Finding Americana at the 2010 MLS SuperDraft

Covering the 2010 MLS SuperDraft from the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, PA was one of the best soccer experiences I've ever had.

Aside from covering who was drafted and what trades were made, I was on a mission to find the "Americana" that's in Major League Soccer. I wanted to write about the people and organizations who have supported Major League Soccer over the years.

National Soccer Coaches Association of America

Since 2003, the annual National Soccer Coaches Association of America Convention (NSCAA) and the MLS SuperDraft are held in the same location.

As stated in their web site (www.nscaa.com) the NSCAA: "Based in Kansas City, Kan., the NSCAA is the largest coaches' organization in the United States. Since its founding in 1941, it has grown to include more than 30,000 members who coach both genders at all levels of the sport.

"In addition to a national rankings program for colleges and high schools, NSCAA offers an extensive recognition program that presents nearly 10,000 individual awards every year.

"It fulfills its mission of coaching education through a nationwide program of clinics and week-long courses, teaching more than 4,000 soccer coaches each year."

Deanna Weymuth; Kansas City Wizards Fan

Deanna Weymuth and her family have attended every MLS SuperDraft since 2003 when it was hosted in Kansas City, MO. Deanna had nothing but positive things to say about the Wizards organization and their current and former players that she's met over the years of attending the SuperDraft.

She was was extremely happy that the Wizards drafted Teal Bunbury from the University of Akron as their fourth pick. She also pointed out that Teal's father, Alex, had finished his career with the Wizards.

A lifelong soccer fan, Deanna pointed out that soccer is the one sport that truly breaks cultural barriers in/off the pitch because it's a sport where the rules don't need to be verbally explained.

Jose Argueta; Photographer

Jose was one of the many photographers and reporters I had the honor of meeting at the SuperDraft. I will always be extremely grateful for the time Jose gave this rookie journalist to pick his brain.

Jose has been a photographer for the past 14 years. Currently, he takes pictures for El Tiempo Latino, DC United, the Washington Wizards, and the Women's Professional Soccer team, Washington Freedom. In addition, he has covered MLB, NFL, and various forms of events.

To see more of Jose's work, please go to: www.jlafoto.com.

Juan and Alejandro Perez; Father & Son soccer fans

After a long day of covering the SuperDraft, meeting Juan and Alejandro reminded me why soccer is the true immigrant sport. Immigrating from Guatemala, Juan was in search of a better life in the United States.

His son, 10-year old, Alejandro was born in the United States and he's already demonstrating dribbling skills that most children his age lack. Alejandro enjoys playing Midfield and has aspirations of playing professionally. From what I saw of his skills...this could be a reality.

Current & Potential Fans

One thing about I love about covering Major League Soccer is the opportunity I have to talk with current fans as well as attract new fans. I got to know Cory and Vanessa throughout the day. Over the course of the day, we talked football, basketball and MLS.

I educated them about the Philadelphia Union and explained to them the potential this team is going to have in less than five years. They were amazed by the turnout and the energy the fans brought to the Pennsylvania Convention Center. By the end of the day, I was convinced that they were excited about the Philadelphia Union and their chances in the 2010 MLS season.

Adidas

Since reaching a 10 year Sponsorship Agreement with MLS in 2004, I believe Adidas has done a marvelous job in playing a pivotal role in generating awareness through their jerseys and equipment they provide for MLS teams.

During the SuperDraft, Adidas and MLS revealed that the same match ball used for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the Jabulani will be the official ball of for the 2010 MLS Season.

If you're curious about the Jabulani, please read my review: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/324470-corner-kicks-crosses-jabulani-match-ball-review

Cosmos fan for Life...

Cesar Diaz covers Soccer for Latino Sports(www.latinosports.com). His love for soccer was born when he watched the New York Cosmos play.

Despite being too young to fully remember the Cosmos, Cesar made it a point to study the History of the North American Soccer League and Soccer's History in America. Send Cesar a question or comment for potential use in a future column at [e-mail].