Good bye dear friend: Lamar Hunt 1932-2006

A sad, dark cloud has descended up the world today, blanketing not only the Hunt family and the Kansas City Chiefs organization but all of those who consider themselves as fans of US soccer.

Original MLS investor and patriarch Lamar Hunt died last night from complications to prostate cancer.

It wouldn't be hyperbole to say that without Lamar Hunt there would be no MLS today. His (along with Phil Anschultz's) commitment to the league, going so far as to run multiple franchises, helped keep MLS going through the delicate and tumultuous early years. Through his leadership the league has been able to ameliorate itself to the healthy state it is in today. He was the first owner to build a SSS, starting a trend that many more clubs are now realizing to their improved financial health.

MLS wasn't his first foray into professional soccer. He also owned the Dallas Tornado of the NASL, winning the title in 1971.

Though many soccer fans may have disagreed with him on certain points of late (issues regarding the playoffs, the designated player rule, et al.) that should never diminish the great legacy and incalculable amount of debt we owe Mr. Hunt. He had a reputation of being a visionary and a good track record of his investments paying big dividends in the end. Lets hope MLS can be counted in that number.

Good by dear friend. And thank you from a grateful and heavy heart.