The Final Whistle: U-20 Round-up with Head Coach Connor
In this episode, we sit down with U-20 Head Coach Conner Cappelletti for an in-depth look at the club’s pathway and the development of its next generation. Coach Cappelletti reflects on the team’s strong performances in the Pathway Cup, highlighting individual growth and the standout moment of Grafton Kahl earning a spot in the tournament’s Best XI.
The conversation shifts toward the upcoming year, including how last season’s semi-final run and the program’s back-to-back South Atlantic Division titles have raised expectations and shaped the squad’s competitive identity. Coach Cappelletti also discusses preparations for the USL Academy Cup, the progress of players moving on to college soccer, and the emerging talents who could make a major impact in Season 2.
The episode offers an inside look at how the academy continues to strengthen its developmental pathway and what supporters can look forward to from the U-20s in the year ahead.
In this episode, we sit down with U-20 Head Coach Conner Cappelletti for a deep dive into the pathway, progress, and future of the Kickers’ academy system. Coach Cappelletti reflects on the team’s showing in the Pathway Cup, where strong performances didn’t translate to advancement but revealed growth, resilience, and standout moments — including Grafton Kahl’s selection to the tournament Best XI.
We look ahead to the upcoming season, discussing how last year’s semi-final run and back-to-back South Atlantic Division titles have elevated expectations and helped shape the team’s identity. Coach Cappelletti also breaks down preparations for the USL Academy Cup, the exciting development of players stepping into college soccer, and the next wave of talent ready to make their mark.
Whether you follow the academy closely or want to understand how the club builds its future stars, this conversation offers insight into the philosophy, standards, and ambition driving the U-20s into Season 2.
