Okay, Brazil vs. canada just ended and we lost 3-2. but we played a GREAT game! Canada was simply fantastic!

Damn! ^^Was it on TV?

Uhmmm I don't know for you guys but it's going to be shown here at 10:00 am on Sportsnet. I watched it live on the internets, but wow, we played great.

I just saw the last half on Sportsnet Ontario and the first half on Sportsnet Pacific. :) Great game. I am cautiously optimistic.

_H1NMAnozGo

Wow...that was a HORRIBLE back pass by Julian. Who was it intended for anyways? I bet he felt like shit after that, especially considering how that overshadowed his brilliant play throughout the game.

Yeah, I just hope he learns from his mistakes..

At the Rowing World Cup in Lucerne, Canada seems to be back as a world rowing power. Of the 14 Olympic contested events, Canada won 2 golds and 2 bronze medals. This put Canada in a very strong 3rd place in the final medal standings behind China and the USA.

China dominated with 6 golds, 1 silver, and 1 bronze. The Americans won 2 golds, 2 silver, and 1 bronze. Our rowing team promises to be the strongest of all the Canadian contingents in Beijing.

Canada's canoe/kayak team is also off to a great start! At last week's world cup in Hungary the team collected four medals in olympic-classification events! World and olympic champion Adam van Koeverden won gold in the K1 500 and K1 1000 races! Dober and Willows collected a bronze in the K2-500 and Thomas Hall grabbed the bronze in the C1-1000! Mark Oldershaw was 4th in both the C1 500 and 1000! What a great start, hopefully the team continues their winning ways at this weekend's world cup in Germany.

^^ That's fantastic. I knew the canoe/kayak program was on the right track and on the cusp of becoming a strong contender. This is a good confidence boost for the team heading into Beijing.

So, between this and rowing, that's 4 gold, and 4 bronze. The entire Canadian Olympic team won only 3 gold, 6 silver, and 3 bronze in Athens. Hopefully, we're seeing the beginning to the end of futility at the Summer Games in the same way as we climbed out of the abyss in the Winter Games about 10 years ago.

It seems our amateur, disorganized, second rate approach to sport is finally coming to an end. Sport has been a joke in Canada for far too long. Play to win, or don't bother. 20 medals in Beijing? 30 medals in London?

Canada plays Argentina tomorrow in Rugby. This is part of the Churchill Cup.

The Mens National Soccer Team will play in St. Vincent and the Grenadines for the first leg of a two-leg round of the 2010 World Cup.

It's a pretty awesome sports day.

Unfortunately Canada lost their second and final match in Barclays Churchill Cup pool A play 17-16 against Argentina at Toronto. Canada lost their first match to Scotland. Their next match is against the USA in Chicago. England and Scotland lead both pools with 2 wins.

Toronto FC is leading Colorado 3 nil in Toronto. Ricketts has potted 2 and playing great. Cunningham on the other hand sucks.

The biggest news is that Jacques Villeneuve's Team Peugeot car no. 7 is leading Le Mans 24hrs with 12 hours to go and one lap up on Audi. Why this is significant is that if he wins he will be the most winning driver in terms of versatility in motorsport history.

He will be level with Briton Graham Hill with the Triple Crown, the only other driver to do it, which is winning Formula One Championship, Le Mans, and the Indy 500. What Jacques has which puts him over the top is winning the North American open wheel racing series(was CART, Champ Car now Indy). Winning all four is an amazing feat.

You can watch it live on Speedtv from 6pm pst. It will be on until the end at 6am.

^^ That's fantastic. I knew the canoe/kayak program was on the right track and on the cusp of becoming a strong contender. This is a good confidence boost for the team heading into Beijing.

So, between this and rowing, that's 4 gold, and 4 bronze. The entire Canadian Olympic team won only 3 gold, 6 silver, and 3 bronze in Athens. Hopefully, we're seeing the beginning to the end of futility at the Summer Games in the same way as we climbed out of the abyss in the Winter Games about 10 years ago.

It seems our amateur, disorganized, second rate approach to sport is finally coming to an end. Sport has been a joke in Canada for far too long. Play to win, or don't bother. 20 medals in Beijing? 30 medals in London?

The Canadian canoe/kayak team competed at the second World Cup of the season this past weekend in Germany and they collected 6 medals; improving upon their stellar performances last weekend!

Yes, it's pretty exciting. Although I'm very hesistant to predict that either the rowing or canoeing squads will equal this number of medals during the games themselves. Canadian athletes (especially world champions) have a tendency to crumble under pressure...and I think this has a lot to do with the Canadian mentality you alluded to above. BUT I think many programs are taking big steps forward, canoe/kayak being one of them. With Alex Baumann directing the Road to Excellence program I think Canada's summer program will be on the way up by 2012, although I think we will see significant improvement in Beijing this summer too.

Overall a good weekend for Canadian sport.

Canada won 3 - 0 in their World Cup Qualifier vs Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in Kingstown. The return leg is on Friday at Montreal. They will most likely win the series and put them into Group 2(out of the 3 Groups for the next Round).

Toronto FC kept their unbeaten streak at home with a win against Colorado 3 - 1. They are now ranked 3rd in the League table. Next match against KC at home.

Villeneuve got a podium with 2nd place and a lap down on winners Audi at Le Mans. His Triple Crown will have to wait until next year if he gets a ride with Peugeot, which he most likely will.

Is soccer taking over?!?!?

MLS considers Ottawa team
Report says Senators could be involved in ownership

Major League Soccer has met with the ownership group of the Ottawa Senators to discuss a possible team for Ottawa.

Discussions between MLS president Mark Abbott and the Senators’ Eugene Melnyk took place last Thursday.

MLS commissioner Don Garber has also named Vancouver as potential expansion sites and Montreal Impact president Joey Saputo has said he intends to bid on a franchise in the league for the city.

The talks come following the entrance of Toronto FC, Canada’s first MLS expansion team, into the league in 2007.

Any deal in Ottawa would have to wait until 2010 when Toronto’s three-year agreement of Canadian exclusivity with the MLS ends.


Next season Seattle joins as the league’s 15th team, to be followed by Philadelphia in 2010.

http://www.ottawasun.com/Sports/OtherSports/2008/06/19/5923146.html

Ottawa et Edmonton avant Montréal?

L'Impact de Montréal pourrait se retrouver avec plus d'un concurrent dans la course pour l'obtention d'une franchise d'expansion dans la MLS.

Après Vancouver, voilà qu'Ottawa et Edmonton pourraient joindre les rangs des villes candidates à l'expansion.

Comme le rapporte le quotidien The Globe and Mail, le président de la MLS, Mark Abbott, a rencontré le propriétaire des Sénateurs d'Ottawa, Eugene Melnyk, jeudi, pour discuter de l'arrivée possible d'une équipe dans la région de la capitale fédérale.

Un stade de 20 000 places y serait construit pour accueillir le nouveau club.

D'autre part, un groupe d'investisseurs suisses et italiens auraient obtenu l'appui du maire d'Edmonton, Stephen Mandel, pour la construction d'un stade de 20 000 sièges qui servirait de domicile à une nouvelle formation, si la MLS se laisse convaincre d'élire domicile en Alberta.

Enfin, la rumeur selon laquelle le joueur de basketball Steve Nash a aussi approché la MLS en vue d'établir une équipe dans la région de Vancouver a été confirmée. Le propriétaire des Whitecaps dans la USL, Greg Kerfoot, a déjà annoncé des plans de rénovation du BC Place afin d'y déménager son équipe en 2011 pour faire le saut dans le grand circuit nord-américain.

Rappelons que depuis son entrée dans la MLS en 2007, le Toronto FC détient une exclusivité canadienne de trois ans, ce qui ouvre donc la porte à l'entrée d'une autre équipe canadienne pour 2010.

Déjà, la ville de Seattle deviendra la 15e formation du circuit la saison prochaine, tandis que Philadelphie s'ajoutera en 2010.

Le commissaire de la MLS, Don Garber, a souvent indiqué qu'il serait prêt à inclure jusqu'à 18 équipes, mais il ne faudrait pas se surprendre de voir la MLS se rendre à 20 clubs. C'est ce que recommande la FIFA pour les premières divisions nationales, à l'image des championnats d'Angleterre, de France, d'Espagne et d'Italie.

L'opération charme se complique donc quelque peu pour le duo Saputo-Gillett, qui a publiquement exprimé son intention d'assurer la place de Montréal dans la MLS.

Les villes américaines de Miami, New York, Portland, St. Louis, Milwaukee, Atlanta, Phoenix et Cleveland se trouvent aussi sur les rangs.

http://www.radio-canada.ca/sports/soccer/2008/06/19/001-MLSOttawa.shtml

Personally I say fuck all this pessimism and create a Canadian League already.

Canada plays tomorrow BTW against St. VAG in Montreal.

^^ Edmonton and Ottawa before Montreal? That would be a shock..

I doubt it would happen though.

^^ Ottawa can barely support a CFL team. Shouldn't they and Edmonton both be getting a USL team?

Soccer news: Canada won 4-1 today vs St. Vincent and Grenadines and moves onto the next step in WC qualification.

I found it a bit of a challenge to find news of this result on our national sports news sites and ended up having to go to the Voyageurs soccer forum. Very odd and a bit frustrating.

I doubt it would happen though.

I do too.. I think the article was written to stir up a bit of heat under the pot.

I doubt it would happen though.

I don't see why not. Kansas City and Columbus aren't significantly larger cities than Edmonton or Ottawa, and are growing much more slowly. I'd imagine these 2 Canadian cities also have a more internationalist citizenry that is more apt to support soccer than a comparably sized US city. If these 2 US cities have MLS franchises, there is no reason why Edmonton or Ottawa can't have them too.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Table_of_United_States_Metropolitan_Statistical_Areas
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_the_100_largest_metropolitan_areas_in_Canada

Edmonton and Ottawa have both hosted high profile international soccer matches which were very well attended. It's short sighted to just be looking at Montreal and Vancouver. There are a handful of other Canadian cities very capable of supporting a MLS franchise with the right ownership group and stadium in place.

Good for Edmonton and Ottawa. Where's Calgary, Winnipeg, Quebec City, and Hamilton? The time to snag a MLS team is now. The longer they wait, the harder it will be for them to get awarded one.

Just start a Canadian League. Presuming Tornto, Montreal and Vancouver are in MLS.

Clagary
Edmonton
Winnipeg
Quebec City
Hamilton
Ottawa
Surrey
2nd Montreal

Then maybe expand into Victoria, London, Windsor, St. John's (i can see it now, imported irish players wearing pink, white and green :))

^^ I hope that happens, but would Toronto FC move to this new Canadian league? You can't have a national league with your most important city not in the fold.

^^ I hope that happens, but would Toronto FC move to this new Canadian league? You can't have a national league with your most important city not in the fold.

I guess you could put a team in Missisauga or North York. But hey, if they aren't in the league, they would still be in the Canadian Championship. Kind of like Italy. They have the leagues, Serie A, Serie B and so on, but they also have a tournament, the Coppa d'Italia where all the clubs play together regardless of the division they are in.

After 150 years, cricket wins back recognition in Canada

Toronto, June 21 (IANS) Canada, which had declared cricket as its national game way back in 1867 but later lost it to baseball and ice hockey, rehabilitated the sport Friday.

To this end, Canadian sports minister (secretary of state) Helena Guergis announced federal funding for the promotion of the sport across the country.


'The government of Canada welcomes Cricket Canada (national governing body) to the list of sports that are eligible to receive funding,' she said while unveiling a new uniform for the national team at a formal ceremony at Cricket Canada offfices here.


Guergis said it was 'an exciting day for Cricket Canada as a national sports organization to have the opportunity to be recognized by the federal government.'


The minister assured Cricket Canada that her government was now committed to promoting the sport in Canada. 'We look forward to supporting future initiatives (by Cricket Canada),' she said.


Cricket Canada, which banks on the ICC for funding, received a token amount of $77,000 from the federal government for 2007-2008. But with Friday's announcement by the sports minister, government funding may go up considerably.


'Thankfully, our efforts are paying off. We have worked hard to qualify for government recognition and funding,' Cricket Canada president Banwarilal (Ben) Sennik told IANS.


Sennik said there were 40,000 cricketers across Canada as schools and other organisations have initiated programmes for promotion of cricket.


Atul Ahuja, the young CEO of Cricket Canada, added, 'With today's recognition of cricket by the government, Canada has broker a psychological barrier. The amount does not matter. It is the government's recognition that matters. Cricket is now set for exponential growth our country.'


He said,'The money coming from the government will be allocated to Cricket Canada' high-performance (HP) and long-term athlete development (LTAD) programmes for promotion of cricket.'


The jazzy steel grey cricket uniform unveiled Friday includes flashes of red and yellow. 'The steel grey part is symbolic of our steely determination to succeed at the international level. The flashes of red and yellow reflect our national colours and resolve to win,' said Ahuja.


With the International Cricket Council listing Canada as `a priority' nation and pumping money into promotion of the sport, cricket has got a big boost in this North American nation.


The large population of immigrants from cricket-playing parts of the world - India, Pakistan and the Caribbean - has added to the popularity of the sport at the grassroots.


To woo these immigrant communities, the nation's top banks such as Scotiabank and the Royal Bank of Canada have become the official sponsors of the sport. In fact, Canada just hosted its first national T-20 championship, sponsored by Scotiabank, involving eight provincial teams.


This summer Canada plays the visiting West Indies, Bermuda and Scotland before it heads for Ireland for T-20 World Cup qualifiers.


Curiously, Canadians say their three-day match against the US in New York from Sept 25 to 27 in 1844 was the first Test match in cricket history - not the 1877 Melbourne match between England and Australia.
http://in.sports.yahoo.com/080621/43/6usm9.html
Does anyone here knew cricket was once official sport of Canada during time of John A. Macdonald:):)

The Blue Jays walloped Oakland! :)

Men's Basketball:

Canada routs Lebanon 100 - 68 at home in Toronto. The true test will come July 16th when they face world #9 Germany in Germany. A win here should bode well for Canada's chances at the last chance Olympic qualifier tournament in Athens. Only 3 spots are up for grabs with 12 teams gunning for them. The stiffest Canadian challenges will come from Puerto Rico, Brazil, Greece, Germany, Croatia, and Slovenia.

It would be a big disappointment if Canada doesn't finish in the top 3 here.

Surprisingly few Sunday games for the FC. Wonder why that is..

After 150 years, cricket wins back recognition in Canada


http://in.sports.yahoo.com/080621/43/6usm9.html
Does anyone here knew cricket was once official sport of Canada during time of John A. Macdonald:):)

I was going to post this story but I see you already have:okay: I was thinking that if cricket used to be the national sport and no one officially said it's not anymore, then wouldn't it still technically be one of the national sports along with hockey and lacrosse? hmm.

The Canadian Cricket Assoc., now Cricket Canada has changed their logo(something the Canadian Soccer Assoc desperately needs) to something more modern. I like it but the old one was more traditional for me. Scotiabank is now it's main corporate sponsor.

new one
http://img53.imageshack.us/img53/6337/cricketcanada1024x768zq4.th.jpg (http://img53.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cricketcanada1024x768zq4.jpg)

old one
http://img363.imageshack.us/img363/9553/ccasmallqb0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Oh shit thats a sick logo! Lets hope they change the plain jerseys as well. The new logo sort of reminds of Cricket Australia.

http://images.google.ca/url?q=http://www.topnews.in/sports/files/Australia-Cricket.jpg&usg=AFQjCNHxtQmJN8sNAfMpt10qgj_tXEGxrw

Cricket definitely seems like an obscure sport that is gaining some visibility due to immigration from places like India and the UK. It may never gain prominence like home grown sports such as baseball, basketball, football, and hockey, but it's nice to see the sports landscape broaden.

Yes. I think its already a foregone conclusion that Soccer is currently set for unprecedented growth in this country. After that, I think it will be interesting to see which other sports starts to seep into the mainstream. I personally think that it is the next big sport (in North American terms). Rugby Canada is making nice progress as well. However, unlike Rugby on the international stage, cricket is set to explode worldwide as well. With all this recent influx of BIG money thanks to Twenty20 and the ever growing Indian economy, Cricket is growing worldwide at an exponential rate and this could result in a two fold growth of the game in Canada.

I just hope these sports co-exist with those currently mainstream, rather than watching the traditional sports wither away to irrelevance. It would be a shame to see Canada's homegrown culture end up something we just read about in history books one day.

I personally think that baseball should be wary right about now. Soccer and cricket are both summer sports (atleast soccer is a summer sport here in North America). I read somewhere that participation level in baseball has been dwindling the past several years and the trend figures to continue well into the foreseeable future. The interesting thing, however, is the fact that even with the decreased participation at the grass roots level, there are more successful Canadians that even before at the professional level.

And this may sound ridiculous but Hockey might have hit the critical mass as well. At the grass roots level, many kids are being left out because of the ridiculously high cost of participation. On the other hand, basketball seems an enticing option for the winter months because of its low cost of participation and this is the exact reason why it is growing quite rapidly across the globe.

Essentially it boils down to the fact that Canada is a rapidly changing society. For various reasons, soccer, cricket and basketball are sports that most new immigrants can relate to, where as hockey and baseball are viewed as a thing of the past. If you go to any Toronto FC games, you'd notice the same thing. A huge portion of the crowd there has absolutely no interest in any other sports team in Toronto and prior to TFC's birth, they had been completely left out of the sporting scene ever since migrating to the city. So in that regard, I don't think these new sports entering the mainstream are taking away from the already established sports...rather they are just catering to a significantly large niche. It is the participation at the grass roots level that should be a concern for the hockey and baseball leagues across the country.

Oh shit thats a sick logo! Lets hope they change the plain jerseys as well. The new logo sort of reminds of Cricket Australia.



Ya the logo looks pretty good. It could have gone really bad. I'm not too sure how far they've gone with branding or if it's just on their website.

As for their kits. It's mandatory for teams to wear the traditional white kits when playing Test cricket, or in Canada's case they do for Intercontinental Cup play. The countries that are outside the top 10 Test countries use the IC to gain more experience in the long form of the game(4 days for IC instead of 5 for Test) so one day they can advance to Test cricket.

Canada wears coloured kits for 1 day matches or WC play. Canada got new kits recently but it's impossible to find any pics.

Captain John Davison getting bowled out against England as last year's WC in the West Indies.
http://i33.tinypic.com/2urpd9x.jpg
That's Monty Panesar bowling for England. One of my fav cricketers!
http://i35.tinypic.com/2e0v8js.jpg
Canada v UAE in I-Cup play last year in their whites.
http://i34.tinypic.com/156r7o6.jpg

photos from Getty and CricketEurope.

^^ Canada's One day kit has been recently changed to grey.
http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/6023/91899fz2.jpg

Oh wow....they really dropped the ball on the new kits. Oh well...they aren't terribly terrible either.

sharaf air, where did you get the photo from and do you have any more? I've been looking everywhere for some shots of the new kits.

I kind of like ODI kit and the yellow as well surprisingly, but it is quite puzzling why they would go with yellow as a third colour. It's always traditionally been red, white or black. I'd like to see Canada start going for more black kits for the different national sporting teams, similar to NZ. Hot in the sun but you always look smart.

I was just reading because Zimbabwe is out of the World Twenty20 in England next year, a third Associate is going to qualify. Canada plays Holland and then Kenya in Belfast Aug 2,3.

I found the same picture on cricinfo.

Double Post.

Canada splits pair of games with #9 ranked Germany in preparation for the Olympic men's basketball qualifier next week in Athens. Canada won the first game 91-86, but lost the second 84-74. The loss was tempered by the fact that the referees made many calls against Canada that should never have been made. Even the head of the scorer's table commented that the officiating was an embarrassment.

http://www.globesports.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20080711.wspt-bkbl-canada-ger-11/GSStory/GlobeSportsBasketball/home

I found the same picture on cricinfo.

cool...ya, I found it. Unfortunately it's the only one. I'll continue looking.

It's Cup Final day!

http://www.cbc.ca/sportsnews/story/2008/07/22/champions-mtl-tor.html

Toronto FC, Montreal set to decide championship

You couldn't ask for a better finale to the Canadian Champions League title.

The championship and bragging rights as the best team in the country will be on the line when Major League Soccer's Toronto FC hosts the Montreal Impact of the USL First Division (one level below MLS) in the final game of the round-robin competition Tuesday at BMO Field (CBC Bold, CBCSports.ca, 7 p.m. ET).

Montreal sits in first place with six points and can win the competition (and clinch a berth at the 2009 CONCACAF Champions League) with a draw. Toronto, in second place with four points, needs a victory in order to win the tournament.

Needless to say, players on both teams expect a tense battle.

"We know it's going to be tough. We understand the importance and significance of the game," Toronto midfielder Maurice Edu told CBCSports.ca. "We need to focus on the things we do right, and not on what the other team does. We have to control what we can control and go out there and play our game."

"It's probably going to be the most important game in club history, and one of the most important games in Canadian history as far as soccer goes," said Toronto goalkeeper Greg Sutton, who played for Montreal from 2001-06.

Even though Montreal only needs a draw, defender Adam Braz said the Impact "are going into the game looking to win."

"It's good because we put ourselves in a position that going into the last game we have a chance to qualify," Braz, who spent last season with Toronto.

"We all have to understand what the situation is and make sure we all show up to play and put in the effort. It's a chance for us to prove that we are the best team in Canada, but also a huge honour to represent Canada in the CONCACAF Champions League."

Anemic performance

It wasn't supposed to be this difficult for Toronto — the MLS club was favoured to win this tournament over two lower-division teams, a fact not lost on Toronto coach John Carver.

"All the pressure's on us, let's be honest," Carver said. "If Montreal goes through, they've overachieved, and if they go out, they've still done very well. So we know all the pressure is on us, and I expect our big players to handle the pressure."

Toronto earned a 1-0 win in Montreal earlier in the competition, so Impact midfielder Rocco Placentino and his teammates are looking to return the favour and earn a result on the road.

"It would be great to eliminate a MLS team," said Placentino. "I love playing against teams where you have their fans on your back because it gives you a boost. I'm really looking forward for that game."

Toronto is mired in a slump, having failed to win in their last eight games (including exhibition and Canadian Champions League contests). The team is coming off an anemic performance on Saturday when it was held to a 0-0 draw by the San Jose Earthquakes, the worst team in MLS.

Carver believes the team's patchy form of late will provide the players all the motivation they need against Montreal.

"Any top player wants to play in games like this, and there's no bigger than this game on Tuesday," Carver said. "So I won't have to do much motivating, especially after our result on the weekend.

BMO Field will also stage this year's MLS all-star game on July 24 (CBC, CBCSports.ca, 7 p.m. ET) when the league's best face English side West Ham United. Toronto FC captain Jim Brennan was named to the MLS All-Star Team last week.

Voyageurs' Cup in all it's glory:

http://www.canadasoccer.com/images/media/20080721_Nutrilite_Trophywww.jpg

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/2/2f/TorontoFC.PNG VS. http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/6/6b/MontrealImpactLogo.GIF

TORONTO vs. MONTRÉAL


http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/8/80/Nutrilitecc.jpg

:D

This is the phoniest piece-of-shit officiating I've ever seen in any sport!! Why don't they just openly say that they want FC to win.

This sucks!!

5 extra minutes, 5 yellow cards!! WHAT UTTER BULLSHIT!!!

See ya later FC and your ref buddies!! FC: the leafs of soccer!!

Nice to see the Impact (a supposedly weaker team) come out on top of this tournament!! The Toronto FC must be ashamed!!! hehehe!!!

Vive l'impact!!!

from tsn.ca!!

http://www.tsn.ca/soccer/story/?id=244119&lid=sublink01&lpos=headlines_main



Montreal ties Toronto FC, claims Canadian Championship
The Canadian Press
7/22/2008 9:15:15 PM
TORONTO - The Montreal Impact scored a blow for all underdogs as it claimed the inaugural Nutrilite Canadian Championship with a 1-1 tie against Toronto FC in the final game of the round-robin tournament for Canada's three professional soccer teams on Tuesday at BMO Field.

The Impact (2-1-1), who are in second-last place in the second-tier United Soccer Leagues, needed just a tie against Canada's lone team in top-level Major League Soccer to win the title and become the country's representative in the CONCACAF Champions League.

Montreal fought back from a 1-0 deficit on a goal off a corner by Roberto Brown and then held on for dear life against a Toronto team (1-1-2) expected to win the event against the Impact and the USL's Vancouver Impact (1-2-1) because of its place in MLS.

Toronto FC came extremely close to taking the lead and winning the title in dramatic fashion in the 89th minute, but Amado Guevara's free kick from 35 yards out was headed off the post before the ball was corralled by Impact goalie Matt Jordan.

It was a major downer for the home side's rabid fans to kick off MLS all-star week in Toronto as TFC extended its winless streak to nine games (0-5-4). The MLS all-stars, led by Los Angeles Galaxy star David Beckham, convened at BMO Field for a practice on Tuesday afternoon in preparation for Thursday's all-star game against West Ham United of the English Premiership.

The Impact will face Nicaraguan champion Real Esteli in a home-and-away series to begin Champions League play in late August and early September.

Montreal bounced back from a 1-0 loss to Toronto in the Canadian Championship opener with two wins against Vancouver to put itself in good position entering the game on Tuesday. Toronto faltered at home on Canada Day with a 1-0 loss against Vancouver and then tied the Whitecaps 2-2 in Vancouver.

Rohan Ricketts gave Toronto the lead it needed against Montreal in the 15th minute when he got behind the Montreal defence and headed a beautiful cross from lone Toronto all-star Jim Brennan past Jordan.

But just 11 minutes later, the Impact knotted it up when Brown leaped to head a perfect corner from Joey Gjertsen past Toronto goalie Greg Sutton.

From that point on, Montreal seemed content to make the safe play, only venturing forward when sensing a good chance for a scoring opportunity. While Toronto had more possession, it failed to generate many good chances against a stifling Impact defence.

There was a nasty edge from the opening seconds in the national title game as the Impact's Roberto Brown lost a shoe when he was tackled at midfield, prompting the crowd to chant, "Tie your shoes on."

Late in the first half, referee Silviu Petrescu handed out yellow cards to Montreal's Simon Gatti and Rocco Placentino in a one-minute span, but Toronto couldn't convert on either of its free kicks from just outside the penalty area. A third free-kick from a dangerous spot late in the half also yielded nothing.

The rough stuff wasn't all that much of a surprise after each team took verbal shots at the other coming into the game.

After watching Toronto's tie in Vancouver earlier in the month, Montreal coach John Limniatis said, "They don't seem to be a well-oiled machine. Their game is missing some flexibility."

Toronto FC defender Tyrone Marshall countered this past weekend, saying, "We have to come out and establish ourselves and show them we're playing in a higher league and (that the USL First Division) blows."

Montreal had two excellent chances to take the lead early in the second half, but Brennan, on the goal line, cleared away a Patrick Leduc shot that was headed for the net before Brown fired just wide on a nice passing play in the 60th minute.

Notes: Toronto FC will resume its MLS schedule on Monday in Utah against Western Conference-leading Real Salt lake. The Impact has just two days off before heading to Rochester on Friday to begin a USL home-and-away series against the Rhinos ... Two Impact players were on Toronto's roster last season - defender Adam Braz and midfielder Cristian Nunez, a reserve player for FC ... Toronto's scoring leader Danny Dichio (concussion) remained out on Tuesday. Toronto's 16-year-old forward, Abdus Ibrahim of Ethiopia, started in Dichio's place.

Toronto FC defender Tyrone Marshall countered this past weekend, saying, "We have to come out and establish ourselves and show them we're playing in a higher league and (that the USL First Division) blows."

In your face Tyrone. Who sucks now biatch!!!:banana: what an arrogant prick! This tastes soooo good!:cheers:

To say one team is in a higher or lower league is almost true, but not totally accurate. The two leagues are separate. It's not like it's an English Premier League team vs a Championship team, or Div 1 vs Div 2. There's no relegation or promotion between the two leagues (MLS and USL)

Maybe this will change the thinking of some players, coaches, media... that an MLS team should walk over a USL side (Oh yea - Two wins and two ties for the Caps vs MLS opposition this year). Having said that, I've watched a few of the games in this series and have to say TFC had the talent and should have advanced. They were just missing the attitude from the beginning.

:cry:

Ahhhh, I knew it was over when they subbed in Cunningham! The officiating was spot on. Montreal were playing rough. Whatever, the reason we lost was because of officiating on the Canada Day match. Toronto should have beaten the Caps.

^^ The loser always blames the officials. :banana:

Hey, good for the Impact, and it was a very close series! :)

Oh wow ! Montreal there you go again baby ,kiss kiss kiss

^^ The loser always blames the officials. :banana:

Well when the linesmen miss understands an onside goal for an offside one, i think it's acceptable to blame the little cunt.

Well when the linesmen miss understands an onside goal for an offside one, i think it's acceptable to blame the little cunt.I don't remember there being a lot of debate on whether or not he was offside. Hey, if everything that should have gone in and goals counted, the Whitecaps would have still come out on top. :)

^^ The loser always blames the officials. :banana:

No kidding! How about last nights game! They actually used a referee from Toronto for the game! ...and it showed. 4 or 5 yellow cards from Montreal(including one to the goalie:ohno::| ) and 5 minutes of extra time in the second half was bit excessive!

But so what, the Imapct are canadian champions and Tyrone Marshall looks like an idiot this morning!:cheers:

Are you fucking kidding about the 5 minutes?!?!?! Braz was being a little pussy on the ground forever! They bring out the stretcher and he's still just lying there for like 3 minutes. then they finally move him away.

I'll agree the Jordan booking wasn't necessary but for the most part the ref got it right.

I feel the need to point out it's Toronto FC, Toronto, TFC, or their nickname, 'the Reds'. Not FC. Just ask the CBC, and in particular Brenda Irving, the barrage of hate they got for doing the same thing.

Whatever happened , happend ! We the MONTREAL IMPACT are the CHAMPION of 2008 , they might have the whole Media machine and Referees on their side but God was on ours , you can't beat fate can you ? No need to look back , let's enjoy the Cup , it 's good sign of things to come for the Montreal L'impact and their new Home the Saputo Stadium CHEEEEEEER every one :)

Well, at least this sparked off a great rivalry.

well, topped off the spark. I think the combo of TFC beating you at Saputo and your fans taunting ours along that brawl and yesterday as a whole is to blame.

BTW, here's a fun fact, the Impact have never beat Toronto in a match.

But We managed to pull it off when it counts , that's what it's all about so the GLORY BELONGs TO US not YOU hehehe

One more note ,you should sound graciously like Taller better ,don't be a whiner !

Toronto will win it next year. You are welcome to quote me on that because I guarantee it.

I hope Toronto will ... but I think I'll skip that part ,it's just not my style :)

Whatever, you guys won't go past the group stage.

Possible Expansion Announcement

Report: MLS eyes Vancouver, Montreal for expansion

TSN.ca Staff

7/23/2008 2:14:36 PM

According to a Vancouver radio station, Toronto FC may soon be getting some Canadian company in the MLS.

The TEAM 1040 is reporting that MLS Comissioner Don Garber will lift the original ceiling of 18 franchises and announce Thursday a new expansion plan of not less than 20 and up to 24 franchises by 2013-2014.

The current 14-team loop will expand to 16 teams by 2010 (Seattle in 2009 and Philadelphia in 2010) and then add up to four teams in 2011 and at least two more by 2013-2014.

This comes on the heels of the league expanding to Toronto last season and San Jose this year.

Vancouver and Montreal are considered expansion priorities for Garber in 2011.

The announcements are expected as part of the Commissioner's address at Thursday's MLS All-Star Game at BMO Field in Toronto.

i'm not holding my breath

Ya me too. Don Garber was on AM640 a couple of hours ago and he acknowledged that there will be an expansion announcement tomorrow, which will probably be stuff we already know but it could be who will be no. 17 and 18 or their related timetables.

He also touched on the FieldTurf issue and said that it's the city and MLSE's to decide what they would do about changing it and that MLS has no foreseeable plans to mandate grass only stadiums.

Upward trend continues in MLS ... literally
by Jamie Trecker

Updated: July 23, 2008, 5:28 PM EST 1

MLS fans had better brush up on their French. They also might want to learn a few bars of "O Canada" for good measure.

That's because Montreal and Vancouver look certain to be candidates for the next two expansion teams added to the league, with a formal announcement coming around the MLS Cup this November.

Montreal Impact coach John Limniatis spilled the beans yesterday, telling reporters that, "The platform is already set ... We are already talking and aiming for a 2011 start [in MLS]."

[B][COLOR="Green"]Vancouver is said to be preparing to make a similar announcement, with Phoenix Suns' star Steve Nash as an ownership partner.

And MLS' commissioner, Don Garber, despite giving absolutely nothing concrete away Wednesday during his annual "State of the League" press luncheon, couldn't be more thrilled.

Effusively praising this lakeside city of Toronto and its franchise for "raising the bar" in virtually every category in his league, Garber followed it up by telling his audience to look to Canada's national sport.

For, as the Canadian teams do for hockey, MLS sees Canadian expansion as a way to take soccer on this continent to a new level.

"We see the passion and commitment of the owners, the city, the province and the fans," said Garber of Toronto FC. "And like the NHL, where Canada provides a big share of revenue, the same could become true for MLS.

"We think soccer can ultimately assume a place beside hockey as Canada's national sport."

Ten years ago, Garber would have been laughed off the stage for such a remark. But today, with the league enjoying climbs in every key metric, from attendance to TV ratings to merchandising to sponsorships, MLS looks not only serious, but prescient.

There are some sticking points, including whether or not FIFA would try to block such a deal. But multiple groups are in the city for this All-Star Week, fighting for the right to raise the flag in Montreal.

Canadians love soccer. So MLS is going to give it to them.

In truth, this All-Star game is also drawing global attention, with the Canadian media swelling the ranks to unheard-of proportions. And Garber was both upbeat and realistic today, acknowledging all at once that while the league is stable and strong, it remains a work in progress, and changes are inevitable.

In the next two seasons, in addition to new franchises, fans could see a reworking of the schedule, many more international players and possibly even a fundamental change in the way the league conducts business.

Garber was careful to note that MLS is still "emerging," and on a five-point plan. He said that two of his main goals were to ensure that the quality of his league's play continues to improve, and to convert more soccer fans into being passionate MLS fans.

And, while Garber didn't address it, he faces difficult negotiations next year with the MLS Player's Union, which has become increasingly vocal about its paychecks.

Number one on the agenda is to continue the league's drive to be globally accepted and respected, a theme Garber returned to repeatedly. MLS is still shaking off its underdog reputation, and despite the words of everyone from David Beckham to Steve Nicol, the league brass knows that many fans still don't rate it.

But in marked contrast to years past, where MLS complained about an issue, the league is, instead, doing something about it. Garber noted that the decisions made last year — an expanded TV package and the designated player rule — had been "transformational" for his "still young league."

"We've brought in dozens and dozens of players over the last two years, from all across Latin, Central and South America, and it is raising the level of play," said Garber. "We are continuing to develop young American players as well, and we are showing people that Americans are desirable and important."

Importing has also given rise to the perception that MLS is selling off it's young stars, with Brad Guzan of Chivas USA and Jozy Altidore of Villarreal the latest in a growing overseas contingent. And expansion could raise pressure on what is a still-shallow domestic pool.

The former Garber sees as a sign of strength — the latter, a non-issue.

"Jozy was bought by Villarreal because of his performances in MLS — he didn't play that many national team games. Fifteen years ago no team would have ever considered that deal."

"And, the global market is more than deep enough to stock our league with guys who have value based on our budgets. Some of the American players who have gone overseas are going over to get a contract, and that's good for the American players in general. But, some of these guys that have gone over, and I'm the commissioner of the league, I don't even know who they are, and I don't think American fans know them either. So it's not an issue."

Garber was also frank when he said, "At some point I would like to be able to keep every player we want to keep in MLS. We may be there soon, but we are not there now."

Garber also said that fixture congestion — particularly playing MLS games on World Cup and international dates — was not something the league could fix in the short-term.

"We are looking at adjusting our schedule, so we can avoid the kinds of challenges we had this year. We are looking at everything. But we're not mature enough yet as a business to play more midweek games right now or change games on short notice. It's a challenge, and right now we're not able to adapt to the international calendar."

Behind the scenes this week, MLS officials said that all options for re-jiggering the schedule — perhaps even moving to a spring-fall split season as is done in Latin America — are on the table.

The fact that 2009 expansion Seattle just hit the 16,000 season ticket mark without kicking a ball and 2010 newcomer Philadelphia has 5,000 deposits might well be seen to put pressure on others to perform. While Garber emphasized that due to travel, the league needs a strong Midwest presence, Kansas City may not have been happy to hear Garber's praise for St. Louis as a potential host city, going so far as to note that even Yogi Berra has asked him when a team will be put upon the Hill.

"This gathering is not just about the All Star game," he said, noting that prospective owners, sponsors and other movers and shakers will be very much a part of everything over the next few days.

"We need to look at what Toronto, L.A. and Seattle have done to be successful (selling tickets) and figure out how some of the other teams who may have gotten tired to figure out what can be useful to them."

Yet, Garber has plenty to be delighted about. After a stretch in which ten new owners have bought into the league, and all key numbers are up, MLS is finally living up to its name. And it's no longer a joke to suggest that, one day, MLS could compete with the heavyweights.

"We're on the plane, but not in the first row," said Garber. "We have lofty goals. We want to be among the best soccer leagues in the world, and among the best sports leagues in North America. That's long-term. But we think we can achieve it."







[B]
MLS Notebook: Vancouver, Montreal, Ottawa being considered for MLS teams
Posted: July 23, 2008, 9:30 PM by Eric Koreen
Soccer, MLS

Three Canadian cities are in the running for the next two Major League Soccer expansion sides. Of course, so are four American cities.

Speaking to reporters Wednesday, league commissioner Don Garber said that Vancouver, Montreal and Ottawa all had potential ownership groups that will have delegations at Thursday night’s league All-Star Game.

However, Las Vegas, St. Louis and Miami are all being considered for new teams. New York is also being considered for a second franchise.

Seattle will field a team next year while Philadelphia’s addition in 2010 will give the league 16 teams. Garber said for now, the league is not thinking past 18 teams.

“We’re in no rush to expand,” Garber said. “I anticipate that we’ll provide more news regarding expansion clubs before [November’s] MLS Cup.”

However, if one of the Canadian cities does not get one of those next two teams, it will not close the door on the possibility of another Canadian team joining the MLS in the near future.

“I don’t think it’s necessary for us to put either a limit or a target [on the number of teams in the league] at this point, because the league is still in its growth stage and evolutionary stage,” Garber said.

I still doubt it. It would just seem too perfect.

I don't think we can expect to see two canadian teams get the 17th and 18th spots. One maybe, but not both!

See ya later FC and your ref buddies!! FC: the leafs of soccer!!

This Canadian tournament should never have happened. It gave TFC a really huge, unfair stretch of road games. If you want to see terrible officiating you should have watched New England Revolution v.s TFC. Most biased shit ever. It's no wonder that NE team has a great record. The end result is a .500 team that's ashamed about somthing they can't control. Obviously when they counted these stupid games in the W-L record they weren't thinking how important it was to a young developing team like the FC.
PS Toronto's outgrown hockey. Nobody but hicks from the 905 cares about the leafs. Get that through you're thick skull.

Don't turn this into a City vs City thing, guys. It is just sports, and no one's penis is larger or smaller this week because of a tied game. It is over so let it go, please.

This looks like all what came out of the board meeting today. It's painful with this lack of information.


MLS seeks two expansion teams by 2011

Major League Soccer Communications

TORONTO -- Major League Soccer Board of Governors approved expanding by two teams by 2011, MLS Commissioner Don Garber announced following Thursday's Board of Governors meeting in Toronto.

At the meeting, Commissioner Garber provided updates on prospective expansion markets throughout the U.S. and Canada. Markets reviewed during today's meeting included (in alphabetical order) Atlanta, Las Vegas, Montreal, a second team in the New York area, Ottawa, Portland, St. Louis and Vancouver.

In conjunction with prospective Canadian expansion, MLS officials will work with Toronto FC owners Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, as well as potential expansion candidates, to develop national commercial revenue streams to support expansion into Canada.

MLS officials will issue specific details on the expansion application process within the next seven days.

If you're in BC and wondering why the live All Star game isn't on, it's because they have tape-delayed it for 7pm. Of course they didn't bother telling anyone this as they advertised on their website that it would be on at 7pm est with no other times shown. Thanks CBC for thinking about everyone else outside the EST time zone!

Don't turn this into a City vs City thing, guys. It is just sports, and no one's penis is larger or smaller this week because of a tied game. It is over so let it go, please.That's no fun. So we just post news articles now? Party pooper :bash:. :wink2:

Just keep the fisticuffs to a dull roar!! Obviously there will always be "keen" competition
between Canadian cities! ;)

It's starting to fly around the net tonight about a press announcement for Vancouver tomorrow. Thanks to towerguy3.

MEDIA ADVISORY
Attn: Editors
For Immediate Release: July 24, 2008
VANCOUVER WHITECAPS FC TO ANNOUNCE FUTURE PLANS
VANCOUVER, BC - Vancouver Whitecaps FC will be making a major announcement about the future of soccer in Vancouver and British Columbia.

When: Friday, July 25, 2008
Time: 11:00 a.m.

All-Star game was a treat

Ya it was great!

I'm so excited about tomorrow's news conference but I've got that pessimistic feeling again.

Mr. Garber ,the Commissioner of the MLS had a press conference explaining that there would be two new additions to the MLS in 2011. Some cities that are looked at are Montreal, Vancouver, Las Vegas, a 2nd team in NYC, Ottawa and a few other cities in the US which I forget.

Maybe it sounds greedy, but I hope they choose Montreal and Vancouver. It bugged me
yesterday when I read an article saying they might be afraid of going too "international", and that is why they seem a bit hesitent. Don't you want North American leagues to be international? Otherwise they should be just a national league.

Maybe it sounds greedy, but I hope they choose Montreal and Vancouver. It bugged me
yesterday when I read an article saying they might be afraid of going too "international", and that is why they seem a bit hesitent. Don't you want North American leagues to be international? Otherwise they should be just a national league.


I really, really, really hope the Impact will get to move up to the MLS. We already have higher attendances than many MLS teams.... Montreal has proven to be a sound choice for an expansion team. Also, if we do move up, that would mean Saputo Stadium would be expanded to 20,000 seats...which is obviously a good thing.

The more Soccer MSL expansion to Canadian Cities the more air time we will get for all Canadian from coast to coast ,that will trigger more Soccer enthusiasm to young generation ,one day who knows we might produce many world class Soccer stars just like we do in Hockey and then we'll be cheering for our own Canadian team instead of others every time the WC comes around ( haven't you noticed CBC and TSN don't air much or at all Soccer from the present League that Vancouver and Montreal are playing right now ? only the Local stations from these Cities do the work ,no wonder why the Mayority of Canadian have no idea what Soccer is especially the older people sometimes it seems Soccer is like an Alien game to them )

haven't you noticed CBC and TSN don't air much or at all Soccer from the present League that Vancouver and Montreal are playing right now ?

Well, I do know that the Impact have all(or most of) their games on SRC.

We already do have a World Class player. He's Julian De Guzman!

http://www.shootingstarssoccer.net/images/jdg.jpg

DeRo and some others are also really good.

Well, I do know that the Impact have all(or most of) their games on SRC.

Isn't it the french channel ? and how many people watching the SRC compare to the CBC and TSN ? figure it out and you know what I meant

We already do have a World Class player. He's Julian De Guzman!

http://www.shootingstarssoccer.net/images/jdg.jpg

DeRo and some others are also really good.

Yes ! but we do need 20 more like him to go to the WC representing Canada

not really. If the team we have now constantly can play like they did against Brazil and in the gold cup, we'll surely make it. Your from Montreal right? Make sure to go to the game against (WCQ) Honduras on September 6 at Saputo. Canada needs you!

The WFC press conference is over in Vancouver. Highlights -

This is WFC's formal bid for one of the 2011 MLS expansion slots. They're confident that an MLS franchise will help speed along the process of getting Waterfront Stadium built, in the meantime they look forward to playing at refurbished BC PLace which will be soccer friendly. Attorney General Wally Oppal said the Province gives it's full support and now the Mayor says the City "are pulling out all the stops" and is "going to make it happen".


Steve Nash is live on the phone from NYC fielding questions from the media. He's pledging support for WFC financially and is committed and confident Vancouver will get a franchise. They have a singular vision to get it done. He's put in his own money that's considerable but he won't be a majority owner.

-Will he be a silent or vocal owner? He said he'll be a very vocal owner/fan.

-He said, BC Place could be the home forever but a waterfront stadium could be one of the best in the world. The view, etc., great for the city.

-He'll do his best to use his connections to bring over world footballers like Thierry Henry, who he knows personally.

-Is he a part of the $40m expansion fee? Everyone's financial commitment would be a part of that.

-He's been involved in the process for the past year.

-His ownership/investment starts when WFC get accepted by MLS.

not really. If the team we have now constantly can play like they did against Brazil and in the gold cup, we'll surely make it. Your from Montreal right? Make sure to go to the game against (WCQ) Honduras on September 6 at Saputo. Canada needs you!

I sure will , but then it's up to the players to display their skills , cross my fingers my friend :horse: you should come up here and join us too

Isn't it the french channel ? and how many people watching the SRC compare to the CBC and TSN ? figure it out and you know what I meant


Yes, SRC is Société Radio Canada or the French CBC if you prefer. I don't think their ratings would be any better if they played on CBC or TSN... seeing as most people outside QUébec don't really care about the Impact. My guess is that within the next couple of years, the Impact will play on RDS, Just like the Habs and the Als.

Yes, SRC is Société Radio Canada or the French CBC if you prefer. I don't think their ratings would be any better if they played on CBC or TSN... seeing as most people outside QUébec don't really care about the Impact. My guess is that within the next couple of years, the Impact will play on RDS, Just like the Habs and the Als.

That's exactly what I mean , how about the Quebec Anglophone Comunity in Quebec ? they would have no idea what the heck is going on in their City either , because everytime they turn on their TV they would go str8 to either CBC , CTV or TSN that says also for other provinces , because all they talk about is the Toronto FC soccer , yes every one know how fabulous Toronto is in every aspects of Canada but it is so close and so far away from people perspective , obviously we are the closest next to Toronto than any other place but I am sure , we certainly don't feel included at all . I am thinking of a bigger picture not just Montreal and Vancouver in term of Soccer movement

^^ It is frustrating, skyboi, but that will all change once the Impact gets in the MLS.
Whether anyone likes it or not, the Toronto FC were first in and their fans have proven to be quite the spectacle, which has made them stand out a bit, so that team is bound to get more media coverage. Have patience... the owner of the Impact sounded like he knew something definite as he was very happy the other day. I'll be very happy if the next two teams accepted are Montreal and Vancouver.

I am optimistic...I have always though so eventhough it's slow but since the day they built the BMO stadium in Toronto then followed by Montreal's and soon to be Vancouver's ,I know they are heading into the right direction meaning Soccer is really developing in Canada , as long as I can remember Soccer is so old and so new to Canada , that reflects through every World cup when people across the Country went crazy if one of their Native land won , I have never seen such an emotion displayed to other sports not even hockey which usually went wild but only for one City's Team

My friend from England who was here a month ago commented he was shocked how much more prominent soccer is here now than the other many times he has visited. It had been two years since he was here last and the change is phenomenal. Will be even better once Montreal and Vancouver are in the league.
I am just a bit perplexed by the whole thing.. first it sounded like announcements were going to be made, then all of a sudden only vague posturing. I wonder what is going on in the backrooms.

I think Garber and MLS are going about this very carefully. But they have to realise, especially after all the popularity of TFC and hoopla of media reports surrounding Van and Mont, that there will be many people disappointed and turned off in these cities if they don't get their bids.

I'm getting more confident now that Van and Mont will get those 2 slots, MLS would be fools not to give it to them. Is there any US city that is even close to this kind of fervour lately?

^^

"Is there any US city that is even close to this kind of fervour lately?"


Maybe that is what they are afraid of....

Canada embarrased itself at the MLS All-Star game by booing the U.S. National Anthem.

I think Garber and MLS are going about this very carefully. But they have to realise, especially after all the popularity of TFC and hoopla of media reports surrounding Van and Mont, that there will be many people disappointed and turned off in these cities if they don't get their bids.

I'm getting more confident now that Van and Mont will get those 2 slots, MLS would be fools not to give it to them. Is there any US city that is even close to this kind of fervour lately?

If your not counting Philly and Seattle, I would probally say St. Louis and possbily Portland. Other then that, most American cities are pretty well tapped when it comes to sports--unlike Vancouver and Montreal.

I think I would draw the line at these three Canadian cities.

Canada embarrased itself at the MLS All-Star game by booing the U.S. National Anthem.

No it didn't considering we never booed the anthem now fuck off.

No it didn't considering we never booed the anthem now fuck off.

What do you mean? The crowd booed and sang over the U.S. National Anthem. Not only that, but the crowd was booing and throwing streamers at MLS players (aside from Canadian players), commentators, etc. I dont mean to sound like a jerk or anything, but what gives? The game has already created a rift between American and Canadian MLS fans.

What do you mean? The crowd booed and sang over the U.S. National Anthem. Not only that, but the crowd was booing and throwing streamers at MLS players (aside from Canadian players), commentators, etc. I dont mean to sound like a jerk or anything, but what gives? The game has already created a rift between American and Canadian MLS fans.

It's 10x worst with European rivalries.....there's a ton more heckling, it always gets personal, and fans for each team need to be separated into different sections.

Sad that, Judge, but in the scheme of things it is no big deal. Our national anthem has been soundly booed in professional sports in your country, and our flag flown upside down, and we learned to get over it. Soccer is a bit more aggressive than baseball, and the soccer fans here are considerably more animated than the ones you are used to at home... but I don't think it is anything to really worry too much about. As it turned out, the Canadian anthem at the end was a bit of a surprise, and the fans had been lead to believe that only the US and the English anthem would be played, which quite naturally p.o'd the fans. Probably won't happen again.

^^ You beat me to it. Yea. I'm sure the booing was more to do with the fans thinking the Canadian anthem wasn't going to be played. Get rid of the anthems! We should all be one big happy family.

It's 10x worst with European rivalries.....there's a ton more heckling, it always gets personal, and fans for each team need to be separated into different sections.

I agree, but we arent at that level yet. Booing national anthems, especially between the U.S.-Canada, is widely viewed as unacceptable.

We did not boo the anthems, we booed the idea of OUR national anthem bnot being sung (supposedly).

Oh btw, all those guys are still the enemy, regardless of the ASG. they don't give a shit about TFC so why should we suddenly fall infatuated with them. No

Sad that, Judge, but in the scheme of things it is no big deal. Our national anthem has been soundly booed in professional sports in your country, and our flag flown upside down, and we learned to get over it. Soccer is a bit more aggressive than baseball, and the soccer fans here are considerably more animated than the ones you are used to at home... but I don't think it is anything to really worry too much about. As it turned out, the Canadian anthem at the end was a bit of a surprise, and the fans had been lead to believe that only the US and the English anthem would be played, which quite naturally p.o'd the fans. Probably won't happen again.

Ive heard that argument, but truly, who ever really thought that "Oh Canada" wouldnt be played in a Canadian city? And they didnt boo during 'God Save the Queen'.

I also realize that soccer is more passionate then baseball. But lets not kid ourselves here......its Canada, not Mexico or England. And its the MLS All Star Game, not a game of any importance whatsoever. There was no reason to boo other MLS players and throw streamers at them when they are taking a corner. Much of the booing between the U.S. and Canada takes place in response to each other during NHL Playoff series.

Toronto FC fans are good fans, dont get me wrong....but sometimes they do seem like deserve the criticism they get round' the league. That they are trying too hard to show off to the world (particularly Europe).

We did not boo the anthems, we booed the idea of OUR national anthem bnot being sung (supposedly).

Oh btw, all those guys are still the enemy, regardless of the ASG. they don't give a shit about TFC so why should we suddenly fall infatuated with them. No

I can understand booing players on rival clubs (such as how New Yorkers booed Rex Sox players in the All Star game)--but everybody was being shat on. I dont see the point in even going to a All Star game if your not going to cheer a particular side! Seems like a waste of money to me to only go to support a couple TFC/Canadian born players and not cheer on your leauge against a European club.

And you seriously thought that the Canadian anthem was not going to be sung? I find that hard to believe.

I wouldn't take it too seriously. The same thing would happen overseas - fans not being so pleasant to players of other clubs. Big deal. That's what being a hardcore fan is about. You are loyal to your club, not your league or rival players. I can see not booing a UK based team such as West Ham, because most TFC fans are posers trying to be like West Ham fans. And booing the US is still in fashion right now. It could be worse.

"I can see not booing a UK based team such as West Ham, because most TFC fans are posers trying to be like West Ham fans"


Envy is one of the seven deadly sins! :D



Judge, get over it. Booing a national anthem is never good and never acceptable, but for crying out loud Americans have more than once booed our anthem loudly at professional games, and we don't whine on about it as we have moved on. Remember the parable about not throwing stones when you live in a glass house? ;)


"Energy drinks all taste the same"

Of course they do.. that is the guarana you are tasting. It is an natural additive from Brazil that is extremely high in caffeine.

I can understand booing players on rival clubs (such as how New Yorkers booed Rex Sox players in the All Star game)--but everybody was being shat on. I dont see the point in even going to a All Star game if your not going to cheer a particular side! Seems like a waste of money to me to only go to support a couple TFC/Canadian born players and not cheer on your leauge against a European club.

And you seriously thought that the Canadian anthem was not going to be sung? I find that hard to believe.

BTW, yes everyone should be shat on. They don't play for Toronto. They shouldn't be my hero all of a sudden. I went there just for the entrainment value of watching what I was going to know was a good game. An exciting game. One where I know I wouldn't really care much if either side lost. I became a bit one sided with MLS since I know all the players on that squad and only knew 2 from West Ham, and one of them wasn't starting. I really began sheering when DeRo and Jimmy went on because they are the players I root for on a daily basis.

The announcement was:

Fans, please stand for the anthem of the United States and England.

No announcement of the Canadian anthem what so ever.

Did they actually say the anthem of England? They should have said Britain, which is what it is for, even though some in other parts of the UK may disagree. Anyway, that's another discussion.

Perhaps, they should do away with anthems altogether considering neither national sides are playing, but rather a huge mix of international people. I dunno...

I rather enjoy the singing of anthems, but in this case keeping the Canadian one a "surprise" for the end was a mistake.

I wouldn't take it too seriously. The same thing would happen overseas - fans not being so pleasant to players of other clubs. Big deal. That's what being a hardcore fan is about. You are loyal to your club, not your league or rival players. I can see not booing a UK based team such as West Ham, because most TFC fans are posers trying to be like West Ham fans. And booing the US is still in fashion right now. It could be worse.

Well speaking of Britain, nothing was classless then when their fans boo'ed the U.S. National Anthem at the Mayweather/Hatton fight. I was glad to hear that Hatton got a beat down by Mayweather, sending those limeys weeping.

I dont understand booing the U.S. What are they trying to prove by booing athletes who had no say in the Iraq War?

"I can see not booing a UK based team such as West Ham, because most TFC fans are posers trying to be like West Ham fans"


Envy is one of the seven deadly sins! :D



Judge, get over it. Booing a national anthem is never good and never acceptable, but for crying out loud Americans have more than once booed our anthem loudly at professional games, and we don't whine on about it as we have moved on. Remember the parable about not throwing stones when you live in a glass house? ;)


"Energy drinks all taste the same"

Of course they do.. that is the guarana you are tasting. It is an natural additive from Brazil that is extremely high in caffeine.

I am over it. I am a casual soccer fan. But the very notion that Candians would boo us is suprising. I can understand Mexicans, because their national team is the equivalent of America's prison bitch.

BTW, yes everyone should be shat on. They don't play for Toronto. They shouldn't be my hero all of a sudden. I went there just for the entrainment value of watching what I was going to know was a good game. An exciting game. One where I know I wouldn't really care much if either side lost. I became a bit one sided with MLS since I know all the players on that squad and only knew 2 from West Ham, and one of them wasn't starting. I really began sheering when DeRo and Jimmy went on because they are the players I root for on a daily basis.

The announcement was:

Fans, please stand for the anthem of the United States and England.

No announcement of the Canadian anthem what so ever.


So what if they dont play for Toronto? They are representing your league and teammates of TFC players on the MLS Team. I dont see what the point is booing them. Especially if your going to cheer the likes of Rosario, who plays in Houston.

I heard that they announced that, but who in their right minds believed that the Canadian anthem wouldnt be sung? "Oh, Canada" is always sung first, before the U.S. anthem here.

Booing the U.S.A. is a source of Canadian pride.

*shrugs* ... oh well, not the end of the world.

Only a few puck head 905ers would boo the US anthem as far as I know. If Toronto is looking to really improve its transit it should look to Obama's democrats. If it comes down to us becoming the 51st US state then maybe we should look at restricting who comes in. Hintitty hint hint hint!

Banks, gtfo of here. What's done is done. You're just stirring up shit. Talking about respecting other countries' anthems even though you show blatant ignorance towards the Mexican one. Take your American ass out of here.

Only a few puck head 905ers would boo the US anthem as far as I know. If Toronto is looking to really improve its transit it should look to Obama's democrats. If it comes down to us becoming the 51st US state then maybe we should look at restricting who comes in. Hintitty hint hint hint!

stupid comment. The whole 905 vs. 416 is absolutely idiotic when it comes to TFC.

It was directed towards Judge Philip Banks. No need to get worked up.:)

Banks, gtfo of here. What's done is done. You're just stirring up shit. Talking about respecting other countries' anthems even though you show blatant ignorance towards the Mexican one. Take your American ass out of here.

.

Did I strike a nerve, Chocho? I dont think what I said was that bad, where I deserve such scathing responses from you.

And when did I show blantant ignorance towards the Mexican anthem? The Mexicans are terrible when it comes to this kind of stuff. They chanted "Osama" at our players and always boo our anthem.

Take my American ass out of here? Wow, thats real tolerant. I thought you were from Toronto.......

Only a few puck head 905ers would boo the US anthem as far as I know. If Toronto is looking to really improve its transit it should look to Obama's democrats. If it comes down to us becoming the 51st US state then maybe we should look at restricting who comes in. Hintitty hint hint hint!

WTF? There's already more than enough stupidity in this thread ... no need to add any more.

Did I strike a nerve, Chocho? I dont think what I said was that bad, where I deserve such scathing responses from you.

And when did I show blantant ignorance towards the Mexican anthem? The Mexicans are terrible when it comes to this kind of stuff. They chanted "Osama" at our players and always boo our anthem.

Take my American ass out of here? Wow, thats real tolerant. I thought you were from Toronto.......

Well you are American aren't you?

I DON'T want to lock the Sports thread, but I will if this silly dribble continues. The discussion about fans booing is over, so everyone please let go of the drama and let's get back to some other sports issues. Thanking you in advance for your cooperation.

Banks, gtfo of here. What's done is done. You're just stirring up shit. Talking about respecting other countries' anthems even though you show blatant ignorance towards the Mexican one. Take your American ass out of here.



stupid comment. The whole 905 vs. 416 is absolutely idiotic when it comes to TFC.

Dude, Chill! :no:

I'd like to keep this thread open for a little while longer!

Keeping the thread open is a very good idea me thinks.

So in TFC news, has the McBride deal been done yet and what's going on with the Dickov signing or no signing? They need some sort of strikers very soon!

How is Canadian Sports an urban issue? I don't have a problem with it, but we talk about limiting political discussion for the lack of relevance...

Well you are American aren't you?

yes, but the part of America that is more similar to Canada.

But anyway, I will leave the thread. Dont want it to be locked because of me. That would look bad for me as a member of the SSC community.

Adious!

How is Canadian Sports an urban issue? I don't have a problem with it, but we talk about limiting political discussion for the lack of relevance...

This should be a Skybar anyways. Every country seems to have one "officially" except us.

Anyways, change of subject.

Will the Blue Jays' A.J. Burnett be dealt at the deadline tomorrow?

This should be a Skybar anyways. Every country seems to have one "officially" except us.I think you're supposed to mingle with the yanks in the North American Skybar. :| But yea, I agree we should have our own.

t'ain't gonna happen, folks. Been flatly turned down by the administration of SSC.

Why not?

^^I say we go on strike!!! I can't see there being a good reason for it.

Has anyone thought about a photo forum, like that of OZScrapers? That would be intense.

How is Canadian Sports an urban issue? I don't have a problem with it, but we talk about limiting political discussion for the lack of relevance...

Check the first post. Sports is very relevant to the urban fabric of every city and town from coast to coast. It's only people who fail to see the connection who seem to find the need to go off on a tangent. It may not be as obvious as say architecture or urban planning, but is NOT irrelevant. We don't have a skybar, so this is the best place for this thread.

Fair enough. But I based my comment on the discussions regarding sports standings, recent games, and the two pages of "booing national anthems", none of which have any resemblance to urban issues.

^^ We are trying to keep the kvetching and regional bickering to a minimum, but in general I think a Sports thread is a great idea. Most people are at least a little interested in some sports! The admins feel there is a North American Skybar and that includes Canada. Period.. Personally I think North American skybar is a snake pit.

There is a North American skybar now?

But yeah, its probably better if we all stay away from it. Can't see having any productive discussions there.

I don't think we can expect to see two canadian teams get the 17th and 18th spots. One maybe, but not both!

You're probably right, but Vancouver and Montreal are both proven soccer markets. Their bids to join MLS will be very convincing. The Whitecaps Stadium in Vancouver and the new Saputo Stadium in Montreal are soccer specific. Both these cities offer everything MLS is looking for.

MLS unveils expansion timeline, process
Application process inumerated for next two teams

Major League Soccer Communications

NEW YORK -- Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber has announced the timeline and application process for the League's next two expansion teams. MLS intends to add two clubs by 2011, bringing the League to 18 teams. MLS will consider markets in the United States and Canada for the 17th and 18th teams.

Ownership groups and markets that are interested in being considered for this expansion round can submit applications to MLS up until October 15, 2008. Official applications will be provided to qualified groups by the MLS League Office.

Following the receipt of the expansion applications, MLS will determine the date by which the selection decision will be made. An announcement regarding the next two expansion clubs will take place during the fourth quarter of 2008 or the first quarter of 2009.

I just hope this doesn't go the way of baseball and basketball in this country. Canadian cities need to get in now before the door fully shuts.

Hey, I hear tennis is becoming popular in Canada. More than ever, apparently. That's great... it's the only sport I can play :)

"MLS will consider markets in the United States and Canada for the 17th and 18th teams."

this makes me nervous. I'm wondering if they will feel they have to also add an American team if they choose one Canadian..

^^ My sentiments exactly. Even if Montreal and Vancouver both get the nod, other deserving cities in Canada know their chances are slim. Let's not kid ourselves. This is a US league. Canada will always be an afterthought.

Hey, I hear tennis is becoming popular in Canada. More than ever, apparently. That's great... it's the only sport I can play :)

I started playing when I was about 6. It only dawned on me when I was about 13, that not every kid played tennis 10 hours a week.

"MLS will consider markets in the United States and Canada for the 17th and 18th teams."

this makes me nervous. I'm wondering if they will feel they have to also add an American team if they choose one Canadian..

How I think it unfortunately works is that Canadian candidates need ALL the criteria to get a franchise, where US candidates only need SOME of the criteria. Seattle is a perfect example.

I'd hope that the MSL would look at this logically. Both Vancouver and Montreal are obvious, instantly successful franchises. Any U.S. expansion would be best served by moving marginal franchises to cities with solid potential.

Keeping my fingers crossed!

It is possible they realize that a TREMENDOUS amount of interest in Canada has been whipped up, and they know Mtl and Van very badly want franchises, and are playing a little game of sit back and let the offers get sweeter and sweeter. Maybe they have full intentions of letting both in for 2011, but they just want to squeeze out every drop of juice from the grapes.

It is possible they realize that a TREMENDOUS amount of interest in Canada has been whipped up, and they know Mtl and Van very badly want franchises, and are playing a little game of sit back and let the offers get sweeter and sweeter. Maybe they have full intentions of letting both in for 2011, but they just want to squeeze out every drop of juice from the grapes.

That wouldn't surprise me one bit! Can we really expect anything less from Americans???:ohno::|:no:

If neither Vancouver or Montreal get in, they should join with Ottawa, and other teams in Canada to form their own league. A merger between this league and MLS 5 years down the road might be the best strategy to get a satisfactory number of franchises on this side of the border.

If neither Vancouver or Montreal get in, they should join with Ottawa, and other teams in Canada to form their own league. A merger between this league and MLS 5 years down the road might be the best strategy to get a satisfactory number of franchises on this side of the border.

No one is going to support an All-Canadian league. There have been many attempts in the past and they all failed miserably.

You may be right about that, but the main issue is why not. The only conclusion I have been able to come up with is the Canadian inferiority complex. Canadians will go if Boston is coming to town, but not if it is Calgary.

Self-loathing. Really pathetic, if you ask me.

You may be right about that, but the main issue is why not. The only conclusion I have been able to come up with is the Canadian inferiority complex. Canadians will go if Boston is coming to town, but not if it is Calgary.

Self-loathing. Really pathetic, if you ask me.

Canadians won't go just for the fact that it is still just soccer. It hasn't broken in to the top two or three pro sport leagues ACROSS Canada. It has areas of decent support, but outside of two or three cities people will not pay to watch no matter who it is.

On to other sports! Go RIDERS! The envy of every other CFL team this year. Even with third string quarter backs we are still undefeated. Should be 6-0 after this weekend. Back to back Grey Cups anyone?

Seriously. Does anybody even go to Argos games anymore? Last time I flicked on TSN there were almost as many empty seats as an Arizona Diamondbacks game. :lol:

No one is going to support an All-Canadian league. There have been many attempts in the past and they all failed miserably.

I would. The reason the past-leagues failed was because of the shit CSA and the sponsors. As well as the absence of thinking big and learning from past mistakes.

Football is only going to grow in popularity once Canada get to the 2010 World Cup.

Canadians won't go just for the fact that it is still just soccer. It hasn't broken in to the top two or three pro sport leagues ACROSS Canada. It has areas of decent support, but outside of two or three cities people will not pay to watch no matter who it is.

On to other sports! Go RIDERS! The envy of every other CFL team this year. Even with third string quarter backs we are still undefeated. Should be 6-0 after this weekend. Back to back Grey Cups anyone?

I would agree with you if the sporting culture that exists on the prairies was consistent nationally, but it isn't. It's not just Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver where soccer is huge. Ottawa, Quebec City, Victoria, Halifax, and Hamilton would all support their own franchises. The prairies, is by far, the weakest soccer market in the nation. Even so, Calgary, Edmonton, and Winnipeg could arguably support teams as well.

I wish soccer were a bigger deal on the prairies, but I also wish football were a bigger deal in Ontario. We really need teams in Quebec City, Ottawa, KW, and Halifax.

Is there any news about a new stadium for the Riders? You guys deserve a nice 45,000 seater.

I would. The reason the past-leagues failed was because of the shit CSA and the sponsors. As well as the absence of thinking big and learning from past mistakes.

Football is only going to grow in popularity once Canada get to the 2010 World Cup.

I would go as well but the majority wouldn't give a crap. That's a fact. Blame CSA all you want but what All-Canadian league has survived the test of time besides the CFL? Even then, it is constantly struggling to exist and has grown very little over the past decades.

Fact of the matter is that there is already so much bilateral exchange of culture between the two countries that restricting that in regards to sports seems like a silly idea to most Canadians. We always demand the best that we can have and certainly American sports is the best in the entire world in many regards. Anything without the label of "Major" just seems bush league to most of us. In addition, as I stated a few times a long time ago in this threads, Canadians, in general, don't care much for sports. In other parts of the world, sports and sporting teams act as an outlet of cultural and regional affiliation, sports are regarded as pure entertainment by most Canadians (hockey included).

The Grand Master said it himself.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20080509.WBsoccerblog20080509105213/WBStory/WBsoccerblog/


Hi Ben,

Just a few thoughts and comments triggered by your latest blog.

Some years ago one of our grandsons wanted to play soccer, he was 5-6. So I took him, sat and watched, and kept my mouth shut. It was house league soccer, and he was fortunate in that first year because he had someone coaching who knew the game. The next year, his coach was a volunteer who was a basketball coach in the winter and had never played soccer. He was a nice man, the kids had fun. A lady whose son was also playing said to me "Isn't it wonderful they are going to play 14 games." I said "No lady it's a disaster they should be playing 40." She said "What! I wouldn't allow my son to do that I want him to play basketball and hockey in the winter." The boys didn't play 14 games, given that they spent so much time running on and off being substituted, they might have played seven.

Fast forward a few years and my grandson is in a rep team. The coach wanting to get an early start called a practice late January, early February in a school gym. There were something like 18 boys on this rep team, that first Saturday morning only about 7 showed up. Where were the rest? Playing hockey and basketball. This went on until almost opening day, when the outdoor practices, drew more. Hockey season was over. This was a Hamilton team playing in places like St. Catharines, Ancaster, Malton, Brampton etc. I think they won one game all season, and on average lost by at least 10 goals. Players were still running on and off, unlimited substitution. By mid-summer, there was no substitution because the team often played one, two or three short. Reason. Their parents were on holiday, so off the boys went to the cottage for two weeks, or on a trip somewhere. Yet as I sat through those seasons I saw potential everywhere, boys with natural skills.

Perhaps this is not the norm across the country. House league should be fun, but the more skilled you are the more fun it is.

Some time later I was in the Skydome one morning for a CSA press conference leading up to the two games Canada played there in around 1995. The press conference was out on the playing field. Tony Taylor, then the U-17 coach, showed up, he had just returned with the team from the Caribbean or Central America, and he was not a happy man. He described how his first job in training camp was to try to get the players fit to play 90 minutes, most of then could only handle 45. Then how it was hard to get some players released because their clubs wanted them so that they could win their local competitions, and in particular because it was more important for one ethnic group to beat another. He pointed out that the teams we were playing down south played at least nine months of the year and were totally focused on playing soccer. No unlimited substitution. I wish I had a tape recorder that morning because I have always had a lot of respect for Tony Taylor as a youth coach, and I think that day he touched on a lot of important things.

Now let's look at history, always my thing. Manchester United (formed 1902), Rangers 1873, Boca Juniors 1908, Inter-Milan 1909, Aston Villa 1874, Slavia Prague 1892, Borussia Dortmund 1909, Benfica 1904, Real Madrid 1898. TORONTO FC 2007. There was a time when we did have good teams that were around for many years. Westminster Royals, Toronto Ulster, Toronto Scottish, Montreal Carsteel, and even the various incarnations of the Blizzard lasted 18 years. But currently our only pro soccer team is now in it's second year. Which means that we are 100 years behind Europe. During last summer's U-20 tournament, one player in particular caught my eye – Ever Benega of Argentina, then perhaps 17. I heard people saying, if he had been born here the CSA system would never have developed him. But the point is that the national association of Argentina didn't develop him, Boca Juniors did. It's the clubs that develop players in the rest of the world not the national associations. It's an apprenticeship system. Only when the NASL existed did we have anything approaching that, and to set it up today will cost millions.

Example #1. When the Netherlands plays in Euro 2008 next month their assistant coach will be John Van't Schip. Van't Schip was born in Fort St. John, B.C. His Dutch parents took him back to Holland when he was eight years old. He grew up in Amsterdam, and by the age of 12 was in the Ajax system. He progressed up through the various levels until he reached the first team, he went on to play 273 games for Ajax and 41 times for the Netherlands. He wasn't developed by the KNVB but by Ajax.

Example #2. Some years ago Owen Hargreaves was selected to attend one of the youth teams training camps. Tony Taylor was the coach and he was under pressure to produce a team to compete in one of the CONCACAF tournaments. He looked at Owen and thought. "He needs one more year of development before I can use him." Nothing unusual about that. Owen got that year of development in the Bayern Munich youth system, and like Van't Schip made his way up through the system. He wasn't developed by the DFB. This is not to defend the CSA, but to point out that until we have a professional system here we are just whistling dixie. Tony has taken a lot of stick over this, but it was a normal decision. So where is Tony Taylor today? He is coaching in the Glasgow Celtic academy.

On Wednesday I was at the Soccer Centre and CBC-TV was filming part of this years "Soccer Day in Canada" in the Hall of Fame. When it was over some of us were asked where soccer in Canada goes from here. I said my piece on camera. Soccer in Canada needs professional CLUBS, not professional teams the way it has been in the past. Toronto FC is on the right track and so are the Whitecaps and Impact. The program airs May 31.

As I say, just a few thoughts. I agree with much of what you are writing about the CSA because I have been close to it for 40 years. But the problems are many and so much of it is parochial and people lacking is knowledge and vision.


Best wishes,
Colin Jose.

---

Much to think about. Much to discuss.

Onward!

We can't put our development in the hands of Americans. I appreciate their help but we need to control our fate. If a Canadian soccer league could draw half of what the CFL draws, I would say that's a success.

MLS unveils expansion timeline, process
Application process inumerated for next two teams

Major League Soccer Communications

NEW YORK -- Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber has announced the timeline and application process for the League's next two expansion teams. MLS intends to add two clubs by 2011, bringing the League to 18 teams. MLS will consider markets in the United States and Canada for the 17th and 18th teams.

Ownership groups and markets that are interested in being considered for this expansion round can submit applications to MLS up until October 15, 2008. Official applications will be provided to qualified groups by the MLS League Office.

Following the receipt of the expansion applications, MLS will determine the date by which the selection decision will be made. An announcement regarding the next two expansion clubs will take place during the fourth quarter of 2008 or the first quarter of 2009.
my 2 cities chosen will be montreal & vancouver

The Grand Master said it himself.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20080509.WBsoccerblog20080509105213/WBStory/WBsoccerblog/



We can't put our development in the hands of Americans. I appreciate their help but we need to control our fate. If a Canadian soccer league could draw half of what the CFL draws, I would say that's a success.

If is a huge word. hoping for 15,000 at games may be possible in Vancouver, Montreal, and one or two other cities, but for the rest of the country, don't hold your breath.

Go Riders!
6-0

If is a huge word. hoping for 15,000 at games may be possible in Vancouver, Montreal, and one or two other cities, but for the rest of the country, don't hold your breath.

Go Riders!
6-0

I agree Calvin. Soccer is popular where we find a large immigrant population and despite the popular belief that Canada is a country full of immigrants, that only rings true in 5 or 6 major cities. To expect large crowds in Regina or Halifax is just wishful thinking. Maybe in the future.

As far as the CFL is concerned.. GO RIDERS! I've always wanted to go to a game in Regina because there is nowhere where the CFL so warmly embraced. I've gone to a couple of Al's games here in Montréal and it's a hoot! The stadium at McGill is the perfect size and in a beauty location. I've been to a number of Buffalo and Detroit games as well as one in Houston and Chicago and I think that the Canadian game is far more exciting than the American game. All we need are 5 teams in the east and 5 in the west and the league will be perfect!

[QUOTE=Habfanman;23511406]I agree Calvin. Soccer is popular where we find a large immigrant population and despite the popular belief that Canada is a country full of immigrants, that only rings true in 5 or 6 major cities. To expect large crowds in Regina or Halifax is just wishful thinking. Maybe in the future.
QUOTE]

:crazy: It was just as obvious to me too.

***

I hope to go my first CFL game this year. Maybe a playoff game. :dunno:

Maybe you guys can help me out with this. I've always wondered why there seems to be such a lack of professional sport teams in Canada. Look what you've got in a country of 33 million:

8 CFL teams
6 NHL teams
1 NBA team
1 MLB team
1 MLS team
0 NFL teams

If you'd leave Toronto out of the equation, you'd have only 7 CFL teams and 5 NHL teams left, and that's it! To me, that looks like absolute poverty for a country of Canada's size. Especially when you compare it to a country like Australia, which has a population of only 21 million, but has 16 AFL teams, 16 NRL teams, 8 A-league teams, and 4 super14 teams!

So what is the reason why Canada has so few professional sports teams? Is it because of the proximity of the USA that draws all the corporate money? Is it because of a lack of interest of the Canadian public? Is it because you guys are just not good at running professional sport teams?

Professional sports has never been allowed to develop and mature in Canada because the top markets opt to join foreign leagues (USA), making domestic leagues near impossible to form. The lone exception is football. Even hockey's growth at the professional level has been stunted by the existence of the US run NHL.

If US leagues only permitted US based teams, Canada would probably have 24 hockey teams, 10 basketball teams, 16 baseball teams, and eventually about 12 in soccer. Football would probably grow to 12-14 teams with the prospect of NFL for south ward gazing Ontarians off the plate. The tendency of Toronto to look to US based leagues has been catastrophic for pro sports in this country. It's a 100% disaster.

Yeah but all those mickey mouse teams would be no match to american teams on the field, and thats what matters most.

Compare Canada and California (same size population) and you'de see Canada isn't that bad.

^^Nope, what matters most is having professional sports in my country. I'd rather have my own team that I can go watch and support. As a nation, we've been culturally robbed of that.

Any of those arguments doesn't change the pathetic reality of professional sports in this country one little bit. We have 1 basketball team, 1 baseball team, etc. That is a national failure any way you slice it.

Any of those arguments doesn't change the pathetic reality of professional sports in this country one little bit. We have 1 basketball team, 1 baseball team, etc. That is a national failure any way you slice it.

Exactly! It really is quite a sad state of affairs.

Exactly! It really is quite a sad state of affairs.

I guess this is a sentiment that's quite widely shared amongst Canadians then (besides Toronto maybe). If I were Canadian, I'd feel rather deprived and frustrated by this, especially when you're considering Canada is one of the richest and most succesful countries on this planet! Are there any moves in the Canadian sport world to set up a professional domnestic sport league, be it in hockey, soccer, baseball, or basketball?

There must be some form of domnestic league that can survive in Canada besides the CFL. Take for example soccer: what if the CSA decided to truly go for the Canadian Soccer League? Such a league could start with 6 or 8 teams, expanding to 10 or 12 teams in the next few years. I guess you could argue that soccer is not popular enough in Canada at the moment, but there are a lot of urban areas that lack a professional sport team, and my bet would be that people would take soccer over nothing. Besides, soccer is gettin more popular all over the world, so why not in Canada? And Cananda surely would not need the USA for a professional soccer league to survive? If I were head of the CSA, I'd ban all Canadian soccer teams from joining American leagues!!

Besides, the whole idea of the International teams in the Canadian Soccer League is absurd. The Australian soccer league was overhauled a couple of years ago to get rid of such ethnic teams, which has lead to a huge increase of popularity of soccer in Australia. Average attendences there are between 10,000 and 30,000! Anway...let's hope the situation of professional sport in Canada will change soon, be it in the way of soccer or another sport.

It's a constant source of frustration and shock that a big rich country like this is deprived of professional sports while smaller nations like Australia run many successful pro leagues. I thought someone was pulling my leg when they told me there was only 8 hockey teams in the whole country. Now there are 6.

Canada will never develop domestic leagues mainly because most Canadian have bought into the US view of what pro teams should look like regarding scale, size, and revenue streams. They think it's normal that we have 1 basketball team, 1 baseball, 1 soccer, and only one league based here. Absolutely absurd, but they don't think so. Now that's cultural submission and domination for you. It's truly devastating to accept, but one of those hard pills you have to swallow when you live here.

^^I'd recommend a game outside Ontario. Montreal might be the closest good place to go watch a game. The Skydome is an awful place to go watch football. Hamilton's not bad. Non-Ontario cities have much better football atmosphere.

I agree Calvin. Soccer is popular where we find a large immigrant population and despite the popular belief that Canada is a country full of immigrants, that only rings true in 5 or 6 major cities. To expect large crowds in Regina or Halifax is just wishful thinking. Maybe in the future.


I think Victoria and Halifax are exceptions to that. They have very small immigrant populations, but sports like basketball and soccer are huge. Hockey takes a back seat to basketball in Halifax, and it isn't due to a large immigrant population. Soccer would do well there. Regina? I agree. Not a chance.

I find football, CFL or otherwise, to be painfully boring to watch.

??? constant source of frustrationa and shock?? what are you on? No one talks about this rubbish.

The fact is that no one wants a sub par league compared to our neighbours to the south, it wouldn't attract any crowds and would fail in a matter of a season or two.

The CSL was tried and failed, the CFL would bankrupt (its not that healthy to begin with) if they were one or two NFL teams in Canada.

Sports fans in big canadian markets want to see their teams compete at a certain level and give a good quality show.

??? constant source of frustrationa and shock?? what are you on? No one talks about this rubbish.

The fact is that no one wants a sub par league compared to our neighbours to the south, it wouldn't attract any crowds and would fail in a matter of a season or two.

The CSL was tried and failed, the CFL would bankrupt (its not that healthy to begin with) if they were one or two NFL teams in Canada.

Sports fans in big canadian markets want to see their teams compete at a certain level and give a good quality show.

I can't imagine that no one talks about such rubbish, but then again, I'm not Canadian.

I don't see why Canada should mirror itself to the USA, which is the single largest sport market in the world. The fact that you're saying yourself that a domnestic sport league in Canada wouldn't attract crowd and would fail in a season or two says enough though I guess, how pessimistic. But hey, if you'd rather watch another country's sport league on TV than your own team in real life, that's your choice.

If Canadian sport leagues like the CSL and CFL were run and promoted in a better way, I don't see why they wouldn't be a big succes.

And what are the big Canadian markets you're talking about anyway? Looks like Toronto is the only market that's considered big enough by the USA. That's the only city that can claim that it benefits from the current professional sport situation in Canada. That's only 6 million people though. What about the other so called big markets like Montreal and Vancouver? All they have is an NHL team and that's it. Is it truly better for those cities not to have professional sport teams than to have them in a domnestic Canadian league? And what about the 23 million Canadians that don't live in one of those big market cities???

Australia is blessed (for some not) by being isolated, it doesn't have a behemoth neighbour bombarding it with hundreds of channels (inlcuding sports). We cannot run our little league in isolation, it wouldn't work at all because people aren't dumb and would watch a better product on their tvs.

It would be a hard sell to make our own soccer league for example because players would simply cross the border and get paid for much more. This happens with our best football, soccer, baseball and basketball players and its easy to understand (actually it happens with almost every trade but thats another story).

Toronto and Montreal are bigger than many US markets but that doesn't make them automatically eligble for a team for different reasons.

In Montreal for example, there's zero intrest in basketball, baseball left after a long saga and won't come back unless Selig is dead. Football (NFL) would most likely never work in Canada because our medias (ad revenus) are way too small compared to the US, MLS is coming to Montreal certainly in the next two years and I'm looking forward to it. The current USL team is not intresting enough for me because the level is lower than MLS.

I find football, CFL or otherwise, to be painfully boring to watch.

you're not alone ;)

...If Canadian sport leagues like the CSL and CFL were run and promoted in a better way, I don't see why they wouldn't be a big success...

This is one of the major reasons why domestic leagues have trouble. Canadian leagues are constantly put down in national media (mostly media based in Toronto). Toronto Star, Globe and Mail, and National Post writers consistently tell of how horrible the CFL is in comparison to the much richer, more glamorous NFL. There is no such thing as pride in something that is our own. Yes, obviously the NFL is going to get the better players, they can pay more since they have over 300 million possible fans to draw from and huge corporations to generate revenue from. It's very difficult for the CFL to improve its image when the media doesn't support it.

It's slowly starting to turn around a bit, but there is still a lot of negativity to fight through. For example, a low scoring CFL game is termed an offensive bore, but a low scoring NFL game is an exciting defensive struggle.

It also doesn't help when one of the largest Canadian Communications Companies would rather support the NFL than the CFL.

I find football, CFL or otherwise, to be painfully boring to watch.

I personally find football entertaining but the CFL game is just not for me. Because of the rules, if you don't have a very good QB, all you're going to see is constant kicking back and forth and that gets very frustrating. I've tried very hard to get into the CFL but I just can't.

??? constant source of frustrationa and shock?? what are you on? No one talks about this rubbish.

The fact is that no one wants a sub par league compared to our neighbours to the south, it wouldn't attract any crowds and would fail in a matter of a season or two.

The CSL was tried and failed, the CFL would bankrupt (its not that healthy to begin with) if they were one or two NFL teams in Canada.

Sports fans in big canadian markets want to see their teams compete at a certain level and give a good quality show.

It's not my clarity of mind that is in question, but your interest in developing Canadian institutions and Canadian cultural assets. Do you really need to be that rude and arrogant? Obviously, people do talk about this 'rubbish' as you so politely put it.

Since when did you declare yourself the voice of the Canadian public? You don't speak for Canadians, only yourself. I suppose my frustration and shock is all just some dream I had last night? Right, I really don't feel like that at all. Just because you are fine with one or two pro teams here and there, doesn't mean other people are even remotely satisfied with the current situation. Has it never occurred to you that it's people who were brought up here who think this situation is normal and tolerable? News flash! It's not.
:ohno:

I said it once, and I'll repeat it again:

what matters most is having professional sports in my country. I'd rather have my own team that I can go watch and support. As a nation, we've been culturally robbed of that.


Go dismiss rational arguments as those only some drugged out fool might have, and expect a stern reply. You're really out of line.

Football's not for everyone. Growing up in Halifax, football and basketball were inescapable. Everyone knew who the quarterback of SMU was, and the city practically shuts down for the Bowl game. Football games can be tediously boring, or the complete other extreme. It's the spectacle of it, the marketing, the tradition, the crowd, the atmosphere, etc. that gets you through the boring patches. In Halifax, it's just what you do.

Football is very much something culturally ingrained. It's a very difficult sport to get into living in Ontario. It's just not the same here. Move to Saskatchewan or Ohio and it's very easy to get fanatical about it.

It's not my clarity of mind that is in question, but your interest in developing Canadian institutions and Canadian cultural assets. Do you really need to be that rude and arrogant? Obviously, people do talk about this 'rubbish' as you so politely put it.

Since when did you declare yourself the voice of the Canadian public? You don't speak for Canadians, only yourself. I suppose my frustration and shock is all just some dream I had last night? Right, I really don't feel like that at all. Just because you are fine with one or two pro teams here and there, doesn't mean other people are even remotely satisfied with the current situation. Has it never occurred to you that it's people who were brought up here who think this situation is normal and tolerable? News flash! It's not.
:ohno:

I said it once, and I'll repeat it again:



Go dismiss rational arguments as those only some drugged out fool might have, and expect a stern reply. You're really out of line.

Who do you think you are? and you think you are speaking for all canadians also? And I have been living here for 22 years mister, I was brought up here so spare me your xenophobic remarks.

Why are stadiums empty with no support by locals for many semi-pro leagues in Canada? Because people aren't intrested in subpar product, they want the best and they can get it from the comfort of their homes watching real teams and real athletes fighting it out.

If people were so frustrated like you seem to believe in your bubble, you would hear about it, it would make the news, you would see people massively support their small teams which would attract attention from promoters to create strong(er) leagues.

This isn't the case.

Who do you think you are? and you think you are speaking for all canadians also? And I have been living here for 22 years mister, I was brought up here so spare me your xenophobic remarks.

Why are stadiums empty with no support by locals for many semi-pro leagues in Canada? Because people aren't intrested in subpar product, they want the best and they can get it from the comfort of their homes watching real teams and real athletes fighting it out.

If people were so frustrated like you seem to believe in your bubble, you would hear about it, it would make the news, you would see people massively support their small teams which would attract attention from promoters to create strong(er) leagues.

This isn't the case.

Then maybe you should head out west. In the summer the CFL is King out west (Hockey is of course King of the winter), and local western media outlets treat it as such. Out here we constantly voice our discontent with what the national media is doing, but no one hears it. Rest assured people are frustrated out here... but much like with how federal politics have historically been, the western opinion is often not seen as important as the eastern. In politics, the East has more ridings, therefore gets more attention... in the media the East has more viewers, therefore they get more attention.

And a prime example of your last statement is the Roughriders. It is a very small market team, but they have some of the craziest fans in Canada. Last year the only team that sold more merchandise in Canada was the Toronto Maple Leafs. How's that for some massive support?

Look at the attendance figures on this page (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_attendance_figures_at_domestic_professional_sports_leagues) (yes it's wiki, but this is probably fairly accurate). The CFL is one of the best supported pro leagues in the world, yet it still gets such little respect. TV viewership figures have also been huge, outdrawing the Jays by large margins, but the Jays still get better coverage.

I'm of the same thought as isaidso. It really is a sad situation. This is one of the issues I have discussed with many friends of mine and rest assured, none of them think that the situation as it is right now is preferable over proper leagues and pro teams (and this is in the GTA ... where most of the pro teams in Canada exist).

but much like with how federal politics have historically been, the western opinion is often not seen as important as the eastern. In politics, the East has more ridings, therefore gets more attention... in the media the East has more viewers, therefore they get more attention.


Since when sports a federal jurisdiction?, or worse why would people want government involvement in what would be a private buisnesse.

What do you exactly suggest that the conservatives (who are from your west) should do to promote home brew leagues and adress the discontent of the west as you put it.

Please explain to me how would a basketball league survive when there was barely any support for the Grizzlies in Vancouver (which moved to the US) and barely any intrest for Basketball in the rest of the country.

How a soccer league survive when people barely show up at USL level soccer games, dismal attendances, how can you have teams in smaller cities when people don't show up in Calgary and Edmonton which both folded, dismal attendance at the whitecaps, the Toronto team "upgraded" to the MLS and the team with the highest attendance in that league the Impact is on the verge of "upgrading" too to the MLS, the real deal.

How can a canadian hockey league prosper, when two NHL teams moved to the USA in the 90s, with other teams like Ottawa and Edmonton having trouble keeping afloat, people don't fill up these arenas. Why would people settle for lower grade leagues when they have the best and don't show up??

And Baseball I'm not touching with a 10 feet pole, many A-AA-AAA level teams ceased to operate for lack of intrest, heck the Montreal Expos were lucky to draw 3000 on average in their last season.

CFL might be considered a success but this is new, the league had a troubled past and its future is in jeopardy if the NFL entered Canada. Plus this league is doomed to a subpar level because any good player will be drafted by the NFL and given a big contract, sometime to the value of an entire CFL team roster:lol:

I believe in one thing: people vote with their feet and go if the spectacle is worth their time and money, and especially people in bigger cities want their team to be part of the best league available which always refer to a league out of the USA.

Please explain to me how would a basketball league survive when there was barely any support for the Grizzlies in Vancouver (which moved to the US) and barely any intrest for Basketball in the rest of the country.

The Grizzlies were poorly managed by the original owner (Arthur Griffths is one of Vancouver's worse businessmen, he has lost most of the fortunes his father passed down to him), and the new owner's intent had always been to move the franchise to the U.S. As for attendance, the Grizzlies lost nearly every game.

If done right, there is a market for the NBA in Vancouver. However, not with MLS around. I think Vancouver will only be capable of handling three major teams at any time for the next 20 years: either the CFL, NHL, and MLS OR CFL, NHL, and NBA.

The first event of the Beijing Olympics was a women's soccer match. We're off to a great start:

Canada 2 - Argentina 1

Who do you think you are? and you think you are speaking for all canadians also? And I have been living here for 22 years mister, I was brought up here so spare me your xenophobic remarks.


I don't care if you've been living here for 200 years. You're not the spokesperson for the Canadian people, nor does it give you a right to tell people what they think.

Xenophobic? For pointing out that people are used to a certain set of norms that isn't universal everywhere? That's the way the world is whether you live in Montreal or Moscow. When you travel somewhere else, you realize that there are different ways of doing things. How is that xenophobic? Quite the contrary. It is you who is coming off rigid and unwilling to accept different views. When people present views different from yours, you infer that they are on drugs? That is xenophobia for you. NICE! Want your memory refreshed:
what are you on? No one talks about this rubbish.


By pointing out that most Canadians have accepted a US definition of what scale and revenue stream a pro team should have is tantamount to speaking for Canadians? I don't pretend anywhere to be speaking for Canadians. You, however, do it quite a lot. Want your memory refreshed again:


The fact is that no one wants a sub par league compared to our neighbours to the south...

Sports fans in big canadian markets want to see their teams compete at a certain level and give a good quality show.

You don't speak for Canadians? I suppose these comments don't prove that in your mind. That we are having this 'dialogue' is proof that your beliefs about what Canadians want is simply your perception. How could you possibly believe that everyone shares your views on things. It's impossible unless we're all robots or you're our dictator.


Why are stadiums empty with no support by locals for many semi-pro leagues in Canada? Because people aren't intrested in subpar product, they want the best and they can get it from the comfort of their homes watching real teams and real athletes fighting it out.


There you go again! Stop telling people what they want or what they are interested in. Sports stadiums aren't empty. Canadian cities simply have smaller populations than that USA benchmark you seem to be comparing us to. Perhaps, check these sites if you want statistics on Canadian attendance at a Canadian league and population figures for Canadian cities versus US ones:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_attendance_figures_at_domestic_professional_sports_leagues
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_the_100_largest_metropolitan_areas_in_Canada
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Table_of_United_States_Metropolitan_Statistical_Areas

Canadian cities actually draw quite large football crowds for the size of their populations. 27,000 at pro football in Winnipeg, population 695,000, is a good crowd. That's pretty much in line with what an NFL city would draw with a similar population base. I might add that Winnipeg has the 3rd lowest average attendance in the league. It would probably be at the bottom if Molson Stadium were bigger, and Hamilton had a competitive team.



If people were so frustrated like you seem to believe in your bubble, you would hear about it, it would make the news, you would see people massively support their small teams which would attract attention from promoters to create strong(er) leagues.

This isn't the case.

Because people aren't massively demonstrating and getting the story covered in the news means that no frustration exists? Is this what you do when you are frustrated? I doubt it. In saying that you haven't heard about it answers a great deal. You haven't heard about it because you seem to be oblivious to anything that you aren't concerned about. That is what a bubble looks like, btw.

What am I on? You've got a lot of nerve. Your rudeness and arrogance are not acceptable from an adult what so ever. Not in my family anyway. If that's how you want to talk to people, there's nothing I can do about that. It's not very conducive to anything constructive though.

Since when sports a federal jurisdiction?, or worse why would people want government involvement in what would be a private buisnesse.

What do you exactly suggest that the conservatives (who are from your west) should do to promote home brew leagues and adress the discontent of the west as you put it.

Please explain to me how would a basketball league survive when there was barely any support for the Grizzlies in Vancouver (which moved to the US) and barely any intrest for Basketball in the rest of the country.

How a soccer league survive when people barely show up at USL level soccer games, dismal attendances, how can you have teams in smaller cities when people don't show up in Calgary and Edmonton which both folded, dismal attendance at the whitecaps, the Toronto team "upgraded" to the MLS and the team with the highest attendance in that league the Impact is on the verge of "upgrading" too to the MLS, the real deal.

How can a canadian hockey league prosper, when two NHL teams moved to the USA in the 90s, with other teams like Ottawa and Edmonton having trouble keeping afloat, people don't fill up these arenas. Why would people settle for lower grade leagues when they have the best and don't show up??

And Baseball I'm not touching with a 10 feet pole, many A-AA-AAA level teams ceased to operate for lack of intrest, heck the Montreal Expos were lucky to draw 3000 on average in their last season.

CFL might be considered a success but this is new, the league had a troubled past and its future is in jeopardy if the NFL entered Canada. Plus this league is doomed to a subpar level because any good player will be drafted by the NFL and given a big contract, sometime to the value of an entire CFL team roster:lol:

I believe in one thing: people vote with their feet and go if the spectacle is worth their time and money, and especially people in bigger cities want their team to be part of the best league available which always refer to a league out of the USA.

If you look back at my comments, nowhere did I say that anything about the government managing the leagues. My comments were drawing a comparison between how the national media treats the opinions of western Canada to how the federal government treats the opinions of western Canada. ie: For the most part, ignored.

And as an FYI, you would find that it isn't so cut and dry out here. People actually do prefer the CFL over the NFL here, by quite a large margin. So the bigger league doesn't always win.

And your comment about the "Best" league is your opinion. Most people out here prefer the CFLs brand of football, and as such would think the CFL is the better league. The term "best" is always subjective to each individuals opinion.

A little less than 28 hours before the Games of the 29th Olympiad commence.

Do you find the official Beijing site really user unfriendly? I hate it. What a pile!

http://en.beijing2008.cn/

^^Canadian football is something all Canadians should treasure, whether we are fans or not.

Football is not an import to Canada from the US, but an export. Football is one of the biggest cultural contributions that this country has made to the shared culture of the USA and Canada. It is an important part of our heritage and something we should all take pride in. In a nation that often seems insecure about its culture and identity, football is a shining example of Canadiana.

HISTORY

The first documented football match was a game played at University College, University of Toronto on November 9, 1861. A football club was formed at the university soon afterwards, although its rules of play at this stage are unclear.
In 1864, at Trinity College, Toronto, F. Barlow Cumberland and Frederick A. Bethune devised rules based on rugby football. However, modern Canadian football is widely regarded as having originated with a game of rugby played in Montreal, in 1865, when British Army officers played local civilians. The game gradually gained a following, and the Montreal Football Club was formed in 1868, the first recorded non-university football club in Canada.

This rugby-football soon became popular at Montreal's McGill University. McGill challenged Harvard University to a game, in 1874. It is through this varsity play, that the game now known as American football entered the United States.[4]
The CRFU, original forerunner to the current Canadian Football League, was established in 1882.

Courtesy of Wikipedia.

Do you find the official Beijing site really user unfriendly? I hate it. What a pile!

http://en.beijing2008.cn/

haha, the previous Beijing 2008 websites were a lot worse.

I remember the Athens and Torino websites, and they were pretty well laid out in general. The current Vancouver website is also well done.

When do the Olympics end?

Also, whats with this supposed inability of Canada running a pro-basketball league? Look at Australia. They have a domestic basketball league named the NBL. You're telling me there is more interest in basketball in Australia than there is in Canada? Just because you can't instantly sell out 20,000 seats doesn't mean a domestic league shouldn't be started. If that were the case the NBA and the NHL would be the only pro-leagues of their respective sports in the entire world. Fact of the matter is that no league was instantly as successful as the big four when it started (those leagues included themselves). You have to start somewhere and build upon it as it progresses. Seriously, there is no excuse of Canada not having a domestic basketball league. We already have a tremendous infrastructure in place. There are indoor arenas in pretty much every town and city across the country. There are successful leagues in Europe that average less than 6,000 people per game. You're telling me that we'd be doing worse than that if we started a basketball league?

It ends on the 24th.

I've been going through that website and it certainly needs improvement. I was trying to find the tables for football, as both men and women matches have already started, and there's none.

I'm using the BBC site for football tables, rowing stuff, etc. and to follow British athlete events. The BBC has a very clean and simple site and easy to use. I'm also using the CBC site to follow Canadian events. Their tv schedule thing is pretty good and you can fix your time zone. They are also streaming events that won't be on tv.

I wonder if they will be bumping my Coronation Street Sunday morning shows because of the Olympics.. :cry:

Australia is a unique situation because it is incredibly isolated. Of course they have their own leagues for everything, because who else could belong?

We should continue the Olympic discussion in the Olympic topic.....15 hours to go!





Anyhow:



Don't rule out Swangard
Burnaby mayor says redevelopment still an option

Jim Jamieson, The Province
Published: Thursday, August 07, 2008

There has been some scoffing at the notion that a redeveloped Swangard Stadium in Burnaby could be part of a Major League Soccer franchise bid to rival the one announced about two weeks ago by the Vancouver Whitecaps.

Don't count Burnaby mayor Derek Corrigan as one of the naysayers.

"It's a pretty exciting idea," said Corrigan in an interview with The Province. "The attention went off Swangard completely when the decision was made to go downtown with the [waterfront] soccer stadium proposal and no one looked at Burnaby any longer. I think because that's been stalled, that's why people are starting to talk again about whether it could be done at Swangard."

It's believed that Vancouver Canucks owner Francesco Aquilini is seriously considering his own MLS franchise bid and is reportedly looking at Swangard Stadium as a potential venue. Aquilini has declined comment since his interest was first reported about two weeks ago.

Swangard would need to become something akin to the 20,000-seat BMO Field that houses Toronto FC to be attractive to MLS.

Corrigan wouldn't say if he's been approached by anyone proposing to redevelop Swangard, which currently has a capacity of 5,288.

"It's a subject that's been on and off the table for many years, so it's certainly something we would consider if there were any concrete proposals that came forward," said Corrigan. "But it's way too early to say if there is anything there. I'm inclined to look at it as an opportunity for us to be able to expand the stadium. [But] I would never say it could go ahead without consulting with council and with the community."

Corrigan added that a redeveloped Swangard would still have to be capable of holding amateur sporting events, as it does currently.

The Whitecaps' MLS expansion franchise bid is based on their playing in a renovated B.C. Place Stadium with a retractable roof that is scheduled to be ready for the 2011 season. They are close to signing a five-year contract to play there, with the hope that their much-delayed, soccer-specific waterfront stadium will be a reality following that time frame. However, the MLS has said it puts a high value on teams having a soccer-specific stadium -- which is what a revamped Swangard would be.

"We're close to signing a lease with B.C. Place and the waterfront stadium is still a priority for us," said Whitecaps president Bob Lenarduzzi. "Having said that, based on what [Corrigan] said, it's nice to know there's another option out there."

The idea of redeveloping Swangard Stadium has been debated numerous times over the years, but issues such as its location on public land, a dearth of parking and the impact such a large venue would have on nearby residential neighbourhoods are considered to be significant hurdles.

"Of course, we'd want to consult with our community about a project of that magnitude, so we'd need something concrete to talk to them about," said Corrigan. "We know what the MLS is looking for and I know that Swangard could fit the bill. There are a number of issues -- parking is probably the biggest one -- and we'd certainly encourage most people coming to the Stadium to take public transit. We've got the advantage of Patterson SkyTrain station being very close, but it would be nice to see a station at the Telus building to give us direct access.

"There would be some obstacles but we've shown we can overcome obstacles before."

jjamieson@theprovince.com








I find it absurd that Aquilini is trying to steal this MLS franchise from Kerfoot, Leonarduzzi and Nash. Kerfoot has been working on the MLS and stadium proposals for years and years and now, Aquilini is trying to jump in simply because it's a profitable business?

What a douchebag.

LOL we should stop being New Zealand and start being Australia!!1

Also, whats with this supposed inability of Canada running a pro-basketball league? Look at Australia. They have a domestic basketball league named the NBL. You're telling me there is more interest in basketball in Australia than there is in Canada? Just because you can't instantly sell out 20,000 seats doesn't mean a domestic league shouldn't be started. If that were the case the NBA and the NHL would be the only pro-leagues of their respective sports in the entire world. Fact of the matter is that no league was instantly as successful as the big four when it started (those leagues included themselves).You have to start somewhere and build upon it as it progresses.Seriously, there is no excuse of Canada not having a domestic basketball league. We already have a tremendous infrastructure in place. There are indoor arenas in pretty much every town and city across the country. There are successful leagues in Europe that average less than 6,000 people per game. You're telling me that we'd be doing worse than that if we started a basketball league?

Canada should be able to support its own basketball league. But the problem is Canadians have grown up watching the likes of Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and now Lebron James/Steve Nash. Selling a Canadian basketball league, without the star power and prestige, will be a tough sell to fans who have access to the NBA.

And in regards to the CFL. I dont see why Canada cannot support the CFL and one NFL team, considering they play out of season.

Australia is a unique situation because it is incredibly isolated. Of course they have their own leagues for everything, because who else could belong?

Ok, what about Europe then? Every country there has their own league in pretty much every sport. With that logic, Scotland shouldn't have a football league because England has the best football league in the world.

Ok, what about Europe then? Every country there has their own league in pretty much every sport. With that logic, Scotland shouldn't have a football league because England has the best football league in the world.

Because they have a sense of pride and national identity...:dunno:

And in regards to the CFL. I dont see why Canada cannot support the CFL and one NFL team, considering they play out of season.

My thoughts exactly. All that fear mongering about the NFL coming to Toronto and destroying the CFL is complete horsecrap. Toronto is the only city in Canada that will ever have an NFL franchise (if and when that happens) and one meager team destroying an entire league makes absolutely no sense to me. People are not going to be flying over from Vancouver to watch an NFL game in Toronto. If they wanna watch an NFL game, they can go to places much closer to home (like Seattle).

Games in play: Feds back Ontario bid for Pan Ams

August 07, 2008

It’s Games on with the federal government confirming today that it will fully support an Ontario bid for the 2015 Pan Am Games.

“Awesome, awesome, awesome,” said Hamilton’s Pan Am point person, David Adames. “That’s just tremendous news.”

Hamilton hopes to win a new stadium for track and field and football under the Golden Horseshoe bid.

The federal government informed Premier Dalton McGuinty’s office late in the afternoon that it will back 35 per cent of the $1.77 billion cost.

My thoughts exactly. All that fear mongering about the NFL coming to Toronto and destroying the CFL is complete horsecrap. Toronto is the only city in Canada that will ever have an NFL franchise (if and when that happens) and one meager team destroying an entire league makes absolutely no sense to me. People are not going to be flying over from Vancouver to watch an NFL game in Toronto. If they wanna watch an NFL game, they can go to places much closer to home (like Seattle).

Yeah, I agree. This whole attitude of "protecting the CFL" is somewhat provincial.. Toronto is one of the largest cities on the continent and touts itself as the most diverse in the world. I find that unusual when people have so much pride in Toronto as a global city, yet freak out when the NFL might be coming to town.

As you all know, much of the Bills fanbase is Canadian anyway. The pros of a team coming to Toronto are unquestionble. Just think about the addition of a major stadium (70-80,000) to the city. Its really the one thing that Toronto lacks in comparison to other major cities around the world.

Whats the point of having a 70-80K stadium if a tumor is occupying it?

I don't think the NFL should go to Canada... It's uniquely American... sure, the NBA, like with the raptors... and the NHL... but the NFL is American... not to dampen you Canadians hopes, but you won't see a Canadian Football team in 20 or 30 years.

the CFL is a joke... that's where the the undrafted NFL freeagents and American college players who can't make the NFL go to (if they don't go to the EURO League)... I do believe the CFL is largely composed of americans players... do people even pay to see Canadian teams? I'm a Washington Redskins Fan, and our NFL Stadium (FedExField) holds around 90,000 people, the most in the NFL... and our team is the richest. The Redskins attract fans from Northern Virginia, D.C., and Maryland... I am from Northern Virginia. FedExField is in Landover, Maryland... not even in the city it represents... D.C. has a huge metro area... but Virginia, the state in which i currently reside, is the largest state (by population) in the USA (or the "states") without an NFL team. Baseball, Basketbalol, andd most of all, football are all american and america has the best players of each sport.

Do people actually pay to see the CFL ? I know you are trying to validate your point but that just sounds stupid. Frankly anyone who starts a conversation off sounding that far fetched would be asking this question : " golly du yall Canadgiens gotts electromisity up der too? I here soon as ya pass that there boarder it'll start a snow'n too , hayup " .

Do people actually pay to see the CFL ? I know you are trying to validate your point but that just sounds stupid. Frankly anyone who starts a conversation off sounding that far fetched would be asking this question : " golly du yall Canadgiens gotts electromisity up der too? I here soon as ya pass that there boarder it'll start a snow'n too , hayup " .

Haha

sorry for the offense... Don't ya think that was a little gosh darn harsh? I think so, eh.

http://www.forumammo.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10063/gtfo~4.jpg

the CFL is a joke... that's where the the undrafted NFL freeagents and American college players who can't make the NFL go to (if they don't go to the EURO League)... I do believe the CFL is largely composed of americans players... do people even pay to see Canadian teams? I'm a Washington Redskins Fan, and our NFL Stadium (FedExField) holds around 90,000 people, the most in the NFL... and our team is the richest. The Redskins attract fans from Northern Virginia, D.C., and Maryland... I am from Northern Virginia. FedExField is in Landover, Maryland... not even in the city it represents... D.C. has a huge metro area... but Virginia, the state in which i currently reside, is the largest state (by population) in the USA (or the "states") without an NFL team. Baseball, Basketbalol, andd most of all, football are all american and america has the best players of each sport.

I so hope that you're trying to be sarcastic here, but considering the lack of sarcasm of the average American, I doubt it. Did you even know that NFL Europe doesn't exist any longer? It folder last year, because of the lack of interest in Europe in American Football.

And sure, about half of the players in the CFL are American, but what's wrong with that? I don't think that the CFL aspires to be on the same level of the NFL, nor does it need to be. And what about the NHL? Aren't about half the players in the NHL Canadian? I don't hear you complaining there. Maybe you ought to get out of your isolation cell and start not comparing everything to the best league in the world. What's wrong with having the 2nd best league, 5th best league or even 15th best league in the world of a sport?

And what's your point about your Washington team? Everyone knows that DC is just a small part of Washington, and that it sprawls well into Maryland and Virginia. But what does that have to do with anything?

Baseball and Basketball are both global sports. They are played all over the world. In Japan, Panama, Cuba, and alot of other countries, Baseball is the most popular sport. Basketball is very popular in China today. The only sport of your big four leagues that isn't global is football. I can't really think of many countries where football enjoys any popularity, besides Canada and the USA.

That picture is freaky!! How dey do dat?

I've never been a big football fan but I used to do the 'Sunday thing' and throw it on every week. Until about 12 years ago.

My roommate was getting married and 3 of his cousins came over from Scotland for the wedding. They were 3 guys: 18, 20 and 21, and they were keen to watch 'American football'. We sat down and watched the 1 o'clock game and after it was over, I asked the guys if they liked it. Their response was "Well, it was OK but there are an awful lot of adverts." Since they weren't interested in watching the 4 o'clock game, I had to wait until the following week to watch with a more critical eye and I discovered that yes, there are an awful lot of adverts. Over half the fucking 'game' is adverts!! Half of the other half isn't game either but a constant flow of idiotic statistics and brilliant commentary such as "He really came to play some football today, guh-huk!" I haven't watched a minute of it since.

I read a study some time ago (I can't find it anywhere or I'd post it) where they stated that in an average 3-hour NFL broadcast there is less than 22 minutes of real action. The rest is advertising, brain-dead commentary, cartoon graphics and guys running on and off the field. 22/180.. not bad! The NFL boasts that the Super Bore is watched by over 100 million 'worldwide' and it is. But take away the North American audience and hardly anybody's watching it: it's a piece-of-shit, day-long fucking commercial with 22 minutes of 'football' inserted amongst the ads!

Other North American sports are little better. Try to watch the last 5 minutes of an NBA game and 30 minutes later there are still 2 minutes to go. Baseball announcers bombard you with so many useless statistics because it's the only way they can fill the hours boredom on the diamond. Even my beloved NHL has fallen into the same trap as they chase dollars in the South over real fans up North. It's not about fans any more, it's all about ad revenue, luxury boxes and seat licenses. I follow the Habs on NHL real time because I refuse to pay for the 150 channels I don't want in order to receive RDS, and half the time the ticker reads 'TV time out'. I suspect that the real reason the NHL doesn't get rid of fighting is that they would be deprived of the extra ads they can run while they clean up the ice and assess the penalties.

North American fans get suckered into this shit because we don't watch anything critically anymore. We buy into the hype that we get bombarded with and pay 100's of dollars to be blasted with advertising thinking that we just watched a game when in fact, we just played a game. The advertisers game. We're so used to being treated as pawns to be marketed to that we don't notice it.

Since Canadians by and large watch 95% American TV, is it any wonder that we don't get excited about our own leagues? We only get excited by the same things as our cousins to the South because we'll only watch what they beam at us because.. that's all we watch, and it goes far beyond sports. We won't watch Canadian TV shows unless they're also being watched in the U.S. We don't consider anyone a star unless they are first shipped South and then beamed back at us in an American context. We don't watch our own movies unless they first become a hit in the U.S. We're thrilled when we 'get' the latest American retail franchise, whether is sucks or not, because we've seen it on the 95% American TV we watch. It's an endless cycle and it will never change until we stop needing American approval of everything we do. If we continue to think that anything that exists only in Canada must be a failure, we'll always be a 'little' country.

It's a truly pathetic situation!

Whats the point of having a 70-80K stadium if a tumor is occupying it?

Do you hate the NFL so, Chocho? I realize you like soccer and all, but whats so bad about it?

You would turn down a team, in the most profitable league in the world, that would demand a new 70,000 seat stadium--guaranteed to sell out every Sunday home game? :nuts:

Just think of what goes along with such a stadium. Cough cough big soccer matches cough cough.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Basketball_League_%28Canada%29

NBL failed miserably.

I read a study some time ago (I can't find it anywhere or I'd post it) where they stated that in an average 3-hour NFL broadcast there is less than 22 minutes of real action. The rest is advertising, brain-dead commentary, cartoon graphics and guys running on and off the field. 22/180.. not bad! The NFL boasts that the Super Bore is watched by over 100 million 'worldwide' and it is. But take away the North American audience and hardly anybody's watching it: it's a piece-of-shit, day-long fucking commercial with 22 minutes of 'football' inserted amongst the ads!

Why do we watch it then, if its all ads and 'no substance'? You may find it boring, but is the sport borderline religion with fans in Canada and the U.S?

The same shit could be said about any world sport, not just North American. Soccer is the same way. Same announcers barking stupid shit and boring play for much of the game.

Other North American sports are little better. Try to watch the last 5 minutes of an NBA game and 30 minutes later there are still 2 minutes to go. Baseball announcers bombard you with so many useless statistics because it's the only way they can fill the hours boredom on the diamond. .

NBA games go long in the end, because there is still a possiblity of victory in the last 5 minutes. I saw my NBA team get manhandled for much of the game, but come back and win in dramatic fashion, because Ron Artest couldnt hit his free throws.

Baseball is a slow, long sport. Same goes with cricket. That doesnt mean its bad, its just different. As boring as it can be sometimes, it also can provide the "on the edge of your seat" tension on par with any other sport.

Based on this post, I think you should just watch horseracing or ping pong, because you dont sound like you have a very long attention span.


North American fans get suckered into this shit because we don't watch anything critically anymore. We buy into the hype that we get bombarded with and pay 100's of dollars to be blasted with advertising thinking that we just watched a game when in fact, we just played a game. The advertisers game. We're so used to being treated as pawns to be marketed to that we don't notice it.

Whats hyped about football? Its a brutal, yet stragetic sport with amongst the best athletes in the world.

Since Canadians by and large watch 95% American TV, is it any wonder that we don't get excited about our own leagues? We only get excited by the same things as our cousins to the South because we'll only watch what they beam at us because.. that's all we watch, and it goes far beyond sports. We won't watch Canadian TV shows unless they're also being watched in the U.S. We don't consider anyone a star unless they are first shipped South and then beamed back at us in an American context. We don't watch our own movies unless they first become a hit in the U.S. We're thrilled when we 'get' the latest American retail franchise, whether is sucks or not, because we've seen it on the 95% American TV we watch. It's an endless cycle and it will never change until we stop needing American approval of everything we do. If we continue to think that anything that exists only in Canada must be a failure, we'll always be a 'little' country.

Like it or not, this is probally never going to change. Canada and the U.S. are the two most culturally similar nations in the world--sharing a huge border where most of the Canadian population lives. Our situtation is different from the rest of the rich, industrialized nations that developed over a thousand years.

Whats the point of having a 70-80K stadium if a tumor is occupying it?

Your just another person who is holding back the city. If sombody likes the NFL, it does not make them uncanadian. It makes you uncanadian because you discriminate against someone based one their likes and dislikes of sports.

http://www.forumammo.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10063/gtfo~4.jpg

Why don't you leave. You go and watch american tv shows, not supporting the canadian arts scene buy and american cars and you have the gall to complain about sports. You are a hypocrite by even opening your mouth.

I don't think the NFL should go to Canada... It's uniquely American... sure, the NBA, like with the raptors... and the NHL... but the NFL is American... not to dampen you Canadians hopes, but you won't see a Canadian Football team in 20 or 30 years.

The NFL is a great league, but if you're right about the NFL not coming to Canada, it will be fantastic news for the further development of our existing league. I'd much rather go see Toronto play Edmonton and Montreal, or one day Victoria and Halifax, than cities from another nation that I have little connection to.

Having a successful national domestic football team will give Canadians from coast to coast a real home team to root for. It will also give Canada a national championship in football every year, rather than hoping that one team in Toronto wins the prize once every 2 or 3 decades.

The arrival of the NFL in Canada will make the goal of cultural maturation of Canadian sport, that much more difficult.

Why don't you leave. You go and watch american tv shows, not supporting the canadian arts scene buy and american cars and you have the gall to complain about sports. You are a hypocrite by even opening your mouth.

1. I watch whatever TV i like (as a CANADIAN I have the right to :)) whether it's Canadian or International.
2. I really don't care for art either way except for architecture, I don't really care for visual art nor musical, I don't even own an mp3
3. I don't have a car, I use public transportation
4. I complain about Canadian sports because there is a huge problem with it, which everyone here but you has failed to acknowledge.
5. I would be a hypocrite if I complained about US dominance in Canadian sport and then follow American sports religiously, but I don't do that so I am not a hypocrite.
6. I was practicing my beautiful right as a Canadian for freedom of speech (admittedly a bit harsh) to someone who come osut of nowhere to tell me that my countries only professional league is a joke and then goes to ramble on about how great his country is and his team. Even pointing out the large capacity of the stadium trying to make me awe at how great what he has is because it's big. I'm sorry for if I offended you but I really don't care if I offended him.

1. I watch whatever TV i like (as a CANADIAN I have the right to :)) whether it's Canadian or International.
2. I really don't care for art either way except for architecture, I don't really care for visual art nor musical, I don't even own an mp3
3. I don't have a car, I use public transportation
4. I complain about Canadian sports because there is a huge problem with it, which everyone here but you has failed to acknowledge.
5. I would be a hypocrite if I complained about US dominance in Canadian sport and then follow American sports religiously, but I don't do that so I am not a hypocrite.
6. I was practicing my beautiful right as a Canadian for freedom of speech (admittedly a bit harsh) to someone who come osut of nowhere to tell me that my countries only professional league is a joke and then goes to ramble on about how great his country is and his team. Even pointing out the large capacity of the stadium trying to make me awe at how great what he has is because it's big. I'm sorry for if I offended you but I really don't care if I offended him.

I know there is a problem with sports. But the fact is there is not enough audience for seperate canadian leagues at this point. The basketball thing was tried and failed. What do you want the government to do, force all our
athletes to stay. Isn't it their right to make money?. People forget that Van City and Montreal would be top 50 metros in the US just under their current CMA alone. 2.5 million and 3.7 million with only the NHL to compete with means if TO gets an NFL team, they will too. The CFL did not adjust and start marketing the game outside the borders which is why it struggles to this day. Besides how could you calll a league which has had two teams fail in Ottawa and had bankrupt teams in the biggest market the, Toronto Hamilton area, when they were winning? I do like the CFL, I don't watch the NFL, but reality is just that, reality. And I find funny as soon as I bring up the arts scene, it became your right. So we can crush Canadian TV but not the CFL huh?

Canada's women football team tied China 1-1 in the second game of the tournament at the Olympics.

CFL wants to discuss future in Moncton
Expansion Officials say most of the elements are in place for a pro football team

Published Saturday August 9th, 2008
A4
Adam Huras
Telegraph-Journal

MONCTON - The commissioner of the Canadian Football League says the climate is right for expansion, and he looks forward to a call from Moncton's mayor to discuss it.

Canadian Football League commissioner Mark Cohon at a news conference in Ottawa earlier this year. Cohon says he wants to talk to Moncton’s mayor about the possibility of an expansion team. The league is entertaining the possibility of a 10th team for 2010 or 2011.

It's just a matter of finding a city with a stadium and a strong local financial backer to intrigue the league to Atlantic Canada, says Mark Cohon.

According to Moncton North MLA Mike Murphy, the Hub City has a stadium coming, it knows the financial resources are there, and the time is now right for the city to again push for a team.

The mayor of Moncton says he plans to give Cohon a call.

"I think there is an argument to be made that a CFL team can be successful here," said George LeBlanc. "I will be taking the opportunity sometime down the road to talk to these folks and see if there is an opportunity for that here in Moncton."

Cohon says the league is in a position to look at expansion with last year's average stadium attendance reaching its highest since 1983. Television ratings are up 19 per cent so far this season.

"We are now going to start really thinking about what are the new opportunities for the league, and expansion is definitely on our agenda and is something we need to explore," said Cohon. "I am looking forward to the mayor calling me."

The CFL last tested the waters for possible expansion into the Maritimes in 2005 with an exhibition game in Halifax.

At that time, former commissioner Tom Wright was looking at the feasibility of adding a 10th CFL franchise by 2008, but only if a 25,000-seat stadium was in place and the league was convinced private financial backers were in place.

The dream died when financial instability hit other teams in the league in 2006, which culminated in the indefinite suspension of the Ottawa Renegades.

In March of this year the CFL granted an expansion team back to the nation's capital which will see a team return either in 2010 or 2011.

Cohon says an additional 10th team is also a possibility but only to a city with a stadium and the right local ownership.

"Those are the two key components that we have to find and if the mayor is interested in talking to me about those fronts I would be happy to talk to him," he said. "We are starting to think about what are the parameters of whether it's Moncton, whether it's Halifax or Quebec City, what would have to go into it."

An advocate for a team in 2005, Murphy believes Moncton is the only Atlantic Canada city where a team could be feasible, noting its geographical location in the centre of the Maritime provinces.

He also said the reasons why a bid fell apart in 2005 is no longer a problem.

"When we had talks in 2005 there was no stadium, now there is going to be a stadium and we have proven as a city we can attract crowds," said Murphy. "It's all there now, there's just no reason not to do it."

April's announcement to expand the plans for an outdoor arena set to welcome the World Junior Championships in track and field in 2010 will bring a stadium with a capacity of up to 20,000 spectators to the Université de Moncton.

Cohon said that stadium comes close to the 25,000 attendance needed for a CFL franchise to succeed.

It now has Murphy calling for the city to take charge to find financial backers and create the business plan to entice a league which is visible everywhere else in the country except in Atlantic Canada.

"Who can step up to the plate and tell me it can't be done?" said Murphy. "It's not massive money. This is not the NFL."

The CFL began enforcing a salary cap of $4.05 million per team in 2007, a year after expanding active rosters to 42 players. The league minimum salary is $39,000.

Murphy said the economic viability is there, as he was approached by New Brunswick business with interest in sponsorship in 2005.

"We have probable sponsorship by huge globe corporations that reside within New Brunswick," said Murphy. "I just say it's up to the city to now lead this charge."

Cohon said another exhibition or possibly a regular season game in eastern Canada is also possible. Beyond that, the need for a local backer is essential to creating a new team.

"Local ownership is very important, so if the local mayor has ideas on that I would love to chat with him."

I strangely woke up at 5 something and turned on the tv and it was just as Canada scored and then China came back and scored. Really exciting stuff. That call by the official on the Chinese goal was weird. She said it was no goal, the second officials didn't say anything and then she changed her mind. How could she see if the ball went in from her angle?? It seemed like she gave in to pressure from the audience or something.


I wonder if they will be bumping my Coronation Street Sunday morning shows because of the Olympics.. :cry:

This sucks as now it puts us back a further 2 weeks. Here is what CBC says on their site -

No Corrie during the Olympics

Coronation Street will not be airing during the Olympics. It will be back, along with a brand new Web site, at 7 pm on Monday, August 25.:cry:

I'm pretty sure it crossed the line, on the first replay you can see it. but from her angle, I imagin it was harder to see.

YEESSSSS!! TFC FINALLY WON!

I'm pretty sure it crossed the line, on the first replay you can see it. but from her angle, I imagin it was harder to see.

It was definitely a Chinese goal, but they're very very lucky to come out of tht game with a draw. Canada dominated from start to finish.

GO BIG RED!

Moncton is demographically the weakest of the three despite what Mr. Murphy says. Moncton does seem to be the most eager and determined to get pro football though. That counts for a lot. The Maritimes is a market that could turn into a larger version of what exists in Saskatchewan. Isolated, relatively rural, little competition, football knowledgeable population, cultural familiarity, but with double the population of Saskatchewan in an area a third the size of Saskatchewan.

If this is done right, and nurtured professionally, a Maritime team could easily attract 40,000+ on a regular basis. Many may think that this is unattainable, but it's not. After all, this is a region that can attract 10,000 to college basketball. The Maritimes are starved for entertainment. They will never get an NBA team, never get MLB, and probably never get an NHL team. A CFL team would instantly get the top billing in the entire region. It would be front and centre, and a solid #1 amongst the local population.

Ya it was definitely a goal but it was strange how she determined it.

But speaking of officiating, that ref at the Toronto match was all over the place with calls. Great road win though with an awesome set piece from Barrett which will hopefully build some confidence with the all the young players. Plus it was great to see Dichio back! Card and all!:cheers:

Ok, what about Europe then? Every country there has their own league in pretty much every sport. With that logic, Scotland shouldn't have a football league because England has the best football league in the world.


Have you checked european leagues, countries roughly the size of canada, have maybe 2-3-4 teams that are one the same level, the rest are just fillers with a surprise or two now and then.

For example, Scotland has only one serious team (rangers), other bigger countries like England have 5 - 6 contender teams... the rest all much smaller teams coming from smaller cities with smaller fan base / stadium.

There's a talk of making a super league in europe with all these bigger more serious teams.... looks to me like an american formula for success.

Have you checked european leagues, countries roughly the size of canada, have maybe 2-3-4 teams that are one the same level, the rest are just fillers with a surprise or two now and then.

For example, Scotland has only one serious team (rangers), other bigger countries like England have 5 - 6 contender teams... the rest all much smaller teams coming from smaller cities with smaller fan base / stadium.

There's a talk of making a super league in europe with all these bigger more serious teams.... looks to me like an american formula for success.

LOL. What an ignorant comment. So many factual errors in the post that I don't even know where to begin.

Ok, first of all, in terms of the Scottish league, there is a team by the name of Celtic. You might want to do some research on them.

Secondly, what does having smaller fan bases have anything to do with the leagues themselves? Has it ever occurred to you that despite having some small teams in smaller cities, the English Premier League and the Spanish La Liga are the most financially lucrative sporting leagues in the entire world? They have to be doing something right, correct?

Also, the idea of a Super League is nothing more than a negotiating tool the bigger teams used to strike a deal with UEFA and FIFA for losing their players to national teams. Now that they have got a good deal, the group (G14) has disbanded. The idea never had any legs and no one took it seriously.

Lastly, if keeping parity is a priority (which shouldn't be a priority in my opinion) you can always force a salary cap. It's being done in the CFL ... don't know why it can't be done for other national leagues.

It’s all about the fan base, more fans, bigger stadiums, bigger salaries, ability to attract better athletes... duh. And if the salary cap was such a solution, why aren't they using it in Europe?

You still haven't debunked my main argument, all of these leagues in Europe have very few competitive teams in each one of them, the rest being small "forget about it" teams... is that what Canada wants? A league dominated by Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver and then some? Do people from the bigger cities really want to watch games involving Toronto-Régina, Montréal-Victoria and Vancouver-Moncton?... boring.

It’s all about the fan base, more fans, bigger stadiums, bigger salaries, ability to attract better athletes... duh. And if the salary cap was such a solution, why aren't they using it in Europe?

You still haven't debunked my main argument, all of these leagues in Europe have very few competitive teams in each one of them, the rest being small "forget about it" teams... is that what Canada wants? A league dominated by Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver and then some? Do people from the bigger cities really want to watch games involving Toronto-Régina, Montréal-Victoria and Vancouver-Moncton?... boring.

If that formula is good for the rest of the world (even Americans ... check baseball), why isn't it good for us Canadians?

In addition, I already gave you an example of CFL. Why can't we emulate their salary cap?

And forming a domestic league isn't about attracting NBA stars....people don't understand this....the domestic league should help in developing DOMESTIC players. Its simple as that. That should be the main priority of any domestic league. You think the Spanish league is worried about signing Kobe Bryant or Chris Bosh? No. They have been doing their own thing quietly for decades and look how that has helped them in the international stage ... they have gotten to the point where they are sometimes expected to actually beat the US in FIBA competitions.

It’s all about the fan base, more fans, bigger stadiums, bigger salaries, ability to attract better athletes... duh. And if the salary cap was such a solution, why aren't they using it in Europe?

You still haven't debunked my main argument, all of these leagues in Europe have very few competitive teams in each one of them, the rest being small "forget about it" teams... is that what Canada wants? A league dominated by Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver and then some? Do people from the bigger cities really want to watch games involving Toronto-Régina, Montréal-Victoria and Vancouver-Moncton?... boring.

Yes!!! I would kill to watch Toronto vs. Another Canadian team.

"Small" teams in europe are competitive. Look at Villarreal in the Spanish League, the came in SECOND last year. Above the giants of Valencia and Barcelona. And they are based in a city of 50,000. There are no forget about it teams. Just ask Liverpool and Chelsea about a little ol' club called Barnsley.

Sure teams in smaller markets are usually not as good because they don't have enough money. But money doesn't necessarily buy success, you can have the most expensive players but if they don't play as a team, they will fail.

BTW there are "big" clubs that don't succeed too. Look at the *sigh* Toronto Maple Leafs. They suck hard and they are probably the richest hockey club in the world.

__

I understand what the Americans are saying about the NFL being American and I agree.
I was tottaly pissed off when the CFL went south. The CFL should be allowed to grow at its own rate bringing in more Canadain teams over time.

Yes!!! I would kill to watch Toronto vs. Another Canadian team.

"Small" teams in europe are competitive. Look at Villarreal in the Spanish League, the came in SECOND last year. Above the giants of Valencia and Barcelona. And they are based in a city of 50,000. There are no forget about it teams. Just ask Liverpool and Chelsea about a little ol' club called Barnsley.

Sure teams in smaller markets are usually not as good because they don't have enough money. But money doesn't necessarily buy success, you can have the most expensive players but if they don't play as a team, they will fail.

BTW there are "big" clubs that don't succeed too. Look at the *sigh* Toronto Maple Leafs. They suck hard and they are probably the richest hockey club in the world.

all of this is true, but the overwhelming trend is that richer teams fare better than poorer/smaller ones.

all of this is true, but the overwhelming trend is that richer teams fare better than poorer/smaller ones.

I completely accept that and I still don't understand how that is a reason for not getting a domestic league. I personally don't think that should be a concern and even if it is, a salary cap is hardly something that we aren't aware of. The CFL uses it .... why can't any other future domestic league use it as well?

CFL is more exciting than the 4 downs game. I find its boring when they carry the ball most of the time while the CFL's 3 downs rule would force the quarter-backs to throw the ball more often.

A CFL/NFL merger would be ideal in my mind. I know that some want to maintain a unique identity and all, but it's pretty weak that the two nations are together in every sport but our two mildly different codes of gridiron football. Maybe some small compromise in the rules could permit such a thing. I too like the CFL passing game more.

I understand what the Americans are saying about the NFL being American and I agree.
I was tottaly pissed off when the CFL went south. The CFL should be allowed to grow at its own rate bringing in more Canadain teams over time.

Yeah, I'd love if 20 years down the road we'd have teams in Halifax, Moncton, Quebec City, Ottawa, KW, Windsor, Saskatoon, the Okanagan, Victoria, and Abbotsford, and eventually 2 - 4 teams in each of Montreal and Toronto.

I much prefer how things are structured in England and Australia where by the big cities field 2 or more teams, while smaller cities have one. That way you get more parity between the cities. These are leagues designed to fit the country they operate in. London boasts 13 professional soccer teams, 5 of which are in the Premiership, the top level league in the country. Of the 16 teams in the Australian Football League, a whopping 9 of them are in Melbourne. We've simply imported a US model of how a league should be structured that makes very little sense in a nation of 33 million people. Australia and England got it right, we've not thought this through properly. Very dumb!

It would make far more sense to have a CFL team in downtown Toronto, one in Mississauga, one in North York, and another in Oshawa-Durham. Montreal could have the Allouettes, and another one in Laval. The CFL needs to plot its growth carefully and nurture pro football back to its former lofty position in the Canadian sports world. Growth must be incremental. Toronto can only support one football team presently, but if this is done right, there is no reason why football can't boom to the point where Toronto can support up to 4 well supported successful teams.