HIO: It's the Big 5

The idea of the "Big 4" in professional sports is one talked about frequently. The NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL are the most lucrative leagues in the United States, and possibly the world. However, slowly the "Big 4" is transforming into the "Big 5" with the emergence of a newer professional sports league: Major League Soccer (MLS).

Having held its inaugural season in 1996, it is league that has grown exponentially in an age where professional leagues have faltered and failed to live up to expectations. Perhaps due to its young age, it is also one of the most progressive leagues in the country, always looking to adopt innovative techniques in attempt to further reach its consumer base. 

Recently the MLS became the first professional league to launch its own ticket sales education institute, the MLS National Sales Center, located in Minnesota. Specifically, its goal is to properly train prospective ticket sales representatives over the course of a 45 day hands-on curriculum.

MLS franchises are also using innovative sales and marketing strategies to cater to all types of fans. The Columbus Crew recently announced plans to hold the inaugural Pride Cup presented by Innovative Financial on July 23. It is billed as "a one-day GLBT and allied soccer tournament."

Those are just two quick examples of the progressive approach the MLS has taken to increase dollar amounts, widen its consumer base, and ultimately make the Big 4 a thing of the past. The MLS deserves to be in the conversation of top sports leagues in the country. Expect its growth pattern to continue as the league will expand to 19 teams during the 2012 season, with the addition of Montreal.

The American professional sporting landscape is changing. Take note. It's the Big 5.

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In addition to serving as President of the Sport Management Student Union (SMTSU), Kevin Giordano is a sophomore Sport Management major at Drexel University with industry experience working in men's and women's professional soccer and collegiate athletics. To contact or connect with Kevin, you can follow him on Twitter (@KevinGiordano) or connect with him here on LinkedIn.