Timeout Radio

The sport known as soccer in the United States is called football in England. But the word soccer is actually British in origin. British historian and UC Berkeley history professor James Vernon tells us how the game was shaped by colonialism and capitalism to became the most popular sport in the world, the reason for its delayed entry into the United States, and why soccer fan culture can get so intense. Then explore the country of Uruguay — home to the first FIFA World Cup, the world's longest national anthem, a seriously loaded Chivito sandwich, and a day of the month dedicated to eating Gnocchi.

 

The enthusiastic and prolonged goal call that goes on for a few seconds whenever a player scores is a fun part of watching soccer, especially if you’re watching Spanish or Portuguese-language commentators. Find out how play-by-play broadcasters develop their unique styles, build gripping storylines, and hold their audience's interest. Will Wyman, play-by-play announcer for UC Davis soccer on ESPN+ tells us about his path to sports broadcasting. Then visit Portugal—the oldest country in the world, and home to 500 miles of surfing coastline, piri piri sauce, and the first explorer to circle the earth.

The American Youth Soccer Organization (AYSO) was a grassroots movement that got its start in California 60 years ago. Hear how it helped overcome lack of awareness and even prejudice about soccer in the United States, how it grew from 125 players into one of the largest youth soccer organizations in the country, and why orange slices were first passed out to players. Sam Conselman, longtime soccer player and Davis AYSO's registrar tells us how the organization gives kids a chance to experience the beautiful game of soccer. Then visit Torrance, the birthplace of AYSO, home to the 2nd largest Japanese population in the country, and check out its Pacific shoreline and 43-acre Madrona Marsh.

Soccer demands a lot from your body. Hear about soccer pre-game routines such as the FIFA 11+ Dynamic Warmup which is easy to learn, takes only 20 minutes, and increases motor control and strength. Drs. Tammy Ng and Jake Petersen share ways to eat and hydrate for peak game day performance, how to handle eating for early morning practices when your stomach is still trying to wake up, and why athletes shouldn't wait until they are thirsty to drink water. Then visit Zurich, the Swiss city that is home to the FIFA Museum, Albert Einstein's alma mater, 1200 public drinking fountains, and the largest techno street party in Europe.