a shout out from crew nation

Mark McCullers of The Columbus Crew has replied:

Michael – interesting exercise you’re engaged in here. I’m not sure that I received your initial email but am happy to respond although your choice of timing for GM’s in this league is not ideal – give them a break! Why to be a Crew fan ….? 10 good reasons:

1. Crew Soccer Nation – as a Crew fan, you will be part of a knowledgeable and engaged soccer community that is not only based in central Ohio but throughout the region. Crew Soccer Nation members have the ultimate relationship with their club and unparalleled access to the organization. We have plenty of fans in Indy and have a great relationship with the Indiana Youth Soccer Association so our fan base in southern Indiana will grow. Crew fans are the best.
2. Crew Stadium – will always be the first of its kind. A wonderful showcase for the game and a great atmosphere. Come here and you will be hooked.
3. Location – you are less than 3 hours away (2 ¼ if you drive like me). It’s worth the trip.
4. Sigi Schmid – new boss, new attitude. Check it out.
5. Buck –a- Brat Wednesday night games – gain 5 pounds for 5 bucks.
6. Brian McBride – if you’re a Fulham fan and a McBride fan, this is the place for you. McBride’s legacy lives on.
7. Crewzers dance team – now that’s entertainment!
8. USA vs. Mexico – you know the qualifier will be here in 2009 – pick your seats now.
9. Lamar Hunt – he deserves your support for all he’s meant to American soccer.
10. Beer – it’s cold at Crew Stadium and I’ll buy you the first round.

See you at the home opener April 15th!!

Mark McCullers

And here's my response:

Mark,

Thanks for responding to my email. I didn't realize that this was a particularly busy time for GM's... though after watching a few games last weekend I can understand why it might be.

I know of a few Crew fans in Indianapolis who are trying to convince me to join them. I've been to Crew Stadium twice already (for USMNT matches), and I definitely agree that it's a first class facility, especially when we're beating Mexico.

All in all, you've got a pretty nice list. Back when I was barely paying attention to the league I always paid The Crew a little more attention, just because of your ties to Brian McBride.

Heck, I ever like Frankie Hejduk to start at left back for the national team.

I'm going to attempt to watch your game this week against Colorado (I've already got a committment to watch RSL and Kansas City, but I do have Tivo) and see what the fuss is about. I also have a feeling that I'll end up at Crew Stadium to watch a game some time this season. But I'm still not sure who I'm pulling for. I've gotten emails from Steve Pastorino, Curt Johnson, and yourself.

Only you offered beer.

It's a tough decision, I'm sure you understand.

Thanks for your time, I'll be sure to let you know who I pick.

Mike

So I've got a pretty full soccer schedule this weekend. I'm going to attempt to go biking at Kickapoo Saturday, but I should be home in time to juggle the three games I've committed to (Tivo can only do so much, but I could hook a VCR up).

My Premier League watching has completely fallen off, and I didn't watch one game this week. I didn't even watch the Champions League games (and I still don't know who won), but they're on the Tivo yet.

Add to that the fact that I don't know if Fulham's on FSC this week (well I do now, and the answer looks like "No"). I do know they have new home shirt for next year. As do Manchester United (well sort of). I guess I'll own throwback jerseys for both of them soon enough.