Clean Sheets Podcast

The 2016 Olympics in Rio are happening and the Haboobigans have caught Olympic Fever...and possibly Zika. Kyle Kepner of The USL Show & Firebird Rising sits in with Ryan and Kia to discuss what events they are watching before diving off the 100M into viewer email. The trio wraps the pod by recounting old college stories of marching band and mascots. Spoiler Alert: this podcast is 100% filled with nonsense and 0% soccer. Regardless, it's a fun listen!

With the recent announcement of FC Arizona, the Valley of the Sun will now have 2 professional franchises for fans to root for. Has soccer fandom reached a point where Phoenix needs two teams or will the soccer community cannibalize itself?  In order to answer these questions, Kia & Ryan welcome Kyle Kepner, Co-Host of The USL Show Podcast, associate editor at Indomitable City Soccer, & founder of Firebird Rising a website that focuses on Arizona Professional Soccer, including Arizona United SC.  The trio breakdown Arizona FC's launch party at Mesa Community College and review their plans for the 2017 season and discuss the ingredients necessary for a successful soccer franchise in a competing market. The Haboobigans also break down AZ United's recent win streak and provide predictions for whether or not they'll finally make the USL Playoffs.  If you're interested in actual soccer coverage in the Valley, you definitely want to download this episode! 

The Haboobigans take a break from visiting parks, graveyards and other Phoenix area PokeStops in order to debate the Top 5 Cities to Host US Soccer Matches (men's & women's).  US Soccer traveler extraordinaire (and Level 7 Pokemon Trainer), Megan Snyder, returns to the podcast to weigh in her opinions. You'll never guess which cities made the cut and which didn't.  In local soccer news, Kia & Ryan revel in the awesomeness that is newly formed supporter group La Hermandad 1912, and almost get thrown out for "abusive language" at Saturday's Arizona United match. Also, AZ Impact kicks off their preseason with a home opener loss. Finally, the trio wraps up with USWNT news and reasons they will NOT be traveling to Rio this summer. 

Kia and Ryan welcome American Outlaws: Phoenix Board Member and organizer extraordinaire, Megan, into the new Clean Sheets Podcast studio to discuss the very real possibility of the work that would have to go in to successfully be the host chapter of a US Men's National Team match. (even if it's a 3rd place match) The Haboobigans go into great detail in a step-by-step analysis on what goes on behind the scenes and provide a blueprint on how to host an AO Event in your backyard.  We've never hoped for a USMNT victory more than tonight as they face Argentina and Mighty Messi in the Semi-Finals of the Copa American Centenario. 

We welcome back to the podcast Dan Wiersema who is responsible for being the voice of the largest independent US Supporters Group, The American Outlaws.  If you follow American Outlaws on social media, chances are, it was Dan behind the post. In addition to running communications for an organization with over 30,000 paid members across 187 chapters worldwide, he is also responsible for organizing all the 'AO' events for the USWNT. Dan is also a father, journalist, and featured alumnus graduation speaker at his former middle school.  Ryan was lucky to catch Dan in the middle of breakfast on the eve of Copa American Centenario, the largest soccer tournament hosted on US soil since the 1994 World Cup, to discuss what is in store for the American Outlaws.  In addition, we cover AO's recent stance against the "PUTO" chant, rising ticket prices, falling USMNT attendance, and the challenges associated with managing the explosive growth AO has experienced in the past 3 years. 

Rachel Bonnetta burst onto the North American Soccer scene in 2015 as the digital star for MLSsoccer.com. Her segments on Off Topic and MLS Live quickly gained her a cult following amongst both fans and players.  It's been a whirlwind journey for the 24-year old Canadian, who never saw herself working in sports after she graduated with a degree in Broadcast Journalism. She won first gig as the host of Toronto FC's video channel by entering a "dream job" contest and hasn't looked back.  Ryan first met Rachel in 2015 at the Alamodome, where he was interviewed as George Washington for Off Topic and like so many people, immediately fell in love. The courtship of scheduling Bonnetta for an Clean Sheets Pod interview culminated when Ryan sent 2 boxes of Canadian Maple Cookies to MLS HQ as bribery.  After receiving the cookies, Rachel promised to come on the show, once again proving that Canadians are the nicest people in the world.  Ryan ran into Rache

Arizona United SC minority owner David Rappaport (heretofore known as D Rapp) takes a break from lawyering for Diplo and chats with Ryan and Kia about why so many artists are investing in Arizona's USL squad. Also in this episode: D Rapp's opinions on NYCFC, the Third Rail and watching soccer with kids Pete Wentz' semi-secret soccer skills Ryan invents the Octocalon Why the World Cup unites people more than the Olympics How minor-league soccer is like indie record labels Why Arizona United is called United when it didn't unite existing teams Brett Johnson's hugs bringing world peace American team names vs European club names How AZU ownership are caretakers, but the fans are in charge D Rapp's love for Phoenix and tacos and sandwiches Ideas for better AZU merchandise Ryan skipping Mothers Day to attend AO Rally Pancho Villa's Army sitting across Peoria Sports complex from La Furia Roja Countless musical references, including Jarvis Cocker, Vampire Weekend, Jeff Barrow, Jimmy Eat World, The National, Phi

Here it is, folks! Finally, a Clean Sheets Podcast under 45 minutes. Yet we still managed to expertly dissect Ryan's weight loss regimen, watch parties at hipster coffee shops and Arizona United Soccer Club's loss in Sacramento. The main subject, as the title implies, is Frank Yallop exulting in the glory of his first win as AZU's manager: a solid drubbing of Sounders 2.  The Haboobigans (no longer Sheeters) have high praise for LFR's impromptu watch party, Food City's season ticket subsidies and the return of Runjeet. Sorry it's a little late. We've been a lot drunk.

Darth Deal joins Ryan and Kia at The Tilted Kilt Downtown as they get unreasonably excited for s schizophrenic USMNT and lament Arizona United SC's opener loss to Los Dos.   The Sheeters also discuss AZU's free road trip to Los Angeles for the Stubhub Center match and communications issues with the United front office. 

The Sheeters return from The American Outlaws' Camp Cupcake to discuss: USMNT performance against Iceland and Canada U.S. Soccer's lawsuit against USWNT Stars of the Cupcake Cup Beach house praties with AO Orange County Getting Rufflesdrunk Mating habits of the desert-bound Swan The sexual allure of business showers In Arizona soccer news, Ryan and Kia cover: The Arizona United Soccer Club roster so far LFR's admirable efforts to get people off their asses Arizona Impact indoor soccer's final home match of the year

In the most news-packed Clean Sheets Pod to date, the boys cover La Furia Roja's preseason meeting with new Arizona United Soccer Club head coach Frank Yallop.  Ryan and Kia discuss AZU's move back to Peoria, the 2016 USL schedule and unveil the 20 Reasons Moving to Peoria is a Good Thing. In other Arizona soccer news, Kia covers the Arizona Impact indoor soccer season, featuring interviews with La Furia Roja and Impact owner Patrick Fisher. Finally, the Sheeters share their excitement for the weekend's USMNT Camp Cupcake and disdain for AO Santa Monica's Night Before Party. It's a long episode, but it's a good one. HATE HATE HATE HATE HATE HATE HATE.

As Arizona United fans anxiously wait for news of the 2016 USL season, La Furia Roja 1881 President Kristine Lantz meets with Clean Sheets Podcast for an extended interview. Find out what LFR has planned for the preseason, what changes Kristine sees coming for the USL, and how LFR is expanding to support Arizona Impact indoor soccer.

As the U.S. Women's National Team closes its World Cup Victory Tour, the Sheeters close the book on 2015 by reserving a giant round table for four people. Join Ryan, Kia, Todd and Russ as they recall Glendale's bungling of USWNT vs China, review tailgate victories and lessons, explore what to do with a Julie Johnston tifo after the match, reveal the history of #86pants and uncover the shocking secrets of the Applebee's kitchen. The Sheeters also put Saddle Ranch on blast, say "Google Goggles" a few too many times, ask why Cousin Brian's girlfriend is named Tyrone, and compare AOPHX's celebrations with other chapters'. For Sean the Swan fans, there's a brief look into his past life as a loss-prevention officer. And for Tilted Kilt fans, there's a strong argument to have future soccer events at the downtown home of AOPHX. Ryan also announces he's taking over as American Outlaws Phoenix president in a prolonged stump speech that politely dances on the graves of former leadership. Trigger warning: If you're

On Christmas Eve eve, Arizona United Soccer Club owner Kyle Eng speaks with Clean Sheets Podcast and reveals some huge news. Key takeaways: AZU will not be playing at Scottsdale Stadium Frank Yallop is the incoming coach, a two-time MLS Cup winner and coach of the year with English playing experience and World Cup experience And he's got his eyes on a whirlwind of new signings Seven players will be returning, including Long Tan, Scott Morrison, Brad Stisser and Woz AZU wants a tighter relationship with supporters groups, specifically La Furia Roja Kits by Adidas could be a thing Find out more about why AZU was tight-lipped, what's happening with team dinners and how Eng feels about Ruthven, Chin, Dello and more in this week's Clean Sheets Podcast.

As American Outlaws' Phoenix chapter gears up to host the U.S. Women's National Team versus China friendly, the Sheeters preview the night-before party and tailgate. Ryan and Kia trade Thanksgiving horror stories and debate the virtues of Black Friday's deep discounts on slow cookers. Despite the AOPHX banner's theft, Ryan professes his love for St. Louis and the Louligans. Maybe it's because he got to scarf Tim Ream. Meanwhile, Kia laments the crap turnout at AOPHX watch parties for the U.S. Men's National Team World Cup Qualifiers. In Sean The Swan news, our resident Buffalo Bills fan leads Ryan and Ruffles on a shopping spree and haggles over flag pricing. Ryan notes The Swan's confidence is growing along with his hair, which has all the ladies of Scottsdale aglow. Kia viciously attacks Ryan's support of MLS playoff, but both agree they'd like to see Columbus Crew decimate Portland Timbers.  And something about dog boners.

The Sheeters regroup after Halloween to debate the origins of Oktoberfest, the need for couples costumes, and whether race-coordinated costumes are better. In soccer stuff, Ryan and Kia talk Arsenal's EPL dominance, Jurgen Klopp's impact at Liverpool, and the ownership shift at Arizona United Soccer Club.   AOPHX gears up for U.S. Men's World Cup Qualifiers and hosting Abby Wambach's last match as a USWNT player.   Finally, yes, we're going to talk about Star Wars. Happy, Ryan? Kia doesn't watch the trailers; Ryan does. And both are geeked about the Star Wars Battlefront Release Party at The Grid: Games and Growlers.   What will their costumes be? Listen and find out.

Awash in a sea of U.S. Men's National Team failure, The Sheeters grip their cans of Tecate and discuss peeing out of their butts and how American soccer has hit its lowest point since World Cup 2014. Ryan recounts the thrilling match, the terrific American Outlaws Phoenix road trip to The Rose Bowl, the pains of days drinking in your 30s and just how drunk Ruffles can get without dying. Sean The Swan returns to the AOPHX fold with a new look and same old protective instincts, serving as de facto bodyguard for American soccer fans in Pasadena. With warmer relations between U.S. fans and fans of Mexico, Howler releases an article about "Ugly Americans" and xenophobia at the U.S.-Cost Rica friendly. The Sheeters emphatically disagree. Plus, Rochester Rhinos defeat Los Dos in the USL championship, and The Sheeters outline changes for the 2016 USL season. In non-soccer, non-old-chicken news, Ryan and Kia celebrate the Killer Queen arcade game's arrival at The Grid in Arizona and invite Sheeters to join the Killer

As the U.S. Women's National Team tours in celebration of a World Cup win, Kia and Ryan tour the East Coast in support of the Men's National Team. Ryan makes a pit stop to cheer on AOPHX's favorite NFL long snapper, Nick Sundberg, and notes that FedEx Field is an absolute turd farm. The pitfalls don't end there, as Ryan and Megan find themselves hung over, in costume and swarmed by Peruvian soccer fans in Washington, D.C. Making things worse, U.S. soccer fans mistake Outlaw George Washington (Ryan's alter ego) for CAPTAIN HOOK? Kia and Ryan discuss how dressing up as presidents has resulted in a minor identity crisis for each of them, and the D.C. Gators alums break Ryan's heart with their rudeness. But the rest of D.C. is pretty friendly, especially famous author David McCullough, who swaps airline seats so Ryan and Megan and sit together.  The Sheeters walk the Freedom Trail in Boston, stopping to see John Hancock's massive penis tomb, a Red Sox game at Fenway and President Barack Obama's motorcad

It's the end of Arizona United Soccer Club's season, but fret not, dear listener! The Sheeters hit the studio with Canzillas full of San Tan Brewing's Moon Juice (it tastes like weed) and the truth behind lunar landings and the Mayan invention of soccer. While Kia combat's Ryan's praise of his lacrosse skills, the boys lament the loss of Sean the Swan's friendship and discuss raves, drugs and the remake of Scarface. In soccer news, the Sheeters recount Ryan's bullhorn assault on former AZU goalkeeper Evan Newton (he looks "moonshiney") and share predictions and advice for next season. New characters enter the Clean Sheets fray, as Victor from Phoenix Ale Brewery and Nyle the homicidal teen sensation work their way into the Sheeters' hearts. Kia goes rabid over Diego Costa's heinous triumph against Arsenal, and Ryan defends the honor of Moby and Fatboy Slim. After staying a week in a hostel, Kia concludes the English don't care about Major League Soccer. Then he gets drunk with Boston Gooners. In a key moment

The newly married Blake "JazzyHands" Moreland joins Ryan and Kia to celebrate Arizona United's victory over the French and Los Angeles Galaxy II, who have a surprising penchant for halftime orange slices. AZU is winning. The USL is seeing record attendance. Blake is actually talking. What is this world twisted? In U.S. Men's National Team news, Ryan is traveling to matches in Washington, D.C., and Boston, where he'll meet up with a conflicted Kia. Blake and Ryan talk Kia into skipping the opening night of a work conference to attend USA vs Brazil as Shirtless Lincoln. And Ryan reveals that he could defeat Steven Segal in maritime combat. With the Confederations Cup playoff match looming, American Outlaws Phoenix plans its road trip to Pasadena. And Ryan highlights how $106 tickets (that's 1776 pesos, amigos!) mean fewer veterans will be gifted complimentary tickets to the match. Stay classy, CONCACAF. Turning to the MLS, JazzyHands basks in a fresh Sounders victory over Portland Timbers and opens fire on Port