From Pitch To Puget Sound

The soccer summer is here — and this episode is built out of real voices from the Everett Waterfront Watch Parties.Emily is joined by Trent (sitting in for Kyle) as they record on-site at the waterfront: boats in the background, jerseys everywhere, and the kind of crowd energy you can literally feel in your chest. If you’ve been wondering what this moment actually feels like in real life — not in a stadium, not in a studio — this is it.You’ll hear quick “roll call” clips from people in the crowd and local leaders, plus conversations with Nick Shekeryk (Snohomish County tourism marketing specialist) on how the Snoco GameDay scarf went from a fun campaign idea to a real-life local obsession — and with Dylan Ordoñez from Seattle FWC 26 on what the local organizing committee actually does (and why fan zones matter).In this episodeThe vibe check from the Everett waterfront: why it feels like a full-on festival on a weekdayWhat surprised Emily most about the crowd (and why it feels like “we’re doing this together”)The Snoco GameDay scarf story: how it was created, why it’s everywhere, and how it’s traveling worldwideA simple “join the moment anywhere” framework: pick a social place, bring one small ritual, and arrive earlyWhere to find more Snohomish County soccer summer events (Discover SnoCo)Waterfront Watch Parties | Everett Tourism, WASeattle FIFA World Cup 26™Discover SnoCo WebsiteCleanListen to From Pitch To Puget SoundFollow From Pitch to Puget Sound on your favorite podcast app.Sign up for our newsletter with important links from the show.Presented by the Snohomish Podcast Network.History of Soccer is courtesy of Washington State Legends of Soccer. Disclaimer: This podcast is an independent production and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or officially connected to FIFA or the FIFA World Cup.Theme Music from: https://pixabay.com/music/rock-sport-sports-rock-music-368012/

The 2026 soccer summer is officially here — and Washington State is showing up in a big way.In this bonus episode of From Pitch to Puget Sound, Emily and Kyle share what people are talking about in the first days of the tournament, then take you on a fast tour of watch parties and fan experiences across Washington — from Everett’s Boxcar Park fan zone to Seattle’s waterfront activations and Spokane’s Egypt team training buzz. You’ll also hear about creative local business tie-ins (hello, themed beer) and community-centered events like the Everett Recovery Cafe watch party.Then it’s time for predictions: Kyle makes his case for France, while Emily leans into the Netherlands (and a model that’s correctly predicted recent winners). Finally, they zoom out and talk about why this moment is bigger than soccer — a rare chance to be welcoming, connected, and loud together.In this episodeWhy this soccer summer already feels historic (and why the U.S. hosting matters)Watch parties in Washington State: Everett, Seattle, Spokane, and moreEverett Recovery Cafe’s watch party for people in recoverySpokane’s soccer summer energy: Egypt training, local crowds, and themed productsEverett Boxcar Park fan zone dates mentioned in the episode: June 11, 12, 18, and 19Seattle’s premium “The Barge” experience (floating pier + mini pitch)Pike Place Market’s sip-and-savor program (Fridays–Sundays, noon–5:00pm through Labor Day)Emily vs. Kyle’s winner predictions (Netherlands vs. France)Why this month can move us from “me” to “we”CleanListen to From Pitch To Puget SoundFollow From Pitch to Puget Sound on your favorite podcast app.Sign up for our newsletter with important links from the show.Presented by the Snohomish Podcast Network.History of Soccer is courtesy of Washington State Legends of Soccer. Disclaimer: This podcast is an independent production and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or officially connected to FIFA or the FIFA World Cup.Theme Music from: https://pixabay.com/music/rock-sport-sports-rock-music-368012/Everett Chamber

This is the bonus episode you hit play on before you leave the house.Emily and Kyle give you a simple, no-stress checklist for soccer summer — whether you’re headed to a watch party, a brewery, a friend’s house, a library event, or the fan zone. In about 10 minutes, you’ll have a plan: what to wear, what to pack, what to screenshot, and how to avoid the classic “we’re going to regret not bringing something” moment.You’ll also get a quick, beginner-friendly World Cup 101 with Keith Macaulay: how group play works, why the 48-team format changes the math, what happens in knockout rounds, and why a 1–0 match can be way more dramatic than it looks.In this episodeWorld Cup 101 in two minutes: groups, points, and what changes in 2026What to wear: layers, comfortable shoes, and the optional joy of jerseys and scarvesThe scarf tradition (and what to do if you don’t have one)The “worth it” bag list: backup battery, wipes, sunscreen, water (if allowed), and a seat pad for outdoor screensTiming tips that reduce stress: arrive early, pick a clear meetup spot, and choose easy parking over closest parkingFan zone and stadium mindset: check rules, expect stricter security, and keep your bag smallThe two-minute home check: phone charged, ID, tickets, screenshots, snacks, and ear protection for kidsCleanListen to From Pitch To Puget SoundFollow From Pitch to Puget Sound on your favorite podcast app.Sign up for our newsletter with important links from the show.Presented by the Snohomish Podcast Network.History of Soccer is courtesy of Washington State Legends of Soccer. Disclaimer: This podcast is an independent production and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or officially connected to FIFA or the FIFA World Cup.Theme Music from: https://pixabay.com/music/rock-sport-sports-rock-music-368012/Everett ChamberMentioned in this episode:Everett Chamber of CommerceThe Snohomish Podcast Network is a proud member of the Greater Everett Chamber of Commerce.

In this episode, Emily and Kyle give you a practical, local guide to Everett’s official fan zone — the Waterfront Watch Parties at Boxcar Park. If you’ve been wondering how to plug into the energy without tickets or insider knowledge, this is your walkthrough.First, we hear a quick reminder from Tammy Dunn (Snohomish County Sports Commission) on why official fan zones matter: they give visitors and locals a place to gather, watch together, and make a full day out of the experience.Then we go deeper with Cat Soper (Port of Everett) and Tyler Chism (City of Everett) on what the Waterfront Watch Parties are designed to feel like — a family-friendly waterfront festival with a big screen, food trucks, music, and a kid zone — plus the simple logistics that make the day smoother.TakeawaysYou don’t need to be a soccer expert to enjoy an official fan zone — it’s built for everyone.The Waterfront Watch Parties are designed to feel like an Everett waterfront festival, with a soccer theme.The easiest plan is park once, shuttle in, follow the crowd.Small details (like choosing the westbound stop on Hewitt) can save you time and stress.In this episodeWhat an official fan zone is and what it’s meant to provideWaterfront Watch Party dates and the “arrive two hours early” tip for pre-game funWhat you’ll find on-site: big screen viewing, MC + DJs, giveaways, live entertainment, and kid activitiesHow to get there using the free shuttle from Everett Station or Hewitt Avenue (and which direction matters)A simple on-the-ground layout of Boxcar Park: screen location, food truck zone, kid zone, pop-up pitches, and seating areasHow partners across the region make the event possible (Port, City, Sports Commission, transit, community orgs)A quick note for local businesses: be welcoming, be clear, and pick one simple way to join inOfficial fan zone resourceOfficial Seattle FWC26 Fan Zone (Visit Everett):  https://www.visiteverett.com/1525/Official-SEATTLEFWC26-Fan-Zone Call for listenersIf you go to an Everett Waterfront Watch Party, send us a note: what did it feel like, and what surprised you? And you may even see us there.Follow From Pitch to Puget Sound on your favorite podcast app.Sign up for our newsletter with important links from the show.Presented by the Snohomish Podcast Network.History of Soccer is courtesy of Washington State Legends of Soccer. The Snohomish Podcast Network is a proud member of the Greater Everett Chamber of Commerce.Disclaimer: This podcast is an independent production and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or officially connected to FIFA or the FIFA World Cup.Theme Music from: https://pixabay.com/music/rock-sport-sports-rock-music-368012/ Mentioned in this episode:Everett Chamber of CommerceThe Snohomish Podcast Network is a proud member of the Greater Everett Chamber of Commerce.

In this episode, Emily and Kyle focus on access and belonging: how people in Snohomish County find their way into soccer through small, real entry points like rec teams, carpools, public spaces, and community programs.First, we hear from Peter Hattrup, former pro and longtime coach, who shares what it looked like to grow up in a different era of the game — including the story of his first “soccer shoes,” and why those early experiences still matter.Then they talk with Alex Ko from Sound Transit about access in the practical sense: how transportation, station support, and wayfinding help everyday residents take part in a major soccer summer. Whether you’re traveling into Seattle or staying closer to home, this episode offers a grounded look at how to plan ahead.TakeawaysAccess is not just about tickets — it’s about belonging.Soccer grows when communities keep building ways into the game.Recreation leagues and affordable entry points matter more than most people realize.Transportation and clear information can be the difference between feeling included and feeling shut out.In this episodeHow soccer becomes something a community can grow into over timePeter Hattrup’s story of early gear, early teams, and learning the game in a different eraWhy recreation-level play is a huge part of access and long-term participationWhat “access” looks like today: watch parties, family-friendly spaces, libraries, museums, and local programsHow Sound Transit is preparing with station support, security, maintenance, and staff ambassadorsWhere to find updated transit maps and guidance for getting around the regionTransit resourceSound Transit soccer tournament resource:  https://www.soundtransit.org/soccertournament Call for listenersKnow someone who thinks this summer won’t really affect Snohomish County? Send them this episode. And if you’re still deciding how you want to take part, this is your reminder: you don’t need a match ticket to be part of the experience. Try a watch party, a fan zone, or a trip into the city just to take in the atmosphere.The Snohomish Podcast Network is a proud member of the Greater Everett Chamber of Commerce.Follow From Pitch to Puget Sound on your favorite podcast app.Sign up for our newsletter with important links from the show.Presented by the Snohomish Podcast Network.History of Soccer is courtesy of Washington State Legends of Soccer. Disclaimer: This podcast is an independent production and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or officially connected to FIFA or the FIFA World Cup.Theme Music from: https://pixabay.com/music/rock-sport-sports-rock-music-368012/ Mentioned in this episode:Everett Chamber of CommerceThe Snohomish Podcast Network is a proud member of the Greater Everett Chamber of Commerce.

In this episode, Emily and Kyle connect two big parts of summer 2026: the deep soccer history that makes Western Washington one of the strongest soccer regions in the country, and the real transit planning needed to move people through a major international soccer summer.First, we hear from Peter Hattrup, former pro, longtime coach, and one of the people who has lived Seattle soccer history from the inside. He explains how the original Sounders, local legends, and decades of player development helped build a lasting soccer culture across the region.Then they talk with Alex Ko from Sound Transit about what it takes to move hundreds of thousands of people safely and reliably during a global event. From special Sounder trains to four-minute light rail service and station planning, this episode gives listeners a practical look at how to prepare now.TakeawaysWestern Washington did not suddenly become a soccer region. It has been building this culture for decades.Summer 2026 will feel bigger than a game. For many people, it will feel more like a regional festival.Transit will be a major part of the experience, especially for riders coming from Snohomish County.Planning early will make June much easier, whether you are going to a match, a fan zone, or just moving through the region.In this episodeWhy Seattle and the Puget Sound already have deep soccer rootsHow the original Sounders helped shape the region’s soccer cultureWhy the 1990 and 1994 tournaments were major turning points for soccer in the United StatesWhat the 2026 soccer tournament may feel like for fans, visitors, and local communitiesHow Sound Transit is preparing for six Seattle matchesWhat Snohomish County riders should know about Sounder, Link, and station planningWhy this event is as much a regional operations challenge as it is a sports eventTransit resourceSound Transit Soccer Tournament ResourceCall for listenersKnow someone who still thinks this tournament will not really affect Snohomish County? Send them this episode. And if you are still deciding how you want to take part, this is your reminder: you do not need a match ticket to be part of the experience. Try a watch party, a fan zone, or a trip into the city just to take in the atmosphere.The Snohomish Podcast Network is a proud member of the Greater Everett Chamber of Commerce.Follow From Pitch to Puget Sound on your favorite podcast app.Sign up for our newsletter with important links from the show.Presented by the Snohomish Podcast Network.History of Soccer is courtesy of Washington State Legends of Soccer. Disclaimer: This podcast is an independent production and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or officially connected to FIFA or the FIFA World Cup.Theme Music from: https://pixabay.com/music/rock-sport-sports-rock-music-368012/ Mentioned in this episode:Everett Chamber of CommerceThe Snohomish Podcast Network is a proud member of the Greater Everett Chamber of Commerce.

OverviewIn this episode, Emily and Kyle tackle two practical questions for summer 2026: how local businesses can prepare for increased visitor traffic, and what new soccer fans need to know to enjoy a match without feeling lost.First, Emily talks with Tammy Dunn, Executive Director of the Snohomish County Sports Commission, about why businesses across Snohomish County should start planning now. They cover watch parties, soccer-themed specials, how visitors may spread north of Seattle, and an important marketing rule: avoid using FIFA World Cup branding in titles or promotions unless you are an official sponsor.Then Kyle walks Emily through beginner-friendly soccer basics, including the pitch, goal line, touch line, 18-yard box, stoppage time, player roles, and common formations. It is a useful primer for anyone who wants to follow the action with more confidence before June arrives.TakeawaysBusinesses do not need to reinvent themselves to participate. Restaurants, breweries, and sports-friendly venues can start with simple watch parties and themed specials.Start planning now. Even if no one knows exact visitor numbers yet, early preparation gives businesses more flexibility.In marketing, avoid using FIFA World Cup or World Cup 26 in titles if you are not an official sponsor.New fans do not need to know everything. Learning a few basic soccer terms now will make summer matches a lot more fun.In this episodeWhy Snohomish County businesses should be paying attention nowHow sports tourism can bring visitors into hotels, restaurants, shops, and local attractionsEasy ways restaurants, breweries, and similar businesses can host watch partiesWhat businesses can and cannot say in soccer-related marketingWhere to find business playbooks and local resourcesSoccer basics: pitch, goal line, touch line, 18-yard box, stoppage time, and player rolesA quick intro to formations like 4-4-2 and 3-4-3Business resources mentionedSnohomish County Sports Commission World Cup resources at Snohomish County Sports CommissionSeattle match resources and business guidance through SeattleFWC26Small business planning support through Seattle Metro ChamberVisitor-facing resources and messaging support through Visit SeattleSnohomish County Tourism toolkit and local messaging ideasSoccer basics mentioned in this episodeSoccer Field GuidelinesBeginner's Guide to SoccerSoccer TermsCall for listenersIf you have a beginner soccer question, or if your business is planning something around the summer matches, send it our way. If you want help getting connected to the right resource, or if you want to promote your event or business, reach out.The Snohomish Podcast Network is a proud member of the Greater Everett Chamber of Commerce.Follow From Pitch to Puget Sound on your favorite podcast app.Sign up for our newsletter with important links from the show.Presented by the Snohomish Podcast Network.History of Soccer is courtesy of Washington State Legends of Soccer. Disclaimer: This podcast is an independent production and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or officially connected to FIFA or the FIFA World Cup.Theme Music from: https://pixabay.com/music/rock-sport-sports-rock-music-368012/ Mentioned in this episode:Everett Chamber of CommerceThe Snohomish Podcast Network is a proud member of the Greater Everett Chamber of Commerce.

First, Emily and Kyle set the scene: Everett is about to host four big waterfront watch parties in June 2026 — and the goal is bigger than “put up a screen.” It’s about creating a place you can land, eat, explore, and watch soccer on the waterfront.Then Kyle zooms out and tells the origin story of soccer in Snohomish County: early youth-soccer organizing, a real-life example of inclusivity and rule-making, and the unglamorous (but essential) infrastructure that turns soccer from a moment into a community.Finally, you’ll hear clips from Everett’s 2026 State of the City address, where Mayor Cassie Franklin lays out what the waterfront fan zone experience will look like, who’s partnering to make it happen, and the long-game vision for an Outdoor Event Center that could bring USL men’s and women’s soccer to Everett.TakeawaysEverett isn’t “just north of Seattle” — it’s building a full-day waterfront fan zone experience for June 2026.Hosting is a team sport: city staff, the Port, county partners, tourism, and community groups are all involved.Snohomish County’s soccer story is deeper than people think — it’s been organizing, adapting, and building for decades.If you’re planning to attend watch parties, start tracking dates now and watch for official updates as details drop.In this episode:Everett’s 2026 waterfront watch parties: what they are and why they matterHow Snohomish County helped organize youth soccer early (1966)A story of inclusivity: a rules exception that helped a teen play safely (1978)The “governance” side of soccer growth: facilities, leagues, and places to playEverett Soccer Arena history (including ties to Sounders leadership)A local referee honored for officiating 40,000+ matchesEverett’s State of the City clips: partners, logistics, and the long-game visionFeatured clips (Everett 2026 State of the City)Everett is an official FIFA World Cup fan zoneFour waterfront community watch parties: June 11, 12, 18, and 19Festival-like setup: giant outdoor screen, family-friendly activities, local food and drinksA free shuttle to keep things movingCountywide partners (including the Tulalip Tribes) hosting additional watch partiesThe Everett Outdoor Event Center: a future home for AquaSocks + USL men’s and women’s soccerIf you’re planning to attendOfficial Everett Fan Zone page:  https://www.visiteverett.com/1525/Official-SEATTLEFWC26-Fan-Zone Get updates + sign up for the From Pitch to Puget Sound newsletter:  https://www.snohomishpodcasts.com/pitchtopugetsound Call for listeners Have a Snohomish County soccer memory (an old team name, a field you remember, a tournament that felt like a big deal, a coach everyone still talks about)? Or a story about Everett Soccer Arena or local watch parties?Send it in — we want to collect these “you had to be there” moments and feature them.The Snohomish Podcast Network is a proud member of the Greater Everett Chamber of Commerce.Follow From Pitch to Puget Sound on your favorite podcast app.Sign up for our newsletter with important links from the show.Presented by the Snohomish Podcast Network.History of Soccer is courtesy of Washington State Legends of Soccer. 2026 Everett State of the City address from City of Everett WebsiteDisclaimer: This podcast is an independent production and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or officially connected to FIFA or the FIFA World Cup.Theme Music from: https://pixabay.com/music/rock-sport-sports-rock-music-368012/ Mentioned in this episode:Everett Chamber of CommerceThe Snohomish Podcast Network is a proud member of the Greater Everett Chamber of Commerce.

This is a great “start here” episode for From Pitch to Puget Sound.First, we sit down with State Representative Julio Cortes (38th Legislative District) to talk about what’s happening behind the scenes right now: planning and coordination, transportation pressure on the I-5 corridor, public safety, and what it takes to welcome a massive visitor season. Rep. Cortes also shares how Washington is thinking about fan zones and watch parties across the state—including planning for Everett at the Port of Everett.Then we zoom out. Kyle delivers a story-driven, high-level sprint through Washington’s soccer roots—how the game arrived with immigrant communities, organized into early leagues, survived major disruptions, and grew into a culture that’s been building for more than a century.TakeawaysIf you’re visiting: consider staying north of Seattle for easier access, more space, and a real local scene.If you’re local: expect weekend surges as summer ramps up.Watch party hotspots will fill up fast—plan ahead and keep an eye on local announcements.If you’re bringing family: look for daytime viewing options and community events—there will be a lot beyond bars.In this episode:What’s happening behind the scenes for 2026 (planning, coordination, and what people don’t see)Transportation realities: moving visitors up and down the I-5 corridorWatch parties and fan zones across Washington (including Everett planning at the Port)A quick, memorable history of soccer in Washington (no homework required)Call for listenersHave a Snohomish County soccer memory (an old team name, a field you remember, a tournament that felt like a big deal)? Or a question about 2026 (getting around, where to watch, what to expect)? Email us at [email protected] From Pitch to Puget Sound on your favorite podcast app.Sign up for our newsletter with important links from the show.Presented by the Snohomish Podcast Network.History of Soccer is courtesy of Washington State Legends of Soccer. Disclaimer: This podcast is an independent production and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or officially connected to FIFA or the FIFA World Cup.Theme Music from: https://pixabay.com/music/rock-sport-sports-rock-music-368012/

What is this? What are we doing? In Episode 1, Kyle (lifelong soccer fan) and Emily (your resident civic nerd and former state representative) introduce From Pitch to Puget Sound—a limited-run series built to help Snohomish County and the Puget Sound region get ready for the big soccer summer coming to Seattle in 2026.You’ll hear why Kyle loves the “orchestra” feel of soccer, what Emily is most excited to learn (and bring from the civics side), and how this show will connect the behind-the-scenes planning—transportation, public spaces, and local watch parties—to the culture and history that make this region a real soccer place. Plus: a call for local businesses and community spots to reach out if they’re planning events or want to be featured as a great place to watch.Next episode: a quick taste of regional soccer history—and an interview focused on how our area is preparing for 2026.Follow From Pitch to Puget Sound on your favorite podcast app.Sign up for our newsletter with important links from the show.Presented by the Snohomish Podcast Network.Disclaimer: This podcast is an independent production and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or officially connected to FIFA or the FIFA World Cup.Theme Music from: https://pixabay.com/music/rock-sport-sports-rock-music-368012/Other music: https://pixabay.com/music/rock-sports-sport-rock-trailer-468199/https://pixabay.com/music/beautiful-plays-anthem-of-victory-111206/

The world’s biggest soccer tournament is coming to the Seattle region in 2026—and Snohomish County is about to become part of the hosting map.In this trailer, hosts Kyle and Emily introduce From Pitch to Puget Sound: a limited-run series that mixes practical visitor guidance with the real Washington soccer story (with a Snohomish County lens). Expect quick, useful episodes that help you plan your soccer summer—plus local soccer history that explains why this place is ready for the spotlight.Follow From Pitch to Puget Sound on your favorite podcast app.Presented by the Snohomish Podcast Network.Disclaimer: This podcast is an independent production and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or officially connected to FIFA or the FIFA World Cup.Theme music from: https://pixabay.com/music/rock-sport-sports-rock-music-368012/