Major League Soccer (MLS) is the top professional soccer league in the United States and Canada. However, the history of soccer in the US goes back much further than MLS. In fact, soccer was first introduced to the US by British colonists in the early 19th century.
Early years
The first organized soccer clubs in the US were formed in the 1860s. The first national soccer association, the American Football Association, was founded in 1884. However, soccer did not gain widespread popularity in the US until the early 20th century.
The NASL era
The first professional soccer league in the US was the National Soccer League (NASL), which was founded in 1968. The NASL was a successful league, and it attracted some of the biggest stars in world soccer, such as Pelé and Johan Cruyff. However, the NASL folded in 1985 due to financial problems.
The modern era
The modern era of soccer in the US began with the founding of MLS in 1993. MLS has been a success, and it has helped to grow the popularity of soccer in the US. The league has expanded to 28 teams, and it is expected to continue to grow in the future.
Beyond MLS
There are a number of other professional soccer leagues in the US, including the USL Championship, the USL League One, and the USL League Two. These leagues provide a pathway for players to develop and move up to MLS.
There are also a number of amateur and youth soccer leagues in the US. These leagues help to introduce soccer to new players and to develop young talent.
The future of soccer in the US
The future of soccer in the US is bright. The sport is growing in popularity, and there is a strong foundation in place for continued growth. MLS is expected to continue to expand, and the league is also looking to increase its international appeal. The US is also hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will help to further popularize the sport.
"Soccer is the fastest-growing sport in the United States." - Don Garber, MLS commissioner
Are you a fan of soccer? If so, get involved! There are a number of ways to get involved in soccer in the US, from watching MLS games to playing in an amateur league. Soccer is a great sport, and it's a great way to stay active and have fun.
Conclusion:
The history of soccer in the US is long and rich. The sport has come a long way since its early days, and it is now one of the most popular sports in the country. The future of soccer in the US is bright, and the sport is sure to continue to grow in popularity in the years to c
