It's Not A Myth

Soccer Silicon Valley Blog seems to think one years worth of attendance numbers that break down paid tickets versus comps somehow proves that San Jose didn't have an attendance problem. Obviously San Jose had other factors driving the moving of the franchise. Spartan Stadium was, to be blunt, crap for hosting soccer games. More so they struggled to find ownership that was committed to keeping the team in San Jose. The San Jose Earthquakes may have had good attendance in 2005. But in in the history of the Major League Soccer (MLS) their attendance wasn't compelling. That doesn't mean that the area isn't capable of better numbers. Having multiple changes in ownership doesn't help give the front office the kind of focus and stability needed to build sales over time. Nevertheless, it's not a myth that San Jose was lacking butts in the seats. All-time League Averages Through 2005 (San Jose's last season)

1. Los Angeles (1996-2005 ) : 21,677
2. Salt Lake (2005) : 18,037
3. MetroStars (1996-2005) : 17,617
4. Chivas USA (2005) : 17,080
5. DC United (1996-2005) : 17,050
6. New England (1996-2005) : 16,426
7. Columbus (1996-2005) : 15,985
8. Chicago (1998-2005) : 15,657
9. Colorado (1996-2005) : 14,393
10. San Jose (1996-2005) : 13,022
11. Dallas (1996-2005) : 11,584
12. Tampa Bay (1996-2001) : 11,072
13. Kansas City (1996-2005) : 10,992
14. Miami (1998-2001) : 9,345