THE LOWDOWN EPISODE #126 - "A PATHWAY TO DEVELOP" w/ COLUMBUS CREW TECHNICAL DIRECTOR; MARC NICHOLLS

Sep 7, 2023

46:08

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Over 25 years ago Marc Nicholls arrived in the US from the UK with a suitcase and aspiration to coach in football full time. All these years later he is held in high regard as one of the most esteemed player and coach developers on the North American continent.

Wearing many different hats he soon became aquainted with the North American game and his work was recognised being named U.S. Soccer Academy Coach of the Year twice preceding his move to the Seattle Sounders to become their Academy Director.

As he climbed the leadership ranks at Seattle Sounders and Charlotte he always retained the belief in providing talent with a pathway. Now located in the "spiritual home" of US Soccer he serves as Technical Director for the Columbus Crew leading their "One Club" project.

Here we dive into everything from the MLS' continued rise, how to best maximise returns on academy prospects, the work that goes into protecting player pathways and so much more.

Listen to find out more including;

- Creating a culture of development at the Seattle Sounders.

- Protecting player pathways as the league grows into becoming "a league of choice".

- Altering strategy to remain competitive with the best of the league.

- How to be strategic and maximise your return on academy prospects?

- How his leadership style has had to evolve between clubs?

- Columbus Crew "One Club Project" and inside the club's recent evolution.

Timestamps;

00:00 - 04:00 - Intro

04:01 - 09:05 - USA

09:06 - 15:00 - Seattle Sounders

15:01 - 24:54 - Strategic Gap