Mitch Osmond - NAIA To The MLS, & Leading Forward Madison To USL Glory - E25

This week on The Back Stick Podcast, Dom and Jamil welcome Forward Madison FC captain Mitch Osmond to the studio for a truly inspiring episode.
We delve into Mitch's footballing journey—from growing up in Australia and playing for historic club Sydney United, to his transition into the U.S. college system, fatherhood, and his incredible path from NAIA soccer to getting drafted by Minnesota United in the MLS SuperDraft.
Mitch opens up about the grind of USL Championship football at Indy Eleven and OKC Energy, how he battled through major injuries, and what it means to now wear the armband for Forward Madison. He also reflects on the passionate fanbase in Madison, his goals for the club in 2025, and how Head Coach Matt Glaeser has helped change the club’s culture.
Whether you're a USL League One supporter, a Forward Madison fan, or just love a great underdog football story, this episode is packed with honesty, laughs, and football insight.

00:00 Tribute To Gadi Kinda
01:02 Welcome Mitch Osmond!
03:42 Early Season Injury Troubles At Forward Madison
06:44 A Word For Madison's Incredible Fans
12:15 Experiences in Australian Football & USA Transition
19:47 NAIA Soccer, Raising A Child & Battling Injuries In College
27:58 Getting Drafted To Minnesota United From NAIA
35:00 USL Championship: Signing For Indy & OKC Energy
39:02 Do Foreigners Ever Get Used To Playing In The US Heat?
43:03 A Word For Chaney!
44:45 The Future of Forward Madison
48:01 Matt Glaeser's Impact On Forward Madison
52:52 Extra Time: Rapid Fire Questions