Will Beckham bring soccer to US?

With David Beckham starting his career with the Los Angeles Galaxy this past week, unfortunately I don't think his presence will be enough to bring the game across the pond. In the 1970's the New York Cosmos had brought Pele over, and as good a player as Beckham is, he is no Pele. Despite the presence of Pele, the game did not take off in the US. I do not see the game taking off in the country until we are able to produce an American player with the caliber of a Pele or a Beckham. In the short run there is no doubt though that Beckhams presence in the MLS will be huge for the league as there will definitely be some people who will check out the Galaxy's games just to see Beckham play. Beckham will be a star in the league and teaming up with Donovan probably makes them the favorites to win the MLS Cup despite the team being in second to last. Beckham is the type of player that can turn a team around by making his teammates better. As a soccer fan who has been hoping that the US can create a competitive league, I hope that Beckham can really help the league. However if the greatest player ever can not help with some other big name stars trying to help him, I think it may be unrealistic to ask David Beckham to do it on his own.

Paul Blackborow