Quote:
Originally Posted by Jagger
I simply don't see it happening to a huge extent in North America regardless of this entertainment value you're looking for.
The old NASL was supposed to do that when they had the likes of Pele playing in the league.
The World Cup in '94 was supposed to grow the sport and, even though it was a pretty good WC, it didn't light the sport on fire in the states.
The MLS was supposed to do it too and while it has been relatively successful it has not made that much headway against the status quo other major sports and probably never will. They have done well and deserve credit for their success in a tough market though.
It's just not going to happen over here I'm afraid. It is simply not part of the culture, people don't 'get it', exactly as you've stated T99. I grew up with the sport, I've lived and died following my team, Liverpool, in England and Europe. It becomes part of you, more than just a sport. Some people over here, however, do start to understand the appeal, especially if they manage to attend a few matches in Europe or South America. It becomes infectious, a real event, much more than attending most sports. I've been to NHL games, MLB games, NFL games and, sorry, they just don't compare. You cannot explain it to outsiders, most simply will never really get it unless they really experience it. I've accepted that now.
It's ingrained in me and now my kids are the same. They are avid supporters of Liverpool Football club and, by extension, England.
Nothing else to say, Tranny. I feel like it's your loss but there's probably no way you'll be ever be able to really get it. Here's an idea though, go attend a match at Anfield, say, Liverpool vs Manchester United, and see if anything registers with you. That could make a believer of you. You never know.
|
Yyyup. For me, I wasn't born with Liverpool FC, but I just immerse myself more and more. Now, having been there...I was blown away.
As far as soccer never catching on here, I doubt it will fully. I think if the MLS makes their prices competitive though, they could get a decent following in Canada. While markets like Calgary are small compared to those big US markets, the only sports rooted here are hockey, and the CFL. The NLL has some following too, but then that's it. All but the NHL are quite affordable (that includes CHL hockey as well of course). If the MLS ever comes to Calgary, that's where I likely spend most of my non Flames-related sports dollar, unless the Hitmen are deep in the playoffs.