It’s the final day of 2015, and is my yearly tradition, I can’t help but feel a bit of melancholy. Looking back over the previous 12 months, it’s hard not to feel that way: 2015 was another great year for us here at WSOTP.

Our podcast traffic has doubled in the last year. We helped to host more events than ever before, including another successful World Cup watch party on Cincinnati’s Fountain Square. I was lucky enough to attend the MLS All-Star Game in Denver, which had the added bonus of also featuring my beloved Tottenham Hotspur. I also had the privilege of not only getting to work my first ever MLS Cup Final as media, but also attend my first ever MLS Cup Final — though I was admittedly a bit bummed to see my Columbus Crew side stumble at the finish line. I also nabbed two of my biggest ever scoops during 2015, both pertaining to the arrival of a new well-backed USL franchise in my hometown of Cincinnati. And even more mind-blowing, I had the honor of getting to help resurrect a professional team I supported as a kid by designing it’s crest.

Those are just a few of the highlights — there was a lot I left out. And when you get to experience that much in a single calendar year, there’s always the concern that the next year won’t live up to this one.

Rest assured, we’re doing our damnedest to make sure that doesn’t happen. More guests are being planned for the Pondcast. We’re plotting some further interviews for the website to bring even deeper insight into the American game, some new merch could be going up in the store in the near future… and we might even have a few more surprises in the works, too.

But as always, thanks to all of you who stopped by throughout 2015. We never would have been able to achieve so much without your eyes, ears and friendships. Cheers.

A fascinating story on East Germany’s final match. – bbc.com

I’d be willing to bring back Blatter for this. – sportingintelligence.com

And you think your boss is an ass… – skysports.com

Doubt I’d be this cool if in his situation. – whoateallthepies.tv
(Courtesy of Lippadona) 

Sadly, this isn’t that unrealistic of a response for FIFA. – theonion.com

MLS exodus to LigaMX a good thing? Maybe. – goal.com

“Though we play him constantly, we don’t really want him.” – football-italia.net

Be right back, spending next two hours in the driveway. – youtube.com

Indeed, geography can dictate philosophy. – mirror.co.uk

I’m devastated for Canales, but take a hint and retire. – espnfc.com