness and their breakthrough trip to Holland
• How their training evolved from 1:1 sessions to full team showcases
• The massive difference between Canadian and European player development
• Why awareness is the hidden skill that separates good players from great ones
• How they’re reshaping youth soccer with the Super League, international tournaments, and elite showcases
• Their take on development vs. competitiveness—and why scorekeeping matters
• Tactical mindset shifts every young player needs to succeed long-term
• The role of scanning, decision-making, and mistake-embracing in building world-class athletes
• Honest advice for parents on letting kids own their journey
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🎯 Key Takeaway:Soccer IQ isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you train.

🔥 Bonus Highlights:

• Liam reflects on beating Sporting in Portugal
• Insights on Red Bulls training & the importance of the #6 position
• Behind-the-scenes of their upcoming YouTube channel, 1v1 tournaments, and ball launcher drills

📲 Follow the Guests:

Instagram: ⁠@game_awareness⁠
YouTube: ⁨@gameawareness8312⁩
www.gameawarenesstraining.com



📲 Stay Connected:

Host: @liandmeinnyc
Co-host: @liamlinke93

www.liandmeinnyc.com

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Soccer Ladder podcast! Let us know what you think in the comments.

In this can’t-miss episode of The Soccer Ladder, we sit down with Michael Parkhurst @mikeparkhurst3—former USMNT captain, MLS Cup champion, European pro, and co-founder of @beyondgoalsmentoring—to go deep on the sacrifices, mindset, and structure required to go pro and stay pro.


Whether you’re an academy parent, a player chasing the dream, or a coach shaping the next generation, this episode is filled with gold.


🔹 From Rhode Island to Europe to founding Rhode Island FC (@rhodeislandfc), Michael shares:


His journey from IMG to Wake Forest to Europe and MLS


What it really takes to handle pressure and develop long-term


The importance of mental resilience and the three D's: Determination, Dedication, Discipline


Why not every kid should go pro at 14 or 15—and what maturity differences he’s seen in college vs. academy grads


Powerful lessons for parents about motivation, overtraining, and sideline behavior


💬 “If I want it more than my kid does—that’s a problem.”


💡 Plus:


Why youth players should play multiple positions


How small setbacks are key to long-term growth


What inspired the creation of Beyond Goals Mentoring and how it’s changing lives on and off the pitch


📲 Follow & Connect


Guest: @mikeparkhurst3


Mentorship: @beyondgoalsmentoring


Club: @rhodeislandfc

📲 Stay Connected:

Host: @liandmeinnyc

Co-host: @liamlinke93


🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode, we sit down with Alessio Carlone, a former professional footballer and co-founder of FPD Academy in Genk, Belgium. Alessio shares his inspiring journey from signing his first pro contract at 16, navigating international club moves, and ultimately being forced to retire early due to a genetic heart condition. But Alessio didn’t stop there—he channeled his passion into building a next-level training academy that focuses on both the technical and human development of players.

🎧 We discuss:

• Alessio’s rise through KRC Genk’s academy and professional clubs in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Romania
• The tough decision to retire and how that experience shaped his mission for FPD Academy
• What sets FPD Academy apart from others across Europe
• Training methods that develop not just athletes, but people—including the use of innovative tools like reflex glasses and GPS data
• Why mindset, hunger, and having the right people in your corner matters more than geography
• Alessio’s mentorship of rising talents, including his longtime connection with Dante Vanzeir, who joins this episode in a surprise appearance!

🔥 Dante Vanzeir jumps on to share his experience training with Alessio and why FPD Academy is one of the best environments for young players looking to elevate their game. Dante is a professional Belgium Football players who plays for K.A.A. Gent and the Belgium national team. Dante played for the New York Red Bulls for two seasons and was an integral part of the Red Bulls MLS Cup run.

If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to succeed in Europe, this is the episode for you.

📲 Be sure to follow:

• ⁠@alessiocarlone⁠
• ⁠@fpdacademy⁠
• ⁠@krcgenkofficial⁠
• ⁠@dantevanzeir31⁠
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📍Coming to Belgium? Don’t miss Alessio’s recommendations for training, food, and local culture in Genk—just two hours from Amsterdam.