Riffin', part 2--bend it like Becks

David Beckham is one of the world's most well-known athletes. At least outside the U.S. Nobody give a rip about the game here, but it's steadily finding a toehold stateside, and Mr. Posh Spice is expected to start playing here shortly. This New York Times article points out the slow growth track Major League Soccer has taken in the 10 years or so of its existence. That is in contrast to the North American Soccer League, which grew meteorically with the likes of Pele and Beckenbauer on the pitch. And it flamed out just as quickly, having grown too fast and expanded into the wrong markets. There's nothing wrong with growth--it's vitally important to expand and spread your wings. But you have to grow and be smart about how it's done. The MLS honchos have seen the error of NASL's ways, and--here's the really important part--learned from mistakes of the past. Failing's ok--but fail smart.

And for my money, I'd rather see Ronaldinho play than Beckham.