On this episode of Soccer 2 the MAX, Sean Garmer, Erik Watkins, and Rachael McKriger discuss the latest happening in American Soccer.

First, they kick things off with the rumors of Don Garber getting a new contract to stay in his position within Major League Soccer.

Then, they get into the multitude of stadium proposals happening around the league concerning NYCFC, Cincinnati FC, and news in D.C. too. Not to mention, they break down Toronto FC’s chances against Chivas in the CONCACAF Champion’s League Final second leg.

They also talk how FIFA plans to solve VAR issues at the World Cup 2018. A Women’s International Champions Cup. Plus, discussing the National Women’s Soccer League midway through Week 4, as the teams prepare for a weekend full of action. Can the North Carolina Courage keep up the hot streak?

PODCAST: World Cup VAR Discussion, New MLS Stadiums, Chicago Red Stars Blowout Houston

About Soccer 2 the MAX

A podcast about the world’s game with a focus on the United States Men’s and Women’s club and international scenes, with some CONCACAF discussion thrown-in as well. Whether it’s breaking down Major League Soccer, NWSL, U.S. Men and Women’s National teams, and even some USL in there too. Starring Rachael McKriger, current soccer writer for multiple outlets, and former writers Erik Watkins and Sean Garmer come together to make the perfect attacking triangle each week. All three also played soccer growing up and into high school as well. So, these are three Footy lovers that have discussions about the happenings on this side of the pond.

Sean Garmer

Being born into a Latino family, Sean grew up around the game of Futbol. No matter what you deem to call it, Mr. Garmer enjoys the sport. Sean played Defender growing up and then transitioned to Goal Keeper in High School. Due to the University of North Texas not having a Men’s Soccer team at the time, his playing career ended in 2005.

However, since then, he’s kept up with Soccer by watching his favorite teams and leagues, while also writing as well. Sean was paid to cover the 2010 World Cup, formerly hosted the Football 2 Futbol Podcast, and also wrote about the beautiful game for several other outlets. He mainly follows Major League Soccer supporting his childhood team in FC Dallas. Sean’s also a Manchester United Supporter after visiting England in 2003 and picking the Red Devils.

Erik Watkins

While he was never really the best on the field, Erik’s always had a deep-rooted passion for the beautiful game. From discovering it in Maryland thanks to DC United to cheering on Manchester United since the days of Ruud van Nistelrooy. Not to mention, considering donning purple hair to cheer Orlando City SC today. From MLS to USL and NASL (Viva Armada!) to even dreaming of training and playing in the MASL, if it’s soccer, he’s usually on it.

Rachael McKriger

Don’t let height fool you. Before becoming a journalist, Rachael McKriger was a goalkeeper. Yes, all 5-feet-two-inches of her. Now, don’t ask if she was good or not because that answer is up for debate. Currently, she doesn’t play soccer anymore, unless it’s a pickup game in the park or at her former high school. However, she’s still closely attached to the sport. Rachael covers the U.S. Men’s and Women’s National Teams. The MLS and NWSL for Last Word on Soccer and covers the USL’s Pittsburgh Riverhounds for the Pittsburgh Sporting News. She loves football with an undying passion. Yes, she calls it football, since she hails from Europe (the colder part, aka Moscow). Rachael’s favorite clubs are Borussia Monchengladbach in Germany, the Seattle Sounders in MLS, the Washington Spirit in the NWSL and the U.S. National Teams.