Why Kelly Gray Chose MLS Over Europe — And What’s Wrong With Youth Soccer

Why did former San Jose Earthquakes player Kelly Gray choose Major League Soccer over opportunities in Europe? And why does he believe American youth soccer needs a major reset? Former MLS player and U.S. youth national team standout Kelly Gray joins Claudine Wong and Alex Lobban on Offside in the Bay to reflect on his professional career, his decision to play in MLS and the challenges facing youth soccer today. From playing under legendary coach Clive Charles at the University of Portland to competing in the 2001 U-20 World Cup and winning an MLS Cup, Gray shares the lessons that shaped his career. Now the founder of Cinch Sports, Gray explains why he believes youth soccer has become too expensive, too structured and too focused on winning — and why giving kids more freedom to play could change the game. In this episode: the road to professional soccer, MLS vs. Europe, burnout and retirement, youth soccer costs, pay-to-play, parental pressure, player creativity, coaching philosophy and the future of U.S. Soccer. Offside in the Bay: https://www.ktvu.com/tag/podcasts/offside-in-the-bay