Casey Stoney Catches Sam Mewis Off Guard Amidst Discussing American Soccer Coaching Issue: “Only Focus on Winning”

“It’s an absolute disaster,” Landon Donovan once remarked while commenting on the current youth soccer environment in the United States. For someone who has played at the highest level in both international and domestic leagues, let alone coach teams, his words underscore the severity of the situation. Well, he isn’t alone now, as Casey Stoney is the latest to join the conversation. While simultaneously leaving Sam Mewis off-guard, the new CanWNT boss criticized the American coaching culture for prioritizing winning over the ‘development’ of players.

But isn’t it a manager’s job to win games? Precisely, yes—but beyond that, they also have additional responsibilities. This perspective becomes even clearer when looking at Stoney’s journey. During her playing days, being coached by different types of managers gave her a unique understanding of the game. However, as she transitioned into coaching, her interpretation of the game has likely evolved compared to how she once saw it.

“I think it’s now the job of making sure that there’s a game understanding and technical proficiency,” began Stoney while speaking on the latest podcast episode of The Women’s Game podcast. “That starts with the coaching; that starts with youth game and that’s a hard balance because Americans are so good at that winning mentality.”

However, as they say, one can be hoisted with one’s own issues—having a winning mentality comes with its drawbacks. “That’s also a negative because sometimes coaches only focus on winning and not the development of their players and that kind of negates. So it’s a hard balance,” added Casey, insisting that one must find a way to retain a winning mentality while simultaneously developing players.

Well, think of it this way—if Emma Hayes had told the USWNT players to focus solely on winning during the Paris Olympics, we reckon they would have returned home without a gold medal. To remind you, before the final against Brazil, the English tactician delivered a powerful last pep talk to the team. “I can sit here and say to you, ‘Listen, this game is about a gold medal and winning a gold medal.’ Actually, it’s not.”

Instead, she emphasized that it was about seizing another opportunity to play alongside their teammates. She urged them to approach the game with that mindset before adding, “I’m proud of you.” So you can understand how crucial it is to create that balance. In fact, it’s something that Casey Stoney found quite appealing in Sam Mewis.

Sam Mewis receives unexpected flowers from Casey Stoney

Before sharing her perspective on American coaching, the newly hired Canada WNT coach fired some heartfelt words for Mewis in the podcast. “I have to say, though, you were an unbelievable athlete but an exceptionally talented player. You had everything,” said the former San Diego Wave manager.

As the praise came out of the blue, Mewis was left with a big smile. But it didn’t end here, as Stoney recalled a time when her team was set to face Mewis’ side. The former Chelsea and Arsenal star claimed that she was quite relieved to see the midfielder on the bench. She even admitted in that moment that her side had ‘got a chance of winning today.’

Stoney further praised Mewis for her rare combination of athleticism and technical ability. The now manager recalled Sam’s power to drive through midfield while maintaining exceptional control. She also acknowledged the impact Mewis had on the field. As for the reaction, the podcast host was left in awe. Indeed, game recognizes game.