Before the season starts it is a time of "Preseason rankings" and deciding which final record or playoff run would warrant contentment among fans. As RSL fans we always just wanted a playoff run and now that it has been achieved we are looking to the next step. But the problem is we really can never know how a team will perform season to season. Too many variables factor into the equation; injuries, mid-season transfers, etc.
I do have a 2009 wishlist that not only could, but should be accomplished. While "RSL 2009 MLS Champs" would be great I have a list in mind for today.
1) A coordinated effort among RSL Supporter Groups.
I don't know if it was success that brought our "Ultras" together, but there as been more effort to work together and less drama between RSL supporter groups than ever before. I hope our dedicated 'crazies' can continue in this effort. It would be great to see some sort of RSL Supporters Union ran by the Supporter Groups that could take all of the great individual groups and at appropriate times unite them as one. I believe the uniqueness that the big four bring (Loyalists, RCB, FCB, S26) is very important and wouldn't want them to necessarily join together, but a coordinated effort for cheering, singing, and tailagating would be amazing (I know there is already some effort on this front).
2) A drama free year concerning our Front Office.
Our stadium is a thing of beauty, but also a hub for bad publicity. Some things have been done poorly on our side while others have just been blamed on team leaders because RSL has become an easy scapegoat. I think a year of keeping RSL out of the political buzz would be as beneficial as thousands in adversting around the valley.
3) A team that never quits.
I'm not going to do preseason predictions or guess final standings. I am going to ask that our team takes advantage of the "core" that has been built. Ties and losses happen, it is part of the game. I only ask we avoid the late game mental lapses that have cost us so dearly over the years (including last season).
The list is short and simple, but I believe it is the recipe to on/off-field success and filling the RioT with the fans an edifice like that deserves.
Also, if you are an RSL blogger or an RSL supporter group that I don't have linked I'd love to hear from you so we can get you on the MoS column to the right. (themindofscads@gmail.com)
2009 RSL Wishlist...
