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MIAMI, Fla.  (Sept 25, 2012)   ̶  Regular season attendance for the North American Soccer League (NASL) increased from 3,779 in 2011 to 3,810 this year, despite the Montreal Impact (who averaged over 11,500 fans last year) moving to Major League Soccer following the conclusion of the 2011 NASL season. 

The NASL’s attendance was paced by newcomer San Antonio which averaged 9,176 fans per game over 14 home dates. Atlanta’s average of 4,505 was nearly a 60% increase over the previous season’s average of 2,866.  Carolina’s attendance average of 3,883 was boosted by a strong finish to the season including a record crowd of 7,310 in the team’s final regular season home game on September 22.  Minnesota and Tampa Bay each recorded increases in average attendance this season when compared with 2011.

Puerto Rico played its first ten home games at the limited-capacity BayamÏŒn Soccer Complex, but averaged 3,351 fans per game once returning to their newly-renovated Estadio Juan RamÏŒn Loubriel for the final four regular season games.  Last season, the Islanders averaged just 2,161 fans per game at Loubriel.  Edmonton’s seating capacity was also limited to 1,300 this year at Clarke Stadium but the “Eddies” nonetheless averaged 1,525 fans per game, which is 17% over capacity for the facility.

Next season, San Antonio will move to Toyota Field, an 8,000-seat soccer-specific stadium funded entirely with private money.  The iconic New York Cosmos will return in 2013 and play at 13,000 seat James M. Shuart Stadium in Hempstead, N.Y., while the Islanders will enjoy a full season at the renovated Estadio Juan RamÏŒn Loubriel.  Tampa Bay, Carolina and Edmonton will all boast 2013 home venues with increased amenities and an enhanced experience for fans. 

2012 NASL Average Attendance by Team

1)      San Antonio 9,176

2)      Atlanta 4,505

3)      Carolina 3,883

4)      Fort Lauderdale 3,615

5)      Tampa Bay 3,116

6)      Minnesota 2,796

7)      Puerto Rico 1,864

8)      Edmonton 1,525