A Look at the Numbers.
Soccer has traditionally been seen as a sport primarily for children and teenagers in the United States. However, in recent years, there has been a significant increase in the popularity of adult soccer leagues across the country. Let’s take a closer look at the numbers behind this growth and what they mean for the future of soccer in the US.
- Changing Demographics
The demographic changes in the US have played a significant role in the growth of adult soccer leagues. According to a 2020 report by Nielsen Sports, soccer is the second-most popular sport among Hispanics in the US, behind only American football. In fact, 56% of Hispanic adults in the US are soccer fans, compared to just 34% of non-Hispanic adults. This has led to a surge in the number of Hispanic adults playing and watching soccer, and an increased demand for adult soccer leagues that cater to players of all ages and skill levels.
- Increased Accessibility
The growth of adult soccer leagues in the US has also been driven by increased accessibility. According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, there were 3.1 million adult soccer players in the US in 2019, up from 2.9 million in 2016. This represents a 6.8% increase in just three years. Additionally, many existing soccer clubs and organizations are expanding their offerings to include adult leagues, making it easier for players to find a team and get involved in the sport.
- Health and Fitness Benefits
The health and fitness benefits of soccer are well-known, and they are driving more and more adults to get involved in the sport. According to a study by the American Council on Exercise, playing soccer can burn up to 700 calories per hour. Additionally, soccer is a high-intensity sport that requires a lot of running, jumping, and kicking, making it an excellent way to improve cardiovascular health, endurance, and muscle strength. As a result, more and more adults are turning to soccer as a way to stay active and healthy.
- Social Benefits
The social benefits of adult soccer leagues are another factor driving their growth in the US. According to a survey by the US Adult Soccer Association, 79% of adult soccer players say that they play the sport to socialize and meet new people. Additionally, many adult soccer leagues organize social events and activities, such as post-game dinners and team outings, which help players build friendships and strengthen the sense of community and camaraderie among teammates.
- Increased Exposure
Finally, the growth of adult soccer in the US is also being driven by increased exposure. According to a report by the US Soccer Federation, the average attendance for Major League Soccer games in 2019 was 21,310, up from 14,094 in 2010. This represents a 51.1% increase in just nine years. Additionally, the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup final between the US and the Netherlands was watched by a record-breaking 82.18 million viewers worldwide, making it the most-watched soccer match in US history. This increased exposure is leading to more coverage of adult soccer leagues in the media, as well as increased sponsorship and investment in the sport.
In conclusion, the rise of adult soccer in the US is a promising development for the sport. With changing demographics, increased accessibility, health and fitness benefits, social benefits, and increased exposure, adult soccer leagues are helping to build a vibrant and diverse soccer community across the country. As more and more adults become involved in soccer, the sport will continue to grow and evolve in the US.
