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Jimmy Conrad
Jimmy Conrad
from Wikipedia

James Paul Conrad (born February 12, 1977) is an American former soccer player who played as a defender. During his 13-year MLS career, he was four-time MLS Best XI and the 2005 MLS Defender of the Year. He also earned 27 caps with the United States men's national soccer team and went to the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

Key Information

After his playing career Conrad has worked in the media industry[1] and currently stars on his YouTube channel Jimmy Conrad, he also streams on Twitch regularly. He currently serves as the technical director of USL League Two side San Francisco Glens.

Early life

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On February 12, 1977, Conrad was born in Arcadia, California. Conrad attended Temple City High School in Temple City, California.[2][3]

Conrad attended Temple City High School in Temple City, California and was a four-year letterman in soccer. Conrad played at San Diego State University in 1994 and 1995, and then transferred to the University of California, Los Angeles. While playing for UCLA, he was a member of the 1997 NCAA Championship team.

Playing career

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Professional

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Undrafted by MLS, Conrad had an unsuccessful trial with the Los Angeles Galaxy. However, the Galaxy coaching staff recommended he play for one of their affiliated lower division teams. Consequently, Conrad contacted the now-defunct San Diego Flash of the A-League which gave him a contract. In 1999, Brian Quinn became the head coach of the San Jose Clash. When Quinn began searching for an additional defender and goalkeeper for the Clash, Ralf Wilhelms, head coach of the Flash and a former teammate of Quinn on the San Diego Sockers, recommended Conrad and Flash goalkeeper Joe Cannon.[4] The Clash signed Conrad that year. He played with the club, later re-branded as the Earthquakes, for four seasons, helping them to the MLS Cup in 2001. In 2000, he also played for Lech Poznań in Poland.

In 2003, Conrad was traded to the Wizards for a second-round draft pick, which the 'Quakes used to select Arturo Alvarez. Conrad's stock rose while with Kansas City; never a big scorer, he tallied four goals during his first season (he has ten in his MLS career). In 2004, he helped the Wizards to the US Open Cup and the MLS Cup Final as the leader of the league's stingiest defense and was named to the league's Best XI and was a finalist for MLS Defender of the Year Award. He won the award a year later.

Despite rumors of a possible European transfer following the Wizards' disappointing 2006 season, Conrad renewed his contract with the Wizards beginning the 2007 season, and new head coach Curt Onalfo rewarded him the club captaincy.

Conrad was out of contract after the 2010 MLS season and elected to participate in the 2010 MLS Re-Entry Draft. On December 15, 2010, Conrad was selected by Chivas USA in Stage 2 of the Re-Entry draft.[5] He made his debut, and scored his first goal for his new team on March 19, 2011, in their first game of the 2011 MLS season – ironically against his old club, Sporting Kansas City.[6]

After struggling with injury during the 2011 season, and suffering from side effects of six concussions, Jimmy Conrad announced his retirement from professional soccer on August 18, 2011.[7]

International

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Conrad received his first cap for the United States national team on July 7, 2005, in a Gold Cup match against Cuba. Less than one year later, Conrad made the U.S. roster for the 2006 FIFA World Cup. In Germany, Conrad came in as a substitute against Italy in the team's 1–1 draw with the eventual champions, and played all ninety minutes against Ghana. On January 20, 2007, Conrad captained the national team for the second time, where the United States hosted an international friendly with Denmark. The U.S. won that match 3–1. On February 7, 2007, in an international friendly with Mexico, Conrad was named the Man of the Match. He scored his first-ever goal for the U.S. in the fifty-second minute of that match. On June 25, 2009, after not having played with the national team in previous qualifying, Conrad was named to the U.S. squad for the CONCACAF Gold Cup.[8]

Coaching

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In September 2018, Conrad became technical director and head associate coach of the San Francisco Glens.[9] He was named head coach of the Glens ahead of the 2020 season.[10] In 2022, Conrad returned to his role as technical director and head associate coach for the Glens to work with new head coach Gabe Saucedo. The club made the USL League Two playoffs for the first time that season, upsetting top-seeded Capital FC before bowing out in the Western Conference semifinals.

Awards

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Personal life

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Conrad's wife is Lyndsey Conrad. They have two daughters, Julia Rose Conrad, born in 2007, Jane Mirabelle Conrad, born 2011.[3] He is a correspondent for the UEFA Champions League and Europa League for CBS Sports. Conrad is an avid supporter of Premier League side Newcastle United.[13]

Honors

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College

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UCLA

Club

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San Diego Surf

San Jose Earthquakes

Kansas City Wizards

International

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United States

Individual

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Jimmy Conrad (born February 12, 1977) is an American former professional soccer player who spent 13 seasons as a defender in (MLS) from 1999 to 2011, appearing in 290 regular season games and earning widespread recognition for his tenacity and leadership on the field. Born in , Conrad began his soccer journey in youth leagues with the San Diego Surf, where he helped win a U-20 , before starring at Temple City High School and then in college at and the (UCLA), where he contributed to an championship in 1997 while studying mathematics. Conrad launched his professional career with the in 1999, winning the in 2001 as part of a squad that also claimed the that year, before being traded to the Kansas City Wizards (now ) in 2003, where he spent the prime of his career and became a fan favorite over seven seasons. In Kansas City, he anchored the defense, scoring 20 goals across his MLS tenure—impressive for a center back—and helped the team reach the final in 2004. He later played for from 2010 until his retirement in 2011 following a that prompted health concerns. Conrad's individual honors include the 2005 MLS Defender of the Year award, four selections to the (2004, 2005, 2006, and 2008), and five appearances in the , underscoring his status as one of the league's premier defenders during the 2000s. Additionally, he was named the 2009 MLS Humanitarian of the Year for his off-field contributions, including community work and advocacy for player welfare as a member of the MLS Players Association Executive Board from 2006 to 2011. On the international stage, Conrad earned 28 caps for the men's national team between 2005 and 2010, scoring one goal, and was selected for the squad in , where he made substitute appearances in group stage matches against the and . His debut came in 2005, and he remained a reliable option for coach during a transitional period for the USMNT. After retiring from playing, Conrad pivoted to media and soccer development, becoming a prominent soccer analyst and co-host for Golazo Network, covering major competitions like the and the USMNT, while also serving as CEO of Radical Creative Group and pursuing coaching opportunities, including roles in youth academies and technical directing.

Early life

Upbringing and education

Jimmy Conrad was born on February 12, 1977, in , to parents Kim and Pam Conrad. He grew up in the nearby suburb of , where he spent his early childhood developing an interest in soccer through informal play, including kicking a ball around the backyard with his Danish grandfather. This familial encouragement laid the groundwork for his lifelong passion for the sport. Conrad's initial organized soccer experience began at age six with the (AYSO) in Temple City, specifically Region 98, where he played on the Blues Brothers U6 team and progressed through various age groups. From ages six to eleven, he participated in AYSO, earning spots on multiple all-star teams and enjoying the camaraderie of recreational play. At around age ten or eleven, he transitioned into more competitive club soccer while continuing some AYSO involvement for its social aspects. During his high school years, Conrad attended Temple City High School in , where he lettered in soccer for all four years on the , marking the beginning of his more structured athletic development. Concurrently, from ages eleven to nineteen, he played for local clubs, including the Santa Anita Stallions and later the San Diego Surf, with his youth career culminating in winning the U20 National Championship with the San Diego Surf. These experiences honed his skills without immediate professional opportunities. Following high school graduation, Conrad pursued higher education at the (UCLA), studying and forgoing an immediate jump to professional soccer in favor of collegiate development.

Youth and college soccer

Conrad developed as a defender in his prominent youth club career with the San Diego Surf, a prominent club in , where he achieved significant success. His tenure with the Surf culminated in winning the U.S. Under-20 National Club Championship in 1997, marking a key milestone before transitioning to higher levels of competition. In college, Conrad initially enrolled at , playing for the during the 1994 and 1995 seasons as a and . However, he saw limited playing time in those two years, appearing in only a handful of matches while adjusting to the collegiate level. Seeking greater opportunities, he transferred to the (UCLA) for the 1996 and 1997 seasons, where he earned a spot on the Bruins' roster as a walk-on. At UCLA, Conrad emerged as a starting central defender, contributing significantly to the team's defensive solidity during their successful 1997 campaign. He started in key matches, including the NCAA Tournament run, helping the Bruins secure the 1997 Men's Soccer Championship with a 1-0 victory over in the final. His performances that season highlighted his growth into a reliable organizer at the back, anchoring a defense that conceded few goals en route to the title under coach Sigi Schmid. Following the , Conrad opted to forgo any remaining eligibility and pursue professional soccer, despite receiving no initial offers from clubs.

Playing career

Professional career

Conrad began his professional soccer career in 1998 with the San Diego Flash of the USISL A-League, where he made 26 appearances and scored 2 goals, gaining valuable experience against professional opposition including friendlies with Mexican clubs and Necaxa. In 1999, he had a brief loan to the San Francisco Seals, making 1 appearance. He entered later that year with the , making his MLS debut on against the and quickly establishing himself as a reliable defender. Over four seasons with San Jose from 1999 to 2002, Conrad appeared in 84 regular-season matches, scoring 2 goals and providing 2 assists, while contributing to the team's defensive solidity. His tenure peaked in 2001, when he started 21 of 22 regular-season games and played a key role in the Earthquakes' victory, defeating the Los Angeles Galaxy 2-1 in the final. Conrad's versatility allowed him to play both center back and defensive midfielder, earning him recognition as a foundational player during San Jose's early successes. Prior to the 2003 season, Conrad was traded to the Kansas City in exchange for a second-round draft pick, marking a significant shift that elevated his career. From 2003 to 2010, he became a cornerstone of the Wizards' defense, accumulating 204 regular-season appearances, 17 goals, and 4 assists—setting a club record for goals by a defender. In , Conrad captained the Wizards to their first title, defeating the Rochester Rhinos 1-0 in the final, and led the team to the final, where they fell 3-2 to after extra time. His standout 2005 season earned him MLS Defender of the Year honors, with 25 starts in a league-best defensive unit that conceded just 29 goals, and he was selected to the four times (, 2005, 2006, and 2008) during his Kansas City years. Conrad's leadership and consistency were pivotal, as he started over 200 matches for the club and anchored a backline that supported multiple playoff runs. After declining to re-sign with Kansas City following the 2010 season, Conrad was selected second overall by in the MLS Re-Entry Draft and joined the club for his final professional year in 2011. Limited by injuries, he appeared in only 2 regular-season matches, scoring 1 goal in a 2-3 loss to on March 19. On August 18, 2011, Conrad announced his at age 34, citing a history of repeated concussions—including a mild one sustained in March 2011 that sidelined him indefinitely—as the primary reason, despite medical clearance to return earlier in the season. Over his 13-year MLS career spanning 308 appearances (regular season and playoffs) and 20 goals across all clubs, Conrad exemplified longevity and adaptability as a defender and , earning respect as one of the league's most durable players. During his peak club years, he also earned 28 caps with the U.S. national team.

International career

Conrad earned his first senior cap for the United States men's national team (USMNT) on July 7, 2005, during a group stage match against , where he started and played the full 90 minutes in a 4-1 victory. This debut came after strong performances with in , which caught the attention of coach . Conrad featured in all six matches of the 2005 Gold Cup, contributing to the U.S. team's triumph as they won the tournament with a 2-0 final victory over . Over his international career from 2005 to 2010, Conrad accumulated 28 caps and scored one goal—a game-winning strike in a 2-0 friendly victory against rival on February 7, 2007. His appearances included qualifiers, such as starts in 2008 matches against and , and several friendlies that showcased his versatility as a right back and central defender during the team's transitional period under . Conrad's peak involvement occurred around 2006-2008, with consistent call-ups reflecting his defensive reliability and leadership on the pitch. A surprise inclusion in the squad, Conrad played a key role in the group stage, substituting in the 38th minute during a 1-1 draw with eventual champions and starting the full 90 minutes in a 2-1 loss to , helping maintain defensive solidity amid injuries to key players. He returned to the national team in 2009 after an extended absence, captaining the side in a Gold Cup quarterfinal against before suffering a first-half injury that sidelined him for the semifinal. Call-ups declined post-2008 due to club injuries and shifts in team personnel, with his final appearance coming in a January 23, 2010, friendly against . Throughout his tenure, Conrad provided tactical stability during a rebuilding phase for the USMNT, often praised for his work rate and ability to fill multiple defensive roles.

Post-retirement career

Coaching roles

Following his retirement from professional soccer in 2011, Conrad entered in September 2018 when he was appointed technical director and head associate of club SC, where he focused on player development and club infrastructure. In February 2020, he progressed to of the Glens, succeeding Javier Ayala-Hil, with responsibilities including team strategy and youth integration into the senior squad. Under Conrad's leadership as in 2020, the Glens emphasized player pathways from to professional levels, though the season was disrupted by the . By early 2022, Conrad reassumed his role as while Gabe Saucedo took over as ; in this capacity, he contributed to the club's first-ever appearance in the national playoffs that year, prioritizing talent scouting and long-term development over immediate results. Conrad continued as through the 2023 season and remains in the role as of 2025, supporting the team's competitive efforts and programs. Post-2023, Conrad joined Marin Football Club in a coaching capacity, serving as a youth team coach and contributing to program building within the club's academy structure, including ECNL and ECRL pathways for players aged U14 and above, while maintaining his position at the Glens. His involvement at Marin emphasizes hands-on training for young athletes, drawing on his playing experience to foster technical skills and in a competitive environment. Conrad holds a US Soccer B License, which equips him to lead advanced training sessions and player evaluations in semi-professional and youth settings. He completed the B coaching course in 2025, with plans to pursue the A license in 2026; these European certifications enhance his ability to implement modern tactical methodologies and international best practices in his roles at Marin FC, the Glens, and beyond. Throughout his coaching tenure, Conrad has pursued a broader mission to elevate American soccer by prioritizing youth training and grassroots initiatives, including his work as an AYSO alumnus to promote volunteer-led programs that emphasize fun and skill-building over early specialization. He has also served in technical directing capacities for teams like the Glens, organizing pick-up soccer events to engage hundreds of players in unstructured play that counters over-coaching and builds community passion for the sport.

Broadcasting and media work

Following his retirement from professional soccer in 2011, Jimmy Conrad transitioned into media and broadcasting, leveraging his extensive playing experience to provide insightful commentary on the sport. In 2016, he launched his personal YouTube channel, "TheJimmyConrad," which focuses on soccer analysis, vlogs, player interviews, and fan interactions, amassing over 118,000 subscribers and approximately 51,000 views as of November 2025. His content often draws on his background as a four-time MLS Best XI selection and USMNT defender to break down tactics and match highlights, fostering engagement within the American soccer community. Conrad expanded his digital presence to Twitch, where he regularly streams live soccer commentary, news discussions, and banter sessions under the handle "jimmyconrad," emphasizing interactive fan experiences around MLS, USMNT, and international competitions. This platform complements his efforts, allowing real-time engagement on topics like player transfers and league developments, contributing to his role as a prominent voice in online soccer media. In 2020, Conrad joined as a correspondent, initially covering and Europa League matches, and has since become a key analyst for the CBS Sports Golazo Network. As of 2025, he contributes to studio shows analyzing MLS, , and USMNT games, while co-hosting the weekly podcast "Call It What You Want" alongside and , where they dissect national team strategies and domestic league issues. His television work highlights his expertise in defensive play, informed by his professional career, to offer balanced critiques of ongoing matches and team performances. Beyond broadcasting, Conrad has contributed to soccer media through the MLS Players Association, including guest appearances on their "Play by Players" podcast series, where he shares insights on career transitions and player experiences. In a 2025 , he reflected on how his media roles have served as a bridge to future opportunities, emphasizing as a way to stay connected to the sport's evolution. These efforts have helped build his personal brand, promoting American soccer through viral podcast episodes—such as discussions on USMNT squad selections—and collaborations with networks like , reaching millions and inspiring fan growth in the U.S. Additionally, Conrad serves as CEO of Radical Creative Group, a venture focused on soccer development and media projects.

Honors and awards

College achievements

During his time at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Jimmy Conrad was a key contributor to the Bruins' success, particularly as a starter on the 1997 National Championship team. The UCLA men's soccer team, coached by Sigi Schmid, finished the season with a 22-2 record and defeated the 2-0 in the championship final on December 14, 1997, securing the program's third national title. Conrad, who had transferred from after playing there in 1994 and 1995, lettered for UCLA from 1996 to 1998 and played a defensive role in the team's undefeated run through the NCAA tournament, including a 1-0 semifinal victory over . Conrad's involvement in the championship squad marked his most notable collegiate honor, highlighting his development as a defender during his two seasons with the Bruins. While specific individual accolades such as all-conference selections or tournament MVP recognition are not prominently documented for his college tenure, his starting position on the title-winning underscored his reliability and impact on UCLA's defensive line that year.

Club honors

During his tenure with the San Jose Earthquakes from 1999 to 2003, Jimmy Conrad played a pivotal role in the team's defensive efforts, helping them secure the MLS Cup championship in 2001 after defeating the LA Galaxy 2-1 in overtime during the final at Columbus Crew Stadium. The Earthquakes advanced through the playoffs that year, including a Western Conference Final victory over the Dallas Burn, marking Conrad's first major professional team title after recovering from a mid-season foot injury. In 2002, the defending champions made another playoff appearance, reaching the Western Conference Semifinals before falling to the LA Galaxy. Conrad's move to the Kansas City in 2003 elevated the team's backline stability, culminating in significant achievements during the 2004 season. The captured the U.S. Open Cup that year, defeating the Chicago Fire 1-0 in extra time at , with Conrad anchoring the defense alongside teammates like Nick Garcia and Taylor Graham. They also reached the Final, finishing as runners-up after a 3-2 loss to , having navigated the playoffs by eliminating the and en route. Under Conrad's leadership in defense, the recorded the league's fewest goals conceded in the 2004 regular season, allowing just 30 goals across 30 matches. Throughout his eight seasons with the (2003–2010), Conrad contributed to multiple playoff runs, including quarterfinal appearances in 2007 and a strong regular-season finish in that positioned the team for postseason contention. His consistent presence helped foster one of the league's most reliable defenses during that era.

International accomplishments

Jimmy Conrad contributed to the men's national team's successful qualification for the during the final round, where the USMNT finished first with an undefeated record of six wins and three draws across 14 matches in the overall campaign, securing automatic qualification. He appeared in key fixtures, including a 0-0 draw against in September 2005, helping maintain defensive solidity as the team posted clean sheets in several decisive games. Conrad made his international debut during the , where he started in multiple group stage matches and the knockout rounds, aiding the USMNT in topping before defeating 2-1 in the semifinals and 0-0 (3-1 on penalties) in the final to claim the regional title. Four years later, he returned to the squad for the , featuring in the group stage match against (2-2 draw) and the quarterfinal victory over (2-1 after extra time), as the USMNT advanced to the final but fell 5-0 to . At the in , Conrad was a surprise inclusion on the 23-man roster and played in two group stage matches, including the 1-1 draw with and the 2-1 loss to , as the USMNT earned one point from three games and exited in the group phase. His consistent performances with the Kansas City Wizards in MLS that season supported his national team selection.

Individual recognitions

In 2005, Conrad was named the MLS Defender of the Year while playing for the , recognizing his pivotal role in anchoring a defense that allowed the fewest goals in during the regular season, with 25 starts and contributions to seven shutouts. Conrad earned selection to the four times, in 2004, 2005, 2006, and 2008, honors voted by league players that highlighted his consistent excellence as a center back, including strong aerial presence, tackling efficiency, and leadership in building from the back during those campaigns with the . He appeared in five MLS All-Star Games from 2004 to 2008, representing the Western Conference and showcasing his status among the league's elite defenders through standout performances in these exhibition matches against international opponents. In 2009, Conrad received the MLS Humanitarian of the Year award for his extensive community work, including promoting autism awareness, organizing youth soccer clinics, and leading school supply drives for underserved children in Kansas City.

Personal life

Family and relationships

Jimmy Conrad is married to Lyndsey Conrad, with whom he has shared a partnership throughout much of his professional soccer career. The couple has two daughters: Julia Rose Conrad, born in 2007, and Jane Mirabelle Conrad, born in 2011. Conrad's family life involved frequent relocations tied to his MLS career, including a move to Kansas City in 2003 after his time with the San Jose Earthquakes, where they established roots during his eight seasons with the Wizards before the family later relocated to Los Angeles for his time with Chivas USA. These transitions required balancing the demands of professional soccer with family stability, particularly as their daughters were born during his playing years. Lyndsey Conrad has been a key source of support in Jimmy's professional journey, notably contributing to his humanitarian initiatives, such as co-organizing community drives like the Wizards Wives Association's annual school supply collection. This familial backing extended to navigating the challenges of career moves and personal milestones, underscoring the role of family in sustaining his dedication to soccer and community involvement.

Interests and contributions to soccer

Conrad is an avid supporter of Newcastle United, the English club, having shifted his allegiance from Manchester United earlier in life. He has publicly expressed his fandom through appearances on supporter podcasts, where he discussed the club's 2021 Saudi-led and its potential to elevate Newcastle's competitiveness in the , including excitement over prospective signings like . As the most prominent Newcastle fan in , Conrad has shared his enthusiasm for the team's passionate fanbase and historical underdog status, often highlighting matches and club developments on . Beyond his personal fandom, Conrad has actively advocated for the growth of , drawing from his roots in the (AYSO). As an AYSO alumnus who began playing for the Blues Brothers U6 team in , in 1983 and continued for five years, he credits the program with igniting his passion for the sport and fostering lifelong friendships. In 2019, Conrad publicly urged support for AYSO via , stating, "If you want another #Conradinho to be developed, then please donate to the place where I got my start: @AYSO_Soccer!" to promote youth development and accessibility. His efforts extend to organizing pick-up soccer games in cities like , Portland, and , aiming to engage over 300 players in unstructured play that emphasizes freedom and enjoyment at levels. Conrad emphasizes volunteerism and reducing ego in youth soccer, sharing his experiences as a 28-cap U.S. international to inspire the next generation and elevate the sport beyond professional leagues. Conrad has also spoken openly about the risks of concussions from his playing career, advocating for greater player safety in soccer. Retiring in 2011 after suffering at least six—later reported as seven—concussions, he has described lingering symptoms and long-term uncertainties, stating, "I just don't know what's going to happen in 10 years because of the hits I've taken," and noting that "some symptoms don't show up for years." In a podcast discussion, he stressed the importance of prevention measures, such as improved protocols for heading and impact monitoring, to protect players' health moving forward. These public reflections highlight his commitment to raising awareness about brain injuries in the sport. Post-retirement, Conrad resides in , where he contributes to the local soccer community by promoting developmental initiatives and accessibility for players of all ages. His involvement underscores a broader focused on nurturing soccer's growth in urban settings, aligning with his passion for the sport's communal aspects.

References

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