Jake Zivin: The Voice of MLS Season Pass

When Major League Soccer (MLS) unveiled its groundbreaking partnership with Apple TV to launch the MLS Season Pass, it was clear that the league intended to revolutionize how soccer was broadcasted and consumed in the United States and beyond. Central to this transformation was finding a voice that could resonate with die-hard soccer fans and newcomers to the sport.

Enter Jake Zivin: a broadcaster whose name has become synonymous with MLS’s bold new era.

In the rapidly growing landscape of soccer in the United States, few voices resonate as powerfully and distinctively as Jake Zivin’s. As the lead play-by-play commentator for MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, Zivin has become synonymous with the sport's burgeoning popularity. His articulate commentary, deep understanding of the game, and ability to connect with fans make him a standout figure in Major League Soccer's broadcast ecosystem.

From Humble Beginnings to the Big Stage

Jake Zivin’s journey to becoming the “Voice of MLS Season Pass” is one of hard work, perseverance, and a passion for storytelling. Born and raised in Evanston, Illinois, Zivin’s love for sports was evident from a young age. While soccer wasn’t initially his primary focus, his interest in the sport grew as he watched its influence expand both domestically and internationally.

Before becoming the voice of MLS Season Pass, Jake Zivin had already built an impressive career in sports broadcasting. A native of Evanston, Illinois, Zivin's journey into the world of sports media began in college, where he pursued journalism and honed his craft as a storyteller. His passion for soccer, combined with his innate ability to connect with audiences, quickly propelled him into prominent roles within the industry.

After earning a degree in Broadcast Journalism from Northwestern University, Zivin began his career in the trenches of local broadcasting. He cut his teeth covering high school football games, minor league baseball, and other regional sports. It was during these formative years that Zivin honed his craft, learning the nuances of live commentary and developing the engaging style that would later become his trademark.

A Rise Through the Ranks

Zivin’s big break in soccer came when he joined the Portland Timbers broadcast team in 2014. Over the years, his dynamic voice and encyclopedic knowledge of the game endeared him to Timbers fans. Zivin’s ability to capture the emotion of a moment—whether it was a last-minute goal or a controversial call—earned him accolades and cemented his reputation as one of the league’s premier broadcasters.

“I’ve always believed that storytelling is at the heart of great sports commentary,” Zivin once remarked in an interview. “Soccer, with its ebb and flow, offers so many opportunities to tell compelling stories.” This philosophy became evident in his work with the Timbers, where he seamlessly blended game analysis with narratives about players, coaches, and fans.

The MLS Season Pass Era

In 2023, Major League Soccer partnered with Apple TV to launch the MLS Season Pass, a groundbreaking streaming service designed to bring the league’s action to a global audience. Zivin’s appointment as the lead play-by-play commentator was a natural fit, given his experience and popularity within the MLS community.

Zivin’s style—a blend of professionalism, enthusiasm, and storytelling—has made him a standout in the crowded field of sports broadcasters. His deep understanding of the game, combined with his ability to articulate its nuances engagingly, ensures that both seasoned fans and newcomers feel included in the narrative of each match.

As the face (and voice) of this new era in MLS broadcasting, Zivin’s role extends far beyond calling matches. He serves as an ambassador for the league, introducing new fans to the sport and deepening the connection for existing supporters. His commentary is a masterclass in balancing technical analysis with accessibility, ensuring that both die-hard soccer enthusiasts and casual viewers feel engaged.

What Sets Jake Zivin Apart

Zivin’s success as a broadcaster can be attributed to several key qualities:

Clarity and Precision: In a sport where the action can shift dramatically within seconds, Zivin’s clear and concise commentary ensures that viewers never miss a moment. His ability to articulate complex plays in simple terms is particularly valuable for newcomers to the sport.
Emotional Intelligence: Zivin understands the emotional stakes of a soccer match. His voice rises and falls with the rhythm of the game, capturing the excitement of a goal, the tension of a penalty kick, and the heartbreak of a near miss.
Preparation and Research: Known for his meticulous preparation, Zivin enters each broadcast armed with a wealth of information about teams, players, and coaches. This depth of knowledge allows him to provide context and insights that enrich the viewing experience.
Connection with the Audience: Perhaps Zivin’s greatest strength is his ability to connect with fans. Whether through social media interactions or his relatable on-air persona, he has cultivated a loyal following that appreciates his authenticity and passion for the game.
Expert Storytelling: One of Zivin’s greatest strengths is his ability to weave compelling narratives around the players, teams, and matches he covers. Soccer is more than just a game; it’s a tapestry of stories that unfold over 90 minutes and beyond. Zivin excels at highlighting these stories, bringing depth and context to every broadcast. Whether he’s recounting a player’s journey from an academy to the professional stage or contextualizing a team’s historical significance, Zivin adds layers to the viewing experience. His storytelling transforms matches into moments of cultural and personal significance, elevating MLS broadcasts to new heights.
Passion for the Game: Zivin’s love for soccer is palpable in every broadcast. His enthusiasm is infectious, drawing viewers into the action and creating an emotional connection to the game. This passion is evident not only in his play-by-play commentary but also in the preparation and research he brings to each match. His deep dives into player statistics, team strategies, and historical context reflect a broadcaster who doesn’t just watch the game but lives it. This dedication resonates with fans, who appreciate the effort Zivin puts into enhancing their understanding and enjoyment of the sport.
Adaptability: Broadcasting for MLS Season Pass presents unique challenges, given the league’s diverse audience. From longtime supporters to curious viewers tuning in from international markets, the MLS audience is a melting pot of soccer enthusiasts. Zivin’s ability to adapt his commentary to cater to this wide-ranging demographic is a testament to his skill as a communicator. He strikes a balance between explaining the game’s finer points for newcomers and providing in-depth analysis for seasoned fans. This versatility ensures that everyone watching feels engaged and informed.

Challenges and Triumphs

While Zivin’s career has been marked by numerous highlights, it hasn’t been without challenges. The transition from regional broadcasting to a global platform like Apple TV required adjustments in style and approach. Zivin had to consider the diverse audience tuning into MLS Season Pass, which includes viewers from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

“The beauty of soccer is its universality,” Zivin said in a recent podcast. “But that also means you have to be mindful of how you communicate. It’s about finding common ground while respecting the nuances that make the sport so unique.”

Despite these challenges, Zivin has thrived in his new role, earning praise from fans and colleagues alike. His work has played a crucial part in MLS’s efforts to expand its reach and elevate its profile on the global stage.

The Future of MLS Broadcasting

As MLS continues to grow, so too does the importance of figures like Jake Zivin. His work on MLS Season Pass has set a new standard for soccer broadcasting in the United States, showcasing the potential of streaming platforms to revolutionize how sports are consumed.

Looking ahead, Zivin remains optimistic about the future of MLS and his role within it. “We’re at an inflection point for soccer in this country,” he said in a recent interview. “The World Cup in 2026 is going to be a game-changer, and I’m thrilled to be part of this journey.”

The Impact on MLS

Having a broadcaster of Zivin’s caliber at the forefront of MLS Season Pass has elevated the league’s profile in several ways:

Global Appeal With Zivin’s engaging style and Apple TV’s expansive reach, MLS is positioning itself as a truly global league. The combination of high-quality production and world-class commentary ensures that fans around the world see MLS as a top-tier soccer destination.
Enhanced Fan Experience The integration of storytelling, analytics, and state-of-the-art broadcasting technology has set a new standard for how soccer is presented in the United States. Zivin’s ability to seamlessly incorporate these elements into his broadcasts makes watching MLS an enriching experience.
Growth of the Game As the league continues to grow, voices like Zivin’s play a crucial role in fostering a deeper connection between fans and the sport. By making soccer accessible, exciting, and relatable, Zivin helps to nurture the next generation of soccer enthusiasts.

A Lasting Legacy

Jake Zivin’s impact on MLS and soccer broadcasting is undeniable. His voice has become a trusted companion for fans, guiding them through the highs and lows of the sport with professionalism and heart. As the Voice of MLS Season Pass, he stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in sports, proving that great commentary is about more than just describing the action—it’s about bringing the game to life.

For fans of Major League Soccer, Zivin’s presence behind the microphone is a reassuring constant in an ever-changing sport. And for those discovering the beautiful game for the first time, his voice is the perfect introduction to the magic of soccer.

Jake Zivin’s role as one of the primary voices of this platform underscores the importance of strong, engaging commentary in this new era.

Zivin’s collaboration with Apple TV is more than just a job; it’s a partnership built on shared values. Zivin and Apple are committed to enhancing the fan experience, leveraging technology and storytelling to bring the game closer to the audience. Through features like dynamic camera angles, real-time statistics, and behind-the-scenes content, Zivin’s commentary serves as the connective tissue that ties these elements together, creating a seamless and immersive viewing experience.

Looking Ahead

As MLS embarks on this exciting chapter with Apple TV, Jake Zivin’s role will only continue to grow significantly. His voice is now part of the soundtrack of American soccer, a reminder of the sport’s capacity to inspire and unite.

Zivin’s journey from local broadcasts to becoming the face (and voice) of MLS Season Pass is a testament to his talent, hard work, and passion for the game. As fans tune in to watch their favorite teams and players, they can be assured that with Jake Zivin in the booth, every match will be a memorable experience.

In a league defined by its diversity, ambition, and innovation, Jake Zivin is the perfect ambassador. He doesn’t just call the game; he tells its story, bringing MLS to life for a global audience. And as the league continues to evolve, one thing is certain: the voice of Jake Zivin will be there, guiding fans through the beautiful game’s many twists and turns.

Yohn Voker