FAQs

Television

When are MLS games on TV?
MLS games are featured on both national and local broadcasts throughout the season.  Our partners include ESPN, TSN (Canada), Galavision and Telefutura. View the listings on http://MLSsoccer.com under the Schedule tab. 

Where can I find a listing of all MLS broadcasts including local broadcasts?
You can find all MLS broadcasts online at: http://www.mlssoccer.com/weekly-tv-listings. This page is updated every week.

What is MLS Direct Kick?
MLS Direct Kick is a cable subscription package featuring up to 233 regular season matches and select playoff games, including pre-game and post-game shows (when available) - an increase of 38% over 2010. Find out more at http://www.mlssoccer.com/direct-kick

How do I order MLS Direct Kick?  
MLS Direct Kick is available via four separate carriers: DIRECTV, DISH Network®, on iN DEMAND and through Avail-TVN. The cost for residential customers is $79 for the entire season, and $100 for commercial customers. Find out more at http://www.mlssoccer.com/direct-kick

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Online Streaming

What is MLS Live?
MLS Live is a subscription-based service to watch up to 230 live games during the 2012 season (black out restrictions apply).  Online subscribers can also access archived and condensed (20-minutes) games online following each match. Click here to learn more: https://mdl.mlssoccer.com

How do I subscribe to MLS Live?
You have two options:

• For $34.99 the online subscription (https://mdl.mlssoccer.com/mlsmdl/secure/registerform) will allow you to play MLS Live both on your computer and on your iPad for the 2012 season .  You can also purchase the same package directly on your iPad through the MatchDay 2012 app.
• For $12.99 the iPhone subscription will give you access to the same features available on your computer with the exception of the historic library.  The subscription can be acquired through in app purchase. 

Will MLS Live play on all platforms?
We offer two MLS Live subscription packages that give you access to 230+ live MLS games (blackout rules apply) throughout the 2012 season:

• Computer and iPad for $34.99 or $14.99/month
• iPhone for $12.99

What are the blackout rules that apply to MLS Live?

• Blackout rules: http://www.mlssoccer.com/blackout
• Blackout rules apply in accordance with the zip code used to purchase your subscription package

Does MLS Live offer archived games?
Yes, you can watch archived games on MatchDay Live, but only on your computer.

Is MLS Live available overseas?
MatchDay Live is currently available in the US and Canada.

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Apps

Does MLS have an app?
Yes. MLS MatchDay 2012, the official Major League Soccer app, is currently available for iPad, iPhone and Android, and will soon be available for WinPhone7.  Click here to learn more: http://www.mlssoccer.com/mobile

How much do the MLS apps cost?
The MLS apps are free to download.  We also offer optional MLS Live subscriptions through an in-app purchase on iPhone and iPad. Click here to learn more: http://www.mlssoccer.com/mobile

Who do I contact if I am having technical issues with my iPhone/iPad/Android app?
You can reach us at technicalissues@mlssoccer.com

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Licensing

Where can I buy MLS merchandise?
Please visit our online store at www.MLSgear.com

How do I become an MLS licensee?
You can contact us via email at: Tanya.rojas@mlssoccer.com

I am a retailer, where can I find MLS products?
Please refer to our licensee list: http://www.mlssoccer.com/about/licensees

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Marketing programs

What is Sueño MLS?
Sueño MLS - presented by Allstate - offers up to 400 tryout spots for one of five outfield player invitations to a week-long trial with their respective youth development host Club in each tryout city, and an invitation to the exciting “Final Event." The winner of Sueño MLS is awarded the chance to earn a spot on an MLS Youth Academy team. You can find out more about Sueño MLS here: http://www.mlssoccer.com/sueno

Where can I sign up for Sueño MLS?
Up to 400 tryout spots will are made available at each Sueño MLS city on a first come, first serve basis. A waiting list will be available for those who are not able to register for the initial spots. You can sign up for Sueño here: http://www.mlssoccer.com/sueno

What is Socio?
Socio MLS is a unique membership program to connect with and serve independent Hispanic soccer leagues. Participating Socio MLS leagues receive a host of benefits that engage all levels of the soccer community from league presidents to players, coaches, referees, administrators, and families. Socio MLS currently reaches approximately 40,000 athletes across five cities.

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Jobs

How do I apply for a position with MLS (Major League Soccer or SUM (Soccer United Marketing)?
All available positions are listed at: http://www.mlssoccer.com/jobs

I would like to follow up on a job application. How do I proceed?
Please contact MLS/SUM Human Resources at: mlsjobs@mlssoccer.com

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Players

I would like to play for an MLS team, how should I proceed?
Go to the web page of the MLS club(s) you wish to play for and scroll to the bottom to find the Contact Us link. Use that information to call and inquire about open tryout dates and send your playing resume or curriculum vitae to the club’s general mailbox.

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2012 AT&T MLS All-Star Game

Where was the 2012 AT&T MLS All-Star Game held?
In 2012, the MLS All-Stars defeated visiting Chelsea FC at PPL Park in Chester, PA.

When did it take place?
The 2012 AT&T MLS All-Star Game was played on Wednesday, July 25th at 8:00 PM EST.

Where can I find more information about the 2012 AT&T MLS All-Star Game?
Please visit our All-Star page: http://www.mlssoccer.com/all-star

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League Matters

What is MLS?
Major League Soccer is the top-flight professional soccer league in the United States and was founded in 1996, after the country hosted the 1994 FIFA World Cup. MLS kicked off its 17th season this spring by welcoming the Montreal Impact as its 19th club.

What teams play in MLS?
In 2012, MLS is composed of 19 teams divided into two conferences:

In which stadiums do the MLS teams compete?
In 2011, 13 of 18 MLS clubs will play in stadiums built for soccer.  The Portland Timbers play in the newly renovated JELD-WEN Field, Sporting Kansas City will celebrate the opening of LIVESTRONG Sporting Park on June 9, and Vancouver Whitecaps FC will play their first game in a revitalized BC Place on October 2.  In 2012, the Montreal team will play a select number of games in nearby Olympic Stadium before moving into a renovated soccer-specific Saputo Stadium.   The 12 existing MLS soccer stadiums are:

• Columbus Crew Stadium (Columbus, Ohio): 
  Opened in 1999 as the home of the Columbus Crew. Built by the Hunt Family, this stadium has hosted two All-Star Games, MLS Cup and many important U.S. National Team games.
• The Home Depot Center (Carson, CA):
  Opened in 2003 and is the luxurious home of both the Los Angeles Galaxy and Chivas USA.
• FC Dallas Stadium (Frisco, Texas): 
  Opened in 2005 as the home of FC Dallas. Hosted MLS Cup 2005 and MLS Cup 2006. A 145-acre multipurpose sports complex with 17 tournament-grade fields.
• TOYOTA PARK (Bridgeview, IL): 
  Located just 15 minutes south of downtown Chicago, the handsome venue debuted in 2006 and hosted the Sierra Mist All-Star Game with Chelsea FC competing against the MLS All-Stars.
• BMO Field (Toronto, Canada): 
  Toronto FC began play in MLS in 2007 and has sold out every regular season home game at the urban venue.
• Dick’s Sporting Goods Park (Commerce City, CO): 
  The Colorado Rapids’ stadium opened in 2007 and is the centerpiece of a 24-field soccer complex believed to be one of the world’s largest.
• Rio Tinto Stadium (Sandy, Utah): 
  Real Salt Lake’s stadium opened in 2008 and was the host of the 2009 MLS All-Star Game.
• Red Bull Arena (Harrison, NJ):
  The New York Red Bulls state-of-the-art stadium is located 10 miles from midtown Manhattan.  It features a dynamic form roof—a curving structure that wraps the entire 25,189-seat stadium in an elegant metal shell.
• PPL Park (Chester, PA): 
  This world-class waterfront stadium located just over 15 miles from Center City, Philadelphia.  Built at the foot of the Commodore Barry Bridge, this 18,500-seat stadium is the home to MLS’ newest team, Philadelphia Union.
• JELD-WEN Field (Portland, OR):
  Already steeped in sports and entertainment history, JELD-WEN Field is undergoing a $31 million renovation to create an exciting and authentic soccer facility.  JELD-WEN Field will serve as a year-round community center and play host to more than 250 events annually.
• BC Place (Vancouver, Canada):
  Vancouver will begin their inaugural season in Major League Soccer at Empire Field before moving into the new BC Place Stadium in downtown Vancouver.  BC Place has made improvements to the stadium with soccer fans in mind.  The revitalized stadium will seat 21,000 fans during regular season MLS matches.  The Vancouver Whitecaps FC will open the stadium to MLS play on October 2, hosting the Portland Timbers at 4:30 p.m. ET on TSN2.  
• LIVESTRONG Sporting Park (Kansas City, KS):
  The $180 million plus, state-of-the-art, soccer-specific stadium will seat 18,467 soccer supporters and features a dramatic canopy roof that covers every seating section. The features 36 suites and five clubs, including the innovative Members Club. The inaugural MLS match took place on Thursday, June 9 where Sporting Kansas City hosted the Chicago Fire at 10 p.m. ET on ESPN2, Deportes, and ESPN3.com.
• BBVA Compass Stadium (Houston, TX):
  Opened in May 2012, BBVA Compass is the first state-of-the-art soccer specific stadium in Major League Soccer located in a city's downtown district. Seating 22,000, spectators are given the ultimate fan experience with enhanced modern sound and video elements. Fully integrated broadcast facilities allow viewers and listeners to feel part of the atmostphere. The first MLS match played at BBVA Compass Stadium took place on Saturday, May 12 where the Houston Dynamo hosted D.C. United at 3:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2, Deportes, and ESPN3.com.
• Stade Saputo (Olympic Park, Montreal, Canada):
  Stade Saputo has become a privlidged site for soccer in Montreal, Quebec, and Canada. In 2011, the Montreal Impact unveiled their plans to rennovate and expand the stadium. The following additions were made: more than 7,000 seats, a roof that hangs over upper rows of each grand stand, two more entrances to the stadium, additional concession stands, revamped corporate suites, and the installation of a synethic suface on the Impact's training field located 200 meters from the stadium. The first game played in the newly renovated and expanded Saputo was played on Saturday, June 16 where the Impact hosted the Seattle Sounders at 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2, Deportes, and ESPN3.com.

Who are MLS sponsors/partners?
The portfolio of blue chip partners working with MLS to grow their business continues to expand with the growth of the League.  A list of current sponsors, suppliers, and partners – including the year in which the partnership was formed – follows:

• adidas
• Allstate
• Aquafina
• AT&T 
• Bimbo 
• Budweiser
• Castrol
• Coloredge
• Continental Tire
• Degree Men
• Dick’s Sporting Goods 
• El Jimador
• EA Sports
• Gatorade
• JELD-WEN
• LivingSocial
• Makita USA
• National Guard
• Panasonic
• Pepsi
• Quaker Oats
• Red Bull
• The Home Depot
• Visa 
• Volkswagen
• Xbox 360

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Rules of Competition

Click here for full MLS competition rules.

How many games are there in one season?
In 2012, each team plays a 34-game regular season. Each MLS team will play two games against the other 17 teams (one home, one away) accounting for the 34 games of the season.

What is the point system used to determine the standings?
Teams will receive three points for a win, one point for a tie and zero points for a loss.

Referees

How are MLS referees selected?
All referees in MLS are either USSF (United States Soccer Federation) or CSA (Canadian Soccer Association) National Referees.  All MLS games played in the United States will be assigned by USSF and all games played in Canada will be assigned by CSA.

Game Clock

How long does a game last?
A game is divided into two halves of 45 min of regular time. If necessary, the referee may also allot extra time (a.k.a. "stoppage time”) at the end of each period (first half, second half, and if applicable, first overtime period and second overtime period during playoff matches) to allow for injuries, time-wasting or other disturbances.

How does the game clock work?
The official game time for all Major League Soccer games will be managed on the field by the referee.

The stadium clock will display the time from 0:00 to 45:00 and from 45:00 to 90:00 (plus stoppage time where applicable in each half). For statistical purposes, the minutes for goals, substitutions, yellow cards, etc., will be listed from the first minute until the 90th minute. A goal scored at 15 minutes 10 seconds will be listed as having been scored in the 16th minute. Events occurring during stoppage time will follow the international norm by being demarcated with a "+" sign and the extra minutes. For example, a goal scored three minutes into first half stoppage time will be officially identified as happening at "48+".

Rosters

How many players are on the roster?
Each team can name 18 players to its game day roster. Teams are allowed three substitutions per game.

Cautions and Suspensions

How are cautions and suspensions administered?
A player will be suspended for one game upon receiving his fifth yellow card – regardless of the nature of the infraction which resulted in his being awarded a yellow card. A second suspension of one game would result after the awarding of an additional three cards as would a third suspension after the awarding of card number eleven. With the “Good Behavior” incentive it is possible for a player to have a caution expunged. If a player goes three games without receiving a yellow card, after an initial warning, the player will have one yellow card expunged. A player may take advantage of the “Good Behavior” incentive only once throughout the season.

Playoffs

Who qualifies for the playoffs?
Ten teams will qualify for the 2011 MLS Cup Playoffs. Playoff berths will be determined by points in the standings upon the completion of the regular season. All 18 teams will have played 34 games.

• The top three finishers in each conference, based on regular season points (six automatic berths)
• The next best four clubs based on regular season points, irrespective of conference (four wild cards)
  • The four wild cards will play single elimination games against each other, with higher seeds hosting (1 vs. 4; 2 vs. 3). These play-in games are part of the MLS Cup Playoffs.
  • After the two play-in games conclude, the lowest remaining seed will face the Supporters’ Shield winner in the Conference Semifinals; the other will face the No. 1 seed in the opposite conference from the Supporters’ Shield winner.

The four Conference Semifinals will be decided by two-game aggregate series, with the lower seed hosting the first leg and the higher seed hosting the second leg. If the aggregate score is tied after 180 minutes of play, two 15-minute extra time periods will be played in their entirety, followed by penalty kicks, if necessary.

The two Conference Championships will be single games hosted by the higher seed. MLS Cup will again be a single championship match hosted at a predetermined site to be announced at a later date.

Standings and Tie-Breaking Procedures

How is the tie-breaker decided?
The team awarded the highest position in the MLS standings will be the team with the greatest number of points (3 points for a win, 1 point for a tie, 0 points for a loss).  In the event that two teams finish the regular season with an equal number of points, the following system will be used to break the tie:

1. The highest position shall be awarded to the team with the better win/loss record in current regular season games against all other teams equal in points. (head-to-head competition)
2. If the teams are still equal in the standings, the highest position shall be awarded to the team with the greater goal difference against all other teams during the regular season. (goal differential)
3. If the teams are still equal in the standings, the highest position shall be awarded to the team scoring the greatest number of total goals against all other teams during the regular season. (total goals)
4. If the teams are still equal in the standings, the procedures described in this section shall be applied only to games played on the road by each team against all other teams during the regular season. (road 1-3)
5. If the teams are still equal in the standings, the procedures described in this section shall be applied only to games played at home by each team against all other teams during the regular season. (home 1-3)
6. If the teams are still equal in the standings, the highest position shall be awarded to the team with the fewest team disciplinary points in the League Fair Play table during the regular season.
   • If the teams are still equal in the standings, the highest position in the standings shall be determined by the toss of a coin.
   • The first tiebreaker in a three-way tie is also head-to-head, but it is determined via points-per-game versus the other two teams. If two teams are tied in points-per-game head-to-head, the next tie breaker is goal difference.

NOTE: If two clubs remain tied after another club with the same number of points advances during any step, the tie breaker reverts to step 1 of the two-club format.

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Community

What is MLS W.O.R.K.S.?
MLS W.O.R.K.S. is Major League Soccer's community outreach initiative dedicated to addressing important social issues affecting young people and serves as a platform for both league and club philanthropic programs.  MLS W.O.R.K.S. seeks to establish Major League Soccer as a leader for improving the lives of people through sport.

Visit the MLS W.O.R.K.S. website for more information.

Who are MLS W.O.R.K.S. charitable partners?
Please visit the MLS W.O.R.K.S. partner page for a list of national and international organization that we support.

Who can I contact for a donation request?
MLS W.O.R.K.S. is proud to support domestic and international community organizations and non-profits.

Donation requests must be submitted through the donation request form on the MLS W.O.R.K.S. website.  Requests received via email, phone and/or fax will not be considered.  To find out if your organization is qualified to receive a donation and/or submit a request, please visit the MLS W.O.R.K.S. website.

How do I register for Active Bodies Active Minds?
You can sign-up for the Active Bodies Active Minds program by visiting the registration page.  The first 2500 to sign-up for the program will receive an MLS replica match ball*.  Members will have a chance to enter a sweepstakes to win a trip for four (4) to the 2011 AT&T MLS All-Star Game and MLS Cup 2011.  Log-on for Official Rules.

Visit the Active Bodies Active Minds website for fitness and nutrition tips and resources.

*While supplies last

What is the MLS W.O.R.K.S./The Home Depot Community MVP Contest?  How do I sign-up?
Major League Soccer and The Home Depot are searching for MLS fans who go above and beyond in their communities.
From April 29th to June 24th, MLS fans throughout the League will have the opportunity to apply themselves or nominate other individuals who are committed to making a difference.  One (1) Community MVP will be selected to represent each of the 18 MLS clubs.  For Official Rules and to apply or nominate someone, visit the Community MVP website.

What does my local and/or favorite MLS club(s) do in the community? 
Check out the MLS W.O.R.K.S. news archive to learn more about community outreach efforts from around the League.

Also, each MLS club has a community section of their website with additional information on local initiatives, events and in-stadium activations:

Chicago Fire
Chivas USA
Colorado Rapids
Columbus Crew
FC Dallas
D.C. United
Houston Dynamo
LA Galaxy
New England Revolution
New York Red Bulls
Philadelphia Union
Portland Timbers
Real Salt Lake
San Jose Earthquakes
Seattle Sounders FC
Sporting Kansas City
Toronto FC
Vancouver Whitecaps FC

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