I am a passionate supporter of Hartford Athletic, a team that could become a victim of Major League Soccer's (MLS) expansionist policy. MLS has been using the United Soccer League (USL) to pave the way for their own growth, generating a healthy fan base before swooping in and planting their own team in that same market. This strategy threatens not only USL teams but also other non MLS aligned soccer leagues across the USA.

This monopolistic approach by MLS is detrimental to the diversity and growth of soccer in our country. The USL and other nonaligned leagues have been instrumental in promoting local talent and fostering community spirit around soccer. These leagues deserve our support and protection from being overshadowed or eliminated by larger entities like MLS.

According to Statista, as of 2020, there were 47 professional outdoor soccer teams outside MLS within USL Championship, USL League One, National Independent Soccer Association (NISA), which shows how vibrant these non-aligned leagues are (source: Statista).

We need your help to stop this unfair practice by MLS. By signing this petition, you are standing up for local teams and helping preserve the diversity of American soccer culture. Please sign this petition today!