In this episode, Emily and Kyle focus on access and belonging: how people in Snohomish County find their way into soccer through small, real entry points like rec teams, carpools, public spaces, and community programs.

First, we hear from Peter Hattrup, former pro and longtime coach, who shares what it looked like to grow up in a different era of the game — including the story of his first “soccer shoes,” and why those early experiences still matter.

Then they talk with Alex Ko from Sound Transit about access in the practical sense: how transportation, station support, and wayfinding help everyday residents take part in a major soccer summer. Whether you’re traveling into Seattle or staying closer to home, this episode offers a grounded look at how to plan ahead.

Takeaways

• Access is not just about tickets — it’s about belonging.
• Soccer grows when communities keep building ways into the game.
• Recreation leagues and affordable entry points matter more than most people realize.
• Transportation and clear information can be the difference between feeling included and feeling shut out.

In this episode

• How soccer becomes something a community can grow into over time
• Peter Hattrup’s story of early gear, early teams, and learning the game in a different era
• Why recreation-level play is a huge part of access and long-term participation
• What “access” looks like today: watch parties, family-friendly spaces, libraries, museums, and local programs
• How Sound Transit is preparing with station support, security, maintenance, and staff ambassadors
• Where to find updated transit maps and guidance for getting around the region

Transit resource

• Sound Transit soccer tournament resource: https://www.soundtransit.org/soccertournament

Call for listeners

Know someone who thinks this summer won’t really affect Snohomish County? Send them this episode. And if you’re still deciding how you want to take part, this is your reminder: you don’t need a match ticket to be part of the experience. Try a watch party, a fan zone, or a trip into the city just to take in the atmosphere.

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Presented by the Snohomish Podcast Network.

History of Soccer is courtesy of Washington State Legends of Soccer.

Disclaimer: This podcast is an independent production and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or officially connected to FIFA or the FIFA World Cup.

Theme Music from: https://pixabay.com/music/rock-sport-sports-rock-music-368012/