Ep 341: Benny Rogers – The Practitioner Behind 3four3

·1 hr 11 min·5 clips

Benny Rogers thought 3four3 was just about soccer tactics until he started working behind the scenes.

The episode begins with Benny Rogers reflecting on his initial misconception that 3four3 was solely about soccer tactics, revealing how working behind the scenes opened his eyes to the organization's broader mission. Gary Kleiban introduces Rogers as someone he's known since age 10, now in his late twenties, who has been instrumental in 3four3's social media and video production for about four years. Rogers recounts his soccer journey, including being cut from his club team as a youth and later playing under Brian Kleiban, which changed his perspective on the game. He describes a memorable moment when Brian praised his first touch during a training session, highlighting how small coaching interactions can have lasting impacts. Rogers discusses his transition into coaching, starting with a girls' 2009 team at CDA Slammers and later joining Fullerton College's men's soccer staff. He explains how his communications degree from Cal State Fullerton helped him adapt his coaching style across different age groups, from 7-year-olds to college players. The conversation shifts to the value of education versus real-world experience, with Kleiban noting that college can force discipline but isn't always necessary for success. Rogers and Kleiban explore the behind-the-scenes realities of American soccer, contrasting it with overseas cultures where fans engage with the sport's social and political dimensions. They discuss examples of fan activism in MLS, such as supporter groups influencing LA Galaxy management and protests against the Leagues Cup. Kleiban emphasizes that coaches can drive change by educating players and parents about the soccer ecosystem. Rogers promotes 3four3's coaching education program and parent masterclass as tools for this education. The episode touches on challenges in youth soccer, including players' focus on D1 scholarships over other opportunities and the impact of social media on development. Rogers and Kleiban debate the concept of passion versus consistent work, with Kleiban suggesting that flow states emerge from dedicated effort rather than initial interest. Rogers shares his work editing videos and managing social media for 3four3, including creating highlight reels for players. The episode concludes with Kleiban encouraging listeners to reach out for internship opportunities and promoting 3four3's educational products.

As heard by us

A candid look at 3four3, motivation, and the politics around American soccer.

The episode uses 3four3's soccer work as a doorway into what surrounds the game rather than what happens only on the field. One speaker looks back on knowing 3four3 for years, then helping edit podcasts, and realizing the work was not just about tactics, possession, or the 22…

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Why you'd press play

You get the behind-the-scenes 3four3 awakening, plus a sharp case for why this soccer podcast is never only about soccer.

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