Inside the Pro Game : Football with RicFit

Episodes

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  Why Most Soccer Players Never Get a Real Chance to Go Pro 21.10.2026 20m

  Want to play pro? Book a free call with my team 👇⁠https://go.ricfit.com/podcast-spotifyThe RicFit Pathway helps players aged 12 to 30 earn real trials with pro clubs. Most FIFA agents focus on academy players, established professionals, and players who already have strong club pedigrees.I focus on the players they overlook.I’m a FIFA Licensed Agent, former professional player, and former professional club GM. After playing professionally for 11 years across five countries without coming through the traditional academy pathway, I built RicFit to help overlooked players create a legitimate route into professional football.That includes NCAA, NAIA, UPSL, NPSL, USL League Two, semi-pro, amateur, and free-agent players who believe they can play at a higher level but do not know how to get there.In this podcast, I break down:Why talented non-academy players struggle to get noticedWhy combines and open trials often failWhat professional clubs actually look for when recruitingWhat makes a player worth representingHow to prepare physically for the professional levelWhy your footage, CV, passport, position, level, and market fit matterHow direct professional trials actually happenHow RicFit prepares overlooked players for legitimate club opportunitiesYou do not need a famous academy on your CV to become a professional footballer.But talent alone is not enough.You need to be good enough, physically ready, positioned in the right market, presented correctly, and connected to clubs that are actually looking for your profile.That is the system we built RicFit around.Apply below to see if you qualify for the RicFit Pathway.⁠https://go.ricfit.com/podcast-spotify
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  RicFit Case Study: How He Went From UPSL & NCAA D3 to a Pro Contract in Europe in 3 Months 20.10.2026 18m

  Want to play pro? Book a free call with my team:⁠https://go.ricfit.com/podcast-spotifyThe RicFit Pathway helps players aged 12 to 30 earn real trials with pro clubs.How do you go from playing UPSL and NCAA Division III soccer to signing a professional soccer contract in Europe in just 3 months?This is the story of Tomas Menna.Tomas is a 23-year-old striker/winger from Minnesota who played NCAA Division III college soccer, UPSL and USL League Two.Before joining RicFit, he was also training as a practice player with an MLS NEXT Pro club. But there was one major problem. Nobody was giving him a decision. He was training, waiting and trying to figure out his career on his own without knowing what the next step was.Tomas came to RicFit after being recommended by one of our former players, Aaron Wiley.From the beginning, we could see his work ethic and professionalism. But he was also spending too much energy thinking about everything happening off the field.That is where our system came in.His responsibility was simple: focus on becoming the best footballer possible.Our responsibility was everything around his career: career strategy, club networking, finding the right market, creating opportunities, trials, contracts and negotiations.Within three months of working together, Tomas earned a trial with a club in Slovakia.He went there, proved his level and signed.Today, he is starting, becoming an important player for the club and building the foundation for the next step in his professional career.Tomas has the athleticism, 1v1 ability, goalscoring ability and mentality to keep climbing.But his story also shows something bigger.If you are playing NCAA college soccer, UPSL, NPSL, USL League Two, semi-professional soccer or outside a major academy, there is still a pathway into professional soccer in Europe.You need the level.You need to prepare properly.You need to target clubs and leagues that actually fit you.And you need the right people managing the business side of your career so you can focus on performing.That is what we do at RicFit.We help overlooked, non-academy footballers become recruitable and create a realistic pathway toward their first professional contract.Apply to work with RicFit:⁠https://go.ricfit.com/podcast-spotify
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  RicFit Case Study: From NCAA D2 Champion to Pro Football in Europe | Martin Carpena’s Story 19.10.2026 21m

  Want to play pro? Book a free call with my team ⁠https://go.ricfit.com/podcast-spotifyFrom NCAA Division II National Champion to professional football in Europe.Martin Carpena’s journey shows what it actually takes to turn a successful college soccer career into a professional opportunity.After playing in top academies in Colombia, Martin moved to the United States, competed in NCAA Division II, played USL League Two, and won a national championship with Franklin Pierce University.But winning a national championship didn’t automatically lead to a professional contract.Martin continued searching for opportunities, training with Greenville Triumph, competing in the UPSL, and attending trials in Hong Kong and Germany.Through his work with RicFit, Martin eventually secured an opportunity in Slovakia, where he’s now playing professionally.In this interview, we discuss:Why being a successful college player doesn’t guarantee a professional contractWhat football trials in Europe are actually likeThe difference between American and European footballHow Martin secured his opportunity in SlovakiaWhy mentality, consistency, and preparation matter to professional clubsHow RicFit supports overlooked footballers pursuing professional opportunitiesWhether you’re playing NCAA soccer, USL2, UPSL, or semi-professionally, Martin’s journey demonstrates why having a clear pathway matters.Apply to speak with our team:⁠https://go.ricfit.com/podcast-spotify
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  RicFit Case Study: He Spent 10 Months at an International Academy… Then Signed Pro in Germany 16.10.2026 33m

  Want to play pro? Book a free call with my team 👇⁠https://go.ricfit.com/podcast-spotifyThe RicFit Pathway helps players aged 12 to 30 earn real trials with pro clubs.Can you become a professional footballer through international football academies and open trials?Jesus Lucio spent 10 months at an international football academy and attended open football trials trying to find a professional football opportunity in Europe. But despite investing time into the traditional academy and trial route, he still hadn't found the right club.After working with RicFit, we changed his football career strategy, identified a more realistic European market, prepared him for the right opportunities, and helped him eventually sign with a football club in Germany.In this case study, FIFA Licensed Agent and RicFit founder Eric Friedlander sits down with Jesus to break down his complete journey from international academy player and open trials to signing in German football.We cover:• Whether international football academies are worth it• The problem with relying on open football trials• How footballers can find clubs at the right level in Europe• How to prepare for professional football trials• How RicFit evaluates the right market for a player• What clubs actually look for when signing foreign players• How Jesus got his opportunity in Germany• What overlooked footballers should do differently when trying to sign their first contractThis is especially relevant for college soccer players, UPSL players, NPSL players, USL League Two players, academy players, semi-professional players and overlooked footballers trying to play professionally in Europe.
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  RicFit Case Study: He Tried Contacting Clubs Himself… Now He’s Signed in Germany with RicFit 15.10.2026 12m

  Before RicFit, Eder Pacagnella was trying to create his own professional football opportunities.He was reaching out to clubs himself, sending messages and trying to figure out which teams and markets would actually give him a realistic chance.But getting into professional football takes more than contacting as many clubs as possible.When Eder joined RicFit, we built the entire pathway around him.We worked on his physical preparation, football development, footage and player profile, career strategy, market positioning and trial readiness.Then our scouting team used our club network to identify opportunities that actually matched his level and position. That process took Eder to Germany, where he earned his opportunity and signed.But the bigger result came after the first contract. Eder performed, established himself in German football and has now officially re-signed for his second season.He went from trying to contact clubs himself to building a real professional career in Europe. That is what we do at RicFit.We don't just send players random trial opportunities.We develop the player, build the career strategy, identify the right market, prepare them for the opportunity and then use our football network to help put them in front of clubs where they have a realistic chance of signing. Eder got his first opportunity. Then he proved he belonged.Now he is going into year two in Germany.If you want to understand where you currently stand and what your realistic next move is, apply for a free consultation:⁠https://go.ricfit.com/podcast-spotify
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  Why No Football Agent Responds To You (The Truth Nobody Tells Players) 14.10.2026 10m

  A few weeks ago, a 22-year-old player with 4 years of NCAA Division 3 football and a strong highlight video messaged me: “Ric, why won’t anyone respond?”He had spent 5 months contacting agencies.Not one responded.The reason had nothing to do with his talent. It had everything to do with whether he had built enough value for an agent to invest time into him.In this video, I explain exactly how football representation works from the inside, why most players approach agents the wrong way, and what you actually need to build before clubs and agents start taking you seriously.Most players think the solution is sending more emails, improving their subject line, or finding more agents.That is usually the wrong approach.Professional football runs on proof. Agents, clubs, and scouts need evidence that you can perform at the next level.That means building:Competitive match experienceProfessional appearancesA strong football CVVerified performance dataThe right network and strategyIf you want to understand where you currently stand and what your realistic next move is, apply for a free consultation:https://go.ricfit.com/podcast-spotify
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  RicFit Case Study: He Lost $80,000 Chasing Football Dreams… Then This Happened 13.10.2026 19m

  Brian spent 10 years chasing opportunities in football. After failed experiences, expensive promises, and almost giving up, he finally found a structured pathway that helped him earn a professional opportunity in Europe.This is the reality of football: talent is not enough. Players need the right preparation, strategy, exposure, and people around them.If you are an overlooked player trying to reach the next level, this is what the journey actually looks like.Apply for RicFit:https://go.ricfit.com/podcast-spotify
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  From Germany’s 6th Tier to a 12+ Year Pro Career | Jake Keegan | Ep. 117 12.10.2026 1h 43m

  Jake Keegan was once told he wasn’t good enough to play NCAA Division I soccer.He went on to become Binghamton University’s leading Division I goalscorer, earn a Philadelphia Union draft selection, start his professional journey in Germany’s 6th tier, play in Ireland, Canada and the United States, and build a professional career lasting more than a decade.But his path was anything but straightforward.Jake spent months searching for opportunities, went on trials that led nowhere, accepted a contract far below the level he ultimately wanted to reach, lived with other American players in difficult conditions, dealt with injuries, changed clubs and eventually had to adapt from being a key starter to an experienced veteran.In this episode Jake breaks down what actually allowed him to stay in professional football for more than a decade.We cover:• Why starting at a lower level can accelerate your career• Going from Germany’s 6th tier to professional football in Ireland• Getting drafted by Philadelphia Union• Why relationships can create opportunities agents cannot• How to network with players, coaches and football decision-makers• Why players need to understand their real market value• The mistake of trying to jump levels before dominating your current one• How Jake has stayed healthy into his mid-30s• Dealing with rejection, injuries and losing your starting position• Why character matters more than most young players realize• What life as a professional footballer actually looks likeJake’s career is proof of an important principle:Your first opportunity does not need to be your dream opportunity. It needs to give you a legitimate platform to perform, build evidence and earn the next one.If you’re an overlooked college, amateur or semi-professional player trying to build a pathway toward professional football, this episode shows what that process can actually look like.Follow Jake Keegan:Instagram: @keegan.jakeWant help building your pathway toward professional football?Apply through the link below to speak with the RicFit team: https://ricfit.typeform.com/to/QvxmnMny
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  The Step by Step Process to Sign a Pro Contract without an EU Passport 30.10.2025 30m

  For non-European players, breaking into the professional game overseas can feel impossible without an EU passport. But there’s a proven path. In this episode, we walk through the exact step-by-step process that helps players overcome visa barriers, land trials, and secure contracts abroad. From choosing the right countries to building a standout profile, you’ll learn how to navigate the system and create opportunities; even when the odds are stacked against you.
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  Why You’ll Never Go Pro If You Stay in the U.S (The TRUTH) 24.10.2025 15m

  The U.S. system is stacked against late bloomers and overlooked players chasing a professional career. In this episode, we break down why staying in the States makes it almost impossible to go pro; and what you need to do instead. From the flaws in college soccer to the realities of the American pathway, we expose the hard truths most players don’t want to hear. If you’re serious about signing a contract, this is the wake-up call that could change your future.
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  How 7MLC Signed His First Pro Deal at 30 Years Old 22.10.2025 8m

  Most players are told their dream is over by their mid-20s; but 7MLC proved otherwise. At 30 years old, he signed his first professional contract, defying every expectation. In this episode, we unpack his late-bloomer journey, the relentless work behind it, and the lessons any player chasing the pro dream can apply. If you’ve ever felt like time is running out, this story shows it’s never too late to make it happen.
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  D3 to Bundesliga (An American to Bundesliga) 19.10.2025 11m

  Going from U.S. Division 3 college soccer to the Bundesliga sounds impossible; but it’s been done. In this episode, we dive into the journey of an American player who climbed from the overlooked D3 level all the way to Germany’s top flight. You’ll hear the mindset shifts, sacrifices, and strategic moves that made the leap possible. If you’ve ever been told your level or background isn’t enough, this story will change the way you see what’s possible in football.
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  How to Sign as a Pro Without Connections 15.10.2025 19m

  Most players believe you need an agent, a big academy background, or powerful connections to sign your first pro deal. The truth? You don’t. In this episode, we reveal how overlooked footballers break through without a network of contacts. From building your own opportunities, to crafting a standout profile, to landing trials the smart way; you’ll learn the exact steps that turn underdogs into professionals. If you’ve ever felt like the odds are stacked against you, this episode proves you can still make it happen.
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  Playing for Lyon How to Turn PRO No Matter Where You're From! 15.10.2025 12m

  Playing for Lyon How to Turn PRO No Matter Where You're From!In this episode you will hear the story of what it was like to play for Lyon and the lessons learned on the journey to becoming a professional. We break down the mindset, training habits, and career moves that prove it does not matter where you come from or what path you take, there is always a way to reach the pro level.If you are chasing a contract this conversation will give you practical steps and the belief that your background does not define your ceiling.
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  From Being Told He'd Never Make It, To Playing In Bundesliga... 12.10.2025 12m

  From Being Told He'd Never Make It, To Playing In Bundesliga...This is the story of a player who was counted out early in his career and told he would never make it. Instead of giving up he used that doubt as fuel and went on to play in one of the best leagues in the world, the Bundesliga.In this episode we dive into his journey, the setbacks he had to overcome, and the mindset that carried him through. It is a powerful reminder that belief, persistence, and hard work can take you further than anyone else’s opinion.
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  Stop Asking for Trials, Do THIS to Get Signed Instead! 08.10.2025 11m

  Stop Asking for Trials, Do THIS to Get Signed Instead!Most players waste years begging for trials and never get the chance they are chasing. In this episode I break down the smarter approach that actually gets you noticed and signed. You will learn how to build leverage as a player, the strategies scouts and agents really respect, and the steps you can take today to stand out without sending thousands of unanswered messages.If you are serious about going pro this will completely change the way you think about trials and give you a clear path to creating real opportunities.
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  How to Defend Against Messi [Jay DeMerit Story] 05.10.2025 11m

  How to Defend Against Messi [Jay DeMerit Story]Former USMNT captain Jay DeMerit shares his story of what it was really like to go up against Lionel Messi on the pitch. From the preparation to the mindset to the reality of trying to stop the best player in the world this is an inside look at a once in a lifetime challenge.If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to face greatness head on this story will give you a glimpse into the mentality and experience of defending at the highest level.
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  What it Actually Takes to Sign at FC Barcelona 01.10.2025 10m

  What it Actually Takes to Sign at FC BarcelonaEveryone dreams of playing for a club like FC Barcelona but few truly understand the level it takes to get there. In this clip we break down what it really means to sign at one of the biggest clubs in the world. From the insane technical standards to the discipline and sacrifice off the pitch to the mindset that separates the world class from the almost made its, you’ll hear the truth behind the Barça badge.If you’ve ever wondered how close you are to that level or what you need to change to get there this clip will open your eyes to the reality of elite football.
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  24 Tips to Succeed at a Pro Trial (GUARANTEED!) 28.09.2025 23m

  24 Tips to Succeed at a Pro Trial:Every footballer dreams of getting their shot at a professional trial; but the truth is, most players blow their opportunity before it even really begins. In this episode, I break down 24 of the most important tips I’ve learned from my own career as a player, GM, and agent. From the small details that scouts are secretly watching, to the mindset and habits that separate the ones who sign from the ones who get sent home; I cover it all.Whether you’ve got a trial lined up or you’re preparing for your first chance, this episode will give you a clear roadmap on how to stand out, stay ready, and make the most of the opportunity. These are practical, battle-tested lessons you won’t find in a Google search; straight from real experience in the professional game.
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  How I Failed to Build a Pro Club Pt. 3 (The Final Episode) 25.09.2025 9m

  In the final part of this series, I close out the story of my failed attempt to build a professional football club in Latvia. This is where everything came to a head; the breaking point, the fallout, and the moment I had to walk away. I share the hardest lessons I took from the experience, how I processed the failure, and why it ultimately became one of the most important turning points in my career.Part 3 isn’t just about endings, it’s about what happens next. I talk about how I rebuilt myself after the collapse, how the lessons from that journey shaped the way I now approach business and football, and why failure can sometimes be the foundation for your biggest future wins.If you’ve been following Parts 1 and 2, this episode ties it all together; the vision, the downfall, and the perspective I gained from the entire journey.