Sounding Off on Soccer: Stadium Expansion, World Cup events and pro soccer’s major place in City of Champions with Riverhounds President Jeff Garner

In the latest episode of Sounding Off on Soccer, host John Krysinsky is joined by Riverhounds and Riveters President Jeff Garner for an in-depth discussion on the rapidly evolving landscape of professional soccer in Pittsburgh.

From landmark corporate partnerships to the ambitious vision for F.N.B. Stadium, Garner pulls back the curtain on the business decisions driving the club’s growth both on and off the pitch.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• The Corporate Power Play: Insights into the recent naming rights deal with FNB and the new partnership with Edgar Snyder & Associates.

• Stadium Expansion & Timetable: How does the new corporate backing accelerate the plan for a 15,000-seat stadium, and what is the realistic timeline for seeing shovels in the ground?

• The World Cup 2026 Connection: With the World Cup looming, discuss the Riverhounds and Riveters efforts to capitalize on the momentum as they host events that have already been announced (USMNT Watch Parties at FNB Stadium) plus many other ways that they’re getting involved with World Cup activities in and around the Greater Pittsburgh region.

• Additionally, Garner addresses potential expansion to grass surfaces as potential way to host national teams and FIFA sanctioned competitions and events.

• Riveters Year Two: Reflecting on the inaugural impact of the Pittsburgh Riveters and what fans can expect as the organization enters its second season of W League play.

• The Major Sports Narrative: Garner addresses the social media chatter head on —as he makes his case for the franchise’s evolving place as an essential part of the City of Champions

• Fan Experience: A look at what’s working, from theme nights to matchday atmosphere, and the challenges the front office is working to overcome.

And much more!

How to Listen

You can stream this episode and all past segments of Sounding Off on Soccer on the following platforms:

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Overcast

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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).