Shows
The Lion's PitchJess McDonald: Courage & BeyondThe Lion’s Pitch Podcast is your go-to source for insightful, weekly coverage of the NC Courage, hosted by Katie and Trevor.In this week’s episode:Look Back – A statement win in Utah. The Courage earn their second straight victory — and their first first-half goals of the season — with a confident 0–2 performance over the Royals. We break down how the team looked in control from start to finish, and what this game tells us about the squad’s growing cohesion.Standout Stats – We highlight four key stats that defined the Courage’s dominance in Utah and what they...2025-05-081h 02
The Lion's PitchTurning The TideThe Lion’s Pitch Podcast is your go-to source for insightful, weekly coverage of the NC Courage, hosted by Katie and Trevor.In this week’s episode:Look Back – Special guest Aaron Rogoff joins the show for a deeper tactical dive into the Courage’s first win of the season — a 3–2 stunner over league-leading KC Current. We break down the comeback, late heroics from defenders Kaleigh Kurtz and Ryan Williams, and what Ashley Sanchez’s goal means for the attack.Standout Stats – The numbers behind the win tell a story of grit and precision. We dig into the dat...2025-05-011h 05
The Lion's PitchBottom of the TableThe Lion’s Pitch Podcast is your go-to source for insightful, weekly coverage of the NC Courage, hosted by Katie and Trevor.In this week’s episode:Look Back – We break down the 0–1 home loss to Bay FC. Is it time to stick with a consistent starting XI, or do the Courage need to keep experimenting? We get into it.Standout Stats – The numbers paint a story beyond the scoreboard. We zoom out and talk about what they reveal about the Courage’s season trajectory so far.Looking Ahead – A tough road test awaits in KC. We preview...2025-04-2445 min
The Lion's PitchReturning Road WoesThe Lion’s Pitch is your weekly deep dive into all things NC Courage! Hosted by Katie and Trevor, each episode brings you the latest on the Courage’s matches, standout stats, and the biggest stories from around the NWSL.In this week’s episode:Looking Back: We break down the 3-1 loss to Gotham — what went wrong, what we can learn, and why the performances off the bench (plus that gorgeous Brianna Pinto goal) give us hope moving forward.Looking Ahead: Bay FC comes to town as the Courage return home hunting for their first wi...2025-04-1745 min
The Lion's PitchGoal Posts & CrossbarThe Lion’s Pitch is your weekly deep dive into all things NC Courage! Hosted by Katie and Trevor, each episode brings you the latest on the Courage’s matches, stats, and news from around the NWSL.In this week’s episode:Looking Back: We review the 0-0 draw away at Portland. While the scoreline may not scream excitement, we break down why this was the best performance of the season so far for the Courage.Stand-Out Stat: We highlight the key stat that made this Portland game stand out!Looking Ahead: With the international break...2025-04-0346 min
The Lion's PitchThe Good & The BadThe Lion’s Pitch is your weekly deep dive into all things NC Courage! Hosted by Katie and Trevor, each episode brings you the latest on the Courage’s matches, stats, and news from around the NWSL.In this week’s episode:Looking Back: We look closer at the 1-2 loss to Seattle Reign in the home opener. While it may have seemed rough from the stands, we break down the game and highlight why it wasn't as bad as it appeared in real-time.Stand-Out Stats: Highlighting the key stats you won’t want to miss fro...2025-03-2739 min
The Lion's PitchFirst Look of the Team 2025The Lion’s Pitch is your weekly deep dive into all things NC Courage! Hosted by Katie and Trevor, each episode gives you the latest on the Courage’s matches, stats, and news from around the NWSL.In this week’s episode:Looking Back: We analyze the 1-1 draw against Racing Louisville and examine the starting lineup.Stand-Out Stats: Highlighting the key stats you won’t want to miss from the match.Looking Ahead: We preview the upcoming home opener against Seattle Reign and what we can expect from the match.Courage News & News Around the Leag...2025-03-2040 min
The Lion's PitchLooking Ahead: NC CourageIn This EpisodeIn this episode, we’re recapping last season's games against Racing Louisville and looking ahead to this weekend's matchup. We’ll also discuss the latest Courage news, including Jess McDonald’s induction into the Ring of Honor and Katelyn Rowland’s return as assistant goalkeeper coach. Plus, we’ll touch on news around the NWSL and wrap up with our predictions for where all the teams will land in the 2025 season. Whether you're a die-hard NC Courage fan or just love soccer, this is the podcast for you!Welc...2025-03-1342 min
The Lion's PitchPreseason Courage 2025In This EpisodeWe are back! The North Carolina Courage preseason is in full swing and we are ready.In this episode of The Lion’s Pitch, we’re covering all the latest roster updates for the NC Courage! We discuss the players who have left the team: Kerolin Nicoli, Narumi Miura, Hayley Hopkins, Victoria Pickett, Julia Dorsey, Bianca St-Georges, and Estelle Johnson. On the flip side, we talk about the exciting new signings, including Jaedyn Shaw, Brooklyn Courtnall, Shinomi Koyama, and Hannah Betfort. Plus, the recent contract extensions for Marisa Bova, Manaka Matsukubo, and...2025-02-2734 min
The Lion's PitchCourage's 2024 Season EndsIn This EpisodeNorth Carolina Courage's season has come to an end. The NC Courage lost to KC Current in the quarterfinal match this weekend. Despite the outcome, the Courage played great, and we look forward to the 2025 season.We go over some standout stats from the game. We take a look at some Courage news and updates. Then we take a look ahead at the semi-final matches and end with news around the league.NC Courage lose 1-0 against KC Current.Welcome to The Lion’s...2024-11-1437 min
The Lion's PitchShuffle BallIn This EpisodeThe Washington Spirit hands the North Carolina Courage their first home loss. Our stand-out players during a tough match were Aline Gomes and Dani Weatherholt.We look ahead to our quarterfinal match against the KC Current and take a quick look at news around the league. We close with a discussion about the playoffs and share who we think makes it to the final.The NC Courage lose 0-1 against Wsahington Spirit.Welcome to The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWe discuss al...2024-11-0736 min
The Lion's PitchMoment of InevitabilityIn This EpisodeThe North Carolina Courage lost to Bay FC, keeping the fifth-place position they locked down last week.We look ahead to Washington Spirit at home on Saturday, followed by Courage and NWSL news and updates. Ashley Sanchez and Casey Murphy were called up to the USWNT for their victory tour. Denise O'Sullivan played with Ireland, Kerolin Nicoli played with Brazil, and Feli Rauch to Germany. Manaka Matsukubo gets her first call up to the senior Japanese National Team.The NC Courage lose 1-0 against Bay FC.2024-10-3134 min
The Lion's PitchLate Game EqualizerIn This EpisodeThe North Carolina Courage tied Angel City FC, staying in fifth place. Olivia Wingate secured the equalizer in the dying moments of the game, minutes after Christen Press scored her first goal after years of ACL recovery.We look ahead to Bay FC away on Saturday, followed by Courage and NWSL news and updates. We discuss the Angel FC penalization from the league, the lawsuit filed against the San Diego Wave by former employees, and the botched, transphobic launch of Bos Nation.The NC Courage tie 1-1 against...2024-10-1841 min
The Lion's PitchCourage Clinch A Playoff SpotIn This EpisodeThe North Carolina Courage beat the San Diego Wave. With this win, NC Courage clinched a playoff spot in front of the largest crowd of the season. They introduced a new front line with Kerolin back in the mix. We get goals from Aline Gomes, her first, and Manaka, who is fresh off the U20 Women's World Cup.We look ahead to Angel City FC at home on Saturday, followed by Courage and NWSL news and updates. Malia Berkley makes it to the Best XI, and Lauren Holiday is expected to...2024-10-1142 min
The Lion's PitchMidstride Backheel NutmegIn This EpisodeThe North Carolina Courage beat Chicago Red Stars. USWNT head coach Emma Hayes was in the stands, and the Courage put their best boot forward. They absolutely delivered:Ryan Williams made a case for a much-needed outside back position for the national team.Brianna Pinto scores off an assist from Ashley Sanchez (though officially called an OG) and is immediately subbed off due to injury.Kaleigh Kurtz makes three blocks in the box to deny Chicago a goal.Ashley Sanchez performs magic with a mid-stride, backheel nutmeg leading to a banger from Denise...2024-10-0338 min
The Lion's PitchKero's Back!In This EpisodeThe North Carolina Courage lose to Racing Louisville. Ashley Sanchez puts Abby Erceg on skates to assist a goal from Brianna Pinto. And Kerolin is finally back!We look ahead to Sunday's away match against the Chicago Red Stars in Chicago. Then we take a look around the league.The NC Courage lose 1-2 against the Racing Louisville.Welcome to The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWe discuss all things North Carolina Courage each week. Trevor and Katie will break down each ma...2024-09-2636 min
The Lion's PitchGrinding Out A DrawIn This EpisodeThe North Carolina Courage tie Bay FC at WakeMed Soccer Park, extending their home unbeaten streak. Ashley Sanchez scored, making her the first player in the NWSL to score against every team.We look ahead to Saturday's away match against Louisville's newly formulated squad and wrap up with some Courage and NWSL news.The NC Courage tie 1-1 against the Bay FC.Welcome to The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWe discuss all things North Carolina Courage each week. Trevor and Katie wi...2024-09-1933 min
The Lion's PitchCourage Wave Goodbye to MorganIn This EpisodeThe North Carolina Courage beat Alex Morgan and the San Diego Wave in Snapdragon Stadium. Alex Morgan was denied a PK from Casey Murphy, and four Courage players scored. Melia Berkley was credited with three assists in the first half, a first in the NWSL. Throw in a red card for the San Diego keeper, and calling it a fantastic game is an understatement—but probably not for Alex Morgan fans.Sunday's match was Alex Morgan's final match. We thank her for her contributions to the sport, both on and off th...2024-09-1239 min
The Lion's PitchRain GoalsIn This EpisodeThe North Carolina Courage maintained their unbeaten streak at home with a win against the KC Current. Despite extreme heat and a torrential downpour in the 80th minute (causing a 90-minute game delay), the Courage won with goals by brand new Australian international Cortnee Vine, and Durham local and UNC alum Brianna Pinto. We discuss the game, go over some stand-out stats and then we look ahead to the game against the San Diego Wave. We wrap up with some Courage and NWSL news.The NC Courage win 2...2024-09-0529 min
The Lion's PitchShaking Off The RustIn This EpisodeThe North Carolina Courage lost on the road to Seattle Reign. We review the game and give a special shout-out to Megan Rapinoe, whose jersey was retired before the match. We look ahead at what now seems to be a more beatable KC team. We wrap things up by discussing the groundbreaking CBA that just dropped, which gives the players much of what they've been asking for!The NC Courage lose 1-0 against the Seattle Reign.Welcome to The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWe disc...2024-08-3034 min
The Lion's PitchBack From VacationIn This EpisodeAfter an summer Olympic break, we're back!In this episode, Katie gives her report from the Olympics. We take a look ahead at a newly formulate Seattle Reign game. And we review all the NWSL news from the past few weeks.Welcome to The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWe discuss all things North Carolina Courage each week. Trevor and Katie will break down each match and discuss what to expect from upcoming opponents. We’ll even have bonus episodes with interviews and other surprises alon...2024-08-2352 min
The Lion's PitchCourage Pod Jam 2024In This EpisodeOn this very special episode, we are joined by CTID Cast, Six Point Weekend, and The Uproar.We kick off by talking about the NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup game against Orlando Pride, which ended in a draw. The Courage clinched the victory in PKs, largely due to Marisa Bova's outstanding performance, which included two crucial saves in her professional debut. Even with the Olympic athletes' absence, the team's performance was exceptional!With it being about halfway through the season, we picked our outstanding players of 2024 (so far):2024-07-2553 min
The Lion's PitchA Tale of Two HalvesIn This EpisodeThe North Carolina Courage beat Racing Louisville at home. For the first time in Courage history, they came back after being down at half. Trevor and Katie discuss the three beautiful goals and the impactful half-time subs of Meredith Speck, Olivia Wingate, and Manaka Matsukubo. We give special recognition to Narumi Miura and Ashley Sanchez for their outstanding performance and impressive stats. We go on to provide an Olympic refresher with Casey Murphy, Sydney Collins, Kerolin Nicoli, Feli Rauch (alternative), and Courtnee Vine, all named to their rosters.We take a...2024-07-1150 min
The Lion's PitchA Road WinIn This EpisodeThe North Carolina Courage beat the Washington Spirit on the road. With Trevor out, long-time supporter Jeff joins us on the pod to discuss our first road win of the season. In this episode, we discuss the revenge goal from Ashley Sanchez, neutralizing Trinity Roadman and Croix Bethune, Denise O'Sullivan's continued outstanding performance, and Narumi Miura's best game yet. We end by talking game stats, look towards Racing Louisville, discuss the Amy Rodriguez and Casey Stoney news.The NC Courage win 0-1 against the Washington Spirit.Find Jeff...2024-07-0446 min
The Lion's PitchGoals, Goals, and GoalsIn This EpisodeThe North Carolina Courage beat the Chicago Red Stars. The Courage ended their goal drought in exciting fashion, with three goals from three different players: Tyler Lussi, Ashley Sanchez, and Meredith Speck. Riley Jackson got her first start, and we discussed how she looked. We share our love of Brianna Pinto and how we would love to see her get more starts. Then we dive into stats, take a look ahead at our Saturday match Washington Spirit, and briefly touch on our thoughts on the potential Olympic roster (which had yet to be announced...2024-06-2743 min
The Lion's PitchFeeling Pretty GoodIn This EpisodeThe NC Courage tie Orlando Pride. We discuss how we've never been so relieved with a tie and how great the team looked, in fact, perhaps the best they've looked. With Ryan Williams out on a red, the team stepped up and were able to play their game against the Pride. Since September of last year, no team has been able to keep the Pride from scoring. We take ahead to the Chicago Red Stars and discuss what went on in the league.The NC Courage end level 0-0 against the...2024-06-2036 min
The Lion's PitchThe Final ThirdIn This EpisodeThe NC Courage lose to the Portland Thorns. We discuss how we should have come out with at least a point, the Sophia Smith red card and where we have been lacking. We also touch on TST, look around the league and expansion.The NC Courage lose 1-0 to the Portland Thorns.Welcome to The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWe discuss all things North Carolina Courage each week. Trevor and Katie will break down each match and discuss what to expect from upcoming op...2024-06-1328 min
The Lion's PitchLong Stretch On The RoadIn This EpisodeThe NC Courage lost to the Houston Dash. We discuss yet another road loss, some fantastic standout player stats, and our optimism for our away game against the Portland Thorns.The NC Courage win 3-0 to the Utah Royals.Welcome to The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWe discuss all things North Carolina Courage each week. Trevor and Katie will break down each match and discuss what to expect from upcoming opponents. We’ll even have bonus episodes with interviews and other surprises along the...2024-06-0638 min
The Lion's PitchSetting The ToneIn This EpisodeThe NC Courage beat the Utah Royals in their return to WakeMed Soccer Park. We discuss Kaleigh Kurtz's beautiful goal, how aggressive the team looked and that winning feeling. We dive into the dominant stats, take a look around the league, and discuss the Courage roster for The Soccer Tournament (TST).The NC Courage win 1-0 to the Utah Royals.Welcome to The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWe discuss all things North Carolina Courage each week. Trevor and Katie will break down each ma...2024-05-2338 min
The Lion's PitchPlaying Good SoccerIn This EpisodeThe NC Courage fall to the KC Current. We discuss what's going on with our midfield, our scoring woes, and how we actually looked pretty good despite all that. We give a shout-out to Dani Weatherholt and Brianna Pinto, who had an excellent game.The NC Courage lose 1-0 to KC Current.Welcome to The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWe discuss all things North Carolina Courage each week. Trevor and Katie will break down each match and discuss what to expect from upcoming op...2024-05-1632 min
The Lion's PitchOur Achilles Heel: Road TripsIn This EpisodeThe NC Courage lost both away games against Orlando Pride and NJ/NY Gotham. We welcome Trevor back after his vacation to discuss the two losses and if we should worry yet. We wrap up looking forward to the KC Current game.The NC Courage lose 1-4 to Orlando Pride and 0-1 to NJ/NY Gotham.Welcome to The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWe discuss all things North Carolina Courage each week. Trevor and Katie will break down each match and discuss what to...2024-05-0941 min
The Lion's PitchSoccer Over CourageIn This EpisodeThe NC Courage beat the Seattle Reign. With Trevor still on vacation, Katie recaps the game and jumps into an interview with Soccer Over Gotham host Gary.The NC Courage win against Seattle Reign 1-0.Welcome to The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWe discuss all things North Carolina Courage each week. Trevor and Katie will break down each match and discuss what to expect from upcoming opponents. We’ll even have bonus episodes with interviews and other surprises along the way.We...2024-05-0228 min
The Lion's PitchA Lot Of FightIn This EpisodeThe NC Courage fall the Angel City in Los Angeles... again. We discuss why we can't seem to get that LA win, the fight until the final whistle and why folks should still be afraid of this team. We look ahead to Seattle and talk NWSL trades. The most important takeaway: We didn't get the win, but we never gave up.The NC Courage lose to Angel City in Los Angeles 2-1.Welcome to The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWe discuss all things No...2024-04-2537 min
The Lion's PitchTaking out the ThornsIn This EpisodeThe NC Courage takes out our bitter rivals, the Portland Thorns after the international break at home in WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, NC. We discuss the early goals, the growing relationship between Tyler Lussi and Ryan Williams, and trying to get our first win against Angel City FC at BMO stadium. The most important takeaway: It's hard to complain when our club is performing so well.The NC Courage beat the Portland in a 2-0 victory.Welcome to The Lion’s Pitch Podcast...2024-04-1848 min
The Lion's PitchInvesting in the CourageIn This EpisodeThe NWSL is on international break. so we took this opportunity to talk all things soccer with NC Courage investor, Sara Toussaint. We discuss what makes NWSL supporters and the Courage special. We wrap up with a quick discussion on SheBelieves and a look forward to our game with our nemesis, the Portland Thorns.Welcome to The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWe discuss all things North Carolina Courage each week. Trevor and Katie will break down each match and discuss what to expect from upcoming opponents. We’l...2024-04-1146 min
The Lion's PitchThe GothamsIn This EpisodeThe Courage are back at Wakemed Soccer Park! We discuss the gritty win against Gotham, a new lineup (four new people!), and how the defense helped keep our first clean sheet. We do a quick look around the league. And of course, we have to discuss the hot topic of the week, Korbin Albert. The most important takeaway: Wins like this will do wonders for our mental game.The NC Courage beat the NJ/NY in a 1-0 victory.Welcome to The Lion’s Pitch Po...2024-04-0445 min
The Lion's PitchSuffer BallIn This EpisodeWe discuss the first loss away at Utah, finding out where we went right and where we went a little wrong. Looking ahead, we discuss what we expect to see from the newly formed super team, the Gothams. We wrap up with a quick look around the league. The most important takeaway: We're still early in the season.The NC Courage lose to the Utah Royals 2-1.Welcome to The Lion’s Pitch PodcastWe discuss all things North Carolina Courage each week. Tr...2024-03-2833 min
The Lion's PitchFirst Look of the TeamIn This EpisodeWe discuss the first game of the 2024 NWSL Season. Find out our first impressions of the NC Courage and where we saw the team grow. We break down the handball call and the VAR check on Denise O'Sullivan. Looking ahead, we discuss what we can glean from the one Utah Royals game we've ever seen. We wrap up with a quick look around the league. Most important takeaway: We're at the top of the table and it feels so good.The NC Courage beat the Houston Dash in a 5-1 victory.2024-03-2143 min
The Lion's PitchWhat can you expect?Welcome to The Lion’s Pitch podcastWe discuss all things North Carolina Courage each week. Trevor and Katie will break down each match and discuss what to expect from upcoming opponents. We’ll even have bonus episodes with interviews and other surprises along the way.We’re looking forward to an exciting 2024 season with a reformulated Courage squad and two NEW expansion teams to face, so you won’t want to miss an episode. We’ll kick off on March 21, with new content released each Thursday.Thanks for checking out the pod and...2024-03-1301 min