Since 2007, the DFL (Deutsche Fußball Liga GmbH) has been working in cooperation with the USA's Major League Soccer (MLS). The DFL recently sent sent a delegation to attend a seminar in Los Angeles in order discuss topics such as match organisation, stadium construction and fan issues with experts from the USA and England.
"Our stadiums and arenas boast an excellent reputation around the world. International experts often concur that the German stadiums are the leaders in their field. We want to share our knowledge, but we know that the MLS also has plenty of know-how, so it makes the conference a perfect place to exchange ideas," said DFL member of the board Holger Hieronymus.
Plenty of interest in DFL presentation
Around 100 participants from MLS clubs and the American Women's Professional Soccer League (WPS) came to learn discuss topics such as national match organisation, while there was plenty of interest in the DFL's own presentation.
The German idea of Kids-Clubs was particularly well received by the Americans, not only due to its social and integration benefits, but also as a way of creating more business. Although football is the most played sport by young American children, "soccer" is still way behind sports like baseball, American football and basketball in the overall US market.
Regular exchange of ideas
"The seminar enabled us to learn more about the increased development of football in the USA. It was also a good chance for the Americans to take some ideas from the Bundesliga which are considered the leading standard in Europe," continued Hieronymus.
The cooperation between the DFL and the MLS includes regular meetings to exchange ideas on topics like TV production, rights and licensing, marketing, organisation and finance, training and youth development, as well as stadium construction.
