Beyond the Bright Lights: Ron Gilmore on Lower-Division Soccer’s Role in U.S. Development

In this episode of Over the Line, we sit down with Ron Gilmore, founder of Stadia Sports & Event Management, to explore the ever-evolving landscape of lower-division soccer in the U.S.. From the rise of USL Championship and MLS Next Pro to the challenges of youth development and player pathways, Ron shares his firsthand insights into how the system can be improved to create more opportunities for players at every level. We discuss the regionalization of talent, the financial burden of youth travel, and why lower-division clubs play a critical role in shaping the future of American soccer. Ron also dives into the NCAA’s potential changes, the importance of structured career pathways for players post-retirement, and what truly defines a successful soccer club. If you're passionate about player development, grassroots soccer, and fixing the gaps in U.S. Soccer’s structure, this episode is a must-listen.

Time Stamps
0:00 - 1:13 | Intro
1:13 - 2:43 | Introduction of Ron Gilmore and his career highlights
2:43 - 6:03 | Founding Stadia Sports & Event Management
6:03 - 7:58 | The challenges and growth of lower-division soccer in the U.S.
7:58 - 11:48 | Changes in the USL Championship and league structure
11:48 - 15:53 | Growth of MLS Next Pro and development opportunities
15:53 - 20:03 | The evolving role of youth academies in U.S. soccer
20:03 - 24:23 | Regionalization of talent and youth travel challenges
24:23 - 30:13 | The NCAA’s potential changes for collegiate soccer
30:13 - 35:23 | Career pathways for professional players post-retirement
35:23 - 39:53 | Key attributes of successful soccer clubs
39:53 - 44:13 | Developing youth players and the challenges of non-MLS-affiliated clubs
44:13 - 48:13 | The importance of January camps for U.S. Soccer
48:13 - 54:43 | Advice for parents with aspiring soccer players
54:43 - 58:03 | How to choose the right club for young players
58:03 - End | Closing remarks and reflections on the future of U.S. soccer 

What is Over The Line?

The U.S. soccer system is broken—holding back countless young players from realizing their potential, not because of a lack of talent, but because the pathways to success are flawed. The Over The Line Podcast is here to change that. This podcast creates a space for powerful, brutally honest conversations about the state of US soccer, its challenges in succeeding on the world stage and the opportunities on the horizon. I, James McGhee, am on a hot pursuit for answers and am committed to bringing those answers to the soccer community nationwide. I agree with Christian Pulisic when he says, "The problem with American soccer… it isn’t talent." U.S. Soccer is failing the next generation of men—not because of a lack of ability, but because the system isn’t designed to help players reach their full potential. This podcast is about finding solutions by amplifying the voices of those already making a difference. Together, we’ll uncover their journeys, lessons, and strategies to transform youth soccer for the better. As for me, I’ve experienced the system firsthand. I played four years at the collegiate level and three years professionally, facing both triumphs and challenges along the way. Breaking through wasn’t just a physical battle; it was mental and systemic. Those experiences lit a fire in me to help develop the next generation of players into the best versions of themselves—on and off the field. If you’re passionate about elevating youth soccer and empowering young athletes, this podcast is for you. Let’s spark a movement and take the game over the line.