You won’t find find a bigger name in American soccer than Brian McBride. He has gotten the job done at every level, in MLS, the EPL, and with the U.S. Men’s National Team.
He was a star and a standout at every stop. He is one of the most beloved players in Chicago Fire and Columbus Crew history; the same can be said for his time at Fulham. And he exhibited pure brilliance with the national team, finishing as the fourth highest all-time leading goalscorer.
McBride is still heavily involved in the beautiful game, most recently as a brand ambassador for Allstate. The insurance giant is one of the top corporate sponsors when it comes to soccer and it shows. Perhaps the most impressive initiative is their Good Hands FC program, where soccer stars like McBride surprise youth clubs with new gear and tickets to big games. The visit also includes a clinic and a Q&A session with one of the greats of American soccer.
Niyakko Rush, a youth club comprised entirely of refugees, was the recipient of this visit and it was an exciting time for all involved. McBride was quite touched by the experience.
“It’s such a great opportunity. I’m proud to be a part of it. Everyone walks away happy. It’s win-win for everybody.”
McBride, who also serves as an ESPN FC analyst, was in Colorado this week for the MLS All-Star Game and to represent Allstate at several activations. He was able to provide great insight into the most pressing issues surrounding the game.
The MLS All-Star Game has put America’s top-flight in the national spotlight and for good reason. MLS is getting more and more stars (i.e. Gerrard, Lampard, Drogba, Pirlo) and the league’s All-Stars were again facing one of Europe’s best in Tottenham Hotspur.
McBride is excited about the direction of the league and its future.
“MLS has experienced exceptional growth in teams and infrastructure. There has been a big push from media and more and more corporate sponsors coming on board.”
He admits that there is always room for improvement and he hopes the league invests further in youth development, helping grow the knowledge and skills of young players. He sees the recent influx of international stars as a positive indicator, something that could help grow the league.
“It’s good if the player’s mentality is good. I could care less if they have lost a step if they still have desire, drive, and integrity.”
McBride hopes that these players bring an infectious attitude that will help their teams and potentially get more people in the seats and watching games on national TV. He also praises the huge investments made by owners as they try to make MLS into one of the world’s best. But McBride says we are not quite there yet.
“We have our place in the game, but it is not at the top levels of Europe.”
He is a huge advocate of European teams touring in North America, saying it is good for MLS and the game as a whole.
“MLS players get to shine against European teams. Players and fans get to see their quality, which is beneficial.”
And McBride is also very high on his former team, Columbus Crew SC.
“Gregg (Berhalter) is focused and good manager. It is all very, very positive, from the players all the way up to the owner.”
McBride also sees lots of reasons for optimism on the women’s side of the game, something that has created great excitement for the American public.
“Our women’s national team is a shining light across the world. They deserve a lot of credit. They are pioneers and deserve to be put on a pedestal.”
However, he does see a bit of disappointment in the men’s performance in the CONCACAF Gold Cup.
“It’s always a disappointment if you don’t achieve a goal. It’s not the end of the world; we can still make it to the Confederations Cup. I’m not overly concerned, but I am disappointed for them.”
McBride knows that minor setbacks are just part of the roller coaster journey of American soccer, but the game has a tremendous future. With legends like McBride and sponsors like Allstate leading the way, the sky is truly the limit for our beloved sport.
