The Truth About High School Soccer in the U.S. with Jim Harte

Modern Soccer Coach

Watch interview - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EHwTYhl11lg&t=12s

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Apr 29, 2026 MSC Podcasts

High school soccer is often overlooked in the U.S. development landscape — but are we getting this completely wrong?

In this episode of the Modern Soccer Coach Podcast, Jim Harte shares a powerful perspective on the role of high school soccer, why it continues to thrive, and what the game might be missing by shifting too far toward club structures.

We dive into:

Where high school soccer sits in today’s landscape
The rise of the High School Champions League
Player experience vs “development” models
Community, identity, and why the game still matters
What coaches can actually take from this

This is a conversation that challenges assumptions — and forces us to rethink what development really means.

If you’re a coach working in high school, club, or both, this is one you need to hear.

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Gary and guest Jim Harte discuss the evolving landscape of high school soccer in the United States. They explore the unique benefits of school-based programs, the development of the High School Champions League, and the importance of fostering collaboration among coaches to strengthen the game at the local level.

Check out MSC High School Course below:
https://www.modernsoccercoach.com/pos...