October 13th, 2008 - America's new pasttime?

Everyone knows that the popularity of soccer in the U.S. is nothing compared to football, basketball, baseball, and even hockey. I don't expect soccer to become as celebrated as some of these sports, however I do think that with some improvements, it could really catch on in the States. Here is my list of "things-to-do" to make soccer more popular in the U.S.:

First thing - Make it more entertaining
To do this the MLS has to pump more talent into the league. Getting players from overseas, like Figo and Del Piero would draw a lot more fans to the game. Take David Beckham for example. It took the LA Galaxy $250 million dollars to get him over here, but it lead to an increase in fan base for both the MLS and LA. With these players comes respectability, which in my opinion the MLS doesn't have. Sure they've turned out players like Donovan and Beasley, who have got their start in the U.S., but it's still nothing compared to the European leagues. These players will bring an excitement to the game that has never been seen in U.S. soccer.

Second thing - $$$
In order to keep luring players to the MLS, the teams are going to need more money. It’s that cut and dry. Football, basketball and baseball backers constantly plug more money into their teams. I think that MLS needs some sugar daddy’s go really get the ball rolling. Especially with today’s economy, I know that this will not be an easy task, however it’s necessary for soccer’s popularity to improve. People like to be entertained when they come to a game. This includes an atmosphere that includes more bells and whistles. And they aren’t cheap.

Third thing - Building up the teams
The European and South American leagues have lower level clubs that allow players to move up through the ranks and improve their skills. The U.S. doesn't have this...until now? The Official site of U.S. Soccer reports that the Development Academy is adding more 12 more clubs to the U.S. soccer scene to allow more players the opportunity to develop their skills. The Academy started in 2007 with 72 teams nationwide. The organization is not only adding more clubs, but also more scouts. This is a HUGE boost for the popularity of soccer in the U.S. The Academy is similar to European set-ups because it casts a wider net to catch more potential players and coaches. Players don't have to rely as much on their accomplishments in small club and school teams, which only lasts a few years. Now they can join a younger club and work their way up to a higher skill and age level.
For more information about the Development Academy click here.

Fourth thing - More mainstream media attention
I’m not expecting this to change anytime soon, however I do think that if mainstream media, like ESPN, would cover more soccer the popularity would increase. I know that they do play soccer, but it’s usually at really weird times during the day when no one is going to watch it. If they played a few more MLS, international and Euro league games, people would get more interested. Maybe the media could even replay some famous games, like the World Cup finals or the U.S. women winning the World Cup. That’s what ESPN classic is for.