Can we as MLS fans file a class action suit against ESPN for not giving equal coverage to MLS and soccer overall. I know (well, at least as far as I know) that they are not legally required to show any particular highlights, and they could show badminton if they wanted. the point would be more of a protest than anything real. An angle that could be used is that ESPN is willfulling ignoring a segment of their regular broadcast during their sports highlight show as an attempt to weaken soccer's appeal to the public, or something like that. I leave the development of this topic to those of you who are much smarter than me. Jack
And people wonder why soccer fans are laughed at by some people in this country. Sure you can sue -- if you'd like to waste your money paying legal fees instead of on soccer DVDs and replica jerseys from the BigSoccer Store*. Myself, I'd rather spend the money on good high-quality cheese. Oh, and grow up. *gratuitous plug
Congratulations! This is probably the dumbest post ever in bigsoccer history. Now go join the stupid lawsuit club, hot coffee at McDonalds being able to hurt you, fast food being too fatty, etc.
You can sue the Pope for child support if you like. That doesn't make it a good idea. And this idea IMO is horrible.
Dear Big Muk, Dude, that lawsuit has victory written all over it. Go for it. Sincerley, The Chick Who Spilled McDonald's Coffee on Her Lap and Won Millions
I'll leave the ad hominems out. The answer is no. Freedom of speech and all that, plus "the general public" would not have a basis to sue -- called "standing" in the law. If you had different facts (say, ESPN reneged on its pathetic contractual relationship with MLS, for instance) then there might be something there, but really MLS would be the aggrieved party. Sorry, but ESPN can grouse about and ignore soccer to their heart's content, just as members of the press on soccer boards can grouse about and ignore ESPN or other sports. The woman who did win a hefty award from McDonald's (and had it subsequently reduced) was actually burned -- i.e., she suffered an injury. If ESPN gets on TV and talks about how Garber, for example, is obviously a homosexual and a communist because he's the Commissioner of a soccer league (a sport favored by homosexuals and communists), then Garber would have a slander claim. Until then, we have to take it. So take it and watch soccer Saturday on ESPN2 -- that's the best weapon we have.
I'm still laughing at this. My theory still holds the same: Putting games on SportsCenter is not going to increase attendance. Those who want to go already are, and those who don't won't start now.
Oh my God! Run for the hills! We're doomed! We've maxed out our attendance! Stop the construction of that stadium out in Carson! Is there any more room in the graveyard of failed soccer leagues for MLS? Just do me a favor - don't let Lamar and Uncle Phil know about your theory.
IDIOTS... What is the point of a such a lawsuits?, to get attention. I clearly stated that I know that they have no legal requirement or obligation to show highlights, but bad press can be good for the argument that ESPN does not respect our sport. It is shameful that after the great showing in the WC our league is so disrespected. Alas, you all are smarter than me, so I guess all there is left to say is PHUCK OFF. And forgive me for thinking that I could get anyone here for seeing the ingeniousness of my idea rather than the obvious ways to criticize it.
Suing ESPN to show more soccer highlights. That's almost as daft as holding the Supporters Shield hostage to make a point with Major League Soccer.
Your theory is completely, absolutely, and demonstrably wrong. Publicity is very valuable. Millions of people aren't even aware the MLS exists. Yes, it is true! Moreover, the vast majority of the public hasn't given MLS much thought. Even the network covering the Super Bowl will make a zillion plugs for it. Wouldn't you think that anyone who wants to watch the Super Bowl would do so anyway? You might think that, but obviously the people that stand to profit from the Super Bowl disagree. The question isn't does the lack of media coverage hurt, but how much? The answer is a great deal.
Re: IDIOTS... yeah, ok. here's the attention you'll get: "retarded soccer dorks try their luck at suing ESPN" boy, that'll sure generate interest in the league. I'll bet that EVERYONE will want to be just like you, Mr. Soccer Fan. There was absolutely no genius in your idea. None at all. Everyone on these boards is now dumber for having read your idea.
Suing ESPN won't harm them or do soccer any good. Just Boycott ESPN products, all of thier programs except soccer, let them know about it and get your friends to do the same. 200 people cancelling thier ESPN mag's subsciption won't put them out of business or anything but they'll know thier mouth (soccer bashings) costed them that which they could easily avoid and they'd be better off <b>with</b> 200 more subscriptions. Things could get no worse for soccer at ESPN than it is right now. We have nothing to lose.
Re: Re: IDIOTS... Haha, classic Billy Madison. Honestly, I don't think that showing more MLS games on ESPN would help. It might attract a few fans but for the most part, I don't think it would. The people who already don't care about soccer will just be more turned off when they see soccer taking up time on ESPN. I think it's up to the MLS to market a good product.
The man has a right to say what ever,so leave him alone. I am going to sue NFL for having too many FAT players on the field, and I am also suing KFC for providing half time snacks for players.