Coaching Crossover Ep 10: Matt Crocker and Jim Koerner

In Episode 10 of Coaching Crossover and the season finale, we speak with Jim Koerner, formally of USA Baseball and Matt Crocker, former technical director at USA Soccer. Matt Crocker is one of the leading technical directors in global soccer, recognized for his expertise in player development, coaching education, and long-term sporting strategy. In 2023, he was appointed Sporting Director of the United States Soccer Federation, where he oversaw the federation's sporting vision across all national teams and development pathways. Before joining U.S. Soccer, Crocker was the Director of Football Operations with Southampton F.C., helping shape one of the most respected youth development systems in Europe. Known for his modern approach to talent identification and development, Crocker has built a reputation as an innovative architect of high-performance soccer environments. Jim Koerner is a respected leader in amateur baseball development and coaching education, known for his long-standing impact within USA Baseball. With decades of experience in player development, scouting, and athlete evaluation, Koerner has played a key role in shaping national team programs and supporting the growth of elite amateur talent across the US. His work has included mentoring coaches, identifying emerging players, and helping build high-performance environments that prepare athletes for collegiate, professional, and international competition. As a manager, he led North Carolina Central University, the University of Buffalo and Marshall University. Listen as we get into long term player development strategies, the impact of over coaching and bio-banding and physical maturity in youth sports.