Charlton pioneer American soccer academy I knew my Sunday morning 5-a-side performances were not going unnoticed! That long range effort the other week, well it was kind of a tap in, obviously stirred the Charlton scouts because today they have announced the establishment of a Charlton Athletic United States Soccer Academy (CAUSSA).

This follows similiar initiatives in Spain and South Africa and must be welcomed. CAUSSA managing director Paul Topping said: "I consider this to be the next evolution of youth soccer development in America and is a tremendous opportunity for all boys and girls involved, or looking to get involved, in youth soccer." (more)

Soccer (excuse my language) is the fastest growing sport in America and what with the hammering baseball is getting at the moment because of drug use and the realisation that American Football is not really a sport, the future will see more kids who also excel at other sports choose a career in soccer.

At the moment, college kids are drawn to the much higher media profiled Baseball, Basketball, Tennis and American Football. Because of sponsorship and media bias the rewards are much, much greater too.

But with the new expanded MLS season kicking off in a month and well known American brands such as Budweiser, Kraft Foods and Frito Lay backing the new 10 team league, times might be changing.

In fact it is interesting to note that six of the 14 major sponsors for the 2006 World Cup Finals in Germany will be American companies.

Charlton's breakthrough into the vast American market must be applauded. There are a number of ex Pro's living and working in the US offering coaching but the Addicks are the first British club to establish themselves with a full time academy linked to the club.

The two best known soccer schools in the US are the Premier Soccer Academy (PSA) in Cleveland, Ohio which is supported by arguably the best player the States has ever produced, Brad Friedel and the IMG Academy on the west coast of Florida where the US under-17 national team are based.

Ajax of Amsterdam, you will not be surprised to hear, were the pioneers in having a full time school here. That is also based in Florida, another reason I suspect Charlton choose a west coast base of Tucson, Arizona.

Chicago Fire were pretty crap last year but I might get my arse along to watch a couple of games this season, just a shame that John Robinson didn't take up the offer to join New York Metrostars.  ¶ 15:37