The Soccer Ladder with Li & Me
The Soccer Ladder with Li & Me is a podcast dedicated to young soccer players and their families who dream of going pro. Hosted by soccer mom Megan Linke and her son Liam, this show brings in professional players, coaches, and industry experts to share their journeys and offer insights into what it takes to climb the ranks in the soccer world. Whether you're just starting or already on the path, we provide real stories, practical advice, and inspiration to help you reach the next level.
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The Soccer Ladder with Li & Me
🎙Episode 21: From Belgium to the Big Leagues – Fre Frans' Global Soccer Journey
Guest: Fre Frans, former pro defender turned coach at RWDM Brussels
📲 IG: @frefrans
In this inspiring and globe-spanning episode, we sit down with Belgian footballer and coach Fre Frans (@frefrans), who shares his journey from debuting at 17 in Belgium’s top league to coaching one of the youngest squads in Europe today.
Fre played professionally for clubs like Lierse SK, Beerschot, and Partick Thistle in Scotland, and he’s now mentoring rising talent at RWDM Brussels — a club committed to youth development, global scouting (including American talent), and building strong character on and off the pitch.
We dive into:
- Fre’s early debut at just 17 and how he handled pressure with ease
- His time in Scotland vs Belgium and the cultural & tactical differences
- Coaching lessons he's learned from both the best — and worst — coaches
- Why mentality trumps talent at the pro level
- What it’s like raising a son who dreams of being the next Thibaut Courtois
- RWDM’s exciting philosophy on global development and scouting
- Advice to academy players dreaming of the first team
- And rapid fire questions: toughest opponent, dream stadium, and one young player to watch đź‘€
đź”— Plus: We get personal about parenthood, mindset, and how creating your own journey (and not comparing it to others) can lead to a long-lasting career in football and beyond.
Whether you're a young player, parent, or passionate fan — this one is packed with life lessons, laughs, and legacy-level wisdom.
đź“Ť Clubs mentioned:
@lierse_k | @beerschotofficial | @partickthistle | @rwdm_brussels | @krcgenkofficial | @official_kaagent | @realmadrid | @newyorkredbulls
📌 Don’t forget to follow the hosts:
🎙️Megan Linke: @meganlinkeofficial
🎙️ Liam: @liamlinke18
🎙️Podcast: @thesoccerladder
💥 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts — Episode 21 is live!
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