How Soccer Took Hold in the US
Commonly called "soccer" in the United States, the sport has seen notable growth in recent decades. A key turning point came when the Major League Soccer (MLS) was founded in 1993, giving the country its first stable top-flight professional league and a year-round showcase for the game.
The Role of Major League Soccer (MLS)
MLS has been central to popularizing the sport domestically — organizing a regular season, building rivalries, and introducing new clubs in growing markets. Since its 1993 founding, the league has expanded its footprint, supported youth pathways, and helped local communities connect with the game.
Quick fact: Major League Soccer was founded in 1993, establishing the professional framework that supports the sport's continued growth across the United States.
Practical Tips for First-time Players
Starting soccer as a beginner is more approachable than it may look. A few small habits can speed up the learning curve and keep the experience enjoyable.
- Start with comfortable gear. Cleats and shin guards suited to the surface you play on reduce discomfort and the risk of minor knocks.
- Learn basic ball control early. Short passing, first touch, and simple dribbling form the foundation for nearly every drill you'll encounter.
- Play small-sided games. Short-sided matches build touch, spatial awareness, and stamina faster than long-form play for newcomers.
- Watch the league, then play. Following MLS matches helps you recognize formations and rhythms you can borrow for your own game.
- Train consistently, not intensely. Two or three short sessions per week tend to build skills more reliably than occasional long ones.
For the New Fan
If your interest starts with watching rather than playing, begin with the basics: league structure, the regular-season schedule, and how playoffs resolve. Pick a club to follow — local affiliation often deepens the experience — and look into supporter groups, viewing bars, and family-friendly matchday events.
Growing the Game Locally
Beyond MLS, the US supports a wide network of amateur, collegiate, and youth competitions. Joining a local pickup game, a recreational league, or a club's youth program is a straightforward way to stay involved in the sport's continued growth.