In Episode 41 of Y’all Street, host Tarek Saab talks with Leigh Veidman, Head Coach of Spokane Velocity FC, about building a championship culture in soccer.
Leigh Veidman, the Head Coach of Spokane Velocity FC, is a prime example of resilience in the world of sports. Just as precious metals hold intrinsic value through market fluctuations, Veidman has refined his coaching approach amidst the challenges of the USL pyramid.
Building a Championship Culture: The Minting Process
In the same way that a mint carefully crafts sovereign coins, Veidman has meticulously built Spokane Velocity FC from the ground up. Starting as an expansion team, they achieved back-to-back playoff finals in their first two years, showcasing a blue-collar brand of soccer that resonates with the local community.
Investing in People: The Ultimate Premium Over Melt
Veidman’s philosophy emphasizes prioritizing the person over the player, a strategy that parallels the importance of understanding the factors that affect the premium over melt in precious metals. He states, ‘People work hard in Spokane. When they go out to a game, they want to be entertained.’ By investing in his players’ well-being and fostering internal trust, he maximizes athletic ROI.
Everyone works long weeks. They spend their hard-earned money to come out and watch a game. They don’t want to come out and watch some boring soccer.
Leigh Veidman
Veidman’s journey from the streets of Liverpool to coaching in the U.S. exemplifies the resilience that mirrors the enduring qualities of precious metals. His experiences have shaped his ability to cultivate a competitive and entertaining soccer culture in Spokane.
