Pittsburgh Riverhounds

Sounding Off on Soccer: Embracing US Open Cup soccer madness with Josh Hakala

by
John Krysinsky
April 4, 2022

Photo courtesy Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC

PSN’s John Krysinsky welcomes Josh Hakala of TheCup.us to talk about the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, commonly known as the U.S. Open Cup, a knockout cup competition in men’s American soccer. It is the oldest ongoing national soccer competition in the United States.

US Open Cup returns with largest field ever in 2022; Hounds to enter in second round

John and Josh break down the madness that is the U.S. Open Cup, as amatuer and professional teams from lower leagues and the highest levels of men’s soccer in the United States soccer pyramid face off against each other in a one-and-done format.

This week, the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC will return to play in the Open Cup for the first time since 2019, when they host Maryland Bobcats FC in a second round match, on Tuesday evening (7 p.m. kickoff) at Highmark Stadium.

John Krysinsky

John Krysinsky has covered soccer and other sports for many years for various publications and media outlets. He is also author of 'Miracle on the Mon' -- a book about the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, which chronicles the club, particularly the early years of Highmark Stadium with the narrative leading up to and centered around a remarkable match that helped provide a spark for the franchise. John has covered sports for Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, DK Pittsburgh Sports, Pittsburgh Sports Report, has served as color commentator on Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC broadcasts, and worked with OPTA Stats and broadcast teams for US Open Cup and International Champions Cup matches held in the US. Krysinsky also served as the Head Men’s Soccer Coach at his alma mater, Point Park University, where he led the Pioneers to the first-ever winning seasons and playoff berths (1996-98); head coach of North Catholic boys (2007-08), associate head coach of Shady Side Academy boys (2009-2014).