Beckham is the New Pele

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David Beckham

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The first round of soccer as a successful spectator sport in North America came during the late 70's and 80's when Pele decided to play for the New York Cosmos of the NASL. That single move basically put soccer on this continent on the map. Later, Beckenbauer and others followed.

Today, soccer is the largest participation sport in North America but with very little following on the spectator side. Since 1994, the MLS in the U.S. has been growing steady ticket receipts and arguably getting it right. So, the move of having Becks join the LA Galaxy may very well be the match that ignites the scene here finally. To me, this is the modern version of Pele joining the Cosmos. It will heighten the awareness of the sport dramatically here. Plus, Becks is arguably still in the prime of his career and has a good few seasons left in him.

One of the most sophisticated marketing moves in recent years by any North American sports league.

Kudos to the management at MLS.

Now, the real question is....what if he shows up...and he sucks. :)