[yvonne]

There\'s a marked difference in how Americans have been treating the World Cup this time around, and I attribute that to the large number of Americans who have played youth soccer.  In the past, people were confused about the offside rule, people didn\'t understand the low scores, and could not tell a good goal from a poor one.  This time, all the American papers are accurately describing Dempsey\'s goal.  When announcers mention Premier League, Serie A, or La Liga teams, Americans know who they are.  The ESPN broadcast has included such greats as Jurgen Klinsmann and Ruud Gulit.  

Americans don\'t follow the MLS because the quality of the league is low.  Good American players play in the Premier League and to a lesser degree Serie A.  If America ever does well in the World Cup.

My friend hosts young adults from Britain who participate in a program to coach American youth.  A pair of them this summer predicted that the U.S. would win a World Cup within 20 years.  Believe me, that would cause Americans to embrace the sport.

[yvonne]

There\'s a marked difference in how Americans have been treating the World Cup this time around, and I attribute that to the large number of Americans who have played youth soccer.  In the past, people were confused about the offside rule, people didn\'t understand the low scores, and could not tell a good goal from a poor one.  This time, all the American papers are accurately describing Dempsey\'s goal.  When announcers mention Premier League, Serie A, or La Liga teams, Americans know who they are.  The ESPN broadcast has included such greats as Jurgen Klinsmann and Ruud Gulit.  

Americans don\'t follow the MLS because the quality of the league is low.  Good American players play in the Premier League and to a lesser degree Serie A.  If America ever does well in the World Cup.

My friend hosts young adults from Britain who participate in a program to coach American youth.  A pair of them this summer predicted that the U.S. would win a World Cup within 20 years.  Believe me, that would cause Americans to embrace the sport.