This episode of the Cannon Crue podcast delves into the intricate journey of goalkeeper Christian Gardner, who shares insights into his formative years in soccer, his collegiate experiences at Boston College and Northwestern, and his transition to professional play. We express our gratitude to Craig for graciously allowing us access to Proof on King Street for this recording, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to Chris Gardner for his invaluable contributions to our discussion. The episode further addresses the technical nuances of goalkeeping, emphasizing the importance of mental fortitude and adaptability amidst the challenges of the sport. Additionally, we acknowledge the unfortunate difficulties encountered by our camera crue during the interview, for which we offer our sincere apologies. Their performance has led to a restructuring of our filming team and he has been sacked.

Listeners are invited into the world of professional soccer through this engaging episode of the Cannon Crue podcast, featuring an enlightening conversation with Christian Garner, goalkeeper for the Charleston Battery. Garner shares his compelling journey from a small town in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, to the professional soccer field, highlighting the various challenges he faced along the way. The discussion begins with Garner's early involvement in soccer, where he played for local clubs and participated in the Olympic Development Program, setting the stage for his future aspirations. He reflects on the limitations of opportunities in his hometown, prompting him to seek broader avenues for growth and development. Garner's relationship with his family, particularly his older brothers, plays a pivotal role in his story, as they provided both support and the competitive drive necessary for his development as an athlete.

Transitioning into his collegiate career, Garner recounts his time at the Brooks School, a prestigious institution known for its soccer program. He speaks candidly about the challenges he encountered, including the pressure of competing against highly skilled peers and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset amidst adversity. Garner's experience at Boston College further emphasizes the rigorous demands of collegiate athletics, as he navigated the complexities of balancing academics with sports. The podcast also explores the mental resilience required of goalkeepers, a position often characterized by solitude and high stakes. Garner reflects on the lessons learned from these experiences and how they have shaped his approach to the game.

As the episode progresses, the conversation touches upon Garner's transition to professional soccer with the Pittsburgh Riverhounds and his eventual move to the Charleston Battery. He discusses the differences in the playing environment and the significance of teamwork and camaraderie in achieving collective goals. This episode encapsulates the essence of dedication, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the world of sports.

Chris also dishes up his thoughts on some of his team mates. I just say shame for those who are late for the team bus and who thing they are funny, but really are not. Shame.

From the Crue, thank you Chris!!

Takeaways:

• The importance of perseverance and self-belief is a recurring theme throughout Chris Gardner's journey in soccer.
• Chris emphasizes the significance of education alongside athletics, demonstrating a dual commitment to both pursuits.
• The challenges of transitioning from college soccer to professional leagues highlight the competitive nature of the sport.
• Experiences shared by Chris reveal how support from family and peers can influence an athlete's career trajectory.
• The necessity of adaptability and continuous improvement is critical for success as a goalkeeper and in life.
• Chris discusses the unique mental fortitude required to succeed as a