I am a student just finishing a degree in Economics, and as a thesis project, I have decided to address whether there is a demand for MLS in America, i.e. can the league survive. Some topics I plan to address are: 1. the increased fan base due to Latino immigration. 2. increased youth participation 3. television ratings... not good, but are they good enough? If anyone has ideas on where I can get relevant information, or knows of something else I should look at, I would really appreciate it. cheers matt
marjerie Have you tried the MLS site's resource section? I know that if you try contacting MLS directly, they'll be pretty stingy with any numbers, unless they concern percent growth or whatnot. Good Luck!
Hey Matt, We touched upon this topic last year in my strategy and policy class (my favorite class section ever.) One aspect for consideration is the difference between the fan support, appreciation and respect for the World Cup versus MLS. Though I have no idea as to the scope of your thesis, you may want to focus on either the growth of the sport (demographic changes, youth participation, growing up with a top flight league) or the current state of MLS (TV and attendance figures, competition with other sports, state of league after 7 years compared to other leagues at a similar time period.) Combining the two seems like an arduous task -- you don't want to lose too much playing time with your favorite team If you need any help, feel free to e-mail me. I just graduated this past year, but know the thesis process well. Hope all goes well! Later, Charles
Project 2010 reference... regarding your 2nd bullet (youth participation), a few years ago, Carlos Queiroz was commissioned by the USSF to compile a report on what it would take for the US be in a position win the World Cup by 2010 (Project 2010). This report is a windfall of information regarding youth participation in the U.S. and may make a great reference... http://www.stargoalkeeper.com/project10.html Download the appropriate PDF file...good luck!