http://www.nytimes.com/2005/06/30/national/30census.html?hp "In San Jose, where the Sharks, an N.H.L. franchise, are the only professional sports team...." apparently the NY Times is waiting for your correction emails.
Even if they don't know anything about soccer, I would expect them to know about the Sabrecats. I thought that Arena Football had a larger imprint - having a NBC contract and all. And isn't there a pro lacross team here? They seem to be off my radar.
I think the "elitist" NY Times is referring to "major" sports...you know the "big 4" (also known in some circles as the Axis of Evil)...baseball, football, basketball, hockey. In the NY Times stylebook, any other sport is "trashsport"...including indoor lacrosse.
OMG, don't let everyone from the "San Jose being sold" thread see this one. They'll see this as proof that the Quakes have been sold Yes, by my count San Jose has 5 professional teams: Sharks Sabrecats Quakes Giants (A league baseball) Lacrosse - don't know the name