In this episode of The Insider’s Lounge, we dive into the journey and mindset of Dominic Casciato, head coach of Union Omaha, who led the club to back-to-back success as the 2023 and 2024 USL League One Players’ Shield Winners and the 2024 USL League One Playoff Champions.

Dominic shares his incredible story, starting from his early soccer memories in the UK and his coaching stints at St. John’s University, Dix Hills FC, and Jersey Express, where he developed his coaching philosophy and passion for player development. He reflects on his transformative experience in Spain with RCD Espanyol, where he learned from some of the best players and coaches, and his return to the U.S. to work with clubs like the New York Cosmos and El Paso Locomotive.

We also explore Dominic’s time as a scout with FC Midtjylland, gaining insights into player analysis and recruitment. The conversation highlights his success with Union Omaha, where he shares how he developed underappreciated talent, managed a limited budget, and built a positive team environment that led to championship-winning squads in consecutive years. Dominic opens up about the challenges and joys of professional coaching, offering valuable insights into his journey and thought process.

Lastly, we want to acknowledge the tragic incident involving Union Omaha defender Mechack Jerome, his wife, and his cousin. They remain in critical condition after an explosion at their home.

To support their recovery, Union Omaha are organizing efforts to raise funds and provide assistance. An online auction featuring signed sports memorabilia will take place, and a GoFundMe has been set up to help with their medical expenses.

Auction: https://auctria.events/ShirtsForMechack
GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/81537087

If you have any items you’re able to donate for the auction to raise money for Mechack and his family, please contact us at theinsiderslounge@gmail.com.

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Chapters:
00:00 Special Disclaimer: Mechack Jerome
00:57 Intro
02:56 Childhood and Family Upbringing
05:43 Time at St. John's University
08:07 Coaching at Dix Hills FC & Jersey Express
13:15 Journey to RCD Espanyol
19:42 Returning to the US: New York Cosmos & El Paso Locomotive
23:04 First 6 Months Coaching at a Professional Club
25:29 Helping a Good Team Get Better
30:05 Developing Youth Players in El Paso
33:28 What Brings Dominic Joy as a Coach
36:33 FC Midtjylland: Insights from a Video Scout
39:43 Behind the Scenes of the 2023 Players’ Shield-Winning Season
44:12 Believing in Yourself as a Head Coach
46:10 Developing Underappreciated Talent
47:50 Setting Objectives to Advance Players' Careers
48:52 Recruiting Players on a Limited Budget
50:59 Comparing the 2023 and 2024 Winning Squads
53:37 Quick-Fire Questions
55:30 Outro