MLS: In Seattle, Les Carpenter wrote that MLS
Commissioner Doug Logan "is making it work, piecing together
a revolutionary league that depends on the ample reserves of
three wealthy owners and relies more on the game itself than
high-paid stars to attract fans." More Carpenter: "In its
fourth year of existence, the MLS finally is showing signs
it might be reversing a downward trend and finding much-
needed stability." Logan: "This league is going to make
it." The Bonham Group President Dean Bonham: "I don't think
they're going to be any overnight success in terms of a
sports league. But I think they will integrate into our
society and prosper" (SEATTLE TIMES, 5/26).
RACING: NHRA Exec VP Tom Compton, on the circuit:
"We're reaching out to a number of resources. ... We're
going to be announcing within the next 30 days a national
advertising agency to help get our message out there. On
top of that, within the next 30 to 60, we're going to be
announcing the engagement of a top television consultant in
N.Y. ... One of the things we're focusing on is getting our
message out" (CNNfn, 5/25)....In Raleigh, Barry Svrluga
noted that NASCAR is considering running additional races at
night on weekdays. Driver Dale Jarrett: "I think we're
going to see more of it. ... I think that it allows our TV
audience to be a bigger part of our sport because obviously
it makes it easier for them." SMI President Humpy Wheeler:
"It makes sense for the sport" (NEWS & OBSERVER, 5/26).
OTHER NOTES: PBA Commissioner Mark Gerberich, on the
league's marketing, promotions and prize money: "We're never
going to get the TV dollars we got in the '70s and '80s.
But we have to find a way to be partners with the networks
so we can get more for our players. We need more sponsors
to give these kids the dream back, give them an opportunity
to make a good living on the tour" (OREGONIAN, 5/26)....Pele
"has been in discussions" with Media Partners about forming
a Brazilian Super League (USA TODAY, 5/27)....The NHL is
"working on ways to accelerate the end of the postseason."
NHL VP/TV Glenn Adamo said that the NHL "will push up" the
start of the '99-2000 season by eight days -- from October 9
to October 1 (William Houston, Toronto GLOBE & MAIL, 5/27).
