John Allgood II

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup captures attention across North America and around the world, University of Delaware experts are available to help media examine the larger stories connected to the tournament, from player safety and youth soccer to tourism, sports analytics, playing surfaces and the shared experience of watching the game. University of Delaware's World Cup Experts Hub brings together faculty and specialists who can provide timely commentary on the health, business, social and scientific issues shaping one of the world’s most watched sporting events. Featured Topics The Business of Youth Soccer Youth sports participation, community impact, the business of soccer and how a major global tournament can influence local programs, families and the next generation of players. Player Safety and Concussions Head injuries, concussion prevention, heading guidelines, athlete health and how evolving safety standards are changing the way soccer is played and taught. Tourism and Global Impact How mega-events drive tourism, economic activity, host-city visibility and broader cultural connection across countries, communities and fans. Youth Development and Fan Engagement How family traditions, school programs and shared sports experiences shape youth identity, social development and interest in physical activity. Sports Analytics in Action The rise of data-driven performance, real-time game analysis and how students and practitioners are applying analytics to elite global competition. The Science of Playing Surfaces Natural grass requirements, turfgrass systems, stadium preparation and the science behind maintaining world-class fields for international play. Why Watching Together Matters The psychology of shared experiences, happiness, social connection and why gathering for World Cup matches can be meaningful far beyond the final score. Media can visit the University of Delaware’s World Cup Experts Hub to explore available experts and connect directly with the right source for their story.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup less starting this week, the University of Delaware's John Allgood is available to discuss the business of soccer, youth sports participation and the tournament's impact on communities and the economy. A former United Soccer League top executive and instructor of sport management, Allgood has firsthand experience in both the business and development sides of the sport. Through his experience as a USL franchise owner, Allgood can discuss the World Cup’s economic impact and why the sport is a unifying force. He can discuss how the World Cup will boost participation and fan interest in soccer, especially among youth players. Allgood can address the tiered structure of soccer in the U.S., including the pay-to-play system in youth soccer that is different from development models in other countries. To arrange an interview with Allgood, send an email to MediaRelations@udel.edu.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup days away, the University of Delaware's John Allgood is available to discuss the business of soccer, youth sports participation and the tournament's impact on communities and the economy. As a former United Soccer League (USL) top executive, Allgood brings firsthand experience and knowledge of the commercial operations and development sides of the sport. He also currently serves as an instructor of sport management at UD. Areas of expertise relevant to the World Cup include: Economic impact: How the tournament will drive local revenue. The business of soccer: Sports marketing and the commercialization of global sports entertainment. U.S. youth soccer: The tiered structure of soccer in the U.S., including the pay-to-play system in youth soccer that is different from development models in other countries. Participation and interest: How the World Cup will boost participation and fan interest in soccer, especially among youth players. Soccer as a unifying force: The sports' social impact and how it brings people together. To reach Allgood directly and arrange an interview, click the "contact" button on his profile. Interested journalists can also send an email to mediarelations@udel.edu.