Question

Are we imposing our culture by playing games in other countries?

Answer

The English try very hard to globalize their own soccer league, so what’s wrong with the U.S. trying? The thing with the NFL, however, is that not many people globally concern themselves with watching American football. The only reason the game in London sold out so fast is because it’s exotic to them; it’s like watching the circus.

Q

Is that comparable to the way we reacted when David Beckham came to the U.S.?

A

I guess so; the difference there is that there are a lot of soccer fans in the U.S. We knew that he is one of the best and his wife is a star singer, so there was a lot of Hollywood stuff surrounding them.

Q

Does the NFL have the ability to become a multinational entity?

A

No, because to do that, they have to get people playing the game. It’s very hard to get youth football going – all of the equipment, coaches, etc. With soccer, all you do is get a ball, and you have a game.

Q

Then why is Major League Soccer popular in the United States?

A

Right now, there are more American kids playing soccer than football and baseball combined. Immigrants are also increasing the popularity by bringing their cultures with them. By contrast, we are the only ones that play football, so of course those of other cultures won’t really be fans.

Q

Should a country maintain a sport within its borders, or expand between nations?

A

The only possibility of expansion for the NFL would be Canada, but with travel and currency conversion concerns, I just don’t see that as being realistic. So for the NFL, I don’t see it being beneficial to expand to other nations.