The Athlete’s Playlist Podcast: Street Soccer USA

The Athlete’s Playlist is back with another episode exploring the intersection of sports and music. Here, we chat with Lawrence and Rob Cann, two brothers who founded the nonprofit Street Soccer USA (SSUSA). From modest beginnings (they started in Charlotte, NC with a single team of players battling homelessness), the nonprofit has expanded nationwide with chapters in 16 cities, including Seattle.

SSUSA now provides youth programs for kids who wouldn’t otherwise get to play, organizes teams and tournaments for people who’ve experienced homelessness, and builds street soccer fields in low-income areas. Along the way, they’ve gained the support of sports icons including Clint Dempsey, Kyle Martinho, Hope Solo, Steve Nash and more.

Former D1 college soccer players in their own right, Lawrence and Rob discuss their favorite tunes and the work they’re doing in the soccer community. Give it a listen and be sure to check out the SSUSA website, where you can get involved and help support the cause.

You can download the whole episode here. Get it delivered to you through these links: iTunes | Spotify | Stitcher | Google | iHeart

Timestamps:

Start - 18:00: Growing up in Virginia // Sibling wrestling matches // Street soccer & youth development

18:00 - 28:30: Johnny Cash as inspiration // Challenges of D1 competition // Rediscovering love of soccer

30:30 - 45:00: Starting SSUSA in a soup kitchen // Detained en route to Homeless World Cup

42:30 - End: K’naan’s connection with refugee players // Building street soccer fields // Attempting to nutmeg Steve Nash