HOW TO BECOME A PRO PLAYER
With Cole Bassett
In Episode 5 of the iATAC Soccer Podcast, we’re joined by Cole Bassett, midfielder for the Colorado Rapids and U.S. Men’s National Team. A homegrown talent from Colorado, Cole has carved out a remarkable path to professional soccer—rising through academy ranks, playing in Europe, and becoming a key player in Major League Soccer by age 23.
In this conversation with Michael Wright and Chris Martínez, Cole shares the behind-the-scenes realities of becoming a pro—from extra reps after training to developing confidence, resilience, and the habits that sustain elite performance. He also reflects on his time in the Netherlands, the mental skills that help him play “free,” and the daily routines that keep his body and mind sharp.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
⚽ What pro coaches look for in youth players—and how to stand out in training.
⚽ Why technical consistency and competitive spirit matter more than flashy skills.
⚽ How extra work off the field (finishing, strength, mindset) separates top performers.
⚽ What it means to “play free”—and how to reach that level of confidence and flow.
⚽ How Cole fuels recovery with personalized strength, sleep, and nutrition protocols.
⚽ The key differences between soccer development in Europe vs. the U.S.
Whether you’re a player chasing the next level or a parent guiding that journey, this episode offers a clear, honest view of the path to professional soccer—and what it really takes to succeed.
