Developing Players the Right Way | Over The Line Podcast ft. Bryan de la Fuente

In this episode of the Over The Line Podcast, we sit down with Bryan de la Fuente — former professional player and now a youth coach working to shift the culture of American soccer. From his days at Chivas USA to his coaching work in Las Vegas, Bryan brings a unique perspective on the U.S. soccer landscape, what’s broken, and how we can fix it.

We cover everything from the chaos of youth soccer leagues, the overemphasis on winning, and the lack of technical foundation in early development — to what parents should actually be looking for when choosing a club. Bryan also shares his coaching philosophy, why long-term development matters more than short-term trophies, and how to keep young players engaged and progressing through the ages.

If you’re a parent, coach, or player trying to navigate the U.S. soccer system, this episode is for you.

Timestamps:
01:13 - Introduction and Background of Bryan de la Fuente
03:14 - Differences Between Chivas USA Academy and MLS Youth Systems
08:14 - Challenges and Changes in Youth Soccer Leagues
11:60 → 12:00 - Bryan's Journey into Coaching
20:17 - Balancing Development and Team Results
26:06 - The Importance of Technical Foundation
33:51 - Development vs. Results at Different Ages
50:13 - Parental Advice for Choosing a Soccer Club
56:02 - Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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.