What will it take for MLS to become larger in US sports?

Unfortunately for myself and die hard soccer fans across the country, it will take a lot. The league is just not respected enough worldwide and even in our own country. It’s seen as a joke. That will be a tough reputation to change, especially with the number of different sports for people to watch.

What MLS needs to do to become legit in the States

Number 1

It’s all about the money. The more money you have, the more options you have. Pockets are deep sports like football, baseball, and basketball, but soccer so far doesn’t have that, especially compared to the owners of European teams. Unfortunately, some of our top sports owners as far as money are buying Euro teams because they see it as a solid investment rather than loyalty to the sport. Plain and simple, the league needs owners who love the game and have deep pockets and are willing to sacrifice now for potential gains in the future. It’s a risk, but if you have enough money and love the game, why not do it?

Number 2

To go along with the money, the league needs every team playing in soccer specific stadiums (SSS). MLS learned this lesson years ago and is pushing it. Many teams now play in these, while those that don’t have building plans in the works. It is also a requirement for all potential expansion franchises to have that in their plans. This has been a smart move on the league’s part because although they cost a good chunk of change, teams will be able to turn profits. Teams will not have to be paying rental fees for playing in half-empty stadiums with these. Doing that caused some teams to lose over $1 million for each game. They are also fan friendly, creating a more intimate environment, much like that of clubs in Europe.

Number 3

Again with the money, teams need to take advantage of international players. To go with this, the league needs to allow teams to have more designated players on their rosters. Two is just not enough, especially when one or possibly both are busts. Bringing in big name international players is a must, even if players are on the tail end of their careers. There are plenty of them out there. This can benefit both the player and the league because it will generate buzz. The player will benefit because it will be a new lease on their career and they can still come here and potentially be a star, while in the process teaching the younger players who are trying to better their games. If it weren’t for Juan Pablo Angel teaching a young Jozy Altidore, I wonder if his game would be where it is today. Also while I’m on acquiring international players, scouts need to find young players in Africa and South America. Bring them here when their young and let them grow and then cash in on transfers. Face it, MLS will never be at European power status so just make it the best league you can and that is a development/send-off-into-retirement league, with a lot of middle of the road players mixed in.

Number 4

The most critical aspect is this. MLS needs more coverage on ESPN and ESPN2. Those are the two main channels that people. Not everyone has ESPN Classic or ESPN 360. Not everyone has FSC or HDNet either. ESPN needs to do their part and start broadcasting more than just MLS game a week. They also need start broadcasting ALL US national team games on ESPN or ESPN2. Having all Euro 2008 games on were nice, now lets start showing your own country some love. How about showing some love on SportsCenter as well. They show hockey and Nascar which are both niche sports, why not soccer.

Closing Thoughts

It’s going to take a lot for MLS to become legit and be on par with a league like the NHL or even Nascar. I think the biggest problem facing the league is number four. I say that because I truly believe that there is horrible bias against the sport by our media. The biggest and most visible names bash the sport with a passion and that is more damaging than anything. They’re basically trying to eliminate the sport from the US.

I guess I have to give props to Michael Wilbon for being the only guy on ESPN that I’ve never once heard negativity from when it comes to soccer. Good job…but unfortunately more people with his power need to be doing the same.