Paul Caliguiri -- Faith, Perseverance, and National Team Glory (Re-cast)

In Episode 195, we are re-casting our episode with Paul Caligiuri, OCFC Manager, US Nat'l Soccer Hall of Famer, Former USMNT defender/midfielder and pro player in US and Germany, one of the first Americans to play professionally in Europe, and the unlikely scorer of the "shot heard 'round the world." In the episode, Paul talks with Phil and Paul about his remarkable journey from a passionate young soccer enthusiast to a defining figure in U.S. soccer history. He also recounts his serendipitous connection with Phil relating to a World War II era family relic, which you don't want to miss, and some moments from his impressive soccer career, highlighting his passion-filled early years in the game, pivotal moments like his unexpected selection for the Olympic Development Program, which led to his USMNT selection, and an intimate moment he shared with God after scoring the "Shot Heard 'Round the World," which secured the U.S.'s first World Cup qualification in 40 years in 1990. Caligiuri emphasizes the importance of passion, perseverance, and integrity, their influence on his career, and how these values translate into his everyday life and leadership. Paul also touches on key lessons from sports that can be applied in life, the current state of soccer, and the importance of faith in making a meaningful impact.

Specifically, Paul C. discusses:

· His providential connection with Phil relating to a WWII relic and including a lot of investigation and perseverance

· How he developed his passion for soccer from humble beginnings and how he ultimately made the USMNT through a very unusual path filled with hard work, dedication, creativity, overcoming hurdles, "feeding his passion," and going above and beyond the "normal" (you don't want to miss this story)

· His life purpose and "Why" and how he is living it out in his life (34:50)

· An intimate defining moment after the "shot heard 'round the world" that might surprise you

· A special call with his dad that shows how far the game has come in the US

· Lessons that he has learned from soccer that he uses in his parenting and other important relationships in his life

· His recommendations

Resources and Links from this Episode

· Paul Caliguiri's website

· "The Billion Dollar Goal" (Paramount Plus)

· "His goal changed soccer in the USA" (YouTube)

· Uncut Video of the Episode

· Warrior Way Soccer

· Phil's email for DISC Training & Team Alignment

· "Pulisic" (Paramount Plus)

· "Vini Jr." (Netflix)

· "Captains" (Netflix)