Humans United FC

Chapter I: "You're the worst coach I've ever had" ft. Jim Rooney

Joe Shaw Season 1 Episode 1

25 years ago, on March 15, 1998, the Miami Fusion kicked off their opening game in MLS' 3rd season, becoming one of the 2 expansion teams in this ever-growing professional league.

In 2001, despite putting together one of the best seasons in MLS history (at that point and arguably since), MLS made the decision to fold both the Fusion and their Florida neighbors, the MLS original franchise, Tampa Bay Mutiny.

While MLS soccer has returned to Miami in the form of David Beckham's Inter Miami, much has been discussed of "what could've been?" Had the Miami Fusion been allowed to stay and build. Indeed, what WOULD a Miami Fusion look like in 2023?

This podcast tells the story of the Miami Fusion through the voices of those who actually lived it. 25 interviews across 25 episodes charting the good, the bad, and the unbelievable.

In Chapter I: "You're the worst coach I've ever had" former captain Jim Rooney shares his perspective on playing for the Miami Fusion. Despite not being an original member of the squad, Rooney immediately asserted himself as the de facto captain from the moment he stepped on the pitch.

In this episode, Jim shares his perspective on why Miami were ahead of their team, what it was like to be coached by Ray Hudson, and the behind the scenes details of THAT iconic sports bra goal celebration moment from the 2001 MLS All-Star game.

Enjoy!

People on this episode