Dr Ian Weisberg

  Soccer, or football as it’s known outside the United States, is often referred to as “the beautiful game.” This moniker encapsulates the elegance, simplicity, and universal appeal of the sport. To understand why soccer is called the beautiful game, we need to explore its history, the moments that have defined it, and the intrinsic qualities that make it a global phenomenon. A Brief History of Soccer The origins of soccer can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where various forms of a ball game were played. However, the modern version of the sport began to take shape in the 19th century in England. The Football Association (FA) was founded in 1863, and the first standardized rules of the game were established. This set the foundation for soccer as we know it today. The sport quickly spread beyond England, gaining popularity in Europe, South America, and eventually, the rest of the world. FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) was founded in 1904 to govern...

  Dr. Ian Weisberg As an ardent supporter of the United States Men’s National Soccer Team, I am very excited for the 2026 World Cup . The thought of the world’s largest soccer party coming to North American soil gives me chills . The feeling is not just for me, but for all other USMNT fans out there too. This event promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime happening that will go down in history as one of America’s most important moments in soccer. The journey to the 2026 World Cup feels like counting down to an unforgettable event. Every game, every player selection and every tactical decision between now and then take us closer and closer to making history. We aren’t simply spectators; we are part of this journey as well. We’ve been through highs and lows, triumphs and heartbreaks, and now we’re on the verge of hosting one of soccer’s biggest stages. It’s a dream come true. Hosting the World Cup is massively significant for our country. In a nation where soccer still fights for its rig...

  Dr. Ian Weisberg  — From Fields to Fame: The Rise of Soccer in the U.S. through the Lens of the USMNT In the sprawling landscape of American sports, where football, basketball, and baseball have long reigned supreme, a new contender has been steadily rising in popularity: soccer. This surge can be significantly attributed to the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT), whose journey has captured the hearts and minds of millions, transforming the perception of the sport across the nation. The USMNT’s odyssey in the realm of soccer mirrors the sport’s evolving status in the United States. From the early days when professional soccer leagues struggled to find a foothold in the American sports scene, the USMNT’s endeavors on the international stage began sowing the seeds of interest. The establishment of Major League Soccer (MLS) in 1993 was a pivotal moment, marking the birth of a professional platform for soccer in the U.S. It wasn’t just a new league; it was the dawn of a new era. A...