We Americans May Be On To Something

Sometimes, ok most times, we are mocked around the world as not being part of the pure soccer tradition that exists planet wide. Because soccer is overshadowed by other professional sports in America, any involvement we have with the world's game is deemed insignificant.

But alas, take a real look at the history and at the state of the game today and try and tell me that Americans haven't had their influence on world football.

Performance wise, the USA finished third in the inaugural World Cup and in 1950 staged the biggest upset ever in the game.

Moving forward to the NASL of the 70s, we introduced "the Galacticos" a team of stars from around the world. That concept is commonplace these days, but the Cosmos did it first, so there.

Another gem to the world was the NASL ball, star studded for a reason, notice now how the UEFA Champions League has taken the concept for its annual tournament of club champions.

We statesiders deserve some credit, so with the launch of the new NASL (amazing logo by the way) and the re-introduction of classic NASL sides (Vancouver Whitecaps, San Jose Earthquakes, Seattle Sounders, Portland Timbers and now of course the Fort Lauderdale Strikers), history is coming full circle and the dark ages of American soccer shall be no more.

This rant is really just a reason to put out the thought that the new NASL should play with a cool looking ball. Anyone have any idea what they will be using?

Fort Lauderdale Strikers vs. Red Bull New York

According to Red Bull New York's website, their preseason schedules includes a stop right here in sunny Fort Lauderdale. Apparently they got here yesterday.

A scrimmage of sorts is set for Wednesday against the Chicago Fire, but surprisingly enough a Saturday date is slotted against Miami FC. I guess Red Bull New York hasn't gotten the memo yet, we're the Fort Lauderdale Strikers now.

Any news on this, who is going, where is it and when do I show up?

I'd rather be playing the Cosmos but they don't have a team, just a bunch of celebrities sitting on thrones.

Just Too Much NY Cosmos Talk

I don't want to hear it anymore. I don't care who bought the New York Cosmos and how good friends they are with David Beckham. I don't care about Pele and Eric Cantona. I don't care. I don't care. I just don't care.

If the MLS adds a second New York City team, whether it be the Cosmos or not, all it means is that we should should create our own professional league and be done with it. Oh wait, that's what the NASL is.

Awesome.