The state of American soccer is not in shambles but its not the spotlight of soccer. For instance, people all over the world do not turn to American soccer each and everyday. As a matter of fact, most Americans turn to the English Premier, German Bundesliga, Spanish Primera…the list goes on and on. I personally tune into the Italian League and Mexican league as much as possible.
But lets take a wonder at why American soccer is so, lets say, middle pecking – like luke warm.
American View:
- Soccer is below Baseball, Football, Basketball
- Soccer is considered Latino in Pop culture American Views
- Soccer is new to America, we like things we made.
That is what Americans will tell you. But what is the real reason?:
- American Soccer does not have Academy Teams
- American Education systems limit soccer time
- When the average MLS player makes 10,000 Grand a year, that can’t be that inspiring.
A true Academy team allows players to develop underneath professional coaches and their guidance. While there are a handful of good amateur coaches, pro coaches are surely better. Also, these players will play other academy teams where they will be constantly competing with one another, playing with and against the cream of the crop, and develop with a strong soccer environment.
My Tips for American Soccer:
- Obviously we need to start Academies – even if they are only Summer Academies.
- The Olympic Development Program is great, but we could step this up.
- Academys would be able to find and sign the world’s talent.
- Talent will not be lost – it will be found early on and honed to its max level.
- If anything, build more soccer schools in the U.S.
I have high hopes for the U.S. but we just need to start somewhere. Now is the time. This is the type of stuff I hope “Project 2010″ is discussing. If not, that committee is useless, do they really expect to win the World Cup??
~Jason
