Episode 177: Australia Special with Cheryl Downes

Women’s World Football Show, Episode 177 features a special Australia spotlight with in-depth analysis by Beyond 90 Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief Cheryl Downes.

When FIFA announced that the Women’s World Cup 2023™ will be staged in Australia and New Zealand, elation was felt around the globe. Not only is this monumental event important to the two host countries, who have done so much for women’s football with their national teams and leagues, it will be fruitful for the women’s game all over the world.

On this special episode, we visit with Beyond 90 Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief Cheryl Downes to discuss the upcoming World Cup, what it means to the Australia, the Matildas playing abroad, and much more. Three years is not that far away, so let’s get the conversation started!!

Cheryl Downes

Cheryl is the Co-Founder and Editor in Chief of Beyond 90. Having been involved in the coverage of women’s football for well over a decade, Cheryl has covered the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the AFC Women’s Asian Cup (2014, 2018) and more than seven seasons of the W-League.

Making her record-breaking 30th appearance on Women’s World Football Show (that’s a good thing, right?), Cheryl Downes provides us an inside look at the upcoming 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Her expert analysis brings us a close-up view of the tournament seen through the eyes of a Melbourne native. Plus, Cheryl gets us up to date with the Matildas playing abroad, some W-League news and more.

Did you know Cheryl got her start covering Field Hockey?? Well, we do now because Cheryl also shares her own personal football journey! It’s a side of Cheryl we never knew existed and after 6 years of appearances, it’s about time we got to know her! (6‘ & 37’)

Follow Cheryl on Twitter @ChicasFootball

Episode Links:

Visit Beyond 90.com.au

Twitter: @Beyond90AU

More WWFShow Links:
Follow Women’s World Football Show on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and our blog at wwfshowblog.com.

Listen to Women’s World Football Show on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Spotify, Spreaker, TuneIn Radio, Google Play, Castbox, Stitcher, Soundcloud, and direct from our website at www.WWFShow.com.

Photo Courtesy of: Cheryl Downes

Original Broadcast Date: September 2, 2020

Women’s World Football Show is hosted, written, edited & produced by Patty La Bella.

Additional assistance for this episode by Cheryl Downes and Beyond90.com.au

Women’s World Football Show website design and theme music by Patricia La Bella

Women’s World Football Show® is a registered trademark and it’s audio and logo cannot be used without expressed written authorization.

Episode 176: Morgan Weaver

Women’s World Football Show, Episode 176 features an exclusive interview with Portland Thorns FC forward Morgan Weaver; plus soundbites from Thorns head coach Mark Parsons; Houston Dash players Rachel Daly and Shea Groom

There is so much to be excited about for the future of women’s football’s – the future players, teams, tournaments and many leagues all over the world! However, all these things are happening right now. On this episode we’ll get a glimpse into the future while keeping our feet firmly planted in the present with big news and stories happening today, including the professional debut of one of the games brightest stars! Portland Thorns FC forward Morgan Weaver stops by to talk about playing with the iconic club, her budding career, and more. Plus, Thorns head coach Mark Parsons talks about his young star; and an entertaining press conference with 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup Champions Houston Dash stars Rachel Daly and Shea Groom.

Morgan Weaver

The Washington State star and No. 2 overall NWSL College Draft pick Morgan Weaver stops by to chat about her soccer journey, her interesting start to her rookie career, her college draft experience, and more! (11′ & 38′)

Follow Morgan:

Twitter: @morganvweaver

Instagram: @morganvweaver

Mark Parsons

Portland Thorns FC head coach Mark Parsons talks about his young prospect Morgan Weaver and in the next segment discusses the potential and future of his No. 2 overall NWSL College Draft Pick. (13′ and 46′)

Follow Coach Parsons:

Twitter: @mparsons_1

Rachel Daly and Shea Groom

The 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup Champions Rachel Daly and Shea Groom talk about their road to victory, the focus of the team in the tournament, the inspirational journey, and more! This is one of the most entertaining pressers you’ll ever hear! (45′)

Episode Links:

The FA fixtures are announced! via TheFA.com

FAWSL Transfers via SheKicks.net

More WWFShow Links:
Follow Women’s World Football Show on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and our blog at wwfshowblog.com.

Listen to Women’s World Football Show on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Spotify, Spreaker, TuneIn Radio, Google Play, Castbox, Stitcher, Soundcloud, and direct from our website at www.WWFShow.com.

Photo Courtesy of: NWSL

Original Broadcast Date: August 9, 2020

Women’s World Football Show is hosted, written, edited & produced by Patty La Bella.

Additional assistance for this episode by Morgan Weaver, Katie Simons of the Portland Thorns, and Mark Jones of the NWSL

Women’s World Football Show website design and theme music by Patricia La Bella

Women’s World Football Show® is a registered trademark and it’s audio and logo cannot be used without expressed written authorization.

Episode 175: Denise O’Sullivan

Women’s World Football Show, Episode 175 features an exclusive interview with North Carolina Courage and Republic of Ireland Women’s National Team midfielder Denise O’Sullivan; plus soundbites from North Carolina defender Abby Erceg and head coach Paul Riley.

What happens when the king gets knocked off the throne? In the case of the NWSL champions North Carolina Courage, they get up, brush themselves off, and come back with a vengeance. Their unexpected departure from the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup in the quarterfinals could be a pivotal moment in the history of the game – we’ve seen it before!

Back in 2017, when the Portland Thorns defeated the Courage in the NWSL Championship Final, the Courage vowed to come back and they did – winning the championship in 2018 and 2019. In fact, they only lost 6 games over the course of two seasons. On this episode we take a look at this very special team with the motor of the squad and 2-time team MVP, Irish international Denise O’Sullivan. We also hear from North Carolina captain Abby Erceg and head coach Paul Riley.

Denise O’Sullivan

Republic of Ireland midfielder Denise O’Sullivan is praised by the top head coaches in the game today as one of the best players in women’s soccer. Denise stops by to chat about her thoughts on the NWSL Challenge Cup, playing during a pandemic, her growing up days in Cork, the mentality of the Courage, and more.

We also discuss the upcoming UEFA Women’s EURO qualifiers, the chances of Ireland in the tournament, their new head coach Vera Pauw and much more. It’s an amazing time to be an Ireland fan and Denise is a big part of their success. Do not miss hearing from this exciting young star! (17′)

Follow Denise:

Twitter: @OSullivanDenise

Instagram: @deniseosullivan100

Paul Riley

North Carolina head coach Paul Riley talks about his scrappy midfielder Denise O’Sullivan and in the next segment discusses the game that knocked his team out of the 2020 NWSL Challenge Cup. Paul also shares his thoughts on the future of the team. (13′ and 46′)

Abby Erceg

The Kiwi defender and captain of the North Carolina Courage gives us her post-game thoughts on the team’s elimination in the tournament, the possible causes, a look toward the future of the team, and more. (45′)

Episode Links:

Read about the UEFA Women’s EUROS at https://www.uefa.com/womenseuro/

Listen to our exclusive interview with Abby Erceg in 2018 – Episode 125.

More WWFShow Links:
Follow Women’s World Football Show on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and our blog at wwfshowblog.com.

Listen to Women’s World Football Show on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Spotify, Spreaker, TuneIn Radio, Google Play, Castbox, Stitcher, Soundcloud, and direct from our website at www.WWFShow.com.

Photo Courtesy of: North Carolina Courage

Original Broadcast Date: July 19, 2020

Women’s World Football Show is hosted, written, edited & produced by Patty La Bella.

Additional assistance for this episode by Denise O’Sullivan, Morgan Brown, Megan Rogers, Mark Jones, NWSL

Women’s World Football Show website design and theme music by Patricia La Bella

Women’s World Football Show® is a registered trademark and it’s audio and logo cannot be used without expressed written authorization.

Episode 167: Gabriela Garton, Julieta Sampaoli

Women’s World Football Show, Episode 167 features exclusive interviews with Argentina Women’s National Team goalkeeper Gabriela Garton; and Argentine sports reporter Julieta Sampaoli.

For women’s footballers in Argentina, the fight for equal treatment is an ongoing struggle. Largely ignored, displaced and unheard for too long, in 2017 the Argentina Women’s National Team had had enough and staged a protest that would change the climate and view of the game in that country and beyond.

Today, we are witnessing a cultural shift in the country. However, to gain equality, there is still a long way to go. On this episode, we seek to understand the struggles and victories of the Argentina Women’s National Team, the women’s professional league in Argentina, youth development, the changing attitudes on women’s football, and more.

Gabriela Garton

American-born goalkeeper, Gabriela Garton shares her experience playing on the Argentina Women’s National Team and on two of Argentinean heavyweight sides River Plate and UAI Urquiza.

What is life like in Argentina for a woman footballer? What changes are being made to improve conditions for players? What is the women’s national team doing to help shift the mindset of a culture? Gaby gives us a peek into a world few know about.

Plus, a look back at Gaby’s career, her current club Essendon Royals in Australia, and much more! (14’)

Follow Gabriela on Twitter @gaby_garton

Guerreras: Fútbol, Mujeres y Poder By Gabriela Garton

Julieta Sampaoli

When Julieta Sampaoli discovered a lack of quality information on women’s football in Argentina, she created her own website called EstrategasFF.com. The teacher and sports journalist now staffs the website with news and information on the Argentina Women’s National Team and the women’s leagues in the region.

In this episode, Julieta stops by to pull back the curtain on women’s football in Argentina to give us an inside view of the national team, the clubs, the youth development, and more. If you’ve always wanted to know more about the women’s game in Argentina, this is a Must Listen! (58’)

Follow Julieta on Twitter @julisamp

Julieta’s website Estrategas Futbol Femenina:

Website: EstrategasFF.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/EstrategasFF

Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/estrategasff

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/estrategasff/?hl=es-la

Episode Links:

Gabriela Garton: Warrior by Julieta Sampaoli via Beyond90

Argentina Women’s National Team profile via FIFA

Gaby Garton signs with Essendon Royals

More WWFShow Links:
Follow Women’s World Football Show on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and our blog at wwfshowblog.com.

Listen to Women’s World Football Show on Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Spotify, Spreaker, TuneIn Radio, Google Play, Castbox, Stitcher, Soundcloud, and direct from our website at www.WWFShow.com.

Photos Courtesy of: Wikipedia

Original Broadcast Date: March 22, 2020

Women’s World Football Show is hosted, written, edited & produced by Patty La Bella.

Additional assistance for this episode by Gabriela Garton, Julieta Sampaoli, and Cheryl Downes

Women’s World Football Show website design and theme music by Patricia La Bella

Women’s World Football Show® is a registered trademark and it’s audio and logo cannot be used without expressed written authorization.

Episode 126: Ellie Carpenter, Lucienne Reichardt, Esmee De Graaf

Women’s World Football Show, Episode 126: Features exclusive interviews with Australian Women’s National Team and Portland Thorns FC defender Ellie Carpenter; Netherlands Women’s National Team players and West Ham United L.F.C. newcomers Lucienne Reichardt and Esmee De Graaf; and Florida Tropics SC winger Kaitlyn Jones.

At only 18 years of age, Ellie Carpenter is already making a name for herself as one of the most versatile footballers in the women’s game today. The Australian international joined Portland Thorns FC this season in the NWSL and she’s already living like a local. Ellie stops by to chat about her experiences in Portland, how playing alongside some of the greatest players in the world has helped shape her game, and what she hopes to takeaway from the experience.

We also delve deep into the life of a teenager as a professional athlete. Ellie made her debut for the Australian Women’s National Team at the tender age of 15 and became the youngest female footballer to ever compete in the Olympic Games (2016 RIO Olympics). In her NWSL debut with the Portland Thorns, Ellie became the youngest player to appear in an NWSL game and holds the record for the youngest player to score a goal in the league.

Does it get tiring having everyone focus so much on age? Is she able to form friendships outside of football, and how does she balance it all? Ellie gives us her thoughts on this and much more. If you’re a young player looking for a player you can look up to and relate with, Ellie is the one! And if you’re an old geezer (like Patty), this interview is guaranteed to make you feel hopeful about the future! (5:00’)

Lucienne Reichardt and Esmee De Graaf
Netherlands international midfielder Lucienne Reichardt and striker Esmee De Graaf are the latest star signings for West Ham United L.F.C. The two stop by to chat about the journey that brought them to London, the growth of the women’s game in the Netherlands, lifting the 2018 Algarve Cup and so much more.

Listen to this West Ham supporters – Reichardt signed on from Dutch Eredivisie Vrouwen champions Ajax, where she won seven trophies! And despite being only 20-years old, De Graaf spent three seasons at PEC Zwolle and has collected two international caps for the Netherlands.

Listen in as this Dynamic Dutch Duo share their thoughts on playing in the WSL, playing for Head Coach Matt Beard, and more! The top flight of the women’s domestic league will increase to 11 sides for the 2018-19 season, with West Ham stepping up from tier three. So, you’ll want to get to know these two exciting players! (39:00’)

Millennial Madness
The Women’s Premier Soccer League (WPSL) has just wrapped up and joining us to chat about the league is Women’s World Football Show correspondent Kaitlyn Jones. Our Millennial Madness reporter takes time from her busy schedule to chat about her experiences playing college soccer and her WPSL team. What are some of the challenges going from high school to college soccer? What are some of the things you want to look for when choosing a college? And just how do you get on a WPSL team? If you’re a young player looking for answers, Jonesy has you covered! (58:00’)
Follow Kaitlyn on Twitter @Kaitlyn_Jones9

PLUS…
NWSL Notes and News; FAWSL Trades & Transfers; Sky Blue FC Woes; Adam in a Waistcoat; And More!!

Photos Courtesy of:
Photo: West Ham United L.F.C., Ann Odong; Canberra United

“Three Lions” by Baddiel, Skinner & The Lightning Seeds

Original Broadcast Date: July 14, 2018

Women’s World Football Show website design and theme music by Patricia La Bella

Women’s World Football Show® is a registered trademark and it’s audio and logo cannot be used without expressed written authorization.

Episode 114: Sullivan, Sonnett, Davidson, Butler, Nadim

Episode 114: Women’s World Football Show features interviews with USWNT players Andi Sullivan, Emily Sonnett, Tierna Davidson and Head Coach Jill Ellis; One-on-one with Millwall Lionesses LFC defender Jordan Butler; and an exclusive with Denmark and Manchester City striker Nadia Nadim.

Boston Breakers
It’s a sad day for the NWSL and women’s football as the longest running professional women’s soccer team in the USA has folded after a deal for potential new ownership fell apart. The Breakers were founded in 2000 and were part of NWSL predecessor leagues the WUSA and WPS, and is the first NWSL team to fold since the league was established in 2013. So how did the demise of one of the more storied franchises in women’s soccer history come about? Patty and Adam dissect the situation and share details of the dispersion draft, season ticket refunds and other information.

2018 NWSL College Draft
A few draft day mega-trades overshadowed the 2018 NWSL College Draft. Adam and Patty take a close look at the trades, the high selections and some of the surprises. Plus, Patty chats with the No. 1 draft pick and newest member of the Washington Spirit Andi Sullivan! We find out how the Stanford standout dealt with the crazy course of events that lead up to her 11th hour declaration into the draft, her thoughts on playing for her hometown team, her incredible 2017 college season and more!
(Andi Sullivan 24:35’)

Jordan Butler
Adam sits down with Millwall Lionesses LFC defender Jordan Butler. Joining the Millwall system at only 8 years old, Jordan shares what it’s like to grow up in a Millwall kit. Backed by the love and support of her family, and especially her dad, Jordan takes us through her journey to play professional football, how she overcame serious injury and more. This is a spirited interview with an inspirational player and proud to have Jordan on the show!
(Jordan Butler 33:00’)

USA vs Denmark
The U.S. Women’s National Team kicked off its 2018 campaign with a somewhat come-from-behind 5-1 win against EURO Women’s runner-up Denmark in front of 17,526 fans at SDCCU Stadium January 21, 2018. We hear from USWNT Head Coach Jill Ellis as she assesses a few of the youngsters on the team and reflects on some of her lessons learned while being at the helm of the national team.

Defender Tierna Davidson earned her first cap for the USA, becoming the 21st player to make a WNT debut under Jill Ellis. We hear from the 19-year old college sophomore after her first cap. Patty couldn’t let Denmark leave town without talking to fan-favorite Nadia Nadim. The former NWSL star and now striker with Manchester City discusses her transition to the English league, her time in the NWSL, the Denmark WNT and more!
(Tierna Davidson 55:55’; Jill Ellis 58:00’; Nadia Nadim 1:08:00’)

Emily Sonnet

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – DECEMBER 06: Emily Sonnett of Sydney FC poses during a joint Sydney FC. (Photo by Matt King/Getty Images)

As the 2017/18 W-League season comes to an end, we catch up with Sydney FC (and USWNT and Portland Thorns FC) centerback Emily Sonnett! The energetic USA star talks about her journey to Australia – what brought her there, what is she learning and what does she hope to gain? We hear it all. Plus, how does playing for Sydney kept her fit and ready to take on her role with the USWNT? Emily is rapid fire with her responses and ready to hoist another league trophy… this time with Sydney FC!
(Emily Sonnet 1:26:00’)

Sarah “The Cowgirl” Hallett
Our hearts were broken earlier this month at the passing of our friend and colleague Sarah Hallett. In this show, we share stories on how Sarah touched all of our lives on the show and off. Plus, we have a special clip of some of Sarah’s greatest hits (and a few misses). A true inspiration to all who knew her, Sarah’s kind spirit will live on in all of us.
Read Sarah’s past blogs.
Listen to Episode 57 “2015 NWSL Review” when Sarah stepped in a co-hosted with Patty
Other shows Sarah was featured on:
Episode 26A “2014 NWSL Post-Season Special”
Episode 47 “World Cup Groups”
Episode 68 “The Good Fight”

In lieu of flowers and gifts, Sarah’s wife and family have asked for donations to the San Diego Junior Golf Association. Click here for details.

Listen to Sarah’s “Greatest Hits” clip at the end of the show, around the 1-hour, 31-minute mark.

Original Broadcast Date: January 28, 2018

Photos courtesy of: ussoccer.com; SydneyFC.com; ManCity.com; Henning Bagger/Scanpix2016; Jordan Butler; Millwall Lionesses

Episode 100: Sophie Schmidt, Kate Gill

Episode 100 of Women’s World Football Show features exclusive interviews with Canada WNT midfielder Sophie Schmidt; Former Australia Women’s National Team striker Kate Gill; and sports journalists Jana Lange (Germany) and Sandra Prusina (Canada).

This milestone episode features interviews with a few of women’s soccer’s most influential people. First up is 2-time Olympic bronze medalist Sophie Schmidt. For the past two years, Sophie has been playing football for German club FFC Frankfurt in the Frauen-Bundesliga. The affable Winnipeg native took time to chat with Adam before traveling from Germany to Canada for upcoming friendlies for the national team.

As a longtime supporter of Women’s World Football Show, Sophie has the distinction of being the only 3-time guest on the show (and she still likes us!!). Sophie chats about her time in Germany, some of the challenges she’s faced and then overcame. She also shares some of her favorite memories, the importance of Coach John Herdman, and her future in the game. If you missed any of Sophie’s WWFShow interviews in the past, you’re in luck, because this is the best one yet! (4:00′)

Kate Gill
Of course we couldn’t celebrate our 100th episode without Matilda icon Kate Gill (her second appearance on the show!) Always the player’s advocate, Kate is still making an impact as a Player Relations Executive for the PFA, Australia’s football player’s union. The W-League 2-time Golden Boot winner (remember all those great Perth Glory days?!!), took time out of her busy traveling schedule to talk about her work in the PFA and what it means for women footballers throughout the world.

Still holding the record for all-time leading goal scorer for the Australian team, the former captain reveals what drives her to fight for player’s rights, why she will always be a Proud Matilda, and what she’s learned about herself since 2015. For Kate Gill supporters, this is a gem interview, and for those who don’t know her – now you know! (33:45′)

Jana Lange
How much more do you know about the German national team and Frauen-Bundesliga now then you did three-and-half years ago? So much more!! Thanks to German sports journalist Jana Lange! We’ve had the pleasure of welcoming Jana on the show throughout the years to educate and entertain us on all things German football! She’s back for this special episode to recap the growth of the women’s game in Germany over the past years, the changes we’ve seen, the ups-and-downs of the teams and more! (55:00′)

Sandra Prusina
It was January, 2014 (Episode 8 if you’re counting), when we first welcomed Canadian sports journalist and radio personality Sandra Prusina to the show (and she still keeps coming back!!). So, it’s only fitting that we bring the Calgary girl back on to chat about the past, present and future of the Canada Women’s National Team, it’s extraordinary players, and it’s intense coach. Are we seeing a changing of the guard? How is the soccer landscape changing in Canada? Just how do you pronounce Labbé? And just who is this kid named Jordyn Huitema? Sandra (aka “The Canadian Nostradamus”) answers these questions & MORE! (1:12:55′)

PLUS…
We’re looking back on the past 99 episodes with clips, outtakes and a few unforgettable memories. We’re also taking time to thank everyone (including YOU!!) for coming along on this journey with us to help grow the women’s game throughout the world!

Original Broadcast Date: June 10, 2017

Photo credits courtesy of: CanadaSoccer.com; SBS.com; FootballAustralia.com; PerthGlory.com; Zimbio.com

WWFShow theme music by Patricia La Bella

Episode 88: Christine Nairn, Holly Pascoe, Angela Hucles

Women’s World Football Show, Episode 88 features exclusive interviews with Melbourne Victory midfielder Christine Nairn; Canterbury United Pride player Holly Pascoe; Former USWNT midfielder Angela Hucles; and German sports journalist Jana Lange.

Women’s World Football Show‘s last episode of the year is packed with football presents! First up, we welcome the ever-popular midfielder Christine Nairn! A revelation in both the NWSL and in Australia’s Westfield WLeague, Christine has become a powerful presence in both leagues over the years.

After a standout career at Penn State University, Nairn was drafted in the first-ever NWSL College Draft in 2013 by Seattle Reign FC. She’s been living her dream ever since, traveling the world as a professional footballer. In this thoughtful interview, Christine shares how she discovered the love of the game and how a little girl’s dream of playing pro soccer became a reality (despite the doubters!).

Taking teams on her back and collecting fans over two continents, no one is helping to grow the women’s game more than Christine Nairn! Christine discusses the changes she’s seen in the women’s game Down Under, her thoughts on Melbourne City and how Melbourne Victory will turn the tide on the season.

Back stateside, Christine has recently been traded from her hometown team Washington Spirit back to the team that originally drafted her in Seattle. She gives us her thoughts on the trade, her time in Washington and the exciting future of playing for Laura Harvey once again. You know her name, now take a listen and get to know the person – Christine Nairn! (04:54)

Holly Pascoe
The Canterbury United Pride recently won their 3rd New Zealand Grand Final in 4 years beating Capital 2-0. Both those goals were skillfully delivered by our guest – Holly Pascoe! At just 17 years of age this exciting youngster, made her debut for Canterbury just this year. Holly shares her experiences of that unforgettable match, the incredible breakout season in the league and her future plans (which includes playing collegiate soccer in the U.S.!). Don’t miss this interview with one of the brightest young stars in the game today! (36:42)

Angela Hucles
WWFShow welcomes back former USWNT midfielder Angela Hucles! The 2-time Olympic gold medal winner was our guest back in May, 2016 (Episode 72 – “Journeys”). Hucles is back again to talk about her innovative training program for young athletes called Fueling Dynamic Leaders. Angela gives us all the details on this unique online training tool designed specifically for student athletes. After a stellar pro soccer career, Hucles is offering her knowledge to young athletes all over the world – And that means you! (53:55)
Learn more at FuelingDynamicLeaders.com.
Get inspired by following Fueling Dynamic Leaders on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!

Frauen Bundesliga Report with Jana Lange
Our favorite German sports journalist Jana Lange sits down with Adam to help catch us up on what’s what in the Frauen Bundesliga. As we approach the halfway mark of the season, our Dynamisches Duo chats about the 3-way title race that’s seeing the upstart Turbine Potsdam leading the way from past powerhouses VfL Wolfsburg and Bayern Munchen. We also take a look at the plans to reform the second division and what that means for women’s football in Germany. Also, we check in with Olympic champions Germany – their new coach, the upcoming Women’s Champions League battle with France, and She Believes Cup! (1:20:36)

Plus…
We’re answering fan questions from around the world! Find out Adam’s thoughts on the FAWSL Spring Series, Patty’s pick for the USWNT No. 1 goalkeeper, WWFShow’s dream interviews & MORE!

Fade Out Music by Brian Setzer Orchestra

Original Broadcast Date: December 17, 2016

Photo credits courtesy of: WLeague.com; MelbourneVictory.com; AngelaHucles.com; Photosport

Episode 85: Alyssa Naeher, Angela Beard, Cheryl Downes

Women’s World Football Show, Episode 85 features exclusive interviews with USWNT goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher; Australia defender Angela Beard; Aussie sports writer Cheryl Downes.

The competition is fierce in the women’s game, so when opportunities are presented, the hungry ones go full force. On this episode, Women’s World Football Show features a couple of players who are not throwing away their shot!

First up is U.S. Women’s National Team goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher. The New England native knows what it’s like to live and play outside of her comfort zone and she’s made a career out of it. In this rare interview, Alyssa gives us insight into her experiences moving away from home playing for Turbine Potsdam in Germany and then later leaving the comfy confines of her hometown for the bustling city of Chicago.

Always a consistent player on the youth squads, at Penn State and at the club level, Alyssa challenged herself to change her mindset when she hit the national team as a backup to Hope Solo. Now, she’s battling for the number one spot and she’s giving it all she’s got. Alyssa shares with us how her past experiences have shaped who she is today, what’s she’s done to raise her game to another level and more.

Plus, her thoughts on Chicago, her life away from the pitch and another possible reason the Chicago Cubs won the World Series. Alyssa gives us the insider scoop! Alyssa literally takes ‘Perseverance” wherever she goes. WARNING: We file this interview under Must-Listen! (7:00’)

Angela Beard
Representing Australia on the U-17 and U-20 squads, Angie Beard is one of the more dynamic defenders in the women’s game. Currently with Brisbane Roar in the W-League, the 19-year old was a nominee for the 2015/16 W-League Young Footballer of the Year award. Angie’s defensive craftiness led to her being awarded Brisbane Roar’s Player of the Year for 2015/16.

A product of the Queensland Academy of Sport, Angie is a fierce competitor who gleefully tackles every obstacle that comes her way. One example – her recent injury that occurred soon after being called up to the full Australian squad. Angie shares with us how she overcame disappointment with determination. Now she is back and ready to don the orange for Brisbane and the gold for Australia. So, throw another shrimp on the barbie, sit back and listen to this inspiring interview with one of the brightest prospects in Australia women’s football! (26:00′)

Westfield W-League Preview
And speaking of Australia…. The 2016/17 W-League season is under way and who better to get us updated than our friend and Aussie expert Cheryl Downes from The Women’s Game! Cheryl gives us an update on all the teams and squad changes. Plus, who will challenge Melbourne City this season, which USA player will make the biggest impact and which Aussie stars are on the rise! Our resident “Melbourne Girl” gives it to us straight! Also, a look at the Matilda’s squad leading up to the Cyprus Cup and wait… no Kate Gill mention? Crikey! (41:00′)

USA vs Romania
The USWNT is back in action with two friendlies against Romania. Jill Ellis and Co are hitting California where the crowds are heavy and the weather is hot! We pour over her recent call-ups and curious formations! And remember, there’s no whining in football!

Plus…
NWSL Skittle trades; Krash landing at Washington Spirit; UEFA Championship match-ups; U-20 Women’s World Cup update and MORE!!

Fade Out Music by The Roots

Original Broadcast Date: November 11, 2016

Photo credits courtesy of: ussoccer.com; Chris Simpson/Brisbane Roar

Episode 60: Sue Smith, Ashlyn Harris, Greg Miller

Women’s World Football Show, Episode 60 features an exclusive interview with former England great Sue Smith; press conference soundbites from Orlando with Ashlyn Harris, Tom Sermanni, and Phil Rawlins; and University of Pittsburgh Head Coach Greg Miller.

Women’s World Football Show welcomes one of England’s most treasured footballers – Sue Smith! Not many female athletes enjoy a career as long or as successful as the dynamic footballer. When the FA WSL begins it’s 2016 season, Sue will be entering her 22nd year as a professional footballer and still delighting fans with her energetic play and electric personality.

The Doncaster Rovers Belles star gives us her own personal view of how the women’s game has changed over the years and where she see’s it going in the future. The 36-year old brings the game to life in this interview as she does in her TV commentary. What were some of her favorite memories? Who does she regard as the best player she’s played with or against? The answers may not surprise you, but her storytelling will capture your imagination and hold your attention like no other.

Never holding back, always honest and genuine, Sue Smith is a voice for women footballers and fans everywhere and over multiple generations. If you weren’t familiar with Sue’s remarkable career before this interview, be prepared to welcome a new footballing hero to your collection.

Take a listen to Adam’s interview with legendary Sue Smith and then let us know what you think on Facebook or Twitter @WWFShow.

NWSL Expansion Draft
It may be the offseason for the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), but that doesn’t mean the league stops moving. We take a look at the Orlando Pride as it takes one step closer to completing it’s roster through the Expansion Draft. We comb through their picks, comment on the players and how they fit into the Florida landscape. Plus, we hear from the Pride’s president Phil Rawlins, Head Coach Tom Sermanni and their (real) No. 1 pick goalkeeper Ashlyn Harris. You do not want to miss what these soccer influencers have to say about their new team and their roles in the league!

USA College Soccer 101
Class is in session! Adam is still on his quest to give understanding and knowledge to the world on America’s college soccer program. To help out, we invite University of Pittsburgh Head Coach Greg Miller to the classroom. After four seasons as Pitt Panthers’ head coach, Miller continues to move the program forward at record pace. And in 2014 guided the team to its first Atlantic Coast Conference wins.

We’re picking the mind of Coach Miller as he gives us a full understanding of the college system in the U.S. from recruiting practices to academic challenges and everything in between. So, get your pencils out, pay close attention and prepare to get educated (and entertained!).

USL W-League
After 21 years, the oldest running women’s league in North America (that’s longer than the WNBA!) has ceased operations. We look at it’s successes, it’s failures and it’s influence on the women’s game. Plus, what caused it’s demise and could the folding actually be a positive thing for women’s soccer? We discuss it all!

Plus…
NCAA college ranking run-down, Adam’s NWSL Power Rankings, Carli Lloyd’s FIFA Puskas nomination, and MORE! #VoteforCarli

Fade Out Music by Drake.

Original Broadcast Date: November 7, 2015