Did Garber really say Toronto for an expansion city? What would that mean? Canadians would no longer be "internationals". Is Vancouver next? What does FIFA have to say about two countries one league? Hmmmm?
The NASL had a few Canadian teams and the A League has a couple of them, if I remember correctly, so it wouldn't be without precident. However, I have been under the impression that the power that be in FIFA were dead set against division one leagues expanding across national lines (imagine the MFL expanding into LA, for example). That said, if a group of Canadian investors can pony up the cash and build a nice stadium, I say let them in.
There are plans for a Canadian league, but they have hit all kinds of snags. The league was originally supposed to be up and running this year, but now they're saying 2003 at the earliest, or (more likely) 2004.
The A-League has four Canadian teams in Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montreal. Vancouver has been the traditional Canadian soccer centre, and last year the Vancouver Whitecaps attracted an average of 5,600 fans to their games. Toronto could be a huge success if a proper venue is built.
Canada A team in Toronto will happen only if the economics make sense and all the baseline issues of stadium, federation agreements happen, etc.. happen. Assuming it could be worked out, the argument I will make is that if it is good for MLS, it shouldn't matter that Toronto isn't within the boundaries of the USA. What is good for MLS is good for US Soccer. If having a more viable league means including a Canadiam team that is financially stable, then let it happen. It works in baseball,basketball and hockey with Toronto. It worked having Canadian teams in the NASL. All I care is that MLS survives with a viable business plan that ensures long-term, steady growth. If Canadian coins (known as loonies and toonies) help pay the bills, then take them. If they don't have a financially viable plan, then don't take them. Could you imagine a company like Pepsi saying we could make money in Canada, but let's not because we're American? That would be crazy. The MLS is a business and should pursue business opportunities that make sense.
My basic question here are technical: Toronto isn't in the US, therefore, it's not a US media market and won't do anything to expand that national media "footprint" MLS big-wigs like to talk about. On the other hand, the US and Canada have few market barriers, so goods flow pretty freely across our huge border. Second, MLS player allocation rules make it clear that this is a US league; it's all about developing American soccer talent. How would this mesh with a Canadian franchise? Would it have to be stocked with Americans and only a few non-US players? Some things just wouldn't translate - like US green card holders not counting as senior internationals.
Second, MLS player allocation rules make it clear that this is a US league; it's all about developing American soccer talent. How would this mesh with a Canadian franchise? Would it have to be stocked with Americans and only a few non-US players? Some things just wouldn't translate - like US green card holders not counting as senior internationals. My guess is that Canadians would not count as internationals, while all the other MLS cap rules would apply. If I were Canadian, I'd be a bit more concerned about this. I wouldn't want the teams to load up with American talent to the detriment of talent Canadian players. Though, since we are talking about MLS, I'm sure HQ could fix the player drafts so that the majority of the players are Canadian
I just hope we won't be hearing the Canadian national anthem before the All-Star game. Any NBA fans out there know what I'm talking about. Ye gods.
I'm not one who is convicned that an MLS team would work in Canada. The MLS has problems that it should deal with first before any expansion. Then again, Lifesavers candy is now being produced north of the border. Guess anything can happen.
One option: The player rules for any Canadian teams would work like those of American teams, except that you would swap out Canadians for Americans. Thus, a Toronto team would be allowed as many Canadians as they want, but have a limit of 3 senior internationals, etc. Americans would be considered international players for Canadian teams. If there is only one Canadian team in MLS, this may essentially be equivalent to the Canadian national team, minus any Canadian nationals playing for other MLS teams or in other leagues, plus some foreign ringers. Would this be good or bad or no big deal? - Paul
I posted this link on another thread but since its relavant: http://www.sportsnet.ca/soccer/story/10258138476074.shtml Things look mighty bleak north of the border and MLS might just be the lifeline they're looking for. I think FIFA will be supportive of a MLS team in Toronto if its the only viable way to get to an all Canadian first division (which it appears to be) and get a new stadium built for the Canadian Nats.
MLS as our lifeline? Given all that's wrong in the MLS,it's more the other way around. The only reason Garber put Toronto in his speech is to give the apperance of stability. The MLS is interested in US development, not Canadian. An MLS team in Toronto? Sounds as real as those whole still want an NHL team in Hamilton.
Let's hope so. After all: CANADA IS THE ENEMY!!! ...along with every other team in CONCACAF come qualifying time.