We’re BACK ON THE LINE… and this one is BIG. ⚽️🔥
Priestly is joined by a true soccer legend, FIFA World Cup referee Corey Parker, for an inside look at what it REALLY takes to step onto the biggest pitch in the world. And Corey’s journey to the World Cup started right here in Maryland. From learning the game and developing as a referee in Maryland to becoming one of just 30 U.S. FIFA-licensed referees, Corey has reached the highest level of the sport.
In 2026, Corey Parker, Ismail Elfath and Kyle Atkins made World Cup history, becoming the first all-U.S. Soccer referee crew to officiate a men’s FIFA World Cup semifinal on U.S. soil. 🇺🇸🏆
Corey takes us behind the scenes of the FIFA World Cup, from how referees are selected for the biggest matches on the planet to the moment he found out he would officiate the 2026 World Cup Semifinal between Argentina and England. 🌎🔥 But this episode is about more than just one match. Priestly and Corey dive into the pressure of the World Cup, referee selection, VAR and technology, preparation, representing Maryland on the world stage, making history on home soil, and what it takes to perform when the entire world is watching.
From Maryland State Cup Championships to the World Cup this is the story behind the whistle. You DON’T want to miss this one. 🎙️⚽️
