The recent Reddit post by user Couchhouse88 showcased a visually striking map depicting the expansion of Major League Soccer (MLS) throughout the years. This animation not only highlights the franchises that have joined the league but also initiates a discussion on future expansion possibilities, team branding revisions, and the overall aesthetic evolution of the league’s crests. The post sparked a lively conversation among users, with a mixture of nostalgia, critique, and optimism for the future of soccer in the U.S.
Summary
- The visualization shows a clear uptick in MLS expansion after 2015, indicating a moment of growth for the league.
- Comments reflect a mixture of nostalgia for old franchises and critique for current branding decisions.
- Users express excitement for potential new cities that could join the league, like Sacramento and Phoenix.
- The conversation reveals differing opinions on the evolution of team crests and branding.
The Surge in Expansion
One of the most striking aspects discussed in the comments is the swift growth of the MLS after 2015, with user Milestailsprowe pointing out, “It’s funny how quick the map filled out come 2015 plus.” This observation suggests that the league experienced a renaissance, attracting more fans, sponsors, and TV deals. This period also saw MLS transforming from a niche like sport to a prominent player on the American sports stage. The economic boom accompanying the league’s growth arguably reflects a greater cultural shift in the U.S. towards embracing soccer. As new teams emerged, the fans became more involved, turning soccer into a staple of weekend entertainment and family events.
Expansion Cities: The Next Frontier
Comments show enthusiasm for potential new expansion cities, with many fans backing Sacramento, Phoenix, and Las Vegas as future candidates. Milestailsprowe even states it seems “like Sacramento still makes a lot of sense for expansion”. The perception that these cities have the infrastructure and fanbase willing to support an MLS franchise speaks volumes about the league’s current trajectory. Fans from other cities, like CaptainJingles, also have a keen interest in the ideas of failed expansion bids, suggesting that the potential for growth isn’t just about the cities currently on the map, but also those that may have missed the opportunity. This expansion conversation enlivens discussions on regional rivalries and enhances the competitive spirit inherent to the game.
Crest Evolution: Aesthetic vs. Functionality
A recurring theme in the discussion revolves around the transformation of team crests during the years. User rowdyginger05 offered a balanced critique, noting, “I really disliked the Crew rebrand after Precourt, but I do like how it stands out amongst the league.” This sentiment underscores the mixed feelings there can be about aesthetic updates; while some fans appreciate the freshness of new designs, others lament the loss of nostalgia associated with traditional branding. Fjordice expressed surprise at learning about San Jose’s status as a rebirth franchise, highlighting how recent fans might not be aware of the league’s complicated history. Fans are not just invested in the game but also in how teams visually represent themselves, which can lead to heated debates about identity and branding in modern soccer.
The Humor in Critique
<pLastly, humor surfaced as a notable element amid the critiques. For instance, a user hilariously suggested, "Should have been a fart sound for Chicago’s Fire Crown," indicating that even serious discussions can have a light-hearted touch. This adds a layer of community engagement, as shared laughs foster togetherness among fans, regardless of their opinions on the growth and change within the league. The mixture of serious insights, with doses of levity, showcases the unique culture present within the soccer community, emphasizing that, at the end of the day, it is about enjoyment.
The conversations stemming from Couchhouse88’s post reveal a community that is both passionate and critical regarding MLS’s development. They recognize the shifts in team branding and the expansion of franchises as part of a larger narrative of American soccer. Enthusiasm for new cities and players indicates a brighter future for Major League Soccer, with fans eager to shape its course. As viewers of this sport continue to engage, it’s clear that soccer is no longer a fringe sport in the U.S.; rather, it has become a beloved institution worthy of celebration at every match. The endless discussions surrounding barrel-chested rivalry, franchise branding, and fan engagement serve as a reminder that at the heart of the sport is community, loyalty, and perhaps, a good laugh.