Founding Futbol

Extra Time: Tom Sermanni On Coaching Alex Morgan, Twice

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Episode notes

Tom Sermanni is one of the most accomplished coaches in the history of world women's soccer. Currently in his third (though, interim) stint as the head coach of the Australian Women's National Team, Sermanni also coached the US Women's National Team from 2013-2014 and then the Orlando Pride in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL). In both settings, Alex Morgan was the team's star. When Sermanni entered the USWNT picture in 2013, Morgan was at the top of her game having starred at the 2012 Olympics the Americans won, and receiving numerous awards and accolades. In Orlando, Morgan was one of the faces of the NWSL and the star used to market the expansion Pride. It's fair to say, Sermanni had a chance to know Morgan at two unique points in her career.

He joined Founding Futbol to share his memories of coaching Morgan both on the USWNT and when she was the face of the NWSL during her time on the Pride. Sermanni also shares his journey to Australia to build the women's national team, how he connected with American coaches during that tenure and how it ultimately landed him coaching jobs in the US.

Founding Futbol is a year-long exploration of the critical moments that have led to soccer's emerging popularity in America. Extra Time is an additional weekly episode that shares reactions and reflections from the chapters, and brings additional guests into the fold. 

Visit our website for more information: ⁠FoundingFutbol.com. Email us at [email protected]

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Host: Kent Malmros

Guest: Tom Sermanni (Australia Women's National Team Interim Coach, Former USWNT Coach, Former Orlando Pride Coach)

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