Braz to sign with TFC Tuesday

[Grizzly]

The local CTV station in Montreal just reported that Adam Braz will be one of the Canadian internationals announced to have signed with TFC on Tuesday. Not unexpected as his contract with the Impact has expired. They are also reporting that Sutton may sign with either LA or TFC but that both teams are having difficulty stomaching Saputo's demand for a six figure [:0] transfer fee.

[Juby]

hmm, maybe there should be some sort of sticky of the developing roster?

[Ryan Keay]

Soccer America has reported that Braz, Reda and Pozniak have all been signed by the TFC.

[Daniel]

quote:Originally posted by Grizzly
They are also reporting that Sutton may sign with either LA or TFC but that both teams are having difficulty stomaching Saputo's demand for a six figure [:0] transfer fee.


Well, that's a pretty big bracket. 150k and 860k are not the same thing.

[Blackdude]

According to Braz, interviewed on Orange at halftime on the team 990, Adam said that TFC also signed Marco Reda & Chris Pozniak. So Soccer America is probably right.

[Winnipeg Fury]

One from the USL, one from Second Division Norway, one from Third Division Norway.

All decent players, but I must say these signings aren't exactly blockbuster.

[Jason]

quote:Originally posted by Winnipeg Fury

One from the USL, one from Second Division Norway, one from Third Division Norway.

All decent players, but I must say these signings aren't exactly blockbuster.


When the club talked about bringing guys back from Europe, these were the types of players I was expecting. They'll bring back the guys playing in lower level leagues that don't pay great and have no real hope for advancement. Both Reda and Pozniak have probably gone as far as they can in Europe. Meanwhile, established players (like Bernier) or guys with a lot of upside (Ademolu for example) will likely be staying in Europe.

I think these players will be positive players for the club, but likely not MLS all stars.

Jason

[hottoddy7]

Who was in the Norwegian third division?

[Grizzly]

quote:Originally posted by Daniel


quote:Originally posted by Grizzly
They are also reporting that Sutton may sign with either LA or TFC but that both teams are having difficulty stomaching Saputo's demand for a six figure [:0] transfer fee.


Well, that's a pretty big bracket. 150k and 860k are not the same thing.


Yes but even 100k is way too much for Sutton. He might be worth that much if he shows he can play at MLS level but he is a 29 year old keeper who has played 3rd or 4th division level soccer for his whole career. If I was TFC I wouldn't pay that much for him when I could get a superior keeper on a free transfer without difficulty whatsoever. The only reason to pay that much for him is because he is Canadian. However, TFC is not having difficulty signing Canadians and will soon have 4 Canadians on the roster with possibly more coming. They can already meet their Canadian quota with the number of Canadians they have. Being Canadian was not enough to keep Serioux on their roster and I doubt it will be enough to make TFC overpay for Sutton either. If a deal is to be made, I think the Impact would only get a much smaller fee (say 25 000) but would get a good slice of any additional transfer fees if he transfers somewhere else later.

[loyola]

They should look at Stama, he's about the same quality and must be much cheaper.

What kind of european keeper could TFC get for 100K? A CCC keeper or below?

[cndsoccer]

i think sutton is way over rated... i would'nt pay a penny for him...
100 k for him, are they on crack.... i think saputo is smoking his salami.

[Winnipeg Fury]

quote:Originally posted by hottoddy7

Who was in the Norwegian third division?


You are right.

Pozniak was in the Third Division last year. He is now in the Second Division.

[Grizzly]

quote:Originally posted by loyola

They should look at Stama, he's about the same quality and must be much cheaper.

What kind of european keeper could TFC get for 100K? A CCC keeper or below?


There would be a lot of European keepers available on a free transfer the quality depending on what type of salary TFC is willing to pay. If I were managing TFC I would rather put the $100 000 towards paying a top keeper's salary than for a transfer fee for Sutton.

[masster]

quote:Originally posted by Grizzly


quote:Originally posted by loyola

They should look at Stama, he's about the same quality and must be much cheaper.

What kind of european keeper could TFC get for 100K? A CCC keeper or below?


There would be a lot of European keepers available on a free transfer the quality depending on what type of salary TFC is willing to pay. If I were managing TFC I would rather put the $100 000 towards paying a top keeper's salary than for a transfer fee for Sutton.


Do transfer fees count against the salary cap? Who pays the transfer fees, the league or the club?

Also, what are these salary allocations that Toronto FC has acquired over the last couple of days?

[BringBackTheBlizzard]

quote:Originally posted by Winnipeg Fury

One from the USL, one from Second Division Norway, one from Third Division Norway.

All decent players, but I must say these signings aren't exactly blockbuster.


These are discovery signings. Given that Kreis, O'Rourke and Hesmer were traded for allocation money and expansion teams typically get three allocations for their first season there can be no doubt that there will be more Jim Brennan ex-Premiership player type signings.

[VPjr]

quote:Originally posted by BringBackTheBlizzard


quote:Originally posted by Winnipeg Fury

One from the USL, one from Second Division Norway, one from Third Division Norway.

All decent players, but I must say these signings aren't exactly blockbuster.


These are discovery signings. Given that Kreis, O'Rourke and Hesmer were traded for allocation money and expansion teams typically get three allocations for their first season there can be no doubt that there will be more Jim Brennan ex-Premiership player type signings.


I think BringBackTheBlizzard is bang on with his assesment. All those allocations that Mo has traded for will likely be used on 1 or more players with some degree of name recognition (they might not necessarily be Canadian but recognizable nonetheless). If they happen to be Canadian, TFC will likely have to pay a bit of a premium (the same way CFL teams pay non-imports a premium just for being Canadian).

I can't believe TFC would really have to pay a big transfer fee for Sutton but I believe signing him would be a good move, even if for PR only, because he is a Canadian international and has had good success in the USL. If the stories of a 6 figure transfer fee are true, Saputo must have his shorts really in a knot over Federal funds building us a nice stadium in Toronto. Why else would he impede the progress of one his star players. You would think he would be proud to seeing one his guys move up to a bigger league under normal circumstances.

[Daniel]

If the Impact are going to sell their all-time best keeper and consistent MVP, they're not going to do it on the cheap just because... just because what, exactly? They're looking at the transfers they got for Ali and Grande and those players were not as important to their new teams as Sutton would presumably be. On top of that, the Impact would have to replace him with a domestic player or reduce their foreign field players, all of which limits options. Sutton probably won't be playing at the Impact in 2007, but that doesn't mean that Toronto's the only possibility. Besides other MLS teams (he also has a US passport), there's a whole world out there.

As for being pissed off at the CSA/TFC thing, I don't think it has to do with the funding of the stadium itself, rather the MLS exclusivity negotiated BY the CSA (therefore impeding other potential Canadian bids for 3 years) and giving 6 national team games a year in Toronto despite new stadiums coming in other places like Montreal and Vancouver. Saputo's pissed because TFC was formed under the CSA's auspice and it did not act in the best interest of its other constituents while negotiating deals.

TFC is a rival, not a friend.

[Grizzly]

Whether or not this results from Saputo being pissed off, the end result of this may be that the amount of money that it is worth to TFC to pay for Sutton may not equal the amount of money it is worth for the Impact to let him go. To make this happen either TFC must decide to overpay for him because he is Canadian or the Impact must decide to let him go on the cheap to help him further his career. The strange thing is that Sutton is in this situation in the first place because unlike Braz he signed a 3 year contract last year with the Impact. Of course I don't know what type of money the Impact are paying him (does anyone here know?) so maybe Saputo made him an offer too good to refuse. Yet it seems like Sutton held all the cards last year when he renogotiated his contract because not only would he garner a lot of interest from any other USL team and possibly MLS teams he also has an American passport so nothing would stop him from playing for a US team either. If the Impact were not willing to offer him a one-year contract last year, which seems doubtful, it seems he would have had a lot of other options.

[Daniel]

He must be making around 40-60k with the Impact for 6 months.

Again, let's not forget the European teams.

[Calgary Boomer]

Good for Joey. Had it not been for the Impact, Greg may never have had the profile and workload to make him a National Team keeper.

Having said that, Andrew Weber was pretty good as a deputy last season, and ALLOWING goals is not Montreal's issue...it's scoring them.

[loyola]

The Montreal Impact could turn out to be the reason why Sutton will not be Canada #1 in 2008 if he stays there another season.....

[Daniel]

quote:Originally posted by loyola

The Montreal Impact could turn out to be the reason why Sutton will not be Canada #1 in 2008 if he stays there another season.....




Again, Sutton shouldn't have signed a 3-year contract if he *needed* to get out.

[Raven]

Toronto FC Postpones News Conference
Written by Bill Ault
Monday, 20 November 2006
Toronto FC has pushed back tomorrow's scheduled press conference one day. The press conference is announce the signing of three free agents - expected to be Canadian Internationals Marco Reda, Chris Pozniak and Adam Braz.

http://canadakicks.com/

[georg]

Interesting that LA (Yallop) is thinking about Suton considering some on this board do not think of our National Teal goalkeeper any good, Yallop must be bad at picking good Players??? As for the TFC, are these the players that will fill the BOM Center?

[Grizzly]

quote:Originally posted by georg

Interesting that LA (Yallop) is thinking about Suton considering some on this board do not think of our National Teal goalkeeper any good, Yallop must be bad at picking good Players??? As for the TFC, are these the players that will fill the BOM Center?


Yallop certainly wasn't very good at picking players as national team coach particularly during WCQ. You should also try reading the what people post before you comment. Noone is saying Sutton is crap, he may even turn out to be a good MLS starting keeper. What I and others are saying is that he is unproven at that level and is not worth the amount of money that Saputo is apparently demanding.

[Kurosawa]

quote:Originally posted by georg

As for the TFC, are these the players that will fill the BOM Center?


This is MLS, no player will singlehadedly fill a stadium in this league (except if they get Beckham ad even then I'm not sure). As for the three players, they are good canadian players, this is probably the most important thing for this team. A team is as good as it's weakest player so I'm pretty happy they are getting quality canadian players.

[Bill Ault]

quote:Originally posted by georg

Interesting that LA (Yallop) is thinking about Suton considering some on this board do not think of our National Teal goalkeeper any good, Yallop must be bad at picking good Players??? As for the TFC, are these the players that will fill the BOM Center?

People seem to forget that Sutts came straight out of college and was drafted directly into MLS. IMO he does have the talent necessary for MLS but as others have mentioned he might not be worth what the Impact are asking (if indeed it is six figures).

The player(s) that will help fill the stadium are the ones that Toronto is loading up on allocation money for.

One other thing from what I understand, and the MLS salary structure is murky at best, is that transfer fees do not count towards the salary cap....

Bill
www.canadakicks.com

[georg]

Look if you really want a first class Team in TO then every time a candidate comes up say at that time are you interested or Money is an issue. This is the season to sell Season Tickets and have an elite player aboard. I am not saying Sutton is the person or Savior but get of the high Horses. At this point all or very young are trying out for major European clubs and if good enough we will not see them play or after showing potential getting on with a 1 div or Elite club in Europe. Only Brennan has shown he is willing to come home. The other may be good,,, but it is all about seen Tickets and trying to establish Soccer back here. Thats why I think we(including CSA) sould have manage away to get Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver in together And possiblity also Edmonton. I am sure you could have sold more tickets at a TO vs Mon then TO vs Dallas, ansd Same in Van and Edmonton. I hope the CSA and Toronto suceed, but where is the vision without home player?

[Jason]

quote:Originally posted by Bill Ault


quote:Originally posted by georg

Interesting that LA (Yallop) is thinking about Suton considering some on this board do not think of our National Teal goalkeeper any good, Yallop must be bad at picking good Players??? As for the TFC, are these the players that will fill the BOM Center?

People seem to forget that Sutts came straight out of college and was drafted directly into MLS. IMO he does have the talent necessary for MLS but as others have mentioned he might not be worth what the Impact are asking (if indeed it is six figures).

The player(s) that will help fill the stadium are the ones that Toronto is loading up on allocation money for.

One other thing from what I understand, and the MLS salary structure is murky at best, is that transfer fees do not count towards the salary cap....

Bill
www.canadakicks.com



I am pretty sure that Sutton would be a capable keeper in the MLS, but if I was TFC I don't think I'd paid $100K for his transfer rights. How much better would Sutton be compared to recent USLers such as Josh Saunders or Preston Burpo, which could be purchased for peanuts (but they would be imports)?

Jason

[Calgary Boomer]

I think Sutton is an MLS quality keeper, who has a penchant for the odd bad goal. But he's had one of the best back lines in North America in front of him...I'd like to see how he'd do in Toronto.

[Crazy_Yank]

quote:Originally posted by Calgary Boomer

I think Sutton is an MLS quality keeper, who has a penchant for the odd bad goal. But he's had one of the best back lines in North America in front of him...I'd like to see how he'd do in Toronto.


Not even close. The Impact are a very good USL team, but in their current form they would not be a good MLS team and would get smoked by Mexican teams. TO will be a better team than Montreal on day 1.

[Crazy_Yank]

quote:Originally posted by Calgary Boomer

I think Sutton is an MLS quality keeper, who has a penchant for the odd bad goal. But he's had one of the best back lines in North America in front of him...I'd like to see how he'd do in Toronto.


Not even close. The Impact are a very good USL team, but in their current form they would not be a good MLS team and would get smoked by Mexican teams. TO will be a better team than Montreal on day 1.

[RealGooner]

quote:Originally posted by Daniel

As for being pissed off at the CSA/TFC thing, I don't think it has to do with the funding of the stadium itself, rather the MLS exclusivity negotiated BY the CSA (therefore impeding other potential Canadian bids for 3 years) and giving 6 national team games a year in Toronto despite new stadiums coming in other places like Montreal and Vancouver. Saputo's pissed because TFC was formed under the CSA's auspice and it did not act in the best interest of its other constituents while negotiating deals.

TFC is a rival, not a friend.


Sure but until recently he didnt want any part of MLS. And his and Vancouver's stadiums are still nowhere to be seen. In fact we only just got an artistic impression 2 weeks ago. We may not see this stadium till sometime in 2008 if not 2009 with Vancouver. So why would CSA schedule 6 games in Montreal when they have a brand new SSS available in Toronto from May 2007? They have to take full advantage of it. It seems to me that Joey wrote off MLS too quickly, realised his error and now finds himself locked out for at least 3 years by Toronto FC. With MLS expanding to 16 by 2010 and several candidate cities showing strong interest as MLS profile seems on the verge of a big upswing, he may find himself having to wait till well after 2010 to get in. In addition he is also keen to get as much as he can for Sutton, which is reasonable IMO.

[Grizzly]

I agree with RealGooner that Saputo has little reason to be pissed off at the CSA/MLS because only a few years earlier he had all the cards to get Canada's first MLS franchise if he wanted to and was not interested. He is the author of his own predicament just like Sutton is the author of his current predicament (I also have no problem with Saputo trying to get as much as he can for Sutton. If TFC is willing to overpay then good for him, if not he must decide whether a transfer fee more in line with Sutton's worth or loyalty to someone who has been one of his best players for several years is reason enough to let one of his best players go).

[georg]

quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Originally posted by Daniel

As for being pissed off at the CSA/TFC thing, I don't think it has to do with the funding of the stadium itself, rather the MLS exclusivity negotiated BY the CSA (therefore impeding other potential Canadian bids for 3 years) and giving 6 national team games a year in Toronto despite new stadiums coming in other places like Montreal and Vancouver. Saputo's pissed because TFC was formed under the CSA's auspice and it did not act in the best interest of its other constituents while negotiating deals.

TFC is a rival, not a friend.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Sure but until recently he didnt want any part of MLS. And his and Vancouver's stadiums are still nowhere to be seen. In fact we only just got an artistic impression 2 weeks ago. We may not see this stadium till sometime in 2008 if not 2009 with Vancouver. So why would CSA schedule 6 games in Montreal when they have a brand new SSS available in Toronto from May 2007? They have to take full advantage of it. It seems to me that Joey wrote off MLS too quickly, realised his error and now finds himself locked out for at least 3 years by Toronto FC. With MLS expanding to 16 by 2010 and several candidate cities showing strong interest as MLS profile seems on the verge of a big upswing, he may find himself having to wait till well after 2010 to get in. In addition he is also keen to get as much as he can for Sutton, which is reasonable IMO.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Edited by - RealGooner on 11/21/2006 17:49:22

And where would BOM Center be without million from the Fed? Ithinks both Van & Mon would of loved equal money. And how about Edmonton who have the best Soccer Staduim for years holding the Anchor......

[Richard]

Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton has a running track does it not, and is in what is probably the coldest most northerly significant city in Canada? BMO Field does not have a running track plus it is in the centre of the most populous region in the country. Plenty of reasons to go for BMO Field.

[Cheeta]

For all the faults and warts of the New Ex/BMO Field project, the idea of a National Stadium has merit.

And if you agree that the idea of a National Stadium is okay in Canada, the only choice for it is southern Ontario. Idealy the greater Toronto area. It puts 2 out of 3 Canadians within a day trip of events and it offers direct and cheap airfare for those of us further a-field.

If Canada never looses yet another match on Swangard's grass that'll be merit enough for me to have the National Stadium in Toronto.

Sort of out of left field here, but wouldn't it be grand if the CSA could get some sort of travelling supporter scheme organized for out-of-town fans who're visiting Toronto for NT events. Mens, womens, senior, junior events, whatever. Cheaper hotel and air fare rates, that sort of thing.

[Daniel]

A *20-year* priority contract with a stadium in ONE city is clearly favoritism and impedes others, simple as that.

[Rudi]

quote:Originally posted by Daniel

A *20-year* priority contract with a stadium in ONE city is clearly favoritism and impedes others, simple as that.

I think it speaks to the excellent positioning of MLSE, actually.

MLSE basically held all the leverage in this deal, and to their credit, got the most out of it.

[Cheeta]

quote:Originally posted by Daniel

A *20-year* priority contract with a stadium in ONE city is clearly favoritism and impedes others, simple as that.


Yes and no.

Yes to the 1st part, but if a national association has bought into the idea of a national stadium they'd be irresponsable not to make the national stadium a venue priority. There's more to the goal of having a national stadium then a brick and mortor project.

As to the 2nd part, odviously more complicated. Of course this means other venues will be starved for NT events. But I don't know how much that is going to hurt those other venues. Nobody seemed to want them anyway (at least for a good many of the fixtures) and when they did take on a NT fixture it seemed they were handled on the cheap.

Both Saputo and Kerfoot, men not know for being dumb with their money, are still going full steam ahead with their stadium projects. Even here in Winnipeg we're finaly getting WSC2, crap stadium included and all this happening despite the national stadium project in Toronto.

P.S. Don't get me wrong. The MLSE deal is a crap deal as far as I can tell and others more in the know seem to agree. I'm just saying the idea of a National Stadium is good. Good? Great. I just hope it all works out for the best at the end of the day. If it does than the stadium deal won't look half as crappy as it does now.

[Calgary Boomer]

quote:Originally posted by Crazy_Yank


quote:Originally posted by Calgary Boomer

I think Sutton is an MLS quality keeper, who has a penchant for the odd bad goal. But he's had one of the best back lines in North America in front of him...I'd like to see how he'd do in Toronto.


Not even close. The Impact are a very good USL team, but in their current form they would not be a good MLS team and would get smoked by Mexican teams. TO will be a better team than Montreal on day 1.


Name a team with a better back line than Gabe, Nevio, Braz and Vincello...

3 of the 4 are National team players.

[loyola]

???

Gabe is a very mediocre NT player and with the return of Nsaliwa could be out of the picture in the future. Nevio hasn't been called for a while and is too slow for international soccer and I'm not sure he would be that good in the MLS.

Braz will be a decent MLS player and could improve a lot with a few seasons.

My guess would be that pretty much all the teams in Mexico Premier Division would have a better back line than the Impact and the same would apply to the MLS.

[RealGooner]

quote:Originally posted by georg


And where would BOM Center be without million from the Fed? Ithinks both Van & Mon would of loved equal money. And how about Edmonton who have the best Soccer Staduim for years holding the Anchor......


Well did they ask for any? Don't forget the government grant was tied to building the stadium in Toronto, which by all appearances is where FIFA wanted the stadium built, for all the reasons other posters have indicated above (population etc, centrepiece of WYC). So your point is really beside the point. Vancouver and Montreal should get mad at the government, not Toronto FC....

[Daniel]

Ok, let's agree that "North America" means Canada+US for some functional discussion. The Impact's backline works well as a unit and its complete and utter lack of games against MLS in 10 years is quite frustrating for fans. Even the Dynamites have played the Revs!

When playing in international tournaments (last one was in 2001, though, with none of the current members save Sutton), they have aquitted themselves well.

I hope we finally get a canadian Cup in 2007. Knowing the CSA, they would be able to simply hand the qualifying spot to TFC, which would be a complete travesty.

[RealGooner]

quote:Originally posted by Daniel

I hope we finally get a canadian Cup in 2007. Knowing the CSA, they would be able to simply hand the qualifying spot to TFC, which would be a complete travesty.

That would be a travesty, but hopefully the newish leadership will be even-handed.

[RealGooner]

quote:Originally posted by Cheeta

Sort of out of left field here, but wouldn't it be grand if the CSA could get some sort of travelling supporter scheme organized for out-of-town fans who're visiting Toronto for NT events. Mens, womens, senior, junior events, whatever. Cheaper hotel and air fare rates, that sort of thing.


Grand idea, but does the CSA posess the kind of vision to even think of something like that?

[georg]

Lets see, We the tax payers pay to built National and then pay rent to private enterprise to charge us to see national team and they make profit. Sound like an Toronto idea(Roger Center)

[georg]

Lets see, We the tax payers pay to built National and then pay rent to private enterprise to charge us to see national team and they make profit. Sound like an Toronto idea(Roger Center)

[Loud Mouth Soup]

quote:Originally posted by RealGooner

Grand idea, but does the CSA posess the kind of vision to even think of something like that?


No one knows. We have a CEO, TD and Manager position to fill. Those pretty much give the CSA direction.

[RealGooner]

quote:Originally posted by georg

Lets see, We the tax payers pay to built National and then pay rent to private enterprise to charge us to see national team and they make profit. Sound like an Toronto idea(Roger Center)

What does Ted Rogers have to do with MLSE managing BMO Field? You've lost me.

[speedmonk42]

quote:Originally posted by RealGooner


quote:Originally posted by georg

Lets see, We the tax payers pay to built National and then pay rent to private enterprise to charge us to see national team and they make profit. Sound like an Toronto idea(Roger Center)

What does Ted Rogers have to do with MLSE managing BMO Field? You've lost me.


I think he is referring to the 600million dollar facility that Rogers got to buy for basically nothing. The York chapter of the CSA Stadium deal played a part in the process when the Argos were going to 'leave' Skydome, which after it was all done looked like a pile of BS.

They get a killer facility for nothing.

[speedmonk42]

Are there any unattached U20's capable making TFC?

[Raven]

quote:Originally posted by Daniel

Ok, let's agree that "North America" means Canada+US for some functional discussion. The Impact's backline works well as a unit and its complete and utter lack of games against MLS in 10 years is quite frustrating for fans. Even the Dynamites have played the Revs!

When playing in international tournaments (last one was in 2001, though, with none of the current members save Sutton), they have aquitted themselves well.

I hope we finally get a canadian Cup in 2007. Knowing the CSA, they would be able to simply hand the qualifying spot to TFC, which would be a complete travesty.


Being an Impact fan, it will be tough being as excited watching Montreal play in the USL, and watch Toronto get all the exposure. I really think the long term goal of the Impact should be MLS. Maybe after the new stadium is built, and the MLS change a few "internal" rules. here's to hoping [8)]

[Daniel]

Well I doubt TFC will get much exposure in Quebec, just like the Raptors don't get much (if any). Remember, even in TO no one cared about MLS before it had a team.

And Raven, you're in luck, you should be able to catch 14 Impact games over-the-air on Radio-Canada in 2007...

[Sigma]

" The brand spanking new Toronto FC Major League Soccer team has not yet signed a full roster of players, nor does it even have a permanent pitch to practice on until the BMO Stadium is completed next spring.

But what is does have is optimism.

Toronto coach Mo Johnston introduced three Canadian defenders -- Adam Braz, Chris Pozniak and Marco Reda -- to go along with Irish midfielder Ronnie O'Brien yesterday at a media event at the CN Tower."

http://torontosun.com/Sports/OtherSports/2006/11/23/2460206-sun.html

[Raven]

quote:Originally posted by Daniel

Well I doubt TFC will get much exposure in Quebec, just like the Raptors don't get much (if any). Remember, even in TO no one cared about MLS before it had a team.

And Raven, you're in luck, you should be able to catch 14 Impact games over-the-air on Radio-Canada in 2007...


Trust me I am happy to be able to see the Impact from BC, but I do get all the hype about TFC here, and no word on the Impact. Something I'll have to live with :)

[Richard]

quote:Originally posted by Raven


quote:Originally posted by Daniel

Well I doubt TFC will get much exposure in Quebec, just like the Raptors don't get much (if any). Remember, even in TO no one cared about MLS before it had a team.

And Raven, you're in luck, you should be able to catch 14 Impact games over-the-air on Radio-Canada in 2007...


Trust me I am happy to be able to see the Impact from BC, but I do get all the hype about TFC here, and no word on the Impact. Something I'll have to live with :)
You need to check www.bcsoccerweb.com from time to time :-)
Whenever there is any news from the Impact you'll find it on The BC Soccer Web.

[Daniel]

quote:Originally posted by Raven


quote:Originally posted by Daniel

Well I doubt TFC will get much exposure in Quebec, just like the Raptors don't get much (if any). Remember, even in TO no one cared about MLS before it had a team.

And Raven, you're in luck, you should be able to catch 14 Impact games over-the-air on Radio-Canada in 2007...


Trust me I am happy to be able to see the Impact from BC, but I do get all the hype about TFC here, and no word on the Impact. Something I'll have to live with :)


What hype exactly are you getting in BC about TFC?

[Daniel]

quote:Originally posted by Raven


quote:Originally posted by Daniel

Well I doubt TFC will get much exposure in Quebec, just like the Raptors don't get much (if any). Remember, even in TO no one cared about MLS before it had a team.

And Raven, you're in luck, you should be able to catch 14 Impact games over-the-air on Radio-Canada in 2007...


Trust me I am happy to be able to see the Impact from BC, but I do get all the hype about TFC here, and no word on the Impact. Something I'll have to live with :)


What hype exactly are you getting in BC about TFC?

[RealGooner]

Just to add on the topic of TFC 'hype'....At the Usector/RPB MLS Cup viewing party recently, one of the MLS reps present was asked about MLSE's relationship with the CSA. The rep stated that there is an understanding between CSA and MLSE that MLSE will work to raise the profile of the MNT. The MNT coach will be based in BMO Field. BMO Field is within walking distance of CBC headquarters, did you guys know that? Thats an example of the potential we have here for raising the profile of soccer in this country. Mo Johnston said that there were 17 camera crews at the announcement of his hiring. He said he never faced that many cameras even when he was a star in Scotland. TFC has been in the news alot recently, which means that Canadian soccer has been in the news recently. I expect that this 'hype' is going to spread to the MNT what with the MNT playing matches in a downtown Toronto SSS with MLSE using its substantial clout to make sure the Canadian media pays attention.

[RealGooner]

Just to add on the topic of TFC 'hype'....At the Usector/RPB MLS Cup viewing party recently, one of the MLS reps present was asked about MLSE's relationship with the CSA. The rep stated that there is an understanding between CSA and MLSE that MLSE will work to raise the profile of the MNT. The MNT coach will be based in BMO Field. BMO Field is within walking distance of CBC headquarters, did you guys know that? Thats an example of the potential we have here for raising the profile of soccer in this country. Mo Johnston said that there were 17 camera crews at the announcement of his hiring. He said he never faced that many cameras even when he was a star in Scotland. TFC has been in the news alot recently, which means that Canadian soccer has been in the news recently. I expect that this 'hype' is going to spread to the MNT what with the MNT playing matches in a downtown Toronto SSS with MLSE using its substantial clout to make sure the Canadian media pays attention.

[Manuel]

I’ve heard spots on AM 640, Q107 & The Fan pushing season tickets for TFC. MLSE has partnerships with Rogers & Corus for Basketball & Hockey. They are using these partnerships to push season tickets and to raise awareness. I’ve also seen them advertise on the jumbo clock at a Raptors & Leafs game. Looks like they’re doing a decent job so far.

[CanadianSoccerFan]

CBC headquarters is across the street from the Rogers Centre so to say it's walking distance is a stretch

[Ed]

quote:Originally posted by RealGooner

Just to add on the topic of TFC 'hype'....At the Usector/RPB MLS Cup viewing party recently, one of the MLS reps present was asked about MLSE's relationship with the CSA. The rep stated that there is an understanding between CSA and MLSE that MLSE will work to raise the profile of the MNT. The MNT coach will be based in BMO Field. BMO Field is within walking distance of CBC headquarters, did you guys know that? Thats an example of the potential we have here for raising the profile of soccer in this country. Mo Johnston said that there were 17 camera crews at the announcement of his hiring. He said he never faced that many cameras even when he was a star in Scotland. TFC has been in the news alot recently, which means that Canadian soccer has been in the news recently. I expect that this 'hype' is going to spread to the MNT what with the MNT playing matches in a downtown Toronto SSS with MLSE using its substantial clout to make sure the Canadian media pays attention.


You guys are doing a lot of tub thumping that isn't really merited as yet. I would say that fact that MLSE's TFC just last week passed on drafting one Cdn born player and drafted and then immediately relocated another in favour of a non-Cdn didn't do too much to raise the profile of CMNT. I'll be happy if they do in fact raise the profile of the CMNT but it's a little early to be crowing about it.

[Rudi]

quote:Originally posted by Ed

You guys are doing a lot of tub thumping that isn't really merited as yet. I would say that fact that MLSE's TFC just last week passed on drafting one Cdn born player and drafted and then immediately relocated another in favour of a non-Cdn didn't do too much to raise the profile of CMNT. I'll be happy if they do in fact raise the profile of the CMNT but it's a little early to be crowing about it.
How would drafting Andy Williams (a Jamaican international) help raise the profile of the CMNT?

As for Serioux, it's unfortunate that TFC traded him (as I would have loved to have him play here), but there's no law which states that TFC has to pick up every available Canadian in MLS.

Besides, Toronto just brought back three CMNT players, and appear close to getting another (Greg Sutton). Add Jim Brennan in there, and we've already got 5 of 11 possible starters before the roster is set, plus the lion's share of developmental and youth players with be Canadian.

The fact that Reda, Braz, Pozniak and Brennan have all gotten a lot of press (much more than they would normally get) in Toronto is in fact raising the profile of the CMNT, at least here.

[Ed]

Right. There is no law that states that TFC has to pick up every available Cdn in MLS. But the fact remains, Serioux, not Irishman O'Brien, is a member of our CMNT and he was dealt away without any hesitation. I do believe that TFC will help our CMTNT "somewhat", but the statements I've heard from the CSA, media and supporters paint a rosier scenario that I highly doubt we'll see happen. Finally, when we actually get a coach, I suspect not all 5 of the players you mention will be part of the typical roster for our CMNT.

[Rudi]

You're right, not everyone will be a starter for the Canadian men's team.

As for the statements from those various sources, all I've read/heard/seen was that TFC was a 'step in the right direction' for the pro game in this country, not the be all and end all solution.

[Daniel]

It will increase awareness in local soccer and I think that will help the CMNT profile more than actually having Reda or Pozniak on the team.

[Ed]

quote:Originally posted by Rudi

You're right, not everyone will be a starter for the Canadian men's team.

As for the statements from those various sources, all I've read/heard/seen was that TFC was a 'step in the right direction' for the pro game in this country, not the be all and end all solution.


Well the recently departed (praise be to Allah and the English fella at the helm of the CSA) Pipe, Messieurs Dobson and Forrest and countless others have, in numerous interviews, left the impression that the TFC entry will basically change the existing landscape of CONCACAF and Canada will reap huge benefits from the MLS team.

Pipe:
"For the Canadian Soccer Association, the immediate impact for us is apparent. It's going to allow our national team program, our national team players to play finally in Canada at a truly completely professional level that we haven't had yet to this time. We expect to see immediate improvement," he said."


I recall Gerry and Craig being equally enthusiastic when the TFC announcement was first made.

[Raven]

quote:Originally posted by Daniel


quote:Originally posted by Raven


quote:Originally posted by Daniel

Well I doubt TFC will get much exposure in Quebec, just like the Raptors don't get much (if any). Remember, even in TO no one cared about MLS before it had a team.

And Raven, you're in luck, you should be able to catch 14 Impact games over-the-air on Radio-Canada in 2007...


Trust me I am happy to be able to see the Impact from BC, but I do get all the hype about TFC here, and no word on the Impact. Something I'll have to live with :)


What hype exactly are you getting in BC about TFC?


Nothing locally, but by listening to the national media there is only one professional "football" canadian team therefore right now it is all TFC (mind you there are not al ot of stories coming out of the other culbs) I do hope TFC does well to increase awarness of "football" in Canada, but Vancouver and Montreal should not be left behind.

[Daniel]

The fact that the national media is based out of Toronto, that it's the only club making news, that it's MLS and MLSE, etc. all combine to give it "hype".

Last season, no team had any sort of national coverage, so when one gets some, it makes them the only one. The Impact will remain regional in profile but its games on Radio-Canada should increase awareness elsewhere in Canada. We'll also have to see how they get covered by RDS now that it is no longer an official partner.

[RealGooner]

quote:Originally posted by CanadianSoccerFan

CBC headquarters is across the street from the Rogers Centre so to say it's walking distance is a stretch

I've done it in about 15 minutes.

[RealGooner]

quote:Originally posted by Ed

You guys are doing a lot of tub thumping that isn't really merited as yet. I would say that fact that MLSE's TFC just last week passed on drafting one Cdn born player and drafted and then immediately relocated another in favour of a non-Cdn didn't do too much to raise the profile of CMNT. I'll be happy if they do in fact raise the profile of the CMNT but it's a little early to be crowing about it.


Stop grumbling, we're having a discussion about what might happen, based on the actorrs involved and staements from MLSE reps.

[Canuck in Boston]

quote:Originally posted by Daniel

A *20-year* priority contract with a stadium in ONE city is clearly favoritism and impedes others, simple as that.


Oh my god, Daniel made a statement to which I agree.

Seriously, this is my only problem with this deal. Canada is far too large a country for a "National Stadium" and an exclusivity deal.

Great for Toronto though.

[Canuck in Boston]

quote:Originally posted by Cheeta


And if you agree that the idea of a National Stadium is okay in Canada, the only choice for it is southern Ontario. Idealy the greater Toronto area. It puts 2 out of 3 Canadians within a day trip of events and it offers direct and cheap airfare for those of us further a-field.


If Canada were a soccer mad nation then yes, I agree. Otherwise, you only get the sort of folk posting here traveling to matches. Using the most liberal math, maybe 1 in 3 Canadians are within 5 hours drive. So more than likely a 2 day commitment. To think that more than a handful would fly to a match is pure folly.

Is a stadium needed in Toronto, of course, but not at the expense of matches in other regions. That does little to grow the sport in this country.

[RealGooner]

quote:Originally posted by Canuck in Boston


Is a stadium needed in Toronto, of course, but not at the expense of matches in other regions. That does little to grow the sport in this country.

How does building an SSS and not scheduling games in it convince the next generation of ********** and De Guzmans that Canada is serious about soccer and they should stay here?

[Canuck in Boston]

quote:Originally posted by RealGooner


quote:Originally posted by Canuck in Boston


Is a stadium needed in Toronto, of course, but not at the expense of matches in other regions. That does little to grow the sport in this country.

How does building an SSS and not scheduling games in it convince the next generation of ********** and De Guzmans that Canada is serious about soccer and they should stay here?


You really think that a fieldturf MLS stadium would keep the likes ********** and De Guzman in the MNT fold??? Both of these guys seem to be after money and glory....again you think that BMO Field would counter that???

Sure there should be some matches there, but as I said in my other post, an exclusivity deal is the issue.

[RealGooner]

quote:Originally posted by Canuck in Boston

You really think that a fieldturf MLS stadium would keep the likes ********** and De Guzman in the MNT fold??? Both of these guys seem to be after money and glory....again you think that BMO Field would counter that???

Yes I do. Already a couple of Canadians have come back from Europe to play in this 'FieldTurf MLS stadium' lol.

[Canuck Oranje]

Pardon my ignorance. Please confirm my understanding.

On the exclusivity agreement, is this not a 3-year exclusivity over Canada as a protected territory for the Toronto Franchise in the MLS? And what was the start date of the 3-year period? Is it from the date of the agreement or 3 years from the beginning of the first season?

My suspicion is from the date of the contract. Exclusivity deals only mean that if someone wants to enter the protected area before the 3-year period expires, there will need to be a negotiation on compensation. What other potential investors and cities will be ready to go in advance of the 3-year period? My final point is if it is an exclusivity arrangement around the MLS franchise, it will have been an agreement between MLS and MLSE. CSA would have little to do with that. I doubt that they would be a party to the contract.

On the issue of priority, what is the priority arrangement pertaining to? Is it between the MLS franchise and the Stadium? Or is it a priority on MNT games (in this case, how would this actually work in practice?)?

Again, without knowing myself, I would guess it would relate to priority use of the stadium by the MLS franchise. If that is the case, I doubt that it is any different than any other arrangement between public stadiums and arenas and their primary tenant. The stadium needs to be seen as a completely separate entity from the MLS franchise. The MLS franchise will have requirements that they need to meet in their franchise agreement with the league. A priority agreement with the stadium is likely one of those so I don't see it as anything different than what say the Edmonton Eskimos would have signed with the Commonwealth Stadium.

Then I admit that I have no clue as what these agreements actually are and would be interested in being informed by someone knows what these agreements really are.

[georg]

I have question concerning how much players are being paid in the MSL?
Listenening to the Nov. 16 Sport 590 "Soccer Show" it was stated tha each can pay there players up to $4000000(I assume US$) per Player which is cover by the league in a Pool of all teams. Then why are their only a handful of player earning even close to that? Cannot a team paid 4-5 players per team close to that amount?

They were talking about the new "Beckham Rule" that they want impliment - that each team can have a Marquee player where the league covers the 1st $400000 and the club must cover the rest.

[Canuck in Boston]

quote:Originally posted by RealGooner


quote:Originally posted by Canuck in Boston

You really think that a fieldturf MLS stadium would keep the likes ********** and De Guzman in the MNT fold??? Both of these guys seem to be after money and glory....again you think that BMO Field would counter that???

Yes I do. Already a couple of Canadians have come back from Europe to play in this 'FieldTurf MLS stadium' lol.


And how does that help us keep a De Guzman?

TFC is great for Toronto, marginally good for the MNT and of no use in retaining our players who seek fame and World Cups elsewhere. If they are going to leave, MLS is never going to change their mind.

MLSE struck a great deal for Toronto soccer. I think having TFC is great and I will enjoy when the Revs kick their ass.;) Be happy and enjoy it, just don't make it into this mystical force that will lead Canada to the World Cup.

[RealGooner]

quote:Originally posted by Canuck in Boston
Be happy and enjoy it, just don't make it into this mystical force that will lead Canada to the World Cup.

Last night I attended one of Mo Johnston's Pub Crawls at the Fox and Fiddle on Danforth Ave in Toronto. MLSE Prez Richard Peddie decided to show up, giving me the chance to speak to him face to face for a few minutes. He stated that MLSE's agreement with the CSA is not only to build up the TFC, but also to push the MNT into WC 2010. I am basing my optimism on what the head of Canada's heaviest-hitting sports conglomerate says he is going to do.... Also, I never stated we would get De Guzman back , I referred to **the next generation of ********** and De Guzmans**, meaning, young kids who would have headed for europe in their teens and now have an option to stay in Canada.

[bettermirror]

I think the young kids "now having an option to stay in canada" will only come to fruition when we have at least 3 MLS teams. The spots are limited for Canadians on TFC and the cream of the crop will still play for Portsmouth youth/reserves before they'll play for an MLS club - until that league starts paying top dollar and is chalked full of beautiful SSStadia. Sure they'll cut their teeth locally in TFC's youth development program but after attending a tourny in ireland, scotland, spain or wherever will show their quality and Euro clubs will snatch them - and good for them.

Our Canadian national team won't see true dividends of the MLS until there are at least 20-30 canadians in the MLS.

[RealGooner]

quote:Originally posted by bettermirror

I think the young kids "now having an option to stay in canada" will only come to fruition when we have at least 3 MLS teams. The spots are limited for Canadians on TFC and the cream of the crop will still play for Portsmouth youth/reserves before they'll play for an MLS club - until that league starts paying top dollar and is chalked full of beautiful SSStadia. Sure they'll cut their teeth locally in TFC's youth development program but after attending a tourny in ireland, scotland, spain or wherever will show their quality and Euro clubs will snatch them - and good for them.

Our Canadian national team won't see true dividends of the MLS until there are at least 20-30 canadians in the MLS.


I think its a decent start. I'm willing to give MLSE and the CSA a chance.