Lost and found: Pro soccer in Tampa?

Whether taking in spring training, enjoying a game of Bucs football or watching the Tampa Bay Lightning kick the ice, sports fans in central Florida have a wide variety of options to spend their entertainment dollar.

But despite the presence of virtually every major sports (football, baseball, basketball, hockey) between Tampa and Orlando, pro soccer has never seemed to stick.

Since the demise of the Tampa Bay Rowdies, which regularly drew crowds of 20,000 or more in the late 1970s, the beautiful game has come and gone—with the area most recent incarnation, the Tampa Bay Mutiny of Major League soccer, folding in 2002.

All the while, the area has continued to support strong participation at youth levels and burgeoning attendance for international matches (the US Mens National Team drew a crowd of 31,000 for a recent match against Ecuador). So where does the disconnect lie?

For many sports fans, it comes as no surprise that the glory years of the Rowdies came in the midst of a slew of dismal seasons which marred the early existence of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers—the Bucs only made the playoffs three times between 1976 and 1990. While the Bucs failed to make the playoffs until 1979, the Rowdies regularly contested for league honors—winning the Soccer Bowl and finishing runners up twice in the late 1970s—and boasted players the caliber of Englishman Rodney Marsch and Argentine scoring sensation Oscar Fabianni.

With the young NFL side still struggling to find it’s identity with fans, watching the Rowdies, a team full of colorful characters, was seen by many fans the in-thing to do.

But with the implosion of the NASL (North American Soccer League) in the early 1980s, the party for soccer was over in Tampa. As the Rowdies struggled and eventually folded, it would be another twelve years before pro soccer made it’s return to Tampa Bay. By the time the oddly named Tampa Bay Mutiny arrived, Tampa had become a football town.

Despite early success on the field, the Mutiny—like the Buccaneers in the 80s—languished in the dreadful confines of Tampa Stadium. With it’s football lines, narrow field and 45,000 capacity, this venue failed to whet the appetite of sports fans.

For ESPN broadcaster and Tampa native Rob Stone, who witnessed the Mutiny’s struggle to entertain a handful of supporters, the hard sell came down to the game day experience.

“To me atmosphere is the one great element MLS needs to continue to capture..without it, a majority of the American media outlets will continue to treat the league like a minor entity, not worthy of their resources.” he explained.

Stone says the reason ESPN tended to stay away from mutiny home games in their last few seasons wasn't because they were not winning, it was all about the negative impression those empty stands relayed to the viewer. “No atmosphere equals dreadful television,” he adds. “The fans that made it out were supportive and great, but they needed to bring about 15,000 more of
their friends.”

Stadium solutions:

Despite the failures of the Mutiny, Stone is adamant that Tampa, courtesy of the Rowdies success, is still considered a worthwhile soccer market. “If the right components can appear (owner, stadium, and i believe a return to the Rowdie name...it remarkably still carries a lot of clout around here)”

This positive view of Tampa is shared by Tim Holt, Executive Vice President & COO of USL, who viewed the Mutiny not as a failed experiment, but an interrupted work in progress.

While he concedes the Mutiny’s shortcomings—lack of suitable atmosphere, recognizable players and a lack of effort to reach out to local fans—failed to capture the spirit of the Rowdies, he says the main reason the Mutiny no longer exist is that they could not find local ownership willing to operate the franchise at a time when MLS needed to make hard decisions.

“It is critical for any professional soccer team to capture the interest of the market’s hardcore, knowledgeable soccer fan,” he explained. “With all of this said, I believe that the Mutiny were actually on their way to being successful in this market had they been given the opportunity to further establish themselves over time.”

Since coming to Tampa in 1999, Holt describes Central Florida as a thriving youth soccer market with several competitive clubs as a potential source of pro talent.

He points to the example of local side HC United, a regular participant in regional/national champions and supply line of national team players, currently competes in our Super Y-League and has acquired a USL W-League (women’s) franchise which will begin competition in summer 2008 under the guidance of George Fotopoulos.

But while Holt views Tampa as an ideal market for an MLS or USL 1 side, the sticking point remains ownership. Although the USL has been close with several different prospective ownership groups over the past five years, the search continues for the right fit.

With any ownership group, four factors must things in any expansion situation: appropriate stadium/venue, well-capitalized & committed ownership, experienced management and sales team, and strong population base / soccer market.

With the annual operating budget for a USL First Division franchise typically ranging between $1.5-2.0 million-- with start-up costs are also in the low seven-figures, Holt says the biggest factor in profit for USL teams tends to be the generation of ticket and sponsorship revenue.

Crucial to this effort is an attractive stadium situation to attract advertisers and fans. (Translation: a well-located stadium primarily used and designed for soccer that seats in the range of 6,000-12,000 fans with certain amenities.)

“Ultimately, if the community is serious about bringing professional soccer back, the solution will address the lack of a suitable and appropriately sized professional soccer stadium.” adds Holt.

The search continues:

With a number of options seemingly open for Tampa, Holt also revealed that the USL are in active dialog with a group that is considering the acquisition of the USL First Division ( USL -1) rights for the Tampa market to field a team beginning in the 2009 season.

According to Holt, this is a credible group that has the financial wherewithal to operate a franchise at the USL -1 level and has spent the better part of the past year researching the league and best practices of our franchises. But the questions remains, where would they play?

While some fans have suggested Al Lang Field, current home of the minor league Tampa Bay Rays, most are quick to admit that a converted baseball stadium with a capacity below 10,000 is less than ideal.

A more intriguing possibility for many is the ambitious effort by the Clearwater Galactics, a prominent youth and adult soccer club, to build a 15,000 soccer specific stadium and sporting complex in Clearwater.

According to Administrative director Ralf Gerhard, the Galactics were formed in May 2006 with the goal of having a big soccer complex with a professional team playing in the highest levels of American soccer. The first step in this strategic plan is to create a club house where all the members could meet and have nice event.

While Gerhard concedes the challenges of building a stadium (surveying costs, etc), he says his club is currently well on it’s way to garnering necessary sponsorship—with the ultimate goal of breaking ground by 2009-2010.

For his money, Stone says expansion at the University of Tampa or something north of town could work, but “the closer to downtown Tampa the better for fans.”

But rather than moving in to an existing structure, Holt says the USL group, who are simultaneously reviewing options in the Southwestern United States, has indicated a willingness to play a major role in the financing of the building of a new playing venue.

But whatever form the, both Stone and Holt agree it is only a matter of time before pro soccer returns to Tampa. “Between the weather, space and mix of cultures in the sunshine state, all the ingredients are here...that's why MLS would love to get back into the soccer business in Florida.” adds Stone

Where haveI been news?

Alright everyone, so the first thing I have been is busy: moving from my cramped NYC apartment to wide open Lakeland Florida to start my new life as the owner of Peak Fitness, a performance training facility for athletes.

The good news is this will give me more access than ever before to pro soccer players and matches—which means more fitness columns such as my latest on increasing your heading for soccer.

Staying true to my Floridian roots, I have also decided to refocus this blog on issues of Florida soccer. With Miami's expansion efforts heating up, we are still waiting for a team here in central Florida. But pro soccer may be closer than you thought. In a soon to be released column, I spoke with Tampa native Rob Stone and USL VP Tim Holt who gives the lowdown on MLS coming back to Tampa and some inside info on negotiations for a USL 1 team in Tampa by 2009!

Deep thoughts on: Expansion

Turning to MLS as a whole, the big news this week with relation to Florida has been the new effort by the City of Miami to fund a $50 million soccer stadium by 2010. For Floridians, this is a huge development and would almost certainly prove an attractive offer for many investors.

But after the failure of Fusions and local A-league side Miami FC's attendance hovering around 1,000, could any expansion side fill a soccer stadium? Loook for my column on the subject in the coming weeks.

In the meantime, it is also clear the league's rapid expansion will provide an increasing challange to the USL player pool. With this in mind, I asked USL VP of operations Tim Holt his thoughts on the matter:

With the MLS continuing to expand, how will the a-league remain relevant with the drain on talent and resources?

TH: I am not necessarily convinced that future MLS expansion drains talent and resources to the extent it affects the objectives of USL as a soccer organization. Our models are very different. MLS represents 14 franchises in 13 markets, albeit in a very high-profile manner; whereas USL with its 24 professional franchises, 100+ developmental (men’s & women’s franchises), and 600 elite youth teams represents a vertically-integrated league model that we believe reflects how clubs/leagues are structured in the world’s top soccer nations.

We focus on being grassroots and serving to provide affordable family entertainment in every market we serve while positively impacting player development opportunities for elite male and female athletes. Further, we are actively working to establish further relationships with international clubs and leagues currently highlighted by the ownership of a professional soccer team in Baltimore by Crystal Palace FC of the English Championship and the recently announced player-development initiative between USL & West Ham United of the English Premier League, not to mention several affiliations between our franchises/clubs and teams in other continents around the world. We operate in a world market and although concerned about MLS expanding into markets where we have established soccer professional soccer franchises, USL expects to be more relevant in the next 20 years than we have been in our first 20 of existence.

My Take on the matter:

But while supporters are quick to point out we are unlikely to reach the crisis point of the cash fueled EPL, one need look only a few hundred miles north to Scotland to gauge the impact of foreign mercenaries.

Only after a dismal television deal led to a financial meltdown amongst SPL clubs did the influx of cheap, foreign talent which was choking Scottish youth systems cease to a halt-- forcing Scottish sides to field homegrown youngsters in their first teams. Today, it is no surprise that this coincided with the renaissance which is currently taking place with Scottish national team and improved club football in Europe.

In Europe for example, the Rangers team which defeated Lyon 3-0 in France fielded 8 scots, while the Celtic team that turned over champions league holders AC Milan fielded seven. Hell, between them Celtic and Rangers field nearly as many Englishmen as the top four EPL sides combined.

When it comes to MLS, these contrasts (and the NASL for that matter), illustrate the dangers and benefits of what is on the horizon. For every Christian Gomez, we will likely see several Sergio Galvan Rey's and Denilsons. At least Juan Veron had the decency to follow his heart, rather than cashing in on his name. But many teams will not be so lucky. Beyond entertainers, we need players who will mold our youngsters both on and off the field (ala Etcheverry, Moreno, and Angel)

Ultimately, success with these rules will come down to the development of our youth academies and our coaches willingness to take a chance on young players.

Given the number of foreign (and mostly British) coaches in our league, I just hope we are all on the same page (you hear me, Mo Johnston?).

Anyway, stay tuned for my full story on pro soccer in Tampa in the coming days. Until then, show some love.

A letter to Bruce Arena

Dear Bruce,

In 2002, you achieved the greatest feat ever accomplished by the us coach. in doing so, you effectively marked the zenith of your career- - and the inevitable downfall which would follow.

I, for one, will never forget McBride’s diving header against Portugal or Reyna’s cross to seal the goal against Mexico—unfortunately it seems neither could you.

By Germany 2006, your gutsy tactical and personal decisions which contributed so much to our achievements in 2002 had given way to an over reliance on players slowed by age and injury. Hell, even Brian McBride, one of your most experienced men, remarked the team was un prepared for the 3-0 drubbing against the Czech Republic.

As English coach Harry Redknapp recently stated in response to Fabio Capello’s appointment as manager “a successful coach is first a good manager of players” and
whether coaching a pub team or the NATs, inspiring a team is central to success on and off the field.

So what happened to your ability to rally the troops? You lost your edge Bruce, you lost the eye of the tiger. But then how can I blame you.

While European and even South American managers often parlay international success in to employment in Europe, the best you could hope for—much like players of old—can hope for is a return to MLS glory. But even here, your days are number.

While salary caps and player restrictions may support American players in MLS, coaches are afforded no such luxury. Ruud Guillt’s multi-million dollar appoint has captured the headlines this season, but no fewer than half of MLS teams employed foreign coaches last season.

But with top flight jobs swallowed up by foreigners and former pros, where does this leave American coaches? If you really want to go to Europe, now is the time!

With the number of connections you have forged in recent years, you could easily spend a few years as a coach at Rangers, Man City or another reasonably sized club.

It is important to note that many of your former pupils (Bob Bradley, former Chicago Fire coach Dave Sarachan and a number of others) all rode your success to coaching careers of their own. striking out on their own.

The same is true about managing on an elite level. It is said that one factor in Capello’s appointment was the personal relationship he formed with FA members at a recent coaching summit.

As opposed to high stakes pro appointments, doing so, would allow you American coach to build relationships, win the respect of players and forge a CV abroad.

But would you be willing to swallow your pride? Probably not. But the bottom line is the only way you (or any US coach) will continue to manage in this country or abroad in the future is by continuing to pay your dues.

I think we can all agree that we miss “The Bruce” who once shined as an inspiring example of what a coach should be. So how can you swallow your pride and find your way back to coaching? Here a few highly unlikely suggestions:

1. Attend coaching clinics: Networking and contacts are invaluable
2. Play the assistant: Sometimes experience is worth more than money. Walter Smith is only a phone call away.
3. Give us some credit- Not once last season did you address or thank NYRB fans for their support. Come on Bruce, we are humans too.
4. Admit when you are wrong- Look, I actually supported the move to bring Reyna to NYRB. But if a player is questionable with injury going in to a vital game (2nd playoff match against NE) you bench him. Capiche?
5. Lose weight- Ok, I am a personal trainer so I had to throw this one in there. But seriously Bruce, a new haircut and image makeover could be just the ticket to wooing the Scottish FA.

Deep thoughts about MLS moves

Alright folks, as most of you can tell, my blog thrives on interviews and analysis from experts and fans. But while I am waiting on replies to my flurries of questions, I will, from time to time, offer my own take on MLS.

The last few weeks have given risen to some interesting developments in what is sure to be an action packed off season-- so here are my thoughts on the recent trades and moves around MLS:


Move #1: Ruiz to Galaxy:

The audacity of this trade has actually put me at ease, for the Galaxy's role in MLS
is now abundantly clear: the team we love to hate. Baseball has the Yankees, the NASL
had the Cosmos and now it is Alexi Lalas and CO's turn to be the "super rival" for every
club in MLS—which makes their struggles on the pitch all the more amusing.

This trade also tells me Lalas will be pulling the strings in LA for time. While undoubtedly talented, is also a polarizing figure which I am sure also played in to trade. Even with Ruiz grandfathered in however, I fail to see how the Galaxy could fit his salary under the cap. In final analysis however, the fact that the Galaxy even tried to land Ruiz says they will inevitably land an expensive DPish type forward (possible Zurwaski from Celtic). Whoever comes on board is in for some abuse come next season.

Move #2: Boswell to Houston/Wells and draft pick to United

My first thought about this trade was something is in the kool-aid over at United. On paper, the trade of the 2006 defender of the year for a back up goalkeeper and a draft pick looks like an absolute steal for Houston. On the other hand, United—whose scouting system is amongst the best in MLS-- it could well be preparing to sign a foreign defender after their recent scouting trip to South America.

For United, this move would actually pay dividends if this can be done with the money saved from Perkin’s sale and salary. In Wells, they are getting a proven starter hungry for playing time, while the offloading an unhappy player. In final analysis, United will now certainly shell out for a central defender and possibly a fullback before next season to shore up an aging backline.

Move #3: Osorio to NYRB:

This move is a winner for both Osorio and the Red Bulls, Chicago got hosed. Going back to the situation with the Galaxy, the best talent and coaching will inevitably gravitate towards the money and prestige, leading to a greater disparity in style of play and personnel.

While this fact must be particularly frustrating for Chicago fans at the moment, they have been left with a solid team and a system that works. For the Red Bulls, the search continues for a playmaking midfielder, outside backs and a central defender. In this regard, the team actually took a hit by giving away their highest draft pick.

On top of that, it will be interesting to observe the way Osorio handles the over burden of Red Bull fueled expectation (and the meddling of Mark DeGrandpre). If things go as scripted, Osorio’s first order of business may be to raid his old club for talent.

While Conde, though an excellent defender, is unlikely to leave this season due to his contract situation, NYRB fans could see the likes of Jim Curtin (promising central defender but recently out of favor), or even Gonzalo Segares in RB colors next season.

Having worked with Claudio Reyna in the past, Osorio’s arrival likely means the troubled midfielder will likely be around for 2008. But after focusing Chicago’s offense through a playmaker last season, it will be interesting to observe whether Osorio opts for this strategy or works with what he is given (strength down the flanks). If he decides to cross the ball, this makes left back and midfield a priority.

Searching for Rapid success

When looking across MLS, one can truly say beauty is in the eye of the beholder. From DC United’s disciplined passing game, to the staunch kick ball of Real Salt Lake, with each passing year MLS sides attempt to define themselves through their unique brand of soccer.

For fans, this has made for an ever more interesting, if limited, quality of football throughout the league. But while some teams struggle to entertain their fans (*cough NY Red Bulls*), this claim can not be made of the Colorado Rapids.

After their opening win against DC United, many (including myself) expected Colorado to barnstorm the league with their exciting brand of football. But although injuries took their toll, throughout the season, this team was infuriating to watch: full of flair going forward and Swiss cheese at the back.

Failing to win in June, the Rapids capped off their losing streak with a 4-1 capitulation to a rampant DC United. And though staying in the playoff mix until the end, the team ended the season with a gut wrenching loss to arch rivals Real Salt Lake.

As opposed to other big spenders in the league, Colorado’s failure to invest in it’s playing side (or sack it’s coach) is seen by some as blazing gun behind the team’s failure to progress on the field.

But according to veteran sports writer George Tanner, veteran Rapids journalist and author of the popular soccer Blog, FC Rocky (RockyMountainNews.com/soccer), who covers the team for the Rocky Mountain News, success on the pitch is about finding the right pitch.

As opposed to teams in bigger media markets (LA, NYRB), Colorado did not field a designated player this season. Is this a statement about how the team is run from a coaching perspective or rather a marketing decision?

Don’t rush out and buy an expensive lawnmower just because your neighbors did. But if you’ve got the right guy, it’s nice to have that option. That’s just managing a team intelligently. he explained. “There were rumors that the Rapids were trying to sign Mexican Jared Borgetti, and that would’ve been a nice idea. But, with the talent the Rapids had in hand last season, would it have made sense?”

On the other hand, Tanner says the Rapids made some wonderful moves that didn’t break the budget. Trading Joe Cannon to Los Angeles freed up the goalkeeper position, and Bouna Coundoul was probably the biggest bargain in the league last year. “If you can make moves like that, do it. But don’t sign a superstar to a lucrative contract just because it’s fashionable.” he adds.

With the debut of Dick's Sporting Goods Park, it can also be argued that a big name player would have guaranteed bigger numbers that the 14,749 average 207 attendance. But after the non-factor that was Daniel Osorno, he says nationality should come second to loyalty.

"To be brutally honest, I think the Rapids would sell more tickets if Kyle Beckerman and Nat Borchers were still on the roster,” he said. “The fans here have shown a real willingness to fall in love with home-grown players. Colin Clark and Stephen Keel are likely to be the next fan faves here, more than any player-for-hire would be.”

Tanner says the negative side of the designated player is the preassure additional funds put on managers and players. And after the trade of Borchers and Beckerman and the team’s failure to make the playoffs, most fans expected Fernando Clavijo to be the next name to depart from Colorado. But Tanner says the team’s decision to stick by their coach could prove a welcome departure to the mercenary for hire style of Alexi Lalas.

“To jump only because the loudest voices are telling you to jump would be a mistake. he said in reference to calls for Claivijo’s ouster. said Tanner. “From where I sit, Alexi Lalas is making decisions based on what he thinks people perceive should be the next move for the team. The Rapids have the money to do whatever they want but they have made a commitment to build with care, not with unlimited spending. It’s an intelligent approach.”

Getting back to the field of play in 2008, clearly scouting will play a large role in building the team’s fortunes. But in a much smaller league with fewer resources than the NBA, NHL, NFL or Major League Baseball, this role often falls to the coach and assistant manager.

“If the Rapids have a network of scouts, I don’t know about it,” he said. “When you hire a new coach, he brings a specific idea of the type of team he wants and the type of players he wants. To my knowledge, it’s basically up to him to find those players.”

For Tanner, one reason the Red Bulls got so much better so quickly was Bruce Arena’s personal knowledge about which players around the world could improve his new team on an MLS-level salary. And he knew where to use the Beckham Rule.

From the Western conference final to crashing out of playoff content, the last two seasons have been a roller coaster for Rapids fans. But despite the flush of cash in to the league, he says soccer smarts—rather than money—will continue to dictate success in MLS.

“How many teams have a legitimate chance of winning the league next year? I’d say all of them. he concludes. It’s unclear from year to year which teams will be the best because of the tremendous turnover of players. Two years ago, Chivas USA was a laughing stock. But the organization is soccer-savvy, and they’ve added good players and a good coach. This year, they were one of the best teams. That’s what it takes. It’s not the money; it’s the smarts.”

For more insight on the Rapids and soccer at home and abroad, visit George's blog, FC Rocky at: RockyMountainNews.com/soccer

A few words with Joe Vide: A look back and forward

On November 21st 2007, MLS expansion side San Jose Earthquakes officially drafted ten players to form the core of their newly resurrected side. For coaches around MLS, this meant hard choices about who to protect on their roster. It is, perhaps, a testament to the league’s grow that the caliber of players available this season was significantly higher than that of previous drafts.

And while all players selected will be missed by their clubs, the loss of Joe Vide goes far beyond the field of play for New York Red Bulls fans.

As someone who has had the pleasure of meeting Joe, I can say this kid is a special talent who will go far on and of the pitch. Given the recent upheaval and departures surrounding the team, Joe said he only learned of his departure while playing golf in North Carolina. But despite the abruptness of this decision, he remains humble and optimistic about his time in New York and new challenges in San Jose.

He was good enough to answer a few questions about these subjects and a look back at a whirlwind 2007 season:

1. Talk about your position at the beginning of the season. What were your initial Expectations for playing time under Bruce Arena?

Coming off a year where I had played only a little, I was looking forward to improving personally and just wanted to be ready if I was ever called on to fill whatever role Bruce had in mind for me. Obviously after getting a chance to play some the year before I was looking to have more of an impact and as a result be able to contribute more on the field.

2. Early on, it seems the midfield was a lock as the team was firing on all cylinders. How did you deal with this situation to eventually get your shot?

Early one our team was playing great all over the field, and especially in the middle of the park which made it challenging to try to fit in there. I also struggled more than I would have liked to during pre season so that made the likelihood of playing all the more less. You just have to continue working hard and training well, if you cant do that then you are not putting yourself in a position to get on the field. The season is a long one and with all the injuries and suspensions that occur you always must be ready for your chance. And during the Colorado game when Carlos came out with an injury I finally got my first significant minutes of the year and played decent enough. At this level it is about being prepared all of the time, so that whenever your number is called on you are able to go and fill in your respective position.

3. What would you describe as your best attributes as a player and what did you improve upon this season?

My best attribute as a player I would say is my work ethic. I enjoy tough challenges and the chance to prove myself against bigger odds and better players. Those are the things I really enjoy about the game, that’s why I play the position I play because you are usually matched up against the teams number 10, their playmaker, and I enjoy attempting to step up to the challenge each and every game.

4. How did the mood in the locker room change during the season and how did you respond personally to the mid-season losing streak?

One thing about the team this year is that we were all close, every team goes through tough times, but this team never let it affect them in a negative way. The way we started off the year was brilliant and when things started to turn sour, we just put in more work and trained harder. We were all aware of what we could play like if things went our way and we just attempted to get back to the same form that we had in the beginning of the year. The demeanor of the team never changed, we knew we had the quality of players to be a good team it was just about getting back to that level.

5. After starting 13 of the team's last 16 games, you came on strong in the later part of the season. What changes allowed you to break in to the lineup and do you feel you grew as a player as time went on?

The only thing I can say is that I was given the opportunity to play by the coaching staff and I made the best of it. At the time we had multiple injuries so I was able to come in and try to fill in for Claudio and Dema when they were out. I just tried to add a spark or some energy on the field and try to help us get back to our winning form. Playing in those games definitely helped me develop confidence that I could compete at this level.

6. In terms of team morale, describe Bruce Arena's style in the lockerroom? What players rallied the troops after a loss?

Bruce would never get to down on us after a loss and would never praise us to much in a victory. He obviously would point out flaws and areas that we either needed to improve individually or as a team. And the next week we would address those things. As for the team the older players would definitely take it upon themselves to rally the troops so to speak to ensure that we were ready for the following match. There is not much you can do once the game is over, you just look forward to the next one and continue to improve.

7. Going in to the playoffs, what was the mood like in camp? Was the feeling that the team could win the title?

Heading into the playoffs we were still upset about how things ended last year. There was a feeling amongst the returnees that we deserved more and we were definitely confident heading into the postseason. We realized that we had enough talent and experience in the locker room to really make a run. While that may not have been the case of how things worked out we were definitely confident and thought we should have done better. After things were over it left a feeling of underachievement for this team.

8. Many have commented about the rift between Bruce Arena and certain players towards the end. Did you witness any disputes or grievances between players and staff?

Obviously there were certain problems between coaches and players, but that is just the nature of the game. It’s a long season things go up and down, but we did the best that we could in the moment and no rift or argument affected the team adversely when we stepped on the field.

9. What was it like playing alongside Claudio in the playoffs against New England and how did the team and you personally cope with his injury?

For me as a player I have always been a huge Claudio fan. One of my first memories of watching soccer was watching them win NCAA titles when he was at Virginia. When he played overseas I was lucky enough to live five minutes from the Olympia Stadium in Munich and whenever his team would come there I would be sure to make it out to the game. Playing with him this past year has been a great experience, you learn so much from just watching him on the field and how he sees and plays the game. Not only that but he was very willing to help you on the field, always willing to give advice or point something out that you could improve on. He treated the younger guys like anyone else, which was great and as captain of the team something I know all of us appreciated. This can be said though for all of the older guys, whether it be Juan, Ronald, Dave, whomever, they were great with us and always treated us like we were any other player willing to help out and instruct. As a younger player you cant beat learning from players of there caliber and having them treat you with total respect.

10. After such a loss, did you expect Bruce to return next season? Did you expect to return next season?

After the final loss of the year not a whole lot of thought was given to who would be returning. Personally I was hoping to return, great guys, great organization, I was happy. As for Bruce he had only really been around for a year and with this league with the parity and the rules they have its hard to make a huge impact right away, so I wasn’t exactly sure what was going to happen.

11. What are your hopes for your new team and is there any message you would like to leave for NYRB fans?

When I found out I was selected to San Jose there were at first a lot of mixed emotions. I was sad to leave a place I had called home, all the friends I had made in the area, but that’s the nature of the game. Never being out to California, it will definitely be an experience. I have heard great things about Coach Yallop from players that played under him to his past staff, so I am excited about the opportunity to play under him. Being part of the resurrection of a past team should be fun as well, the fan base will be there and while it may be a struggle as tends to be the case with expansion teams, I am looking forward to the opportunity to ply my trade out there. All in all I am looking to getting out there and getting things started, especially the warm weather, its going to help out my golf game tremendously!

As for the Red Bull fans…Thank you for all the support I have received over the past two years I have been here. I just want to say thank you for making me feel at home in my time here. I have gotten close to many of you and you have all been great to me. It will be like leaving your family behind. I am anxiously awaiting my return to NJ for the game and look forward to seeing many of you there.

MLS in Seattle: Defining tradition thru change

Tradition is a valuable commodity in a ten year old league still struggling for identity. But after giving birth to baffling monikers like “Fusion”, “Mutiny”, and “Wiz”, Adidas backed Major League Soccer, with it’s cookie cutter logos, restrictive salary cap and bizarre draft rules, has long handicapped it’s ability to define it’s marketing niche.

While these components have undoubtedly preserved the league in it’s early years, it’s decision to shun all things NASL has stripped American soccer of any recognizable tradition.

With the addition of the San Jose Earthquakes and Seattle Sounders—teams boasting rich legacies spanning decades, the opportunity to finally put right this failing has finally come to the fore.

But to the dismay of many fans, “Seattle MLS”, as it was announced, is no shoe in for the Sounders. According to official statements by the club, The team's name has not yet been decided. Instead, fans are welcome to make suggestions at MLSInSeattle.com.

But after numerous contradictory statements by GM Adrian Hanauer—who seems intent on preserving tradition, but wary of the Sounders as a “minor league” brand—opinions are mixed amongst Seattle supporters.

I submitted Sounders. wrote one user on Goalseattle.com, a popular Seattle soccer message board. When the Sounders ownership changed in '82 (think it was '82), I remember feeling betrayed as they tried to re-brand the team. I was 12 and soccer was my life. I feel the good times are back and the Sounder brand is part of it. The idea that the Sounders name is soiled by a history of minor league use is baseless.”

On the other hand, many others seem excited by the opportunity to submit their own creations—including Puget Sound FC, FC Seattle and Seattle Sockers.

But while sentiments for and against a new name are echoed throughout numerous threads online, we turned to long time Seattle Times sports writer Jose Romero, who is quick to point out that the long standing Sounders tradition will continue with or without first division soccer.

“I think the presence of Adrian Hanauer—who attended attended Sounders games at the Kingdom—will keep the Sounders philosophy of homegrown talent mixed in with a few foriegners going” he said. “I see them operating more like a Chivas LA versus a Galaxy in which they scout and develop local or young talent versus established stars,”

For Romero, one of the draws of the current Sounders squad are the presence of local guys who make up the core of the team. Granted regional player rights for 2009, Seattle will likely draft a number of Sounders’ players to augment his roster.

"On the other hand, I think they have to make a big splash with at least somebody to get some buzz out to the fans" he adds.

Still, considering Seattle has already sold over 9,000 season tickets—a number greater than the average attendance at Sounders games, Romero remains optimistic the team will capture the public imagination.

“Seattle is a soccer- savy cosmopolitan market that has packed the house in exhibitions with Real Madrid, Manchester United and Juventus,” he explained. “With Canada, the Portland area and Seattle, we have a fanbase as big as any in the country,”

For veteran Seattle blogger Nick Scott, the obvious reason to keep the Sounders name would be to preserve the rich history of soccer in Seattle, but if the new team has a different name, he trusts the ownership group (especially Adrian Hanauer) knows soccer and the importance of its history. For Scott, even if the name is changed, they will surely take measures to preserve this. Keeping the same blue and green colors would be a start. he responded via email. Another way would be to put (with Paul Allen's blessing) a Seattle soccer museum in Qwest field, with banners, photos and newspapers from the days of the Sounders in the NASL and A-League/USL. he writes.

For now however, both Romero and Scott agree that the best course of action is to submit votes, and support the sounders in 2008.

If they pick something horrendously stupid, there's always the chance that us fans could bitch enough to make them change it, similar to what happened in San Jose a few years ago. adds Scott.

Chicago fire's on all cyclinders

While the Chicago Fire’s dramatic playoff run came as a surprise to many who watched them suffer early on, one fan who was never in doubt was Luis Arrovaye. As a native Colombian and long time Fire fan, writing about the beautiful game always came naturally to Arrovaye. But few could have predicted a better result than the opportunity to cover the team for a major Chicago paper.

Humbled and excited by the challenge, Arrovaye now spends most of his time living the dream: writing, blogging about and interviewing soccer’s major players. But one subject which remains close to his heart (and pen) remain his Chicago Fire.

One of only four teams in the league to utilize it’s designated player spot, the turning point in Chicago’s success both on and off the field was undoubtedly the acquisition of Blanco. But as opposed to the upheaval on the west coast, Arrovaye says Chicago’s late playoff surge benefited from a stable core which had long been established.

“I don't think Chicago's run affected the Galaxy's playoff ambitions, but maybe the Fire was a good example for the Galaxy,” he speculated when comparing the DP situation of each team. “The Galaxy didn't need a role model to motivate itself. It just needed its players to start clicking.”

After racking up four goals, seven assists, the only thing more explosive than Blanco’s play were his the field antics. But while adamant Blanco remains a star and entertainer of the highest caliber, Arrovaye remains convinced his significance off the field was a larger consideration.

“I think Blanco's signing was largely based on marketing—especially giving the large Mexican population in Chicago.,” he said. “With so many sports stars in Chicago, the Fire wanted to have its own big name player that would draw media attention and increase attendance.”

Rather than targeting Blanco specifically for the Fire, Arrovaye says he was informed by two separate Fire sources that AEG had its sights set on Blanco before the season and was going to do all it could to bring him to one of their teams.

But as opposed to AEG’s “hands off” approach, he feels the Fire's new owners (Andell Holdings) will likely be more hands on—in terms of both player decisions and off the field marketing.

“AEG owned three teams and put most of its focus on the Galaxy," said Arrovaye. "It's possible the new owners will want to make a splash right away with a big name signing, but it's still too early to tell what their approach.”

While it is too early to speculate on who may be signed, with more money available, teams are now paying closer attention to players overseas.

After coaching in England and Colombia, Coach Osorio has already called upon his scouting connections to land Colombian defender William Conde from his former club Millionarios. An integral performer in Chicago’s late season run, Conde was acquired for around $300,000 and proved the perfect example of improved scouting in MLS.

But despite the payoff of the Blanco and Conde, Arrovaye is quick to acknowledge the calculated risk coaches take in investing in a designated player.

Last year alone, the Fire got rid of its two leading scorers and its highest paid player. “When I asked Fire GM John Guppy if the team would use the designated player spot, he said the roster decisions were meant to make room for one.” he adds.

Expecting the single entity structure to endure for “at least few more years”, Arrovaye says the next step for Osorio and the Fire staff will scouting be the college ranks to search for new talent.

We try to go by collegiate conferences that are important, that have a lot of college seniors.” said Fire assistant Denis Hamlet in an interview with MLSNet.com. “ I went to the ACC (Atlantic Coast Conference), Juan [Osorio] went to the Big East, and Daryl [Shore] went down to the Conference USA.“

But rather than scouting only college seniors, Hamlet says the Fire have focused on following kids over a number of two to three years to identify how they will fit in to the team. he explained. “Foremost, you have to see if physically and mentally the kid can make the next step. he explained. “Once you establish that, you start to doing the background check to find out about the character of the player.”

Already setting his site’s on the MLS combine, Hamlet says final decisions on position will be made after watching college players against better competition.

“In a perfect SuperDraft you get three players that stick on the roster for the following year, and in that respect we've done pretty well. he concludes. “We have a number of international positions to work with, but it still comes down to the salary cap as far as if it's possible to get them all involved in there.”