A Remarkable Journey from Soccer Star to Rising Sports Broadcaster
By Bruce X. Forey | Photography by David Teran
One of the rising stars in sports broadcasting calls 78209 her home. Katie Goodman works as a freelance television sports correspondent and frequently appears on ESPN outlets and Bally Sports. She specializes in soccer, broadcasts other sports, and hosts lifestyle television shows.
From Soccer Star to Scholar
Katie’s career began at San Antonio’s Marshall High School, where she was a soccer standout. Her skills earned her an invitation to walk on to the women’s soccer team at Mississippi State University.
“I’ve always felt like the underdog. I’m small and was under 100 pounds,” Katie said. “I had to put on weight for college. But I’ve always been fast, aggressive, and never gave up.”
Her outstanding play earned her a scholarship, allowing her to compete against some of the best collegiate women’s soccer players. Unfortunately, injuries forced her to take a medical leave from the sport. Despite this setback, Katie seized the educational opportunities her athletic career provided. She graduated from Mississippi State with dual degrees: a Bachelor of Administration in Marketing and a Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Languages, specializing in Spanish.
Finding Purpose Through Tragedy
After graduation, Katie accepted a job with a major bank but quickly realized the 9-to-5 cubicle life didn’t suit her. As a passionate animal lover, she transitioned to a role as marketing and public relations manager for the Animal Defense League (ADL). In this position, she promoted the organization through regular appearances on local television lifestyle shows and produced videos featuring adoptable dogs.
However, Katie’s life took a difficult turn when her mother passed away, leaving a significant void.
“I remember feeling very down and struggling just to get through life,” Katie said. “The Defense League knew I really enjoyed the TV part, so they scheduled me for every opportunity. That’s literally the only reason I got out of bed—to take those dogs on TV.”
Returning to Soccer and Building a Media Career
Ten years after her collegiate soccer career, Katie felt inspired to play again. She joined the San Antonio Athenians, a semi-pro soccer team, where she played as a defender and managed media relations.
“It was the pandemic. I felt bored and a little lost, so I started playing,” Katie said. “I had no business doing it. But if I hadn’t tried out for the team, I wouldn’t be working in sports media today.”
Katie got her big break when soccer league organizers discovered her on-camera experience from her time at the Animal Defense League.
“They asked me to be on their national YouTube show, and it took off,” Katie said. “Then I ran into the right people at the right time.”
This opportunity opened doors to a Major League Soccer podcast and a co-hosting role on ESPN radio’s “Saturday Morning Hangover.” From there, she landed a job calling games for San Antonio FC and expanded her portfolio as a freelance soccer commentator across Texas and in other markets.
Sharpening Skills with a Master’s Degree
While building her broadcasting career, Katie pursued her master’s degree at the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW). She graduated in May 2024 with a degree in Communication Arts, which she credits for honing her announcing and media production skills.
“I called up to seven games a week across different sports,” Katie said. “I learned so much about myself, my voice, and how to manage that kind of workload.”
Career Highlights in Broadcasting
Katie’s broadcasting career focuses on soccer, but her favorite moment came with the San Antonio Spurs.
“I had the honor of co-hosting the first-ever all-female pre-game show alongside Michelle Beadle for the San Antonio Spurs vs. Memphis Grizzlies game on March 30, 2022,” Katie said proudly.
Blending Art, Fashion, and Broadcasting
When Katie isn’t working, she explores her passions for art and fashion. Sometimes, she combines the two by sketching her own style ideas. She also designs and transforms clothing into new interpretations, a skill she learned from her mother, and occasionally sells these creations online. Katie credits her grandmother and mother for inspiring her love of stylish attire.
“I was influenced at a young age by their sense of design and fashion,” Katie said. “With TV and sideline reporting, you want to look your best. I stay inspired by beautiful spaces and great-looking clothes.”
Life in 78209
At home in 78209, Katie cares for her two dogs, Ricky, whom she adopted from ADL, and Maria, her companion since college. She loves walking her dogs through the neighborhood and admiring the area’s charm.
“I enjoy looking at the different houses with their manicured lawns,” Katie said. “Who needs HGTV when you can walk outside and see these beautiful homes?”
Looking Ahead: Dreaming of the World Cup
Katie’s goal is to transition from freelancing to a permanent television role. Although she has experience hosting lifestyle programs, her heart belongs to sports — especially soccer, which launched her media career.
“I’d love to call a World Cup soccer game,” Katie said. “It’s just around the corner in 2026, so we’ll see.”
Follow Katie Goodman’s Journey…
Katie shares her career and fashion updates on Instagram. Follow her @imkatiegoodman to stay in the loop.
