Episode 101 – It’s Beita Time on Defenders!

Kicking off the next hundred episodes as only we know how, The Defenders of the Banc (for however much longer we are called that!) FINALLY sit down with club legend, fan favorite, and one of the nicest, most personable guys in MLS, Steven Beitashour. 

As a member of the inaugural team in 2018, Steven Beitashour added leadership and incredible skill playing out of the back for LAFC. In 2019, Beita made more history, becoming the first defender in MLS history to record 20,000 minutes played and 35+ assists while earning a third Supporters Shield. In 2020, however, his contract was not renewed, and Beita Time is currently on hold as he looks for a new home in MLS, or abroad. 

Steven spent over an hour with Filly and the Scarf, and there was nothing they didn’t talk about. Beita dishes on playing with Chris Wondolowski, Jay Demerit, Jordan Harvey and Carlos Vela, taking on the likes of Lionel Messi in the World Cup, and lacing them up in front of the 3252 at the Banc. From the San Jose Frogs to the Black and Gold, we discuss all aspects of his career, including his plans for 2020 and beyond! We had been looking forward to this interview for months, and it’s safe to say Steven did not disappoint. We had an absolute blast talking with Beita and can’t thank him enough for sitting down with us. 

One small note: This episode was recorded before the signing of Andy Najar on June 17, 2020. With Andy playing the same position as Beita, we know that this may signal the end, or at least temporary hold, of Beita Time at LAFC, but we would still love to see Steven back, as Max Bretos would say… Back in black!