Phil West is an Austin, Texas-based writer, a lecturer with The Writing Program at the University of Texas at San Antonio, and a contributor to MLSSoccer.com, Howler, and SB Nation's Stars and Stripes FC. His articles have appeared in numerous publications, including the Los Angeles Times, Seattle Times, Austin Chronicle, and San Antonio Express-News.
[Showing] the commitment of select owners at the beginning, the
rise of the supporters groups, and, yes, Don Garber's leadership in
sustaining MLS for these 21 seasons--this book proves to be a
keeper.
A brisk and informative look at Major League Soccer's first 20
years. . .West gives MLS fans a worthy chronicle.--Keir Graff
The definitive text on MLS . . . West's masterpiece is an enjoyable
read from cover to cover, something any American soccer fan would
genuinely appreciate. It is indeed a special piece of soccer
literature.
This book should occupy an important spot on the shelf as far as
soccer books go. It offers a glimpse of the future, from a man who
has his finger on the pulse of the beautiful game, and a league
that shows little intention of slowing down . . . This book will
offer something to fans who have followed the league since its
inception, as well as a retrospective for new or casual fans to
appreciate the league's existence.
West brings a historian's approach to his book, rather than a
pundit's. The pages brim with research, with vintage news reports
and opinion pieces intermingled with plenty of solid original
interviews with players, execs, soccer media members and supporters
alike . . .This is a solid read for anyone interested in how the
league they love came to be.
West employs a fan's-eye view to explore the travails and
innovations of Major League Soccer . . . his narrative serves as a
series of engaging case studies on the business and marketing of
sport.
West tells the intertwined story of the rise of MLS and its fan
base in this reasonably crisp narrative . . . Fans of MLS will
appreciate West's perspective, and those who are not yet fans may
be convinced by this brief, worthwhile history.
Ask a Question About this Product More... |