MLS Set To Kick Off 12th Season Amid Positive Changes

MLS’ 12th season begins with United-Rapids on ABC Saturday at 3:30pm ET, and the league arguably has more reason for optimism than at any point in its history. ABC/ESPN is paying a reported $7-8M over eight years and Univision about $63M over seven years in new deals starting this season, marking the first time MLS is receiving television rights fees. Also, the new franchise in Toronto is off to a solid start with 14,000 season tickets sold, and Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Denver opens this season, the latest in a growing number of soccer-specific stadiums the league says is key to its viability. Add to that the arrival of international icon David Beckham, whose signing with the Galaxy has already meant unprecedented exposure for the American soccer league. Today, THE DAILY’s special season preview offers a discussion with MLS Commissioner Don Garber, a look at how newspapers are covering their local teams, a Q&A with Real Salt Lake Owner Dave Checketts, and much more.