096: Jesse González of FC Dallas

After joining the FC Dallas Development Academy at 14, Jesse González quickly caught the attention of coaches and teammates. The 6′ 4″ keeper was working with the first team as early as 2012 and backing up the first-team starters by 2014. By late 2015 – shortly after his 20th birthday – he had already earned the starting jersey.

In today’s episode, Jesse talks about a decade spent in the FC Dallas organization, including the last four as their everyday starter. He discusses the benefits of the DA, the important role that GK Coach Drew Keeshan has played in his development, and many of the ups and downs that have marked his journey. Despite some rough patches along the way, Jesse is excelling as the Dallas #1, and just signed a four-year extension in January.

In addition to his youth development and professional career, Jesse also discusses his success at the international level. After leading the Mexican U20s to a CONCACAF championship in 2015, he has switched his FIFA registration to the United States and aspires to one day defend the goal of the U.S. senior national team.

It’s a brief – but concentrated – interview. I hope you enjoy it!

Special thanks to Jesse González for joining me!