108. Jay DeMerit and Jimmy Conrad

In this episode, I welcome back Jimmy Conrad and Jay DeMerit.  The two former US Men’s National teammates enjoyed catching up and reminiscing about playing with each other, playing in the TST Tournament, their thoughts on development, and much more.  There are some great stories they share and fantastic insights as well.

We discuss the experience participating in the TST tournament, including the emotional component and the unique atmosphere. They also talk about the physical demands of the tournament and the importance of athletic trainers. The hosts highlight the camaraderie and loyalty among the teams and the fun off-field activities. They also reflect on reuniting with old teammates and the importance of shared experiences. The conversation concludes with funny moments and bonding experiences. In this part of the conversation, Jay and Conradinho discuss their experience playing together, being late bloomers in their careers, preparing for the national team, and giving advice to young players. It also discusses the four areas of player development, coping mechanisms, and building resilience. The role of mentorship and experience in personal growth is highlighted, along with the need for better systems and products in youth development. The conversation emphasizes the importance of practice, self-actualization, self-awareness, consistency, and allowing players to be themselves. It concludes with a focus on creating good habits and discipline, and the potential for personal growth through self-evaluation.

The TST tournament provides a unique and emotional experience for the participants.

The camaraderie and loyalty among the teams contribute to the enjoyment of the tournament.

Reuniting with old teammates and sharing experiences creates lasting memories. Playing with teammates who have similar work ethic and determination can lead to success.

Late bloomers can bring a unique perspective and appreciation to their careers.

Emotional and mental preparation is crucial when getting called up to the national team.

Understanding oneself and having a clear why can help navigate challenges and make better decisions.

Designing jerseys can be a fun and creative way to engage with the team and fans.

Sponsorship and costs can be challenging for teams, and not all teams are able to pay players.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Tournament Overview

00:30 The TST Tournament Experience

01:24 The Emotional Component of the Tournament

02:45 The Unique Atmosphere of the Tournament

04:14 The Magic Hands of Jay Demerit

05:19 The Loyalty and Camaraderie of the Teams

06:08 The Expansion of the Tournament

06:19 The Prize Money and Entry Fee Debate

07:16 The Fun and Off-Field Activities

08:02 The Sideline Crew and Team Spirit

08:58 Reuniting with Old Teammates

10:42 The Importance of Shared Experiences

12:26 Playing Together in MLS and the National Team

14:32 Funny Moments and Bonding Experiences

20:15 Late Bloomers

23:12 Preparing for the National Team

27:13 Advice for Young Players

29:57 Understanding Yourself

38:24 Investing in Players

39:03 Creating a Positive Environment

40:23 Understanding Players' Why

41:44 Helping Players Work Through Adversity

42:13 Four Areas of Development

43:08 Coping Mechanisms

44:28 Building Resilience

45:14 Mentorship and Experience

46:41 Creating Better Systems and Products

47:41 The Importance of Practice and Application

49:21 Self-Actualization and Self-Awareness

51:12 Consistency and Discipline

54:15 Allowing Players to Be Themselves

57:24 The Importance of Self-Evaluation

58:15 Creating Good Habits and Discipline

01:01:10 Self-Actualization and Personal Growth