Twenty-nine years ago, on April 6, 1996, Major League Soccer began with a game between the San Jose Clash and D.C. United. San Jose won 1-0 with a goal by Eric Wynalda. D.C. United was coached by Bruce Arena and John Harkes was a key midfielder. A lot has changed in MLS since then, but some things remain the same. As MLS approaches its 30th year, D.C. United will play against the San Jose Earthquakes (formerly the Clash) at PayPal Park. Bruce Arena is still coaching, but now with San Jose, and Ian Harkes, John`s son, is in the San Jose midfield. It seems things change, yet stay the same.
Bruce Arena`s career has taken him from college coaching to leading MLS teams and the U.S. Men`s National Team. It`s fitting he`s part of the league`s 30th-anniversary celebration, even with a different team than he started with.
John Harkes said he felt `fear` before that first game. He had just joined D.C. United from English soccer and saw the new league as uncertain. Despite only a short training period, his familiarity with coach Arena from college was helpful.
Building MLS from Scratch
Harkes said playing in the Premier League was a great experience, but coming to the unknown MLS was daunting. He remembered the failure of the old North American Soccer League, where he had wanted to play. He had been a ball boy for the Cosmos, inspired by legends like Pele and Beckenbauer.
Harkes felt a responsibility to build and grow soccer in the U.S., despite the challenges of starting a new league.
No one could have predicted that the small Spartan Stadium game would lead to stars like David Beckham, Kaka, and Lionel Messi joining MLS. Harkes was right, soccer was here to stay. This anniversary game is even more important as the U.S. prepares to host major international tournaments.
30 Years Later
The Clash became the Earthquakes, but the moment Andres Cantor started that first game, it began a wave of soccer growth that continues today.
Harkes noted that globally, MLS was an unknown quantity at the start, unlike established leagues in Europe.
The future of MLS is still evolving, with improving player quality and changing rules. But it`s clear MLS has become globally significant and will likely continue to grow. Ian Harkes reflected on the league`s beginnings.
Ian Harkes said it was a testament to the founders` risk and hard work. They were building their careers, but also creating the foundation for the league`s current success.
He doubts anyone imagined players like Messi would be in MLS now. The early players started something that made his own career possible.
Arena admitted his team wasn`t fully ready in 1996, yet they won the MLS Cup that year, defeating LA Galaxy. His coaching style and the strength of his team, with USMNT players and international talent, led to historic first MLS Cup win.
Looking to Regain Success?
When reminded about the 30th anniversary, Arena immediately focused on winning the upcoming game. He also joked about Eric Wynalda`s goal against him in the first game. But he acknowledged the league`s progress.
Arena stated that the league`s quality has greatly improved since 1996, growing from 10 to 30 teams. He highlighted strong ownership, good players, and the presence of top global talent like Messi as positives.
For Arena, Harkes, and the early builders of MLS, this weekend is a time to celebrate their contributions and focus on improving their teams now. Both San Jose and D.C. United have struggled recently, missing playoffs. D.C. United`s coach Troy Lesesne feels the weight of the club`s history.
Lesesne aims to revive the club`s legacy and make them relevant again after recent poor seasons. He recognizes the challenge but is determined to turn things around.
Being original MLS teams isn`t enough; current success is needed. This game is crucial for both coaches to end playoff droughts and aim for the top of MLS again.
