I pledge...
...To attend an MLS match this season.
Last season I didn't attend a single match due to my frustration and anger with the FC Dallas front office. I let my feelings about the clubs bumbling and stumbling approach to running the organization deter me from doing my duty as an American and supporting the sport of soccer and promoting it's growth.
...To not call the MLS a joke or some other derogatory term without good reason.
I clearly have tossed around too many ridiculous comments about Major League Soccer in the past and while I will never blindly drink the Kool-Aid, I will try to limit my criticisms to reasonable and though out comments.
...To continue my bashing of MLS officiating.
Unless a minor miracle occurred in the off season, the level of on-field officiating in the MLS is likely to remain a clown car affair. I will continue to call out terrible officiating but at the same time, I will make an effort to point out quality examples of officiating as well.
...To temper my dislike of Schellas Hyndman until it's obvious his plan isn't working.
If FC Dallas roars out of the gate and has a great season, I'll eat crow and admit Hyndman knows what he's doing. I'm giving him a chance to show the off-season work and signings are righting the ship in Dallas. Though I'm not optimistic.
...To hate Seattle.
ACES 09!
I may feel the need to add a pledge or make an adjustment, but for now, this is a good start.
Most of us bloggers and podcasters who cover the MLS are not part of the so called, main stream media. That said people just like all of us helped create a political wave behind Barack Obama so there is no reason to believe the work all of us do can't make a difference in supporting, promoting and helping to grow Major League Soccer.
For all who have had enough of negative reporting, bad writing, and a general bad attitude about the sport of soccer and MLS in this country, it is out time to unite. Let's push this league to do everything it can to make the right choices for its teams and fans. Let's force the media to give the sport and league an honest look. Let's call out those who wrongly criticize soccer, who write columns or spout nonsense that is nothing more than low brow negative verbal diarrhea.
Pledge yourself to supporting soccer, supporting the USL, the MLS, the Open Cup!
Pledge yourself to bringing new fans to a soccer match this season!
Together we can make a difference!
Shout your love for the sport of soccer so loud that we cannot be ignored!
Ginge
When do we burn the bras?
In the parking lot of Rio Tinto at the All-Star Game.