FAQs about American Soccer Nation
For book clubs and readers of American Soccer Nation, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions
When did you decide to write a book about elite men’s American soccer?
During my first year teaching ninth graders at YSC Academy (the academic school of the Philadelphia Union), I was asked to design a course on the history of American soccer. I dove into the literature and found much of it surprisingly dull and negative. When I introduced a few chapters, my students pushed back right away. They wanted a story that highlighted the powerful legs of the American journey—and they wanted it delivered like a hopeful cross into the box, in chapters that felt quick and fun. Their response sparked a three-and-a-half-year effort to create a more engaging, foundational, and ultimately positive account of our soccer history.
Why did you name the book American Soccer Nation?
I first pitched and signed a deal for a book called Yanks on a Roll. Later in the editing process, my publisher warned that it might be confused with a sandwich. The marketing team also insisted “Soccer” appear in the main title for search engine optimization reasons. I added “America” and “Nation,” and—bam—American Soccer Nation was born, with Yanks on a Roll relegated to the subtitle.
What is your favorite chapter?
That’s a tough one. If I had to choose, I’d go with chapter 14, where I cover the lead-up to and staging of the 1994 FIFA World Cup on American soil. The chapter pings balls back and forth among planners and operators, players on the men’s National Team, and key figures in the tournament, while tracing the early stirrings of Major League Soccer—the league promised to FIFA and American fans. That rhythm became the narrative approach I carried through the rest of the book.
How did you develop the logo/crest featured on the website and merchandise?
The logo/crest was developed mainly by a graphic designer and me, with input from my students at YSC Academy. The designer initially proposed several options featuring soccer balls somewhere on the crest. My students narrowed them down, and I shared finalists with older students, including a few pros in the building. Several pros strongly objected to any logo with a soccer ball, saying it felt like something their coaches made them wear at U-8 level. Over the spring of 2026, as the book’s publication date drew closer, the crest evolved organically into its current form: a simple design with stars that convey optimism and bars that reflect our long journey.
Do you have a favorite soccer cleat or brand?
I’ve been wearing Adidas Copa Mundials with the kangaroo leather upper and the laces wrapped around the sole for fifty years. I can’t wear any other football cleats because it feels weird. Nowadays, the only time you see Copa Mundials on a pro pitch is when an athletic trainer has to trot onto the field to assist a player who is probably wearing any one of a number of wildly colorful synthetic shoes. No, I don’t have a favorite soccer brand. But I prefer brands that demonstrate a genuine interest in American soccer and American soccer development.
Do you have a favorite soccer team?
I’d like to say FC Barcelona—because of the fantastic trio of Johan Cruyff, Pep Guardiola, and Lionel Messi. My family even named our American bulldog Messi. But, to be honest, I keep switching my favorite club team every year, which makes me an inveterate and annoying bandwagoner.
Who would you include on your Mount Rushmore of American players?
As of May 2026, and if we are including goalies, I would select the following four, in no particular order: Landon Donovan, Clint Dempsey, Christian Pulisic, and Tim Howard. I realize this list is fluid (American players are improving every year) and partly subjective. It’s like asking me to pick the four best students I ever taught.
How can I improve my chances of being noticed by an MLS club, what is a youth National Team training camp like, and what should I look for in an agent?
All good questions. Check out the Bonus Content on this site.
Why are you so optimistic about the future of American soccer?
Because I’m an American. And I believe there’s nothing this melting pot of a country can’t do when people put their heads together and recognize we’re all connected and part of one big family: the American Soccer Nation.
Can I get a signed copy of the book by Cavan or Quinn Sullivan or by one of the pros who endorsed your book, or you?
Me, yes. One of the pros, maybe. Check the Merchandise link on this website. All proceeds from signed copies go to YSC Academy.