sporting director

First up in this hour, Lutz Pfannenstiel, Sporting Director for St. Louis City SC, brings insights from the soccer world, reflecting on the team's journey from meticulous planning to achieving the Western Conference title in the regular season, despite a challenging playoff exit by Sporting KC. As their next season approaches in February, Pfannenstiel shares the anticipation and vision for the team's future.

Following Pfannenstiel's segment, the show shifts gears to an engaging conversation with Joey Logano, the defending champion of the enjoy Illinois 300 at World Wide Technology Raceway. Discover not only Logano's racing journey but also the profound impact the race track has had on him and fellow NASCAR drivers within the circuit.

In a heartwarming turn, the show features Lydia Olmstead's remarkable story. Despite being blind and having a significant hearing impairment, Olmstead remarkably caught a foul ball at Busch Stadium. Tom Ackerman shares this incredible experience, highlighting the awe-inspiring nature of baseball and its ability to create unexpected and beautiful moments.

The hour culminates with an esteemed guest, Bill Bradley, former US senator and Basketball Hall of Famer, who is being honored at the Musial awards. Join in the anticipation for the evening's musical awards production on CBS, featuring Bill Bradley and Adam Wainwright among those recognized by the St. Louis Sports Commission.

 Tune in as we go in-depth with Lutz Pfannenstiel, the Sporting Director of St. Louis City SC, as he unveils the team's meticulous preparations for the last game and the exciting upcoming playoffs. Discover the secrets behind their distinctive playing style and the significant advantage of playing at home. Explore the club's remarkable journey in youth development and the success story of their academy program that's shaping the future stars of soccer.

Join us as we catch up with Lutz Pfannenstiel, the Sporting Director of St. Louis City SC, as he discusses the team's recent performance in a one-one draw against Houston. Pfannenstiel shares his insights on the game, including the team's strengths and areas for improvement. He also previews the crucial upcoming match against LAFC and the challenges it presents. Discover the respect and positive reactions St. Louis City SC has earned from around the league and Pfannenstiel's perspective on the team's progress in its inaugural season.

In this interview, Lutz Pfannenstiel, the sporting director of St. Louis City SC, discusses the recent disappointment of the United States women's soccer team's exit from the World Cup. He reflects on the growth of soccer in the United States and its increasing competitiveness on the global stage. Pfannenstiel also shares his personal journey to the United States and his passion for the development of American soccer. He talks about the upcoming challenges and strategies for his team, St. Louis City SC, in their quest to maintain their impressive run in the league. Additionally, Pfannenstiel sheds light on the team's recent signing, Anthony Markanich, and the overall vision for the club's future.

We head to Heston, West London, where QPR spend their working hours while their 30m training ground is completed. 

“Sir Les” is one of the rare cases of British players making the step into the executive world. I am here to talk to him about the Director of Football role he’s had at the club where it all started in his professional career. He also happened to be one of the best English strikers of his generation. 

Formally educated for the role through the @PFA effective board member program, Les Ferdinand spoke to Markus Fjørtoft (@MarkusFjortoft) therefore spoke about its practical implications: what is it actually like being a director of football? How do you define and establish culture and how best to successfully recruit? In what ways was he shaped by the managers and environments of his playing career, but with that, how does he stay updated and renew himself with the times? 

This is PFA Conversations with Les Ferdinand. 

To view the interview on video, check The PFA YouTube Channel.

Twitter: @PFA
Instagram: @the_pfa
LinkedIn: Professional Footballers'​ Association

Claudio Reyna is Sporting Director at Austin FC and former US National team record cap holder.

We talk about Claudio's career, his road to playing pro in Europe and getting into the US National team. 
We also talk about the the collaboration between Austin FC and PSV and how both clubs will learn and benefit from each other. 

Support the podcast by becoming a member of The coaches’ room. With your support we can continue to invite elite coaches to inspire you. 

As a benefit you will have access to all the masterclasses of The coaches' room.

Stay updated on all our content and follow us on:

• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• Twitter
• Facebook