Have you seen some of the recent results of the Open Cup? Its into the quarter finals now and several MLS clubs have been knocked out by USL teams. Is there something here that I should be aware of or is this crazy?

I have often wondered if the top tier USL Teams like Portland Timbers and Seattle Sounders and the bottom tier MLS clubs like Chicago and Salt Lake should be given the opportunity to fight for the opportunity to play in the big league just like EPL, etc.

Well it was quite quick - 3 games played - 3 games lost - return home!

Reading around the Blogosphere and especially in the "mainstream" media outlets like ESPN, this chain events is being discussed as if it takes American Soccer backwards 30 years. OK maybe I am exaggerating a little bit. Even though I was one that stated that the US needs to start fielding "A" teams for this type of tournament, I can understand the thinking of Bradley.

Ever since we learned that Drew Carey is as passionate about the game as we are we've been trying to reach him. We've contacted his agent/management company but alas have not made contact. So, Drew if you are out there and want to come work with us to help promote the game and grow our grassroots we'd love to have you. I'm sure you have plenty of pictures and World Cup experiences to share that the rest of the ZZ Crew would love to hear about.

After the disappointing three up and out performance by the Men's team - I watched my first U-20 game this World Cup, and I have to tell you I was quite impressed. I couldn't help but think that this very well could be the teams playing each other for the 2014 World Cup Final. (One can dream huh)!!!

This team was much more organized, played better together, had a much better field presence, passed very well, and had more controlled touches than their Men team counterparts.

Had the opportunity of covering the Final of the Copa PanAmericana, which pitted Cruz Azul against Boca Juniors. The match was at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, AZ and probably had a few thousand people in the stands. I would have to say even though there weren't that many people there - their energy could have filled two stadiums.

As ZZ grows and members like Scott Hudlow express their true passion for this game I will continue to let their voices be heard. Scott is a 3rd generation Chelsea supporter and is extremely devoted to the club. He also has a deep-rooted passion for helping the game grow in the US. A self-proclaimed hooligan, Scott knows his football and I'm hoping there are a few folks out there who will listen to what Scott has to say.

Don't get me wrong I am happy that Becks is here in the US. Its' great that soccer is getting all this press - it's a very good thing. The game needs more of it and Becks can bring it however; I think we need many more high profile players. Hopefully, the players will follow and the media surge gets bigger and more fans come out to the games.

If you take offense to this, then it most likely means you're guilty of it.

I attended my mate's 11yr old niece's football match over the weekend and was gutted with what I saw and heard. First, I saw their "coach" yelling at these girls telling them "if you don't win this game you are a disappointment to me".