“Thank you for joining me today. Let’s jump right into the interview.” With these words, an engaging conversation unfolds with Damon Gochneaur, offering a glimpse into the captivating journey of the Denton Diablos Soccer Club. Co-founded by Gochneaur in 2018, this Texas-based soccer club has embraced a vision that transcends the boundaries of the pitch.

The origins of the Denton Diablos Soccer Club are traced back to a realization in 2018. As passionate Fort Worth Vaqueros season ticket holders, the founder recognized an untapped potential in Denton. This vibrant city seemed primed for soccer’s expansion, possessing all the necessary elements to craft a top-tier organization. Driven by this vision, the Diablos were born, solidifying their place in competitive soccer.

A Glance at Glory: The Triumphs and Trials

As the interview unfolds, a testament to the Diablos’ resounding success in the 2023 season emerges. The club achieved record-breaking home game attendance figures, underscoring the enthusiasm of their fanbase. The third consecutive win of the Chisholm Trail Clasico Belt added another feather to their cap, reinforcing their prowess in local rivalries. The spotlight shone brighter with the club hosting its inaugural international match against UANL Tigres, further cementing their status as a powerhouse.

Yet, the season was not without its challenges. While marked by milestones, the Diablos fell short of their goal of clinching the NPSL Lone Star Conference playoffs. However, Head Coach Armando Pelaez and his staff’s commitment to nurturing young talent painted a promising picture. With an average game day age of just 21 years, the Diablos showcased their dedication to building a team that combines potential with experience.

Looking Ahead: Crafting a Bright Future

The 2023/24 season beckons with renewed aspirations. The Diablos’ foremost objective remains consistent: qualifying for the Lone Star Conference playoffs. Armed with valuable insights from the previous season, the club is focused on capitalizing on its successes, addressing growth opportunities, and taking measured steps forward. The development of their youth team ranks stands as a testament to their investment in the sport’s future.

The conversation turns to the club’s vision for the future. Beyond the immediate goals lies a commitment to their mission – providing young men and women the platform to pursue soccer dreams on and off the field. The notion of introducing a women’s component reflects their inclusivity. The emphasis on community engagement, through collaboration with the Denton Soccer Association and the G.O.A.L. program, demonstrates their dedication to fostering a love for soccer from grassroots levels.

Cultivating Talent: The Essence of Player Development

The Diablos’ dedication to nurturing player skills is evident in their multifaceted approach. The partnership with the G.O.A.L. program brings no-cost skills clinics to local students, while collaboration with the Denton Soccer Association extends support to players and volunteer coaches. The introduction of youth teams at U18 and U14 levels signifies a commitment to providing developmental pathways for players across age groups. International competitions add a layer of challenge, allowing players to face top youth teams worldwide and refine their abilities.

As the conversation shifts to the state of soccer in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, the complexity and maturity of the youth soccer market come into focus. An array of leagues and levels often leaves fans bewildered. The interviewee’s call for unity and a holistic approach to player development resonates strongly. Drawing inspiration from global models, the plea is for reimagining youth development that aligns with the sport’s true essence.

A Visionary’s Approach to Growth

In the closing moments of the interview, the focus turns to the broader landscape of non-MLS soccer. Three pivotal steps are highlighted as potential catalysts for growth:

Unification and Simplification: Consolidating and streamlining lower-level soccer leagues to eliminate confusion and provide a more coherent product to fans.
Partnerships and Visibility: Attracting corporate sponsorships and securing a meaningful broadcast partner to generate revenue, fostering financial sustainability across member clubs.
Promotion and Relegation: Introducing a system of promotion and relegation from Division 2 to Division 5 to infuse competition, passion, and aspiration throughout the non-MLS soccer hierarchy.

The interview, a captivating glimpse into the world of the Denton Diablos Soccer Club, encapsulates the club’s journey, dreams, aspirations, and unwavering commitment to the beautiful game. With a trail of successes and a roadmap for the future, the Denton Diablos are poised to etch their legacy on the canvas of American soccer.

- Ben Brannigan