The study also confirmed that every segment surveyed believed MLS is great family entertainment, a fact that our players, coaches and team personnel should be proud of. Another key challenge is stadiums. Columbus Crew Stadium is the pride, and envy, of everyone in Major League Soccer, but we need more. The Los Angeles Galaxy has a firm commitment to build a new stadium and their plans clearly will up the ante on design, construction and fan amenities. The Metro Stars and Chicago Fire are also making progress.
Expansion is also an important priority for a variety of reasons.
First, we believe that there are a number of markets that have a great tradition of professional soccer and strong grass roots support and deserve and MLS team. Secondly, we need to expand our national footprint for television and media support. We will expand by two teams by 2002. We are targeting a second team in the New York Tri-state area as well as a second team, likely in either Philadelphia or Atlanta. We are in active discussions with potential investors for Tampa and Dallas, as well as potential expansion in Houston, Seattle, Rochester, and Sacramento for expansion in 2004.