Connect with us

Uncategorized

Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast: Steel City FC returns to USL League Two Postseason with Jaxon Ervin and Ryan Kopay

Before boarding the bus later this week to Flint, Michigan, for the USL League Two Central Conference Playoffs, Steel City FC standouts Ryan Kopay and Jaxon Ervin sat down with Pittsburgh Soccer Now’s John Krysinsky.

The Great Forest Division champions capped off a historic, undefeated regular season (conceding only three goals across 12 matches!) and are now slated for a massive Round of 32 clash against Northern Indiana FC at Atwood Stadium on Friday, July 17 at 4:00 PM ET.

UNBEATEN & UNMATCHED: Steel City FC sweeps division title, sets sights on playoffs

In this episode, Jaxon and Ryan dive deep into their local roots—having grown up playing youth soccer together with Beadling SC in Western Pennsylvania before embarking on successful college careers (Jaxon at Duquesne and West Allegheny; Ryan at Moon, Akron, and Fairleigh Dickinson). They discuss what it means to return home each summer, the unique bond of this tightly-knit Pittsburgh roster, and the mental preparation required to survive the one-and-done crucible of the USL League Two postseason.

Listen Anywhere

More Options »

Episode Highlights:

  • **** The historic, undefeated regular season: Analyzing Steel City’s incredible defensive record (9 clean sheets, 3 goals conceded).

  • **** Western PA Roots: How playing together at youth powerhouse Beadling SC built a lifelong chemistry that translates to the pitch today.

  • **** Local Pride: The meaning of wearing the Steel City FC crest and representing Pittsburgh on the pre-professional national stage.

  • **** Postseason Mentality: Breaking down the Friday matchup against Northern Indiana FC and preparing for the hostile, high-stakes environment at Atwood Stadium in Flint.

  • **** College Journeys: Balancing their summer campaign with their collegiate seasons (Duquesne and Fairleigh Dickinson).

Subscribe to Sounding Off on Soccer on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube for unrivaled coverage of local, pre-professional, and professional soccer in Western Pennsylvania.

Related Topics

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).

More in Uncategorized