The Tryout Tango

Episode 44: Mike Casey (Former Club President for Lexington FC)

In this episode, I sit down with Mike Casey, former president of Lexington Futbol Club and a longtime youth soccer parent. Now that he’s on the other side of youth sports, Mike offers a refreshing, honest perspective on what really matters, what doesn’t, and how families can navigate the chaos without losing their minds (or their weekends).

🔹 The Benefit of Hindsight – Now out of the youth sports grind, Mike reflects on the things that once felt urgent—like team placements and tryouts—that just don’t matter as much anymore.

🔹 The Team Obsession Trap – Families often chase “top teams” without considering coaching quality, travel demands, or what’s best for their kid and lifestyle.

🔹 Role Players Matter – Not every kid can be the star. Mike talks about the lost value in being Player #14 and how those experiences can prepare kids for real life.

🔹 Parents: Check Your Insecurities – Mike gets real about projecting adult anxieties onto kids and the damage it can do, especially during tryout season.

🔹 Tryouts: Fact vs. Fiction – He shares behind-the-scenes insights on tryouts, busting the myth that everything is political. Spoiler: it’s mostly about ability.

🔹 When Parents Hurt, Not Help – Sometimes a parent’s behavior or reputation can actually hurt their child’s chances—especially when roster spots are tight.

🔹 Are You Paying for a Spot or Development? – A deep dive into what your club fees are actually buying—and why playing time isn’t (and shouldn’t be) guaranteed.

🔹 The Long Game of Youth Sports – Beyond the wins and losses, Mike highlights the friendships, memories, and life lessons that make it all worthwhile.

🔹 Club Transparency & Team Building – Are some clubs fielding extra teams just to fund the top-tier ones? Mike says it’s time for parents to ask hard questions.

🔹 Manager Tip of the Year – Never schedule a game the same weekend as prom. Trust him on this one.

🔹 And of course...THE HOT TAKES segment...