In this episode of Stone by Stone, host Andrew Swanson sits down with John Dorn, a veteran soccer coach, Chicago soccer legend, and current executive with Peoria City in USL2. John shares his incredible journey—from growing up in Chicago’s Southwest Side to playing in the city’s ethnic soccer scene, transitioning into coaching at a young age, and eventually playing a key role in youth development with the Chicago Fire.

John also opens up about his experience coming out professionally in 2022 and the impact of LGBTQ+ representation in soccer. Plus, we dive into the growth of MLS, the evolving soccer landscape in the U.S., and what the Fire and other clubs can do to better engage with their communities.

🎙 Topics Covered in This Episode:

✅ Growing up in Chicago’s Irish Catholic and multicultural soccer scene

✅ Coaching at 14 and the transition from player to mentor

✅ The evolution of MLS & U.S. soccer development

✅ His time with the Chicago Fire and shaping youth pathways

✅ Coming out as a gay man in the soccer world

✅ His current role with Peoria City and building sustainable soccer projects

✅ The future of the Fire and Chicago soccer culture