On The Line Podcast

On The Line: Episode 1: WELCOME TO THE FIRST EPISODE OF “ON THE LINE” with PRIESTLY! (May 27, 2025)

We’re kicking things off strong as Priestly sits down with Brad Roos, the MSYSA Cups Director, to break down everything you need to know about the State & Presidents Cup Championships, the stakes, the structure, and what makes these events the pinnacle of youth soccer in Maryland.

Later in the show, Priestly is joined by Nathean Meadows, Director of Outreach, to talk about the incredible impact of the MSYSA Let’s Play! Program, bringing the game to new communities and making soccer more accessible than ever.

🎙️ On The Line Episode 2: MARYLAND STATE & PRESIDENTS CUP WEEKEND + LET’S TALK REFS! (June 6, 2025)

In this action-packed episode, Priestly kicks things off in the studio with Gabriel Ado, Maryland’s State Referee Administrator. They dive into the world of refereeing, talking Maryland FIFA-level refs, how YOU can become one, and how to stay cool under pressure.

Then we hit the field at the Maryland SoccerPlex, where Priestly catches up with Cups Director Brad Roos, chats with coaches, referees, and hears straight from the newly crowned champions! This episode has it all! Insight, laughs, and pure soccer energy. 🏆

On The Line Episode 3 🎙️ LET’S PLAY! PROGRAM, WOMEN IN SPORTS & GROWING THE GAME (June 20, 2025)

In this inspiring episode, Priestly sits down with MSYSA’s own Kelli Doherty to talk all things Let’s Play! From her days as a collegiate athlete at John Jay to coaching at Catholic University, Kelli shares how she’s helping grow the game and empowering the next generation. She drops gems on breaking into the sports industry, especially for young women looking to make a difference.

Then we catch up with three Let’s Play! Coach Mentors who share their unique paths to the program and their favorite memories working with kids in the community.

It’s real, it’s uplifting, and it’s all about growing the game from the ground up.

On The Line Episode 4 🎙️ODP TRYOUTS TIPS, INTERNATIONAL TRIPS AND THE GLOBAL GAME (July 17, 2025)

In this episode, Priestly sits down with 15U ODP Coach Jesse Balsamo to break down everything you need to know about the Maryland Olympic Development Program. From what coaches really look for at tryouts to how players can stand out. Jesse shares insight, laughs, and some wild stories from ODP international trips that you don’t want to miss 😅⚽

Then we’re joined by Eric McAleer, Senior VP of WorldStrides Sports, who talks all things global soccer. From the difference between U.S. and European youth development to the real benefits of playing abroad, Eric keeps it real and reminds us why travel is one of the best teachers in the game.

On The Line Episode 5 🎙️ LOCAL BEGINNINGS TO NATIONAL SUCCESS 3 ODP PATHS, 3 INCREDIBLE STORIES S1 Ep5 🏡 ✈️ 🌎 (August 12, 2025)

On this episode of the On the Line Podcast, host Priestly sits down with three standout former Maryland ODP players, each taking a completely different path in their soccer journey. All proving that hard work and passion can take you anywhere.

First up, Will Marbray takes the mic as a Maryland ODP alum (2022–2024) and 2024 ODP National Team player. Will talks about continuing his career at the NCAA Division III level, now in his second year at St. Mary’s College of Maryland, and what it means to balance high-level soccer with academics.

Then, we go global with Sarah Dewitt, U13–U17 Maryland ODP and Regional Team standout (2013–2015), NCAA Division I captain at St. Francis College and George Mason University, professional player in Australia’s Victorian Premier League with Keilor Park SC and now a MARYLAND ODP COACH! She shares her incredible first season abroad, winning the Golden Boot (23 goals) and being named League Player of the Year.

Finally, we hear from Austen Veach, former 17U ODP Boys Captain and two-time ODP National Team member (2023 & 2024). Austen opens up about his drive to go pro, what it’s like competing at the highest youth level, and how he’s preparing for the next step in his career at Lock Haven University (DII).

On The Line Episode 6 🎙️ THE CAPTAIN OF MSYSA: GREG SMITH (September 10, 2025)

This week on the On the Line Podcast, host Priestly sits down with none other than our Captain himself, Greg Smith, Executive Director of MSYSA. 🚀

Greg pulls back the curtain on some MAJOR changes coming to MSYSA’s Cups Programs and breaks down how we’re continuing our mission of Transforming Lives by Growing the Beautiful Game right here in Maryland and DC. From new opportunities for players, to what it really means to be a part of MSYSA, this episode is packed with insider knowledge every player, parent, and coach needs to hear. ⚽

If you’ve ever wondered what goes into becoming a member of MSYSA, or how we’re shaping the future of soccer in our region, this is the must-watch episode for you.

On The Line Podcast Episode 7: 🎙️Coaching Legend: John Ellinger on Landon Donovan & Building Real Salt Lake (October 7, 2025)

This week, Priestly sits down with legendary coach John Ellinger, a Montgomery County, Maryland native whose coaching résumé reads like a piece of U.S. Soccer history. From his early days at Frostburg State to becoming the first head coach of Real Salt Lake (MLS), Ellinger shares the journey, lessons, and stories that shaped his career.

He opens up about coaching some of the nation’s top players, including Landon Donovan, revealing what made the young star so special on and off the field. Plus, hear about his time leading one of the top four ranked teams in the world for U.S. Soccer, and how he continues to influence the next generation with his USSF A License experience and passion for the game.

On The Line Podcast Episode 8: 🎙️ FROM CLASSROOM, TO FIELD, TO HOME: THE REAL IMPACT OF COACHING EDUCATION S1 Ep8 (November 18, 2025)

Episode 8 of On The Line is HERE and we’re diving deep into the world of coaching education with two powerhouse Maryland ODP Pool Coaches and USSF B License candidates, Diana and Jen.

This week, Priestly sits down with the duo to unpack how coaching education has shaped not just their work on the field, but their lives off it. From leadership to confidence to community impact, they break down why continued learning matters for every coach, at every level.

Then we take the pod out of the studio and On The Line at the Maryland USSF B License course itself. We link back up with Diana and Jen in real time as they share what the course looks and feels like from the inside. Two trailblazing female coaches. One mission: empower players, elevate our soccer communities, and inspire the next generation of leaders.

If you care about coaching, development, or growth, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

On The Line Podcast Episode 9: Ana Mayoral on Washington Spirit, Culture, Champions & the Next Generation S1 Ep 9 (December 15, 2025)

In our season one finale, Priestly sits down with Ana Mayoral, Director of Youth Soccer for the Washington Spirit, for a powerhouse convo you don’t want to miss. Ana dives into the Spirit’s 2025 NWSL season, what it’s like being this close to another championship run, how we get more girls into the game, the global buzz around the FIFA World Cup, and of course, life as a pro soccer mom. Expect culture talk, futbol talk, and everything in between.

Then, Priestly flips the script with MSYSA Executive Director Greg Smith to break down an insane 2025 recap, major wins, big moments, and growth across the board. Plus, Greg gives us an early sneak peek at what’s coming in 2026, and trust us… it’s BIG.

The perfect episode to close out season one: inspiring guests, real stories, and nonstop soccer energy. Tap in, this one’s loaded. ⚽🔥

On The Line: Episode 10: ANGELA AMATO & JIMMY SHIFLETT ON COACHING, CAREERS & COMMUNITY S1 Ep10 (Jan 21, 2026)

Priestly kicks off Episode 10 by sitting down with Goucher College Women’s Soccer Head Coach Angela Amato for a powerful, real-talk conversation about what it actually means to build a team-first, family-style culture. From working with youth players to leading at the collegiate level, Coach Angela dives into how she develops players beyond the field, what she truly looks for when recruiting, and the journey that shaped her into the coach she is today. If you’ve ever wondered what college coaches value most, this is must-watch.

Then, Priestly switches gears and links up with MSYSA Events & Operational Support Manager Jimmy Shiflett to talk all things Summer Soccer Academy and his full-circle soccer story. From being coached as a teenager by MSYSA Technical Director Gandalf French to now working alongside him as a full-time staff member, Jimmy’s journey proves just how powerful the connections in this game can be. Soccer isn’t just a sport, it’s a network, a pathway, and a lifelong community.

🔥 Two conversations. One episode. Endless lessons about growth, culture, and the impact of the game. Episode 10 is packed with heart, insight, and inspiration, don’t miss it!

On The Line Podcast Episode 11: BUILDING THE GAME BIGGER THAN YOURSELF FT. HUGH ROBERTS II S1 Ep11 (Feb 11, 2026)

This week on On The Line, Priestly jumps on a video chat with Hugh Roberts II, an 11-year USL pro, leader, and co-founder of the United Black Players of the USL. From grinding his way through the professional ranks to staying ready when no one’s watching, Hugh breaks down the real work, resilience, and mindset it takes to make it and stay in the game.

But this episode goes way beyond the pitch. Hugh opens up about building something bigger than himself through the United Black Players of the USL and his nonprofit, Footy’s Got You Foundation, which is creating real impact in underserved communities across Charlotte, Monterey, and Jamaica. Free coaching education. After-school programs. Access to the game for kids who need it most.

This is a conversation about purpose, community, and legacy. Growing the game means making sure everyone has a seat at the table. Hugh isn’t just playing the game… he’s helping reshape it.

On The Line Podcast Episode 12: UCL BREAKDOWN: TRAVEL, ID OPPORTUNITIES & MORE S1 Ep12 (April 16, 2026)

Priestly sits down with the captain himself, MSYSA Executive Director Greg Smith, to break down everything you NEED to know about the United Clubs League (UCL)… and why it’s about to change the game.

⚽ We’re talking:

• The REAL story behind why MSYSA created UCL
• How this league puts CLUBS FIRST
• Travel that makes sense
• Player Identification opportunities that open doors in Maryland ODP
• Advisory Council giving club leaders a voice
• And flexible scheduling

This isn’t just another league… it’s a movement. Built FOR CLUBS. BY CLUB. If you’re a club leader, coach, or parent trying to figure out what’s next… this episode is your playbook.

On The Line Episode 13: KATELYN GEORGE’S JOURNEY FROM MD ODP | ODP NATIONAL SELECT TEAM | #2 IN THE USA S1 Ep13 (May 20, 2026)

Priestly took the mics to the field to catch up with Maryland ODP standout Katelyn George after competing with the National ODP Select Team in Orlando. 🌴⚽️

Currently ranked #2 in the country in her age group as a goalkeeper 🧤🇺🇸, Katelyn opens up about the friendships she’s built through ODP, the grind of competing at the highest level, and what it takes to stand out among the nation’s elite.

From Maryland to the national stage… this is the next generation of talent coming out of your home state.👀🔥 Tap in for one of our most exciting episodes yet! Learn more about Maryland ODP at msysa.org.

On The Line Episode 14: ON THE LINE ➡️ ON THE ROAD | MID ATLANTIC PRESIDENTS CUP SPECIAL S1 Ep14 (June 29, 2026)

🎙️ OTL goes OTR! This week, Priestly takes On The Line on the road to the Mid Atlantic Presidents Cup in Loudoun County, Virginia, bringing you exclusive interviews straight from the sidelines.

⚽ Hear from Maryland referee Jaret Williams, Broadneck Soccer Head Coach Finbar Clancy, and USYS Senior Operations Coordinator John Punt as they break down what makes the Presidents Cup experience so special from officiating and coaching to the tournament’s regional impact.

Then, Priestly hands the mic to his “understudy,” MSYSA Marketing Manager Bri Nardone, who catches up with Mid Atlantic Presidents Cup Champions Rubie Freistat and Coach Wesley Maddy of Elevate OC Soccer Club fresh off their championship run. They share what it took to reach the top, the emotions of winning, and what’s next for the team.

Whether you’re a player, coach, referee, or soccer fan, this episode is packed with behind-the-scenes stories, championship moments, and everything you need to know about the Maryland and Mid Atlantic Presidents Cup pathway.

🏆 Think your team has what it takes? Learn more about entering the Maryland Presidents Cup here: https://www.msysa.org/programs-landing-page/presidents-cup/