MLS

From DCFanguide

Our League

Major League Soccer (MLS) began play in 1996 as a result of the American resurgence in international soccer of the early 1990s. With millions of Americans playing soccer, unprecedented interest in the game, and two consecutive World Cup qualifications, the time was right for an outdoor league to showcase the new generation of soccer talent in this country. Previous (and unsuccessful) attempted soccer leagues in this country had put their money and emphasis on overpriced European stars in the twilight of their careers. From the beginning, the MLS would be different. Each team would certainly boast some foreign talent, but the bulk of each roster would be made up of world-class American players.

As MLS enters its second decade, the league can look back on eleven seasons of growth and success. The league has grown from 10 teams in 1996 to now include 13 teams in the United States and Canada. Attendance records have been set each year as millions of curious and passionate fans (like you!) come out to support their local team. Many MLS clubs (including DC United) now receive higher stadium attendance than the NBA and NHL teams in their city. As the league has grown, so has its reputation. Our American stars now command some of the top salaries in Major League Soccer while others have made the leap to professional leagues in Germany, England, and the Netherlands. However, possibly the greatest illustration of MLS success is the recent signing of soccer's most famous player. At only 31 years of age, David Beckham turned down offers from the largest leagues in the world to continue his legendary career here in the MLS. In 2007, the league will once again prove that American soccer is truly Major League.

--Adelino 15:25, 6 April 2007 (EDT)