How Stories Shape American Soccer Community and Culture

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Because Football

Andrew Baggaley

91 episodes

4 days ago

The Because Football Podcast is all about uncovering the heart of football through individual journeys and community histories shaped by the beautiful game. We talk with leaders, decision makers, and creatives in the football /soccer industry to discuss their paths and insights they've learned along the way. The Because Football Podcast is hosted by Andrew Baggaley. Since January 2024, Andrew has travelled the world to explore soccer cultures and communities in 20 countries. Originally from Philadelphia, he has had a lifelong fascination with the game as a player, coach, and fan.

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How Stories Shape American Soccer Community and Culture | Garret James Hokr of Gotham FC

Because Football

37 minutes 45 seconds

3 months ago

How Stories Shape American Soccer Community and Culture | Garret James Hokr of Gotham FC

The reality we see depends on the stories we tell ourselves. The stories we accept. The stories we reject. And when it comes to American soccer, stories are critical to understanding the opportunities and potential pitfalls of the current state of the game.

In Episode 70 of the Because Football Podcast, our guest is Garret James Hokr, Account Executive in Member Services for Gotham FC of the NWSL. Garret shares how waking up at 4:30am for the 2002 World Cup got him hooked on soccer, as well as how he got into the football industry after a career in sales and finance. In his soccer career, Garret has worked with club in MLS, NWSL, USL, and NISA, giving him a wide spectrum of perspectives on how American soccer clubs can succeed.

Despite the differences, there are two unifying themes: creating community for fans to feel a part of something, and the desire to win.

This theme of community is where storytelling and listening enter our conversation. In his role within Member Services for Gotham FC, he regularly connects with fans and partners about their experiences with the club, hearing their desires and how they want to be included in the club’s mission.

Similarly, Garret’s passion for the game has led him to dive deeper into the hidden histories of American soccer. His research has given him context for our present moment of US soccer, but has also shown him how community and relevance can be enhanced by looking at important people, clubs, and movements in the past.

Whether it’s the Title IX decision expanding support for women’s sports, the US Women’s National Team winning the 1999 World Cup in front of millions of viewers, or the “Miracle on Grass” - the US Men’s victory of England in the 1950 World Cup, this episode showcases pivotal moments that have laid the foundation for the current state of American soccer.

Follow Garret James Hokr here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/garret-hokr/

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To get in contact with us, email becausefootballmedia@gmail.com