NASL respects the Federation's decision and its suggested course of action for obtaining sanctioning in 2010. NASL will continue during the next seven days to work in good faith towards an interim solution with United Soccer Leagues.
In support of USSF’s efforts to find a resolution for the upcoming season at its Division II Men’s Professional League level, USL very recently agreed to one of the proposals made by USSF requiring USL-1 and the contemplated North American Soccer League (NASL) to come together for 2010. USL remains willing to proceed with this USSF-proposed scenario in order to enable the 2010 season over the course of the next several days. Meanwhile, USL will continue to move ahead with its preparations for the 2010 USL-1 season in the appropriate membership category.
According to the Democrat & Chronicle Rhino's owner Rob Clark said the following:
I think we’re forced into a compromise and I don’t think a compromise was necessary. This is not the American way. (The U.S. Soccer Federation) inhibiting people’s ability to do business. We will have second-division soccer in America in 2010. Unfortunately, the governing body of the sport isn’t doing its part to aid that. We’re going forward with our (NASL) meetings next week in Miami and we’ll try to do what’s best for soccer in North America.
A Source in Miami confirms a meeting will take place with all NASL members next week. We will keep you updated.
The good thing is that according to the statements released it seems both parties are willing to talk and that is a good thing, but its going to be difficult for both to agree and compromise.
My solution would be for NASL to buy USL-1 (or the whole of USL) from Nurock. Agree to keep the current management for one year and then re-brand etc, etc, etc next year. I think this is what the USSF should have done. But its difficult today to tell the difference between MLS and the USSF. Kartik Krishnayer has some interesting opinions on this subject over at the Kartik Report. While Captain Positive asks: Is USL worth saving?
Yup, the United States Soccer Federation didn't approve any league as a U.S. 2nd Division league.
The Professional League Task Force, which determined that neither organization on its own was able to provide a viable and sustainable operation during the upcoming season. Both organizations were unable to meet U.S. Soccer’s requirement of a minimum of eight viable teams for 2010.
Yes folks I see it as the biggest cop-out in U.S. Soccer history! So basically both leagues need to come out with a compromise this year since the USSF thinks there is not enough time or teams on either side to make a viable league.
U.S. Soccer President SunilGulati said:
In the best interest of soccer in the United States, we decided to not sanction either league at this point. However, we did encourage both leagues to come together in the next week and attempt to develop another plan which would allow a single league to be approved on a provisional basis. We are committed to finding ways to improve the long-term viability of all leagues and teams and continue the growth of soccer in the United States
If the USSF thinks both leagues didn't have enough time to make things work on their own in time for the 2010 season... What makes them think this will happen if both leagues unite? Come on! Even if they do come out with a compromise this will take time and both sides don't like each other. So the way I see it they are forcing teams back into USL or into a non-sanctioned league which to me is the better option. I'm very disappointed with this half ass ruling! I don't see this as being beneficial for U.S. Soccer at all!
I think we’re forced into a compromise and I don’t think a compromise was necessary. This is not the American way. (The U.s. Soccer Federation) inhibiting people’s ability to do business. We will have second-division soccer in America in 2010. Unfortunately, the governing body of the sport isn’t doing its part to aid that. We’re going forward with our (NASL) meetings next week in Miami and we’ll try to do what’s best for soccer in North America.
Source in Miami confirms meeting will take place. We will keep you updated.
Goal.com's Andrea Canales gives us an accurate take on the situation:
Instead of taking a chance on something new and different, the U.S. Soccer Federation is making sure the established order returns.
She continues and describes the USSF/MLS stand that ensures NASL will never become a direct competitor. Read more HERE
Now the Miami New Times says Miami FC might not play next year!
Not that anyone really pays attention, but Miami FC has been playing in the United Soccer League since the team's founding in 2006.
More HERE Hmmmm, I wonder where they got that info?
Check out the SPA Special Podcast with Kartik and Richard Farley . They speak about this whole Mess GO HERE
Even though I am a very big fan of Miami FC, I am often puzzled by the way they do business. When it comes to the way they are towards the fans and the Miami Ultras they have been great. They have always made me feel special and appreciated. I have not heard any complaints in this area. When it comes to signing players it is a different story. I have heard more complaints about this than anything else. I am in agreement with this as Miami FC has a wait and let's see policy. Yes, there was a season when we did not know if we were going to field a team but what about the other seasons? With the break away and the formation of the NASL there is no excuse. The new league is what Miami FC has wanted so why has nothing been done? All the clubs are in the same boat with the formation of the new league, sponsors, etcetera, yet others have found time to re-sign or add to their roster. I decided to look up two of the more successful clubs, the Montreal Impact and the Vancouver Whitecaps to see how they do business. Some of these decisions were made before the breakaway but many have occurred after. I have used the team sites plus the team news for my information as I feel this would be the most reliable.
Montreal Impact One thing I notice about the Impact is they prefer signing players for two years. I believe they do this so players can concentrate more with on field issues then worrying about next year. Here is the info I located about them. It includes the date when it was reported, player or coaches name, when their contract expires (without options) and duration of contract. All re-signed players do not have prior club listed. Reported dates are 2009 unless noted. Dec.18, 2008, Matt Jordan 2010 two years Jan.18, Patrick Leduc 2010 two years Feb.18, Peter Byers 2010 two years Feb. 27, Maynard Pierre-Rudolph 2010 two years July 28, Hircham Aaboubou 2011 two years Nov 13 Marc Dos Santos ( Head Coach) 2011 two years Nov. 24 Gil Orriols Jansana (Assistant Coach) 2010 one year Nov. 26 Rocco Placentino 2011 two years Nov. 26 Adam Braz 2011 two years Nov. 30 David Testo 2011 two years Vancouver Whitecaps Here is the info I located for the Whitecaps. It includes date reported, players name, year contract expires, duration of contract, and prior club (if not re-signed). All contracts expire 2010. I believe this is because the team will be moving up to the MLS in 2011. Jan. 21 Ansu Toure 2010 two years (Miami FC) Feb. 11 Wes Knight 2010 two years Oct. 22 Martin Nash 2010 Nov 3 Takashi Hirano 2010 Nov. 3 Justin Moose 2010 Nov. 3 Nizar Khalfan 2010 Nov. 12 Chris Williams 2010 (Charleston Battery) Nov 18 Ricardo Sanchez 2010 (Minnesota Thunder) Nov . 30 Teitur Thordarson (Head Coach) 2010 Dec. 1 Jay Nolly 2010 Dec. 2 Zourab "Zee" Tsiskaridze 2010 (Miami FC) Dec. 23 Jonathan "Jonny" Steele 2010 (Puerto Rico Islanders) Dec. 23 Greg Janiciki 2010 (D.C. United) Vancouver also held an off season training program for November 2nd thru December 4th.
Don't get me wrong, this piece is not meant to slam Miami FC. I bleed BLUE, it is my team and Miami FC is very much a part of my life. I, along with all the Miami Ultras want this team to succeed but wonder how they hope to do this by not pursuing available players or signing important pieces from prior years.
Hola Amigos! Today Burrito Bring you Soccer cats. Ok, Burrito as most of you know is one mean dawg so he no like them pinchesgatos too much. When Burrito see them he try to bite them, eat them, pee on them and even hump them sometimes... Burrito figures "ehhh, why not?"
But when it comes to futbol Burrito forgive them for being so estupids. Here are videos of some gatos playing Futbol!
Here video where they ask you to Neuter them gatos! Chop chop gatitos!
I had a discussion with Robert Scorca the other day about the history of USL-1. Robert, for those that don't know him, is South Florida's own Soccer guru. He has seen many South Florida Soccer teams come and go. Starting with the Miami Gatos, the Fort Lauderdale Strikers, the Miami Fusion and now Miami FC. Robert has Soccer paraphernalia that is older then I am! So when you talk to him he pretty much knows what he is talking about.
My questions to him were about what he thinks of this whole USL vs NASL mumbo jumbo? Was he for one side or the other? Robert preferred a solution that would allow the USL-1 and NASL to both coexist. As most of the NASL clubs are on the east coast he feels the USL could have a western league. Maybe both leagues could have an East-West Championship Game. This solution would cut down on travel expenses which has always been a concern of the USL. He feels this solution would be best for the sport.
He pointed out the many virtues of USL and it's long history but he also pointed out the failure in vision as they let MLS become the First Division of United States Soccer instead of taking the reigns of such a project which would have led to a real Soccer league with a definite pyramid much like that of leagues all over the world. He feels that although relegation and promotion is a great idea it would not work. If soccer was the number one sport in America then it might have a chance, but the additional cost can not be absorbed by clubs or leagues today. To be promoted (a reward) would cost teams a fortune. Teams who paid to become a MLS club would most likely fold before moving down to the second division.
Robert continued:
I went over the last 10 years of the USL-1. Ten years ago (2000) there were 25 teams and it was called the A-League. Now there are only 4 teams left. 36 teams came and went with Seattle moving up to the MLS. Seven more joined the NASL. The remaining 25 were not so lucky as they either folded or moved down to USL-2 or the PDL. In 1998, the A-League consisted of 28 teams. By 2006, only 12 remained in the USL First Division. For the most part, the teams that left dropped down to lower classifications, such as the USL Second Division and Premier Development League. These teams generally dropped down to rid themselves of the high costs of travel and player payrolls.
Here is a list of former teams come and gone: * Atlanta Silverbacks (1997-2008) (now in the NASL) * Boston Bulldogs (1997-2000, as Worcester Wildfire in 1997-98) * Calgary Mustangs (2002-04, as Calgary Storm in 2002-03) * California Jaguars (1997-98) * California Victory (2007) * Carolina Dynamo (1997) (now in the PDL) * Charleston Battery (1993-2009) (Now in the USL-2) * Charlotte Eagles (2001-03) (Now in the USL-2) * Cincinnati Riverhawks (1998-2003) * Cleveland City Stars (2009) * Connecticut Wolves (1997-2001) * Edmonton Aviators (2004, as Edmonton F.C. at the end of the season) * El Paso Patriots (1997-2003) (now in the PDL) * Hershey Wildcats (1997-2001) * Indiana Blast (1999-2003) * Jacksonville Cyclones (1997-99, as Tampa Bay Cyclones in 1995-1996) * Lehigh Valley Steam (1999) * Long Island Rough Riders (1997-2001) (now in the PDL) * Maryland Mania (1999) * Milwaukee Rampage (1997-2002) * Milwaukee Wave United (2003-04) * MLS Project 40 (1998-2000) * Nashville Metros (1997-2001, as Tennessee Rhythm in 1999-2000) (now in the PDL) * New Orleans Storm (1997-99, as New Orleans Riverboat Gamblers in 1997) * Orange County Waves (1997-2000, as Orange County Zodiac in 1997-99. Now play in the PDL as Orange County Blue Star) * Orlando Sundogs (1997) * Pittsburgh Riverhounds (1999-2003) (Now in the USL-2) * Raleigh Express (1997-2000, as Raleigh Flyers in 1997-98) * Richmond Kickers (1997-2005) (Now in the USL-2) * Sacramento Geckos (1998-99, as Albuquerque Geckos in 1998) * San Diego Flash (1997-2001, as Colorado Foxes in 1997) * San Francisco Bay Seals (1998-2000, as Bay Area Seals in 2000) * Seattle Sounders (1997-2008) (now in MLS as the Seattle Sounders FC) * Staten Island Vipers (1998-99) * Syracuse Salty Dogs (2003-04) * Toronto Lynx (1997-2006) (now in the PDL) * Virginia Beach Mariners (1998-2000, 2002-2006, as Hampton Roads Mariners 1998-2000, 2002)
Now only 4 teams remain in USL-1 Austin Aztex · F.C. New York · Portland Timbers · Puerto Rico Islanders
A little history... The old American Professional Soccer League (APSL) became the A-League in 1995. The A-League played in 1995 and 1996. After the 1996 season the Rochester Raging Rhinos, Vancouver 86ers, Montreal Impact, Colorado Foxes, Seattle Sounders, Atlanta Ruckus, and 2 expansion teams set to play that year ( Toronto Lynx and Hershey Wildcats) are absorbed by the United Systems of Independent Soccer Leagues (USISL) after the A-League folds. At this point the USISL Select League (Division3) from 1996 becomes the USISL A-League (Division 2) in 1997. The USISL A-League carries this name for 1997 and 1998. In 1999 the name is changed to the United Soccer League (USL) A-League (Division 2). In 2005 the league changes its name to the United Soccer League Division 1 (USA Division 2).
Today there is some speculation that several USL-1/NASL clubs are waiting for the top-tier Major League Soccer to expand, in hopes that they will be given the opportunity to move up. For now we wait for the final word from the United States Soccer Federation to see if they approve the North American Soccer League. If approved this could be a blow to the United Soccer Leagues USL-1. But the fact that so many teams have come and gone is a sign that USL-1 does not have the right soccer model.
For more Soccer history check out Robert's History of South Florida Soccer at MiamiSoccerFan.com
I ran across this BBC documentary about Pele and Garrincha put together in 2002. The film starts off in the 1950's, as Brazil lost in the Maracana versus Uruguay. It follows the careers and lives of Brazilian football stars Pele and Garrincha. When they played on the same team, they never lost a game but by themselves their lives and careers took diffrent paths.
Pele and Garrincha are both footballing legends in Brazil. The film uses archive footage and details the story of these two men and explains how one became the World's Greatest Soccer player and the other died a broken alcoholic at the age of 49.
See the video below or HERE I highly recommend it!
We recently found out that Zourab Tsiskaridze, better known to Miami FC fans as "Zee", was signed by the Vancouver Whitecaps. Here is a recap of his career. Taken from the Whitecaps site:
Zourab Tsiskaridze aka "Zee", 23, played with Miami FC Blues in 18 USL-1 matches. He is 6-ft, 185-pounds and a left-sided player who scored one goal and added one assist in 836 minutes of action. His only goal came during Miami's 3-2 defeat to the Whitecaps at Swangard Stadium on June 12, 2009.
Prior to joining the Blues, Zourab spent 18 months with the reserve and first team of FC Sète 34, who play in France’s third division.
In 2004, Tsiskaridze began his professional career in Brazil with the U-20 side of Associação Atlética Internacional - a club based in Limeira, São Paulo. He then played the first six months of 2005 with the U-20 side of Grêmio Recreativo Barueri, who are based in Barueri, São Paulo.
A native of Tbilisi, Georgia, Tsiskaridze first moved to Poland in 1990 before moving to the United States in the spring of 2001. It was in the U.S. that he quickly became a standout soccer player at McLean High School in McLean, Virginia.
Our good friend Robert Scorca asked "Zee" a few questions and here is his response :
Robert Scorca (RS): You came for an open tryout with Miami FC. How many players participated? How many signed on with Miami FC?
Zourab Tsiskaridze (Zee):There were 128 players trying out, 4 players were invited back to train with the team, I was the only one who signed.
RS: After the tryout was over did you feel good about your chances to make the team? Zee:Yes of course, I talked to (Coach) Zinho and he was very pleased with my performance and he liked me a lot, so I felt that I had a good chance of signing.
RS: What was it like during your first days here in Miami?
Zee :I was getting to know the city a little bit and it was chaotic in the beginning because I was looking for an apartment with Facundo Erpen and we were staying in Diego Serna's house for about 3 weeks until we found a place.
RS : What position did you play before joining Miami FC? I feel you were stuck as a defender with the injury to Facundo Erpen but did not feel comfortable there. Zee :I played a left sided midfielder or a left sided forward all my life. At the beginning of my career I had played as left back also, but I learned the center back position in Miami thanks to Zinho. I'm glad I did because it made me a more versatile player even though I had trouble learning the position in the beginning.
RS : In your time here we saw your growth as a player. How much of this was because you were more comfortable when you were moved to an attacking roll?
Zee :I love creating, scoring goals or making assists, that's the way I always played. I adjusted to the system we played here in Miami and when I was moved back as an attacker I felt very comfortable.
RS : Do you have any superstitions before a game?
Zee : I like to talk to my dad the day before games, he gives me the best advise and he's my best fan and critic, without his support and advise I wouldn't be able to do what I love.
RS : Which player or coach do you feel was most helpful during your career?
Zee :Coach Greg Petrosian, is a great part of my becoming a complete player. He helped me develop my strength, power and speed. He was a strength and fitness coach in DC United for many years, He won 3 MLS championships with them and also was a Olympic gold medalist in long jump in the 80's. He still performs and he's a world champion in long jump in masters. I've been training with him for the past 6 years, he's a great teacher, great person and a great coach that influenced my professional career.
In my time in Miami I'm very thankful to Zinho for bringing me into the team and giving me the opportunity to perform. He gave me a lot of advise and I'll be always thankful and proud that I had him as a coach. My teammates were there for me too, I had a great relationship with everyone, I still talk to many of the guys, they helped me and I helped them in different situations, we had good chemistry.
RS : What are you going to miss most about your time here in Miami?
Zee: My teammates, the city and the beach, the great weather and of course you Robert:)
RS: Any idea what position Vancouver plans on playing you?
Zee : There are several positions that the coach wants me to learn and be ready to perform in if necessary, I'm waiting for the preseason to start to find out what my roles are.
RS: Any closing thoughts on your time here in Miami?
Zee :I think if Traffic invests more money into the team they'll be able to establish a core of players that will be there for a few seasons. Every team has that. Its a shame that so many good players came and went. The past few years the squad had changed every season making it difficult not only for the coach, but for the whole organization to be successful. I want to wish Miami FC the best of luck in NASL, and I'm thankful for the opportunity to play here last season.
The most important thing about last year is that I grew as a player and person. I'm very happy and glad to have meet so many great people in South Florida. If I had to say something that sums up the whole thing is that a soccer career is only for couple of years and it passes, but the friends you make along the way are forever. I want to thank ALL my friends including you Robert for the support now and for bringing happiness to my life. Here is a video of Zee scoring on his new team!
Burrito is tired of all this War of the Soccer Leagues between USL and NASL!
The latest comes from Burrito's compadre Kartik. It look like USL has sued teams for breach of contract!
Florida court documents filed on Tuesday indicate that the United Soccer Leagues have sued the Rochester Rhinos and two other clubs for breach of contract.
The Rhinos had allegedly committed contractually to play 2010 in USL’s First Division but instead opted to play in the yet to be sanctioned North American Soccer League. Also filed on Tuesday were lawsuits against prospective USL-1 clubs in Tampa Bay and (Crystal Palace) Baltimore who also have joined NASL after committing to the play 2010 in USL’s First Division.
Burrito believe USL is destroying the game with their arrogance. They never look to compromise, they no care about the game. This is just a USL tactic to delay the creation of the NASL in hopes it will force the rest of the teams to join USL again! Pinches vatos! It time for Soccer Fans to do something about it and write to Sunil Gulati to approve NASL for the sake of Futbol in the United States.
Tell him not to be a puppet of MLS and to do the right thing for the sport in America! Rejecting NASL would mean losing teams and fans! Do the right thing Approve NASL!
In other news Burrito attended Art Basel in Miami this past weekend and for you carnales who no liver here in South Florida, Art Basel is the most important art show in the United States, a cultural and social highlight for the Americas. It is the sister event of Switzerland's Art Basel, the most prestigious art show in the world.
The Beautiful game was present in the art too as you can see in the pictures before Burrito was kicked out.
For more pictures and Art information go to Local Motion Miami. Stay tuned tomorrow for an Interview made by Burrito's amigos Robert Scorca and Uncle Ed to a player Miami FC fans will miss!
With the creation of NASL things need to change for Miami FC. Fans don't want to hear any more excuses. If approved by the USSF then USL will be in the past and it's time for Traffic to take ownership of this baby! I don't claim to be a Soccer expert, nor can I say I know how to run a soccer company such as Traffic or a Soccer Club like Miami FC. It's easy to sit outside and criticize, But I do run my own business and I know when things are being done half ass (Pardon the French). Over at Miamisoccerfan.com Brian Corey wrote a piece called "Hopes and Fears for Miami Soccer Fans". In it Brian goes on to describe the ideal scenarios needed for the "Blues" to be successful in Southern Florida. Following I'll continue that discussion with a few points of my own. Here are a few things that I think need to be done:
-If they change the name it should be "Strikers" no city name needed. Focus on South Florida the region. People identify with the name and tradition. The rivalry with the Tampa Rowdies needs to be a focus. Time to organize the road trip! This one game needs to be a sellout in South Florida. I'm sure we can get a few hundred Rowdies fans down here.
- Play at either Lockhart or FIU Stadium, anything else is a step in the wrong direction. Landshark is too big. Tropical Park is too amateur looking. Signs are needed outside of the stadiums and on the main roads. Let people know you exist!
- Market the team as a major league team! If they do a half ass job like they did last year they will never get more then a few hundred people. They need billboards, advertising, sponsors on the jersey. Look at those people and companies supporting the World Cup bid. Those are the same people that need to be involved with this team. Get Local Celebrities on-board!
-Bring quality players. There needs to be at least one player that will be the face of the team at events and TV. Last year that player could have been Diego Serna but they didn't even use him to attract the Colombians, nor the one time Miami Fusion faithful.
-More exposure on TV, they got on Spanish Network Univision's Republic Deportiva a few times and thats great! If you can't get away games on TV then get them on the Internet like USL did (But better quality). Go Viral, improve the website, (sorry but it sucks). Use fan Blogs and sites to get the word out. - Study the calendar, take advantage of festivals, events, fairs. Place booths at these events and use the Ultras, volunteers, interns to get the word out. This team is owned by a Brazilian company. Where are the Brazilians? Offer a season ticket package and organize a yearly Soccer tournament during the off season where The German club goes against the Brazilian Club and so on! This year go after the Social Clubs!
- Miami FC Blues Jerseys, shirts, hats and scarfs are hard to get. I've had people contact me on this site looking for jerseys which are hard to find. Create a site where products are available. It's not hard nor expensive. Look at the banner to the right with Miami Ultras gear, there is an example of how to do it!
- We don't know what the budget will be this year for the team, we hope its something substantial since they need to come out with a bang taking advantage of the new league. But as much as they need to market, they also need facilities for the players. I've heard nightmare story's from players that I wont repeat. If you want the players to perform then you need to give them the tools to succeed.
Finally, it's no secret South Florida fans are fickle, stuck up and bandwagon jumpers. Call us Soccer snobs but we want quality football. Give us a winning team and we will get some butts in the stadium. Everyone wants MLS, I hate to compare but back in 2001 with the Miami Fusion we averaged over 11,000. It took 4 years to get there and unfortunately they pre-maturely pulled the plug right when people started to care for the team. Miami FC has already been around for 4 years but many people still don't know they exist! Its time to change that.
If you have any more ideas leave a comment or send suggestions to Miami FC
Miami native, Chad Ochocinco (formerly known as Chad Johnson) is a supporter of the beautiful game here in the United States and as evidenced by the picture supports Miami's bid for the World Cup. The American Football star who plays for the Bengals as a wide receiver is also said to be a Fan of the Miami FC Blues!
In case you didn't know Chad changed his surname from Johnson to Ochocinco prior to the 2008 regular season to reflect his Bengals uniform number.[85] More info HERE
Currently Miami's World Cup bid has picked up steam and has surpassed 9,000 votes, but we need your support to be one of the cities to host world cup games go to http://www.gousabid.com/city/local/MIAMI-FL and support Soccer in South Florida!
Meanwhile it looks like Miami FC has lost one of its most popular players, it is defender Zourab Tsiskaridze better known as "Zee" by the fans. Last week soccer guru and Miami Ultra Robert Scorca mentioned to me that he heard Zee was on trial with the Whitecaps and sure enough this week he was signed. We want to wish Zee luck with his new team and tell him to expect some heckling from the Ultras when he visits Southern Florida with his new team. More on this HERE
Talk about the Blues, they continue to Support Local Youth Soccer Tournaments as this past weekend, Miami FC's front office and Mascot, HotShot, attended one of the more prestigious youth soccer tournament in South Florida, the Plantation Eagles Thanksgiving Classic. Check it out HERE
I've been reading all the information across the Internet referring to the USL vs NASL issues. I've spoken with friends and fellow bloggers and we have all come up with some interesting ideas. Here is my take on where this whole mess could be going. I'm going to divide it up into 3 scenarios.
Scenario #1 Stalemate
Lets say the USSF intervenes, rejects the NASL which to my eyes seems to be the most likely outcome. The USSF forces the 2 groups to compromise, USL will need to surrender control to the TOA so that the league could continue under USL-1. The Team owners get their way but the USL continues to have all teams under their wing.
This will not make anybody happy. The TOA wants out of USL. I think with this whole soap opera USL-1 has lost much credibility and is now synonymous with mediocrity. I fear there are too many egos out there and some teams would rather fold then be part of USL at this stage. Scenario #2.- What if USL wins?
This one looks weird at this point since we just heard the Rhinos jumped ship to the NASL. But we can't count USL/NuRock out just yet. The USSF gave the TOA teams a few weeks to give them a game plan... so to speak and according to that they would approve the league or not. Lets assume the plea is rejected. Lets say no compromise is reached, the original defectors, Carolina, Miami and Minnesota are out of luck and would likely not play in USL. The remaining teams would have no choice but to return to USL if they want to play.
Its a known secret that MLS pretty much runs the USSF. In the beginning, when things first started out, everyone was lead to believe the TOA was going to become MLS2... but when it was known that the TOA was naming the new League NASL, then things started to change. Now the "Farm league" became a competitor even though TOA members claim the contrary.
So far 10 teams have aligned to NASL, Atlanta and St. Louis aren't even up and running, Minnesota is practically in the same boat since they are down to a 3 man organization. We have Tampa and Baltimore and lets include the Rhinos who were set to play in the USL next year. (Legal issues may arise) So basically NASL has only 4 real teams without issues Montreal, Miami , Carolina and Vancouver.
USL claims they are still looking to add a few teams to USL-1. This would invigorate a league that is down to 4 teams. Portland, Austin, Cleveland and Puerto Rico (Cleveland being rummored to be heading to USL-2). A deal with teams currently aligned with the TOA could still happen. Montreal for one, is playing all suitors. Sure, they say they are with NASL but MLS wants them badly and so does USL. Yup, you can't count USL out yet!
Scenario #3.- NASL wins one way or another.
10 groups willing to field teams in NASL is something to brag about. Vancouver will still field a team even after they go to MLS (Edmonton?) and Montreal doesn't need MLS, USL or NASL for that matter. If NASL is approved and if Montreal decides not to leave to MLS, then NASL will be a strong league going into 2o1o and beyond. Name issues with the Rowdies? Worst case scenario Tampa could change their name. Legal issues between USL, Baltimore, Tampa and the Rhino's? Rob Clark, owner of the Rhinos said he believes nothing holds them from jumping ship. The same can be said for the other teams. Minnesota is the weak link, no idea if they will survive when the dust settles. But even if the non-formed groups do not field teams there are still enough teams to make it work. Soon more teams could be jumping ship (No word from PR and Portland yet).
Even if NASL is not approved by the USSF there are other options and steps that can be taken, it wont be over by a long shot. They can still play under the Canadian Soccer Federation which could potentially include American teams. MLS /USSF can't argue since Toronto plays under a USSF sanctioned League.
Conclusion: I got a headache with all this and I'm sure you did too. I'd like for all this to be over with so that we can concentrate on getting all our teams ready for next year! Lets hope the outcome will be in the best interest for Soccer in the United States and Canada.
Our good friend and Miami UltraRobert Scorca went over the team sites for all the members of the NASL and here is what he found:
Minnesota Thunder has not had a news update since Oct. 15th before the news of NASL broke out.
Atlanta Silverbacks and St. Louis Soccer United have updates mentioning that 7 teams are part of the new league. This is before Crystal Palace Baltimore and Tampa Bay Rowdies joined the new league and before the NASL name was chosen.
The Vancouver Whitecaps team site ties into all the other teams home sites. Also in google if you type in NASL there is the new NASL listed with google links to all the NASL teams. This is good because it mentions the other teams under each NASL team, the reserve teams, and woman's team. Being google there is no guarantee this is correct.
The USL site tells a different story. If you go to the team sites for the Montreal Impact, Vancouver Whitecaps, and Tampa Bay Rowdies they are still members of the USL-1. How do they do this? Under the news for the clubs they are updated prior to their news release mentioning the split. Vancouver team news stops on Nov. 3rd, Tampa Bay's stops on Nov. 18th, and Montreal stops on Nov. 10th. The Charleston Battery team site is updated to Oct. 28 so there is no mention of them dropping down to the USL-2. I guess the USL philosophy is no news is good news.
The USL news site is updated much more frequent. Nov. 4 there is a post titled "New era under way for USL-1" This article mentions that in attendance are representatives for the following. Austin, Cleveland, New York, Puerto Rico, Portland, Rochester, Tampa Bay, Edmonton, Ottawa, Baltimore and Detroit. With things breaking the way they are I am sure these cities know how to reach the NASL's front office for a place to play.
Nov. 10 there is a post titled "USL Statement regarding USL-1" This came out in response to the TOA's application being sent to the United States Soccer Federation.
Nov. 20 there is a post titled USL statement regarding Tampa, Baltimore. This mentions about both clubs being under contract to the USL. This was in response to Tampa Bay and Baltimore being mentioned as entries of the new league which is at the time of the article being named the NASL.
Hola amigos! Burrito bring you the War of the Soccer Leagues between USL and the new NASL that the TOA will begin in 2010. We still wait for ok from USSF but Burrito's connections say it going to happen one way or another! Burrito want to warn you carnales this may be a little long so go get something to eat, or drink a cafecito and relax and read Burritos futbol poetrys!
Austin Aztex Aztex remind Burrito of Mexico except they in Texas... Team was so-so finishing almost last and they make a bubu during last season that cost them 2 points! They recently release 14 players! They faithful to USL. But no one cares.
Charleston Battery They finish 4th in USL, they just announce they are going down to USL-2! Pobrecitos! It is a step down for them and for USL.
Cleveland City Stars Stars ends season last and reports say "las Estrellas" are going to go down to USL-2 again. Things not go well with them this last year. They faithful to USL.
Portland Timbers Timbers finish first in league but not Champions and choke in playoff. They don't care about the TOA group and careless about USL even though their president get award for being best executive or whatever. (He only get it cause all other teams are gone) They going to MLS so 2010 is only preparation for the big league! Yawn.
Puerto Rico Islanders PR is ok with whatever happens, they finish 3rd in USL and play Concacaf champions doing mas o menos this year. They are keeping their eye out to see what happens with NASL but for now remain with USL. Puerto Rico also have hot womens!
Rochester Rhinos Not happy with USL, Rhinos are also not too fond of TOA. But they see no changes to USL so far. Rhinos might surprise everyone and jump ship if not this year then in 2011 for sure.
New teams New York and Tampa are expansion USL teams pero Tampa say they with the TOA...
Maybe teams: USL announce Edmonton and Ottawa along with Baltimore and Detroit as possible teams. We now know Baltimore went with TOA so Burrito think other teams might go to TOA too unless USL secure some pesos from the other cities pronto! Rumor has it another Minnesota team will come into USL-1 but that weird cause Thunder still exist kinda since they still have website! ... And then there is another team called the Minnesota Kings going into NPSL... that make 3 teams in Minnesota! A caray, 3 teams!?!? So if we take Baltimore out and Cleveland out oh and The Battery, well Burrito really can't add so someone need to tell Burrito how many teams USL will have this season, 5? Not looking good for USL-1.
Miami FC Blues They buy rights to NASL name. They have not mucho fans except for Burrito and some vatos called the Ultras (3 guys and one of their girlfriends). Owners of team Traffic Sports have mucho dinero. If Traffic wants to make a good team now is time to do it. No more excuse. Will Blues change name to Strikers? We will see... Nowheres to go but up for Miami FC. Vamos Miami!
Minnesota Thunder No moneys, no players, no nothing. Thunder owe money to everyone and their mami! USL trying to kill them to make sure TOA league doesn't work but even if Thunder say bye, bye there are enough teams now to make new league work. Burrito hope other TOA members help Minnesota survive.
Montreal Impact The new USL Champions are on top of the world. Joey Saputo playing all sides and running the show. Everyone want Montreal in their side but so far Impact only on their own side. If Saputo could he make his own league where Impact play with themselves... no pun intended... Impact will play where they want, they don't need MLS, with the 40 million franchise fee they can start the new league and give free croissants to fans for the rest of the year!
Vancouver Whitecaps They going to MLS anyway but they want the better for futbol in North America by sticking with the TOA (unlike the Timbers who just dont care). Whitcaps say they will keep a team in NASL even though they move to MLS.
Carolina RailHawks Burrito call them Railchickens. A loyal TOA member they were along with Miami and Minnesota the first teams to be kicked out by USL a move that Burrito thinks was the stupidest thing since Mild Sauce!
Atlanta Silverbacks They took a year off from USL cause they no like them. USL turn around and want to put team in Atlanta.
St. Louis Soccer United No team yet but Jeff Cooper have the dinero and the organization to make this team happen soon.
Tampa Bay Rowdies Rowdies have already given some pesos over to USL but are loyal to TOA. If they cant jump this year they will do it in 2011. Burrito looking forward to Florida derby!
Baltimore Crystal Palace USL-2 team ready to move up. They might have the same legal issues that Tampa have so they might have to stay in USL for another year but Burrito hope 2010 they will be in NASL!
More Teams? Burrito hear other teams may join NASL. One is Ottawa who waiting to see what happens before they make up their minds.
Epylogue: Burrito enjoying the War of the Soccer Leagues telenovela but hope it get resolved soon so that Miami FC can concentrate on getting star players like the ones who play in NASL back in the day like Pele, Beckenbauer, etc, etc.
What do you think will happen with NASL? Will NASL be a strong league? Will USL survive? Will USSF approve the new League? Will Taco Bell ever make a decent quesadilla?
Burrito leave you with a Great goal from back in NASL glory days by George Best!
Last week we mentioned the possibility of Tampa joining the TOA (read HERE) which lead to much skepticism on behalf of a number of readers and on bigsoccer, but today it has been confirmed! I hate to tell you I told you so...
The Kartik Report indicates Tampa's inclusion into the TOA League might be a bit premature due to legal binds with USL. Still, Tampa is a TOA member and worst case scenario might spend 2010 with USL jumping ship in 2011.
According to the Whitecaps website the TOA League is now 9 teams strong!
The addition of Tampa Bay and Baltimore brings the new league to nine teams, as they join the owners of the Atlanta Silverbacks, Carolina RailHawks, Miami FC, Minnesota Thunder, Montreal Impact, St. Louis Soccer United and Vancouver Whitecaps FC.
It goes on to report that the new league will be announced some time next week! The new league is also active in its search for a full-time commissioner and will introduce an extensive marketing campaign in the coming months.
USL News goes on to report that Miami FC Registered Two NASL Trademark Claims on 11.16.2009!
According to a search of the United States Patent and Trademark Office records, North American Soccer League, LCC in Delaware filed two trademark claims on November 16th, 2009. They claims were marked c/o Miami FC 501 Brickell Key Drive, Suite 407 Miami FLORIDA 33131
On Friday December 4th we will find out how the group stages will look for the XIX World Cup to take place in South Africa next Summer.
We now know the 32 countries that qualified for the world Cup:
For CONCACAF it was The United States, Mexico and Honduras.
For CONMEBOL it was Brazil, Paraguay, Chile, Argentina and Uruguay.
For Africa it was Algeria, Camerun, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria and the host South Africa.
For Asia it was Australia, North Korea, South Korea and Japan.
For UEFA: England, Denmark, Germany, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Italy, Greece Serbia, Portugal, France, Switzerland and the Netherlands,
Oh and Last but not least New Zealand.
There are really no "Virgins" that will participate in the South African World Cup though some might argue Slovakia and Serbia are first timers. The Slovaks were part of Checoslovakia and the Serbs have a long tradition with Yugoslavia and the last WC played as Serbia and Montenegro.
Miami FC President Aaron Davidson was on WQAM 560 yesterday and spoke a little to the Big O about the new, yet to be named TOA League. He Speaks about Miami FC, Traffic Sports and the Miami World Cup bid.
Check it out, Press play:
All South Florida Soccer Fans need to listen to the Big O (Orlando Alzugaray) everyday from 2pm to 4pm. The Big O loves Soccer so be sure to write to him at BigO@wqam.com and let him know you want to hear about Miami FC and Soccer in General.
If you like good Soccer then be sure to follow this weekends World Cup qualifier between Costa Rica and Uruguay. Only one will advance, the other will watch it from home! You can only see this game on pay per view brought to you by Traffic Sports. As you may know Traffic owns Miami FC so please support them. You can follow Traffic on Twitter: http://twitter.com/TrafficSportsUS They also have a blog with game information so check it out: http://trafficusa.blogspot.com/
We need the Blues to be a powerhouse this coming year so stay tuned and follow South Florida's only professional Soccer team Miami FC here: http://twitter.com/Miamifc
Talk about support, the city of Miami needs your support to bring the World Cup to Miami. Please go to the link below and fill in your name and email. Thats all you need to do. Help us bring the World Cup to Miami! http://www.gousabid.com/city/local/MIAMI-FL
A special thanks to Ignacio Rodriguez at Miami FC for a copy of the interview along with WQAM and the Big O! Picture by Robert Scorca
Thanks to Miami Ultra Robert Scorca who sent us some of the following information concerning Miami FC players on the move. With the announcement of a New League in the works; Miami FC needs to start rebuilding and so far it seems we have already lost a few players. Note: Some players still appear on the Miami FC roster. Final word of their moves should come from Miami FC.
First off is Midfielder Brian Shriver who played 6 games for the Blues impressing the stands with his quick witty play. USL reports the Tampa Bay Rowdies have their eye on the Clearwater native who was an all-state performer in High School. He played for the University of North Carolina, reaching the NCAA Men’s College Cup championship game in 2008. Played for Miami FC and made six appearances after being drafted by FC Dallas in the 2009 MLS Super Draft. For more go HERE
Fan favorite Walter Ramirez has his eyes set on a return to his home country Honduras. The speedy defender played 21 games in 2009 and has played with Miami FC since 2006. Walter is well known in Miami playing for amateur teams Real Honduras and Honduras Five Star (Honduras Cinco Estrellas) in the prestigious Florida-based Copa Latina. Look for more information on his future as we pinpoint which team he will go to. Most notable and expected are reports of US under-20 star and Miami FC player Gale Agbossoumonde. According to Portuguese ABOLA Gale is expected to join Sporting Braga on loan on Nov. 17 to join the club's youth team. This defender who is 6'2 and 185 pounds is impressive for a player who is only just turning 18. Read more about it at Soccer by Ives
Gale who played 6 games for the Blues was signed by Miami FC owner Traffic sports in a deal that was to see him go to Brazil but it seems he is destined for Europe.
Below you can see video of Gale Agbossoumonde in a little blunder that was to contribute to the end of Miami FC's 2009 playoff dreams. Here's hoping Gale doesn't make this kind of bubu in Europe. At the end of the video you also get a glimpse of an Aaron King goal set up by Brian Shriver.
Yesterday we found out that the new League was a go and today a number of sites confirm that the TOA will play the 2010 season in a new league. Teams such as Miami FC, Atlanta Silverbacks, Minnesota Thunder, Montreal Impact, Carolina Railhawks and the Vancouver Whitecaps will soon be joined by a St. Louis team. Sources indicate Tampa will leave USL and become the 8th team.
All this coming only a week after USL announced business as usual with the addition of as many as 11 teams. Austin, Cleveland, New York, Puerto Rico, Portland, Rochester, Edmonton and Ottawa even Baltimore and Detroit had representatives. USL also announced Tampa Bay was part of the fold but as mentioned their days with USL seem to be numbered.
Other sources indicate further teams from the PDL may join the TOA, who offers a better structure allowing teams more say as to the direction the league will take. A Lower division would be created to accommodate the PDL teams.
It's my opinion as a soccer fan that though USL still retains the majority of it's teams and has new teams looking to join them that the loss of the stronger teams (Montreal and Vancouver) will be a hit that will give USL-1 more of a USL-2 look. When Nurock took over USL they made the mistake of ignoring the issues and did not look to make peace with the TOA. Look for MLS to form some allegiance with the new league that will eventually lead to further PDL and USL teams leaving their ranks. The battle lines are drawn. Sit back and enjoy the war of the Soccer Leagues.
More sites with New Soccer League info: The Kartik Report Pitch Invasion Soccer by Ives Match Fit USA WVHooligan Inside Minnesota Soccer UPDATE 11/10/09 2:30PM In a comment left below by Eric he points out some interesting information straight out of the Montreal Impact website where joey Saputo says Montreal is still in talks with USL. As Eric says as much as a blow the joining of Tampa would be if they leave USL the same if not bigger would happen if Montreal leaves the TOA. The drama never ceases!
I wish to reiterate that there are still ongoing talks between the Montreal Impact and the USL. We continue working on different options for the 2010 season, including the possibility that the Impact take part in the USL-1 or in a new league.
Match Fit USA has some valid questions for the TOA 1. Who's the eighth team? (or, What happened with the Rowdies?) 2. Will the league be broadcast? 3. Are the Impact sticking around? 4. What role does MLS/SUM play? 5. Are your clubs stable? Read about it HERE
Both Leagues have released statements over the United States Soccer Federations decision to not sanction either as the 2nd division of U.S. Soccer.
Montreal Impact
