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Areathrasher
08-19-2014, 12:05 PM
According to Elliotte Frideman and Bruce Arthur on the twitters.

*gulp*

Detroit_TFC
08-19-2014, 12:06 PM
fuck fuck fuck that's not good

TFC07
08-19-2014, 12:06 PM
Why?

EDIT: It most likely got to do with NFL failed bid and how his family hated the winter.

Brooker
08-19-2014, 12:07 PM
He's barely even started. Wtf.

Looking for a new challenge? He hasn't fucking done much of anything at MLSE. Especially with the Leafs. Lol what a joke.

GabrielHurl
08-19-2014, 12:08 PM
Friedman's tweets


Hearing MLSE president/CEO Tim Leiweke will be leaving the company soon.


Not sure of where he's going, but hearing the reason is he is looking for a new challenge.

barticusz
08-19-2014, 12:08 PM
According to Friedman, he is looking for new challenges.

Looks like we're done for. It was nice while it lasted but this team is horrendous news for this team.

Super
08-19-2014, 12:09 PM
We knew that was coming. I heard months back that he wasn't happy with the board, felt Tannenbaum was difficult. Not sure if any of that was true, but now that he's leaving I'm not surprised. Also don't think Toronto was big enough for him, and the winter certainly effected him. He'll probably return to LA.

notthesun
08-19-2014, 12:10 PM
Wow... things are going to get interesting on the TFC front.

Red4ever
08-19-2014, 12:10 PM
Come on...

Super
08-19-2014, 12:10 PM
According to Friedman, he is looking for new challenges.


I call BS on that. There are no greater challenge in NA sports than winning with a Toronto team - especially with the Leafs. He hasn't done that. He isn't even close to having done that.

Areathrasher
08-19-2014, 12:10 PM
New challenge is bollocks. His wife probably threatned to divorce him if she has to put up with another winter here.

GabrielHurl
08-19-2014, 12:11 PM
Maybe the failed NFL bid?

TFC07
08-19-2014, 12:11 PM
So what's going to happen with BMO field expansion now?

Super
08-19-2014, 12:11 PM
Maybe the failed NFL bid?

Bingo!

Brooker
08-19-2014, 12:12 PM
The winter. The winter? The winter!

Oh for the love of fuck.

TFC07
08-19-2014, 12:12 PM
Maybe the failed NFL bid?

That was breaking point, but there were some signs earlier that he wanted out due to family reason.

Red4ever
08-19-2014, 12:12 PM
New challenge is bollocks. His wife probably threatned to divorce him if she has to put up with another winter here.

The Polar Vortex that never stops f*cking us.

Detroit_TFC
08-19-2014, 12:12 PM
Probably running into a brick wall trying to make meaningful changes at the Leafs didn't help either. Whatever it is, it's a first class catastrophe for TFC and probably for the Raptors too.

Areathrasher
08-19-2014, 12:13 PM
Maybe the failed NFL bid?

Yea, good shout

GabrielHurl
08-19-2014, 12:13 PM
Friedman is talking on Fan590 now

barticusz
08-19-2014, 12:15 PM
I guess this explains why we haven't seen anything on the Stadium front for a long time.

Cue the new director who guts the team and we're left with the same old crap. Just when I started enjoying watching this club and the direction it was going in.

Shakes McQueen
08-19-2014, 12:16 PM
The "new challenge" thing will make me extremely angry, if he tries to use it. He bought two expensive footballers, pushed through a stadium renovation bid for TFC, and... what else, exactly? The Raptors made the first round of the NBA playoffs, I guess? I was mostly satisfied with the job he had been doing, but it was far (FAR) from complete.

If it's the board, or the climate, then I hope he just says so. He won't, of course. He'll give the "new challenge" boilerplate, or something similar, and then maybe two years from now, make some oblique comment about the real reason to a reporter.

Anyway, I'll wait to see who the replacement is, before I declare anything doomed.

Shakes McQueen
08-19-2014, 12:19 PM
Bobcat saying there's whispers about him running the Clippers, and that his wife has already moved back to SoCal.

icecoldbeer
08-19-2014, 12:19 PM
https://growingbutterfly.files.wordpress.com/2014/01/minion.jpg

TFC07
08-19-2014, 12:19 PM
I guess this explains why we haven't seen anything on the Stadium front for a long time.

Cue the new director who guts the team and we're left with the same old crap. Just when I started enjoying watching this club and the direction it was going in.

If that's case, then I am done with TFC for good.

Areathrasher
08-19-2014, 12:19 PM
Bob McCown ‏@FadooBobcat 7 mins (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/FadooBobcat/status/501777082985480193) Leiweke about to move back to LA to run the Clippers? Whisper won't go away. Wife moved back to So. Cal. already. #wehatewinter (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/hashtag/wehatewinter?src=hash)

TFC07
08-19-2014, 12:20 PM
Bobcat saying there's whispers about him running the Clippers, and that his wife has already moved back to SoCal.

Not bad gig since they have new owner and looking to build a stadium of their own. So I could see Leiweke wanted to work for Clippers.

Red4ever
08-19-2014, 12:20 PM
You gotta figure ticket prices take a huge jump if it's an anselmi type replacing him.

Shakes McQueen
08-19-2014, 12:20 PM
If that's case, then I am done with TFC for good.

Maybe be a bit more patient. He hasn't even resigned yet, we don't know who the new person is yet, and we don't know what the new person's agenda will be yet.

Areathrasher
08-19-2014, 12:20 PM
I'm sure Cathal Kelly will have a bullshit article out in a few hours straight from the horses mouth

Areathrasher
08-19-2014, 12:22 PM
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BvarbctCQAESBRt.jpg

TFC07
08-19-2014, 12:23 PM
Maybe be a bit more patient. He hasn't even resigned yet, we don't know who the new person is yet, and we don't know what the new person's agenda will be yet.

Fair enough, but reason why I got season tickets originally because TL vision. Whoever taking over TFC/MLSE share similar vision as TL, then it wouldn't be an issue with me, but if MLSE hires another Ton Anselmi (nice guy, but crappy guy to have run your sports teams) then I am done.

Brooker
08-19-2014, 12:24 PM
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BvarbctCQAESBRt.jpg

LMAO

Super
08-19-2014, 12:26 PM
Bobcat saying there's whispers about him running the Clippers, and that his wife has already moved back to SoCal.

Steve Ballmer is worth 21 billion dollars. Might be the guy to help Leiweke bring NFL to LA.

Areathrasher
08-19-2014, 12:26 PM
cathalkelly ‏@cathalkelly 3s (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/cathalkelly/status/501780292466909184) Just talked to Tim Leiweke re: rumours he's leaving MLSE: "It's not true. 100 per cent not true. I'm fully committed to the season at hand."

Detroit_TFC
08-19-2014, 12:26 PM
Fair enough, but reason why I got season tickets originally because TL vision. Whoever taking over TFC/MLSE share similar vision as TL, then it wouldn't be an issue with me, but if MLSE hires another Ton Anselmi (nice guy, but crappy guy to have run your sports teams) then I am done.

Hard to see someone coming in who has the kind of clout that TL brought to the table.

werewolf
08-19-2014, 12:28 PM
Leiweke Out. Moyes In.

Brooker
08-19-2014, 12:28 PM
Season at hand? Well that doesn't clear anything up.

TFC07
08-19-2014, 12:29 PM
cathalkelly ✔ (https://twitter.com/cathalkelly)
Just talked to Tim Leiweke re: rumours he's leaving MLSE: "It's not true. 100 per cent not true. I'm fully committed to the season at hand."

TFC07
08-19-2014, 12:30 PM
Leiweke Out. Moyes In.

Bryan Colangelo is looking for a job and we all know he's BFF with Larry T.

Detroit_TFC
08-19-2014, 12:30 PM
gotdammit, if I wasted a full blown freak out on this...

gdg_9
08-19-2014, 12:30 PM
cathalkelly ‏@cathalkelly3s (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/cathalkelly/status/501780292466909184)Just talked to Tim Leiweke re: rumours he's leaving MLSE: "It's not true. 100 per cent not true. I'm fully committed to the season at hand."

That quote makes me believe even more so that the reports are true! (esp. the bolded part)
It reeks of a carefully worded denial, that once he does leave at the end of the season, he can say he never lied about it.

Shakes McQueen
08-19-2014, 12:31 PM
cathalkelly ‏@cathalkelly3s (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/cathalkelly/status/501780292466909184)Just talked to Tim Leiweke re: rumours he's leaving MLSE: "It's not true. 100 per cent not true. I'm fully committed to the season at hand."

Either he's lying, or perhaps that's carefully crafted language indicating when he DOES plan to leave (the end of the TFC season).

Detroit_TFC
08-19-2014, 12:31 PM
Which season? Summer?

molenshtain
08-19-2014, 12:32 PM
oh, fuck no. this is really too bad. I had visions of Leiweke overseeing a sports empire in Toronto, turning the Raptors, TFC and the Leafs into perennial winners.Not to be I guess.

Now, Before anyone here gets too crazy about how horrible things might be without him and how it will all go back to old TFC, let's remember that these new owners had the sense to hire Leiweke in the first place. Our owners are still committed to winning, spending money and building a brand. I have every confidence we'll be impressed with his replacement.

Ultra & Proud
08-19-2014, 12:38 PM
If he goes then at least he did about 1/2 to 3/4 of what his goals were:

1) First fix TFC - Got DPs and seems to have a management in place with a plan and direction - we are on the road to recovery
2) New stadium for TFC - Half way there probably. He could have this sealed by the end of the whichever team's season he means.
3) Fix Raptors - Got Masai in and like TFC are on the way up. If he goes he won't get the big name free agent splash he'd probably want.
4) Fix Leafs - He'll be dead by the time they win anything. We all will.

If he does go then it's probably a mix of some Tannenbaum B.S, maybe the lure of big money and glitz back in LA with the Clippers, and the failing of their NFL bid. I am happy & grateful that he pulled TFC out of the shitter and actually changed the culture instead of just saying it year after year in town halls. Hopefully the stadium is a solid go and then if he does leave, he leaves with a solid legacy for us in TFC nation. That's all I really care about anyway. I hope he stays though and this is just blowing smoke.

Suds
08-19-2014, 12:38 PM
Season at hand? Well that doesn't clear anything up.

Just about to say the same thing. Who's season? TFC, Raptors, Leafs? All will have gone through a season by next spring.

Gilberto9
08-19-2014, 12:39 PM
A lot of us knew he wanted out since the beginning of his time with us. There goes our chances at moving forward... Savour this season folks...

Red4ever
08-19-2014, 12:40 PM
The clippers point is interesting. Gotta wonder if Ballmer has the Raiders and Chivas on his mind too. (We're still in the speculation stage here)

Areathrasher
08-19-2014, 12:42 PM
Bruce Arthur ‏@bruce_arthur 2m (http://forums.redpatchboys.ca/bruce_arthur/status/501783833851592704) In addition to Leiweke's now-on-the-record denial that he's leaving soon, another significant MLSE source echoes that. We'll see.

Suds
08-19-2014, 12:42 PM
I need a drink!

jloome
08-19-2014, 12:44 PM
oh, fuck no. this is really too bad. I had visions of Leiweke overseeing a sports empire in Toronto, turning the Raptors, TFC and the Leafs into perennial winners.Not to be I guess.

Now, Before anyone here gets too crazy about how horrible things might be without him and how it will all go back to old TFC, let's remember that these new owners had the sense to hire Leiweke in the first place. Our owners are still committed to winning, spending money and building a brand. I have every confidence we'll be impressed with his replacement.

Y'know, if you go back in his corporate history, he has as many dramatic failures as successes. Prior to getting in with KC when he was younger, he was an indoor soccer huckster just like the rest of them.

I'd be interest to see what Ensco thinks of this news. He's moved in CEO circles for a long time and pegged TL as a huckster a long time ago.

molenshtain
08-19-2014, 12:44 PM
The clippers point is interesting. Gotta wonder if Ballmer has the Raiders and Chivas on his mind too. (We're still in the speculation stage here)

The Raiders are 100% leaving at the end of this season so I wouldn't be surprised.

Brooker
08-19-2014, 12:45 PM
https://warosu.org/data/sci/img/0066/24/1404372731636.gif

Wagner
08-19-2014, 12:45 PM
there was a lot of talk that he hated the three headed monster of a boss that he had.

and i'm guessing he knows they aren't getting the Bills.

on top of that his wife hated the cold.

I wonder what Defoe makes of it.
Tim L wined/Dined him, sold the sizzle (not the steak).
now that salesman is gone.

it could all be BS.

gdg_9
08-19-2014, 12:47 PM
The clippers point is interesting. Gotta wonder if Ballmer has the Raiders and Chivas on his mind too. (We're still in the speculation stage here)

This makes a ton of sense...
Right away I thought about NFL to LA with Ballmer. But throwing Chivas in there as well? Could definitely see it.
Leiweke does seem to have a legitimate affinity for soccer (or maybe it's just the potential to tap that global appeal and market).

TFC07
08-19-2014, 12:47 PM
there was a lot of talk that he hated the three headed monster of a boss that he had.

and i'm guessing he knows they aren't getting the Bills.

on top of that his wife hated the cold.

I wonder what Defoe makes of it.
Tim L wined/Dined him, sold the sizzle (not the steak).
now that salesman is gone.

I am sure Defoe is fine with millions he's making playing for TFC.

TFC is small player in MLSE, so I don't think it matters what someone from TFC thinks about this news.

Ivy
08-19-2014, 12:48 PM
there was a lot of talk that he hated the three headed monster of a boss that he had.

and i'm guessing he knows they aren't getting the Bills.

on top of that his wife hated the cold.

I wonder what Defoe makes of it.
Tim L wined/Dined him, sold the sizzle (not the steak).
now that salesman is gone.
Gone where?

Wagner
08-19-2014, 12:51 PM
Gone where?

if Tim L leaves.
He sold Defoe on his vision of the team.
then he bails on it.

TFC07
08-19-2014, 12:58 PM
TL will probably be gone when winter arrives.

I find it interesting that TL's wife is already in L.A., so that should tell you TL is leaving really soon.

gdg_9
08-19-2014, 01:00 PM
steve simmons ‏@simmonssteve (https://twitter.com/simmonssteve) 2m (https://twitter.com/simmonssteve/status/501788397669994496) Tim Leiweke signed a two-year non-compete with his previous employer AEG. Once two years are up, he'll go elsewhere, I'm told.



This fits perfectly with his "Season at hand" denial...

Once his 2 years are up, he'll jump to the Clippers.

mowe
08-19-2014, 01:02 PM
Well he was never going to be here forever. Hope he sticks around for another year or two though, he's had a positive impact on MLSE.

Ultra & Proud
08-19-2014, 01:07 PM
if Tim L leaves.
He sold Defoe on his vision of the team.
then he bails on it.
Thing is that he isn't bailing on TFC. He isn't like Bez who is linked solely to TFC. If he does leave it will be for the 'new challenge' which will probably be the Clippers. Speculation will be the three heads of MLSE were hard to deal with but he'll spin it as an opportunity he can't pass up and that it's back home and that his work was pretty much done for the MLSE main teams anyway and the rest of the framework is already in place. Chances are they'll probably have a guy lined up by then for a seamless transition with a glowing Lieweke endorsement.

Wagner
08-19-2014, 01:08 PM
Thing is that he isn't bailing on TFC. He isn't like Bez who is linked solely to TFC. If he does leave it will be for the 'new challenge' which will probably be the Clippers. Speculation will be the three heads of MLSE were hard to deal with but he'll spin it as an opportunity he can't pass up and that it's back home and that his work was pretty much done for the MLSE main teams anyway and the rest of the framework is already in place. Chances are they'll probably have a guy lined up by then for a seamless transition with a glowing Lieweke endorsement.

good point.

Detroit_TFC
08-19-2014, 01:08 PM
steve simmons ‏@simmonssteve (https://twitter.com/simmonssteve) 2m (https://twitter.com/simmonssteve/status/501788397669994496) Tim Leiweke signed a two-year non-compete with his previous employer AEG. Once two years are up, he'll go elsewhere, I'm told.



This fits perfectly with his "Season at hand" denial...

Once his 2 years are up, he'll jump to the Clippers.

Soooo, after the end of the upcoming NBA season?

Brooker
08-19-2014, 01:13 PM
Who's saying his wife doesn't like the winter and has already moved back? Just curious.

Ultra & Proud
08-19-2014, 01:14 PM
Soooo, after the end of the upcoming NBA season?

Next spring/summer most likely. Right around the time the Raiders are looking to do another 'move' from Oakland to L.A.

TFC07
08-19-2014, 01:17 PM
Who's saying his wife doesn't like the winter and has already moved back? Just curious.

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/94551884/McCown_normal.jpgBob McCown @FadooBobcat (https://twitter.com/FadooBobcat) · 1h (https://twitter.com/FadooBobcat/status/501777082985480193)

Leiweke about to move back to LA to run the Clippers? Whisper won't go away. Wife moved back to So. Cal. already. #wehatewinter (https://twitter.com/hashtag/wehatewinter?src=hash)

Areathrasher
08-19-2014, 01:18 PM
Who's saying his wife doesn't like the winter and has already moved back? Just curious.

Bob McCowan

Quote on the previous page.

Ultra & Proud
08-19-2014, 01:24 PM
There is probably a lot to this rumor and the whole 2 years non-compete clause with AEG. Either way I refuse to see it as a woe is me, sky is falling typical event.

Team was shit for 7 years. Lieweke (and Bez) come in and turn it around in short order. All goes well then we make the playoffs and have our best season ever by a good margin especially considering where we just came from. What new MLSE honcho would say "Fuck that, blow it up and get some new management in there to run a sport I have no clue about"? No one that's who. I am not worried about us and our direction. Leafs might be a different story.

gdg_9
08-19-2014, 01:25 PM
Kurtis Larson ‏@KurtLarSUN (https://twitter.com/KurtLarSUN) 35s (https://twitter.com/KurtLarSUN/status/501794902486024192) Tim Leiweke: "Tell (TFC) fans not to worry. I am focused on getting TFC into the playoffs." @TorontoFC (https://twitter.com/torontofc)

ensco
08-19-2014, 01:28 PM
I think the endless discussion of this supposed Leiweke/Tanenbaum secret agenda to bring the NFL to Toronto, as if it's real, is ridiculous, has nothing to do with what may be going on now, and has wrecked the discussion of MLSE on this board.

TFC07
08-19-2014, 01:31 PM
There is probably a lot to this rumor and the whole 2 years non-compete clause with AEG. Either way I refuse to see it as a woe is me, sky is falling typical event.

Team was shit for 7 years. Lieweke (and Bez) come in and turn it around in short order. All goes well then we make the playoffs and have our best season ever by a good margin especially considering where we just came from. What new MLSE honcho would say "Fuck that, blow it up and get some new management in there to run a sport I have no clue about"? No one that's who. I am not worried about us and our direction. Leafs might be a different story.

Problem is that post-TL era could mean less investment into TFC (like not signing higher end DP's and possibly getting fieldturf if Argos move in) which will hurt TFC since they view TFC a small player that doesn't bring huge ROI like Leafs and Raptors (new TV deal in couple of years is going make Raptors a lot more valuable).

Ultra & Proud
08-19-2014, 01:49 PM
Problem is that post-TL era could mean less investment into TFC (like not signing higher end DP's and possibly getting fieldturf if Argos move in) which will hurt TFC since they view TFC a small player that doesn't bring huge ROI like Leafs and Raptors (new TV deal in couple of years is going make Raptors a lot more valuable).
New MLS TV deal too on the pipes. Also, I never understood the field turf Argo debate. MLSE doesn't own the Argos and the Argos are a smaller player with less financial upside than TFC so why fuck up a team you own and makes money for one you don't own and get nothing from? That argument makes no sense to me.

gdg_9
08-19-2014, 01:51 PM
http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/source-leiweke-planning-to-resign-from-mlse/


MG: Are you leaving ‘soon’?

TL: No, there is no timeline. I’ve never said I would be here forever, but my work here is not done. We have to get the NBA All-Star Game done. We have to get the Raptors practice facility done. We have to get all three teams winning.
MG: Does the NFL deal impact your tenure?
TL: Not in the least. I’ll bet you a hell of a lot of money we’re talking about the Leafs and the Raptors making the playoffs in the same year when we talk in April.
MG: Did you have a non-compete clause when you left Los Angeles?
TL: No, there was no non-compete. I can go wherever I want and I want to be here, and I love what we’re doing and I think we’re making inroads. But we’re right smack in the middle of about a dozen huge projects and I’m going to get them done.
MG: What is on the horizon?
TL: I’ll think about this once we’re through everything we need to get through, but right now we’re focused on the season at hand and I guarantee you, I will be here.
MG: And then reassess?
TL: I serve at the beck and call of the board and so they have a voice in this too, but from my standpoint I’m focused on this season, and that’s all I’m focused on.
MG: Is there any conflict with the board?
TL: I get along well with the board and I like where we’re at and I like what we’re doing and to their credit they’ve given us the capital and the resources. You’re going to hear a series of announcements in the next couple of days. We have some very good things about to be announced, that’s why these rumours are completely untrue.

MG: And suggestions about the weather being an issue?
TL: I grew up in St. Louis and spent four years in Minneapolis and when I do leave here during the winter I go to my home in Vail, so the winters can’t bother me that much.

TFC07
08-19-2014, 01:57 PM
New MLS TV deal too on the pipes. Also, I never understood the field turf Argo debate. MLSE doesn't own the Argos and the Argos are a smaller player with less financial upside than TFC so why fuck up a team you own and makes money for one you don't own and get nothing from? That argument makes no sense to me.

MLSE (are or were) interested in buying Argos and hosting Grey Cup at BMO field. But now that TL is leaving, maybe MLSE is no longer interested owning Argos?

Point is: we're getting new turf to get Argos/CFL move to BMO field. TL said "Hybrid turf", but new person to replace TL could say something else to save few bucks and look good for his/her bosses.

ryan
08-19-2014, 02:03 PM
Wasn't it Larry who wanted the Argos?

TFC07
08-19-2014, 02:05 PM
Wasn't it Larry who wanted the Argos?

Yes, but many believe his intention owning Argos was tied with NFL bid which he (and Bon Jovi) failed in the end. So who knows if Larry T still interested in owning Argos now.

ag futbol
08-19-2014, 02:13 PM
I'm sure Cathal Kelly will have a bullshit article out in a few hours straight from the horses mouth
ROFL! Just read that article!!

molenshtain
08-19-2014, 02:14 PM
http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/source-leiweke-planning-to-resign-from-mlse/


MG: Are you leaving ‘soon’?

TL: No, there is no timeline. I’ve never said I would be here forever, but my work here is not done. We have to get the NBA All-Star Game done. We have to get the Raptors practice facility done. We have to get all three teams winning.
MG: Does the NFL deal impact your tenure?
TL: Not in the least. I’ll bet you a hell of a lot of money we’re talking about the Leafs and the Raptors making the playoffs in the same year when we talk in April.
MG: Did you have a non-compete clause when you left Los Angeles?
TL: No, there was no non-compete. I can go wherever I want and I want to be here, and I love what we’re doing and I think we’re making inroads. But we’re right smack in the middle of about a dozen huge projects and I’m going to get them done.
MG: What is on the horizon?
TL: I’ll think about this once we’re through everything we need to get through, but right now we’re focused on the season at hand and I guarantee you, I will be here.
MG: And then reassess?
TL: I serve at the beck and call of the board and so they have a voice in this too, but from my standpoint I’m focused on this season, and that’s all I’m focused on.
MG: Is there any conflict with the board?
TL: I get along well with the board and I like where we’re at and I like what we’re doing and to their credit they’ve given us the capital and the resources. You’re going to hear a series of announcements in the next couple of days. We have some very good things about to be announced, that’s why these rumours are completely untrue.

MG: And suggestions about the weather being an issue?
TL: I grew up in St. Louis and spent four years in Minneapolis and when I do leave here during the winter I go to my home in Vail, so the winters can’t bother me that much.


Well I guess that settles it. He'll be here till the spring/summer at least. I'm more interested in all these upcoming projects and imminent announcements. Any idea what these could be?

Areathrasher
08-19-2014, 02:20 PM
ROFL! Just read that article!!

Like clockwork :lol:

fiji_blue
08-19-2014, 02:30 PM
I hope Bez stays on long term....

Qman
08-19-2014, 02:32 PM
Yes, but many believe his intention owning Argos was tied with NFL bid which he (and Bon Jovi) failed in the end. So who knows if Larry T still interested in owning Argos now.

TL wanted the argos bad -- he can see the TV ratings, he sees the crappy stadium situation. Motivation: easy turnaround, makes him look good.

LT more interested in the argos due to his NFL bid.

Rogers is the one veto-ing the argos deal. Bell-Rogers must vote as a block. Rogers, therefore can block any deal. CFL kills the Jays ratings in the summer, Rogers doesn't like that. The CFL likes TSN and doesn't give Rogers the time of day and its visa versa.

TFC07
08-19-2014, 02:38 PM
TL wanted the argos bad -- he can see the TV ratings, he sees the crappy stadium situation. Motivation: easy turnaround, makes him look good.

LT more interested in the argos due to his NFL bid.

Rogers is the one veto-ing the argos deal. Bell-Rogers must vote as a block. Rogers, therefore can block any deal. CFL kills the Jays ratings in the summer, Rogers doesn't like that. The CFL likes TSN and doesn't give Rogers the time of day and its visa versa.

Blue Jays are getting pretty much equal or some of their games better ratings than CFL (especially Argos) this year, so I don't believe you on that part.

How we know it was Rogers blocking the deal? Can you back up your claim? What if Bell or LT didn't like the deal ($10 million and percentage of Grey Cup profit) either? I personally don't believe Argos are worth $10 million and percentage of future Grey Cup in Toronto profit so I believe all parties in MLSE voted no that deal.

Kaz
08-19-2014, 02:48 PM
I hate saying it but I don't buy any of it.

He may be leaving even if he said he wasn't (would he say if he were.. no)

Does it matter to me? not really. Half of what he says is for show.

Fort York Redcoat
08-19-2014, 03:15 PM
TL wanted the argos bad -- he can see the TV ratings, he sees the crappy stadium situation. Motivation: easy turnaround, makes him look good.

LT more interested in the argos due to his NFL bid.

Rogers is the one veto-ing the argos deal. Bell-Rogers must vote as a block. Rogers, therefore can block any deal. CFL kills the Jays ratings in the summer, Rogers doesn't like that. The CFL likes TSN and doesn't give Rogers the time of day and its visa versa.

http://canadianoutages.com/i/logo/rogers.png

Never been a Rogers fan before today...

doobiedoobiedoo....

ensco
08-19-2014, 03:51 PM
I love saying you are here for the season, without even identifying the sport, hahahahaha

Argos at BMO was/is a sideshow, only part of this because of the possibility of getting $30M from government sources. Rogers would go along with it if they got cut in on the CFL deal. That's no biggie.

My guess as to what is going on: Leiweke would need Bogers to go to war with the NHL in order to make serious outdoor hockey happen. Right now the league controls these things and revenue is shared. The league's distribution of $5M per club last week, the timing of that, that was no coincidence. There is a potential battle royale brewing over this.

But can Rogers be anxious to poke a stick in Bettman's eye after ponying up $5B for the rights? They need the league to give them scheduling and other important priorities. So they probably vetoed Leiweke from going to war. If I had to bet, I'd bet this caused Leiweke to conclude he can't get things done here, and is interviewing. Which cannot be kept quiet.

Related guess: Leiweke's game plan requires massive spending (at least 90M at BMO, big losses at TFC). I wonder if the spigots for all that just got turned off (or the approval to turn them on was never really given in the first place, ex the Defoe and Bradley deals.

Those godawful TV numbers for TFC this year cannot have helped Leiweke, because they really undermine any ability he has to say "trust me" when asking for a big incremental budget. The TFC signings are his personal moves and they aren't driving anything (ex refilling BMO, but as discussed elsewhere, that only recoups maybe 20% of the cost of the signings). They are a real problem.

Bottom line: Bell and Rogers bought this thing to keep it away from others, not to build it. We will get a conservator next.

molenshtain
08-19-2014, 04:04 PM
Bottom line: Bell and Rogers bought this thing to keep it away from others, not to build it. We will get a conservator next.

I don't buy that. Why would they hire Leiweke in the first place then?

ensco
08-19-2014, 04:17 PM
I don't buy that. Why would they hire Leiweke in the first place then?

Because they didn't do their homework. Happens all the time with boards. They rely on headhunters to do the interviewing and the background research.

Building for owners like this means 5% a year.

Not spending nine digit amounts to smash and then remake things.

Ossington Mental Youth
08-19-2014, 04:20 PM
I don't buy that. Why would they hire Leiweke in the first place then?

The boat was sinking, now its not

MightyDM
08-19-2014, 04:38 PM
I love saying you are here for the season, without even identifying the sport, hahahahaha

Argos at BMO was/is a sideshow, only part of this because of the possibility of getting $30M from government sources. Rogers would go along with it if they got cut in on the CFL deal. That's no biggie.

My guess as to what is going on: Leiweke would need Bogers to go to war with the NHL in order to make serious outdoor hockey happen. Right now the league controls these things and revenue is shared. The league's distribution of $5M per club last week, the timing of that, that was no coincidence. There is a potential battle royale brewing over this.

But can Rogers be anxious to poke a stick in Bettman's eye after ponying up $5B for the rights? They need the league to give them scheduling and other important priorities. So they probably vetoed Leiweke from going to war. If I had to bet, I'd bet this caused Leiweke to conclude he can't get things done here, and is interviewing. Which cannot be kept quiet.

Related guess: Leiweke's game plan requires massive spending (at least 90M at BMO, big losses at TFC). I wonder if the spigots for all that just got turned off (or the approval to turn them on was never really given in the first place, ex the Defoe and Bradley deals.

Those godawful TV numbers for TFC this year cannot have helped Leiweke, because they really undermine any ability he has to say "trust me" when asking for a big incremental budget. The TFC signings are his personal moves and they aren't driving anything (ex refilling BMO, but as discussed elsewhere, that only recoups maybe 20% of the cost of the signings). They are a real problem.

Bottom line: Bell and Rogers bought this thing to keep it away from others, not to build it. We will get a conservator next.Very interesting post Ensco. Not certain you are correct, but it does connect the dots. It also highlights the conflict Rogers appointees to the Board of MLSE have now that Rogers signed the NHL deal - and their legal obligation is to act in the best interests of MLSE, not Rogers. Unlikely to come to this in Canada but TSN would have an interesting lawsuit should Rogers Board appointees block something that was good for MLSE but bad for Rogers.

ryan
08-19-2014, 04:51 PM
The boat was sinking, now its not

I fear what this club will become post Bradley/Defoe era. Probably back to the basement, should we get another Assholemi type.

dupont
08-19-2014, 04:58 PM
He has accomplished a lot already (at least for TFC). I wanted him to stay but I think the language being used by him make it obvious he won't be around much longer. I just hope he changed the mentality and culture of the management at MLSE enough that they still aim high after he leaves (fat chance)

ensco
08-19-2014, 06:12 PM
It also highlights the conflict Rogers appointees to the Board of MLSE have now that Rogers signed the NHL deal - and their legal obligation is to act in the best interests of MLSE, not Rogers. Unlikely to come to this in Canada but TSN would have an interesting lawsuit should Rogers Board appointees block something that was good for MLSE but bad for Rogers.

Very astute point.

Beach_Red
08-19-2014, 06:45 PM
Very interesting post Ensco. Not certain you are correct, but it does connect the dots. It also highlights the conflict Rogers appointees to the Board of MLSE have now that Rogers signed the NHL deal - and their legal obligation is to act in the best interests of MLSE, not Rogers. Unlikely to come to this in Canada but TSN would have an interesting lawsuit should Rogers Board appointees block something that was good for MLSE but bad for Rogers.

There doesn't seem to be much conflict, it sure looks like it's all one company.

Initial B
08-19-2014, 07:14 PM
I think Lieweke's done a good job of shifting the culture at MLSE. I think he's pretty much broken the cronyism that was rampant around the organization while Tannenbaum/Peddie were calling the shots. I don't mind if he leaves so long as he puts someone in place that shares the vision of MLSE/TFC. I wonder if Bez would be promoted to President/GM of TFC, a la Cliff Fletcher and the Leafs. I would be okay with that.

OgtheDim
08-19-2014, 09:42 PM
I am always sceptical of any MLSE rumours that come from puck head journalists. They generally have yet to accept TL as being in charge as they can not fathom a non hockey guy being in charge.

Especially McCowan, who has little credibility with MLSE.

According to that interview, he'll be here in April and May of next season.

Bigger question.

Where's the stadium expansion info?

Qman
08-20-2014, 01:01 AM
Blue Jays are getting pretty much equal or some of their games better ratings than CFL (especially Argos) this year, so I don't believe you on that part.

How we know it was Rogers blocking the deal? Can you back up your claim? What if Bell or LT didn't like the deal ($10 million and percentage of Grey Cup profit) either? I personally don't believe Argos are worth $10 million and percentage of future Grey Cup in Toronto profit so I believe all parties in MLSE voted no that deal.


-- look at the last five years ratings CFL gets 50% higher ratings than blue jays. Its roughly 700k CFL vs 450 Blue jays since the ppm's were introduced 4-5 years ago. I don't really care, but i believe i saw the Argos game was the most watched sporting event in the country last week with over 800,000 viewers.

-- its been in the press several times that Bell and LT might just buy the Argos directly, rather than thru MLSE. This would infer the 3rd shareholder (Rogers) is blocking it at the board level. In any case, as it has also been reported, there is a valuation gap between Braley and MLSE.

Cashcleaner
08-20-2014, 01:07 AM
I certainly don't want to believe the news, but Leiweke's response doesn't inspire confidence. Fully committed to the season at hand? What season? Is he talking about TFC or the upcoming hockey and basketball seasons? I'm not going to kiss the ground he's walked on, but the guy has certainly brought TFC around and put the Raptors back in the minds of Torontonians.

Though I will admit that it would make sense if losing the Bills bid was the primary reason for leaving. I don't know how good Toronto's chances were at bringing the NFL to town, but it certainly seems that plan is no more.

Red81
08-20-2014, 01:36 AM
if leiweke leaves, i could see TFC folding within 5 years. How many football franchises have been toast in this city over past 30 years.
We draw 22k on TV. No one outside the core supporters cares about football in Toronto. We are losing $5-$10m per year due to the Defoe and Bradley signings. Defoe has delivered big time. Bradley could be replace by a 200k MLSer and is a major anchor dragging down this club.
This sucks!!!!

reggie
08-20-2014, 01:47 AM
if leiweke leaves, i could see TFC folding within 5 years. How many football franchises have been toast in this city over past 30 years.
We draw 22k on TV. No one outside the core supporters cares about football in Toronto. We are losing $5-$10m per year due to the Defoe and Bradley signings. Defoe has delivered big time. Bradley could be replace by a 200k MLSer and is a major anchor dragging down this club.
This sucks!!!!

we we we..yr nothing but a troll you wanker,go watch yr fucking argos

reggie
08-20-2014, 01:55 AM
if leiweke leaves, i could see TFC folding within 5 years. How many football franchises have been toast in this city over past 30 years.
We draw 22k on TV. No one outside the core supporters cares about football in Toronto. We are losing $5-$10m per year due to the Defoe and Bradley signings. Defoe has delivered big time. Bradley could be replace by a 200k MLSer and is a major anchor dragging down this club.
This sucks!!!!

those teams folded,because the leagues folded dipshit troll.

Fort York Redcoat
08-20-2014, 07:32 AM
I certainly don't want to believe the news, but Leiweke's response doesn't inspire confidence. Fully committed to the season at hand? What season? Is he talking about TFC or the upcoming hockey and basketball seasons? I'm not going to kiss the ground he's walked on, but the guy has certainly brought TFC around and put the Raptors back in the minds of Torontonians.

Though I will admit that it would make sense if losing the Bills bid was the primary reason for leaving. I don't know how good Toronto's chances were at bringing the NFL to town, but it certainly seems that plan is no more.

"At hand" to me says "the season in progress".

He could leave as early as November by that language.

TFC07
08-20-2014, 09:32 AM
-- look at the last five years ratings CFL gets 50% higher ratings than blue jays. Its roughly 700k CFL vs 450 Blue jays since the ppm's were introduced 4-5 years ago. I don't really care, but i believe i saw the Argos game was the most watched sporting event in the country last week with over 800,000 viewers.

But difference is that Blue Jays play every day during late spring to fall and get 500K per game (on average) which is fantastic while CFL don't play that many games (or in Argos case only 10 games including playoff game). So why would Rogers be jealous of Bell and CFL/Argos? This year, CFL ratings isn't exactly getting 700K per game. Their ratings have been all the place. I believe one of CFL games on last weekend got around 490K which is below average for CFL.


-- its been in the press several times that Bell and LT might just buy the Argos directly, rather than thru MLSE. This would infer the 3rd shareholder (Rogers) is blocking it at the board level. In any case, as it has also been reported, there is a valuation gap between Braley and MLSE.

If that's case, then they could have bought Argos right now since there isn't any interest out there to buy Argos outside LT/MLSE. I personally believe asking price is too much which is preventing sale.

Derko
08-20-2014, 10:06 AM
Wow the Sky is falling, and Global Warming will end the Earth as we know it today, I am sure Tim Leiweke will leave MLSE at some time, I don't worry about things I have no control over.
If I did it would only raise my Blood Pressure and Stress Level.

Ultra & Proud
08-20-2014, 11:14 AM
If Lieweke leaves I predict the City of Toronto will fold, followed by the rest of Canada. Who else can run things here? Lieweke is GOD! First T.O will become an economic then socio-economic wasteland ala inner city Detroit until it eventually morphs into a Mad Max type world where battles are waged over gas and food supplies. The end is nigh! Repent!

ginkster88
08-20-2014, 11:36 AM
If he goes now, he'll have lured Uruji, Drake, Defoe, Bradley and Shanahan. I was skeptical that Shanahan would bring about much change, but the Leafs now have an analytics department that makes the rest of the league envious.

If he leaves now I'm not too worried; the man himself can't put these teams into the playoffs, but they're sure as hell headed the right direction.

Qman
08-20-2014, 11:50 AM
Once i see bulldozers and cranes at CNE grounds, then i will be convinced he is staying. This is his "baby". He is a big believer in MLS ... i got the sense before than TFC was an after thought with the old guard mgmt team at MLSE

ag futbol
08-20-2014, 11:52 AM
we we we..yr nothing but a troll you wanker,go watch yr fucking argos
It's funny because if there was anyone who was going to help the Argos it would be Leiweke. I guess when you're truly desperate it's nice to pretend someone else has it worse.

ag futbol
08-20-2014, 11:56 AM
Once i see bulldozers and cranes at CNE grounds, then i will be convinced he is staying. This is his "baby". He is a big believer in MLS ... i got the sense before than TFC was an after thought with the old guard mgmt team at MLSE
Well that's just it, people like Leiweke who build and stick their neck out are rare, spineless lizards like Anselmi who make incremental decisions and play it safe are common.

Canary10
08-20-2014, 12:15 PM
Once i see bulldozers and cranes at CNE grounds, then i will be convinced he is staying. This is his "baby". He is a big believer in MLS ... i got the sense before than TFC was an after thought with the old guard mgmt team at MLSE

They've been advertising the "new BMO Field" so I have to think the reno is a done deal.

gdg_9
08-20-2014, 12:17 PM
http://www.torontosun.com/2014/08/19/leiweke-cant-leave-his-work-with-tfc-has-just-begun

“I am focused on getting TFC in the playoffs,” Leiweke told me. “Just renewed my tickets for this year’s playoffs.”

That quote caught my eye... A little off topic, but have playoff SSH renewals/reservations started?
I haven't gotten any emails or heard anything from my rep yet?

TFC07
08-20-2014, 12:35 PM
It's funny because if there was anyone who was going to help the Argos it would be Leiweke. I guess when you're truly desperate it's nice to pretend someone else has it worse.

Agreed. I don't understand why Agros fans want TFC/soccer to fail when they need them for order to make BMO field profitable for City and MLSE. TFC are main tenants who will be using BMO field more than anyone else. Without professional soccer, BMO field wouldn't be profitable and city will end up getting rid of BMO field to save money and built something else.

There's a reason why other CFL owners are looking into owning professional soccer team and talking with CSA to potentially form all Canadian soccer league.


http://www.torontosun.com/2014/08/19/leiweke-cant-leave-his-work-with-tfc-has-just-begun

“I am focused on getting TFC in the playoffs,” Leiweke told me. “Just renewed my tickets for this year’s playoffs.”

That quote caught my eye... A little off topic, but have playoff SSH renewals/reservations started?
I haven't gotten any emails or heard anything from my rep yet?

No.

Ultra & Proud
08-20-2014, 12:36 PM
http://www.torontosun.com/2014/08/19/leiweke-cant-leave-his-work-with-tfc-has-just-begun

“I am focused on getting TFC in the playoffs,” Leiweke told me. “Just renewed my tickets for this year’s playoffs.”

That quote caught my eye... A little off topic, but have playoff SSH renewals/reservations started?
I haven't gotten any emails or heard anything from my rep yet?
Pretty sure it's just more bluster for the cameras and mics. Anyone think he actually had to buy tickets for any matches?

Phil
08-20-2014, 01:03 PM
http://www.torontosun.com/2014/08/19/leiweke-cant-leave-his-work-with-tfc-has-just-begun

“I am focused on getting TFC in the playoffs,” Leiweke told me. “Just renewed my tickets for this year’s playoffs.”

That quote caught my eye... A little off topic, but have playoff SSH renewals/reservations started?
I haven't gotten any emails or heard anything from my rep yet?

Its coming, along with renewals....

Canary10
08-20-2014, 01:05 PM
I don't want to see playoff ticket offers until we are over the line! Don't jinx this!

ManUtd4ever
08-20-2014, 01:50 PM
I don't want to see playoff ticket offers until we are over the line! Don't jinx this!

True enough. We're in a solid position, but there's still a long way to go.

Qman
08-20-2014, 06:44 PM
I am always sceptical of any MLSE rumours that come from puck head journalists. They generally have yet to accept TL as being in charge as they can not fathom a non hockey guy being in charge.

Especially McCowan, who has little credibility with MLSE.

According to that interview, he'll be here in April and May of next season.

Bigger question.

Where's the stadium expansion info?

Its odd that the news the CFL commissioner will be ending is reign in April and TL news broke in the same day.
Cohen would be a good alternative to TL, rather than bringing back the usually MLSE mgmt types that don't give a shit about footie.

In the clip I say today, TL basically said he was here to turn the ship around but thats it.

Qman
08-20-2014, 07:10 PM
I am always sceptical of any MLSE rumours that come from puck head journalists. They generally have yet to accept TL as being in charge as they can not fathom a non hockey guy being in charge.

Especially McCowan, who has little credibility with MLSE.

According to that interview, he'll be here in April and May of next season.

Bigger question.

Where's the stadium expansion info?

yeah, didn't TL say in the spring, prep begins in september

nonc
08-20-2014, 10:26 PM
Sort of demoralizing from the high-end wizardry; relatively productive mouthpiece point of view, but I doubt TFC and the Raptors decline in the immediate future. We have always had the money but an incompetent club infrastructure. Bez was a significant add that we've not really had before. As long as it's not another Anselmi or sockpuppet for the board I think it will be OK. Leafs are hopeless anyway.

Fort York Redcoat
08-21-2014, 08:03 AM
Its odd that the news the CFL commissioner will be ending is reign in April and TL news broke in the same day.
Cohen would be a good alternative to TL, rather than bringing back the usually MLSE mgmt types that don't give a shit about footie.

In the clip I say today, TL basically said he was here to turn the ship around but thats it.

This would be a shocker and some promotion for Cohen.

notthesun
08-21-2014, 09:27 AM
Official: Leiweke leaving MLSE in June 2015. (https://twitter.com/LukeWileman/status/502458991021408257)

Canary10
08-21-2014, 09:29 AM
I don't think this is good news for TFC. Leiweke clearly has a soft spot for soccer and MLS. I can't imagine the next CEO having the same.

ensco
08-21-2014, 09:36 AM
Official: Leiweke leaving MLSE in June 2015. (https://twitter.com/LukeWileman/status/502458991021408257)

Link? Doesn't make sense. Owners won't want a lame duck, they'd take him out tomorrow if he announced that.

BuSaPuNk
08-21-2014, 09:37 AM
With on going construction at BMO this is not good timing. Terrible news.

Canary10
08-21-2014, 09:37 AM
Link? Doesn't make sense. Owners won't want a lame duck, they'd take him out tomorrow if he announced that.

Front page of thestar.ca.

They did lame duck him.

OgtheDim
08-21-2014, 09:37 AM
Oh well......

as long as its not a puckhead first guy. we should be OK.

In Bez we trust.

Canary10
08-21-2014, 09:37 AM
Tim Leiweke will be leaving MLSE by June next year or until a successor is appointed, the organization announced Thursday.

Leiweke informed the Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment Ltd. Board that he will continue in his role as CEO of MLSE until June 30, 2015.

“Under Tim’s leadership, MLSE has made a number of key moves to strengthen our organization on the path to championship success,” said MLSE chairman Larry Tanenbaum.

Leiweke joined MLSE as president and CEO in June, 2013.

MORE TO COME

ensco
08-21-2014, 09:39 AM
Found link. This makes more sense.

http://www.thestar.com/sports/leafs/2014/08/21/tim_leiweke_to_leave_mlse_by_june_30_2015.html

He'll be gone a lot sooner than next June. Probably in weeks, I'd guess.

Canary10
08-21-2014, 09:39 AM
In other news, who is waiting with baited breath for the Karen Stintz announcement at 11:00?

notthesun
08-21-2014, 09:43 AM
Link? Doesn't make sense. Owners won't want a lame duck, they'd take him out tomorrow if he announced that.

That text is a link, haha.

I'm glad we'll still have Bezbatchenko.

I wonder what the chances are that MLSE hires another guy to act as head of all three franchises. Probably pretty slim. Hopefully they have the good sense to hire a soccer guy for TFC.

ensco
08-21-2014, 09:43 AM
In Bez we trust.

I wouldn't bet my house on Bez staying. I mean I have no idea, but Leiweke hired him, and I doubt he will reflexively feel loyalty to Tanenbaum and Bogers.

ensco
08-21-2014, 09:44 AM
That text is a link, haha.

My bad, sorry.

billyfly
08-21-2014, 09:46 AM
Hmmm

OgtheDim
08-21-2014, 09:47 AM
I wouldn't bet my house on Bez staying. I mean I have no idea, but Leiweke hired him, and I doubt he will reflexively feel loyalty to Tanenbaum and Bogers.

I see him more as an MLS guy.

Bez's loyalty is to doing a job well. He's yet to be proven successful. If he leaves before this team wins a championship, its a poor career choice.

Walms
08-21-2014, 09:49 AM
My TSN, APP just officially broke the new, I'm crushed

Suds
08-21-2014, 09:49 AM
Sucks. Announcement says June 30th but my guess he's gone by January. (or at least transitioning with the newly appointed person already named by then)

Canary10
08-21-2014, 09:51 AM
I see him more as an MLS guy.

Bez's loyalty is to doing a job well. He's yet to be proven successful. If he leaves before this team wins a championship, its a poor career choice.

Might not be his choice. People like to make their own hires. Fact is, everything is up in the air now.

notthesun
08-21-2014, 09:55 AM
If I'm Nelsen I'm more worried than Bez. Leiweke, for some reason, had huge faith in Nelsen and never considered replacing him coming in. Even if we make the playoffs, hard to imagine the next guy has the same attitude.

Bez is safer to me because he's been doing so well. Go down the list of moves he's made since coming in. They're pretty much all wins.

TFC07
08-21-2014, 09:58 AM
Might not be his choice. People like to make their own hires. Fact is, everything is up in the air now.

I personally don't see why Bez will lose his job especially if TFC is winning team.

Also keep in mind that TFC is small player in MLSE and chances of next new boss caring about TFC is pretty slim. I think new president will be more hockey guy to fix Maple Leafs first who wouldn't touch Raptors and TFC unless they're losing. Also, with BMO field renovation, new Raptors practice facility and NBA All-Star game, I think new president will be too busy to worry about TFC in short term.

jimiv
08-21-2014, 10:00 AM
Feel bad for the new guy.

He's the one to raise ticket prices and he's going to get blamed.

I'm more fearful that he will be blamed for BMO to become a CFL stadium.

Auzzy
08-21-2014, 10:01 AM
FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF!

Not saying Leiweke was the greatest thing since sliced bread or something. Plus I don't even like sliced bread. I was just hoping for some effing stability for a change. Even if the coach changes some day, you would have some ongoing structure and stability above him.

TFC07
08-21-2014, 10:01 AM
Feel bad for the new guy.

He's the one to raise ticket prices and he's going to get blamed.

If new guy comes after this year, then I can't see people blaming new guy.

But however, I think our fanbase is smart enough to know there's going to be price increase next year. Also, there's going to be 8,000 more seats so I don't think ticket prices are going to increase that much since they want sell out games for next season.

TFC07
08-21-2014, 10:03 AM
I'm more fearful that he will be blamed for BMO to become a CFL stadium.

Yeah, this is something I could see fans blaming new President/CEO.

ManUtd4ever
08-21-2014, 10:05 AM
Once the the dust settles, I think we'll be able to acknowledge that in retrospect, Leiweke was successful in laying the groundwork to enable all MLSE sports franchises to move forward on a positive trajectory.

I have been quite impressed with the results of all of his decisions at the MLSE helm, with the exception of signing Dave Nonis to a premature five year contract extension.

I believe there will be better days ahead for TFC, Leafs, and Raptors fans in this city, even after he moves on to greener pastures.

Ultra & Proud
08-21-2014, 10:20 AM
Once the the dust settles, I think we'll be able to acknowledge that in retrospect, Leiweke was successful in laying the groundwork to enable all MLSE sports franchises to move forward on a positive trajectory.

I have been quite impressed with the results of all of his decisions at the MLSE helm, with the exception of signing Dave Nonis to a premature five year contract extension.

I believe there will be better days ahead for TFC, Leafs, and Raptors fans in this city, even after he moves on to greener pastures.
I agree with this. Things are looking up for all the MLSE teams (for a change) so why would a new CEO come in and shake everything up to possibly upset any early growth each one has made. Having the new CEO demand having his own guy in charge of each team is BS since most possible successors can't possibly have knowledge of each of the relative MLSE sports franchises. Bottom line is as long as the results are there and there is money coming in or at least showing growth towards profitability then all the franchises will remain the same.

For those worried about our DP expenditures and the new guy cutting costs, remember that our yearly payroll is around $16M or just about the salary equivalent of Amir Johnson and Landry Fields or Lupul, Clarkson, & JVR respectively. In other words, peanuts.

ryan
08-21-2014, 10:23 AM
He probably spent too much and didn't gouge the fans like Bogers so loves to do. Clearly they realized he isn't the right fit for them. Fuck winning in Toronto, these owners don't care for it.

Qman
08-21-2014, 10:24 AM
I don't think this is good news for TFC. Leiweke clearly has a soft spot for soccer and MLS. I can't imagine the next CEO having the same.

I don't know who would want this job. The board is so disfunctional, how can you get anything done. Its probably going to be a hockey guy the doesn't give soccer the time of day.

they could always hire todd, tim's brother ... can't remember what organization he runs now.

Canary10
08-21-2014, 10:34 AM
I don't know who would want this job. The board is so disfunctional, how can you get anything done. Its probably going to be a hockey guy the doesn't give soccer the time of day.

they could always hire todd, tim's brother ... can't remember what organization he runs now.

There will be someone deluded enough to think they have the skills to work with Bogers.

reggie
08-21-2014, 10:35 AM
is TB the gm and prez or just the gm?

molenshtain
08-21-2014, 10:42 AM
Once the the dust settles, I think we'll be able to acknowledge that in retrospect, Leiweke was successful in laying the groundwork to enable all MLSE sports franchises to move forward on a positive trajectory.

I have been quite impressed with the results of all of his decisions at the MLSE helm, with the exception of signing Dave Nonis to a premature five year contract extension.

I believe there will be better days ahead for TFC, Leafs, and Raptors fans in this city, even after he moves on to greener pastures.

+1

I don't get the doom and gloom on this one. We were previously owned by a pension plan who were literally only concerned with ROI. now we're owned by two billion dollar corporations who have a rooted interest in seeing Toronto sports succeed and have only operated in that manner since they've arrived. I'm interested in seeing if they go the rout of signing 3 different guys to run three different teams instead of having one guy overseeing all of that. Seems like a lot of work.

Ultra & Proud
08-21-2014, 10:42 AM
Fuck winning in Toronto, these owners don't care for it.
This is not the case with Bogers. They want winners because it boosts what matters to them; tv viewership, more games (playoffs), and bigger advertising dollars.

Unfortunately conglomerates like Bogers usually have no clue on how to achieve success in sports so they do the Anselmi and just keep rolling the dice to see what happens. They are however quite patient judging by the Jays. Heads would have rolled anywhere else by now.

Kaz
08-21-2014, 10:42 AM
So who thinks this was a personal choice (ie wife is a wuss that can't handle winter) or a coup to oust him?

Qman
08-21-2014, 10:43 AM
Another possible name is Keith Pelley. He has worked for Bell (ran TSN) and now works for Rogers (runs Media Division). He's a TV guy, so don't know how interested he is in soccer.
'

Red CB Toronto
08-21-2014, 10:50 AM
The next shoe to drop at some point is one of either Bell or Rogers buying the other out, it will be interesting to see who it is. This partnership in many ways has been on borrowed time.

OgtheDim
08-21-2014, 10:55 AM
The next shoe to drop at some point is one of either Bell or Rogers buying the other out, it will be interesting to see who it is. This partnership in many ways has been on borrowed time.


I think those two are looked in a death stare until the end of time. No way either wants to give the most lucrative sports franchise in this country to their competitor.

ag futbol
08-21-2014, 11:00 AM
I see him more as an MLS guy.

Bez's loyalty is to doing a job well. He's yet to be proven successful. If he leaves before this team wins a championship, its a poor career choice.
It's pretty common in industry to jump when the guy who hires you leaves. It depends what his other options are of course, but it's risky to stick around in environments like the one he is about to enter. He could easily have his hands tied by new leadership and fall flat on his face, that looks far worse than quitting early, especially if he can make a clean break at the end of a season.

TFC07
08-21-2014, 11:02 AM
The next shoe to drop at some point is one of either Bell or Rogers buying the other out, it will be interesting to see who it is. This partnership in many ways has been on borrowed time.

Rogers is worry about not making money on NHL TV deal, so I can see them end up selling their shares if they need money to recover their losses from NHL TV deal.

Voodooman
08-21-2014, 11:03 AM
Thank you to Tim, he laid some great ground work, really nice guy to talk to, and best of luck in the future.

Hopefully, they bring someone in who can continue the process and not destroy it.

MKR
08-21-2014, 11:07 AM
He probably spent too much and didn't gouge the fans like Bogers so loves to do. Clearly they realized he isn't the right fit for them. Fuck winning in Toronto, these owners don't care for it.

i don't really see how Lieweke was this robin hood figure for the fans. The Leafs and Raptors are still very expensive tickets. In fact was it not true that the Raptors had the most expensive playoff tickets in the entire league last year? (hello price gouge)

I know prices went down for TFC, but first off i thought it only involved seasons tickets (regular single tickets remained the same price, no?) and then probably the biggest motivating factor in doing this was the big drop in attendance and the overall backlash towards the team in general. Even so with the *price drop, TFC still remain one of the most expensive tickets in the MLS or so i am led to believe.

ManUtd4ever
08-21-2014, 11:10 AM
There will be someone deluded enough to think they have the skills to work with Bogers.

There will be no shortage of qualified candidates lining up to replace Leiweke.

Despite the public perception of the MLSE board, people have to remember that MLSE is one of a handful of corporations in the North American sports landscape with considerable financial resources available, and the board has always allocated the funds necessary to support the vision of it's executives.

backbeat
08-21-2014, 11:10 AM
But with new opportunities on the horizon, it’s time for me to begin the transition from sports and entertainment executive to entrepreneur,” Leiweke said in a statement.

so what's the scuttlebutt on what team he's taking an ownership position in? Bills? Chivas? Clippers?......

airstream
08-21-2014, 11:13 AM
But with new opportunities on the horizon, it’s time for me to begin the transition from sports and entertainment executive to entrepreneur,” Leiweke said in a statement.

so what's the scuttlebutt on what team he's taking an ownership position in? Bills? Chivas? Clippers?......

I was thinking he's teaming up with his old pal Beck's on the Miami franchise.

Ultra & Proud
08-21-2014, 11:14 AM
But with new opportunities on the horizon, it’s time for me to begin the transition from sports and entertainment executive to entrepreneur,” Leiweke said in a statement.

so what's the scuttlebutt on what team he's taking an ownership position in? Bills? Chivas? Clippers?......
I still think it's most likely with the Clippers as L.A is TL's home base and since the buzz is that Ballmer will be looking into buying the Raiders it makes sense. I do wonder if Ballmer (with some T.L prodding) may have any interest in picking up Chivas and starting his own wee L.A empire ala MLSE and since the Miami deal looks dead he could have Becks in on the newly re-branded Chivas team and be the face of the franchise. All things Lieweke loves doing right there.

TFC07
08-21-2014, 11:19 AM
Another possible name is Keith Pelley. He has worked for Bell (ran TSN) and now works for Rogers (runs Media Division). He's a TV guy, so don't know how interested he is in soccer.
'

Bryan Colangelo is another candidate who could end being CEO/President of MLSE (he was rumour to one of candidates to replace Peddie before TL arrive). Since he's already close friends with one of the owners and still lives in Toronto, I think he will get interview or two if he's interested.

OgtheDim
08-21-2014, 11:20 AM
My understanding is Becks gets to pay for an MLS franchise at a cheap rate. It can't be LA or NY. And, the offer is not abrogated by not getting off the ground in Miami.

Becks will likely grab an investment opportunity somewhere else when Miami falls apart.

OgtheDim
08-21-2014, 11:21 AM
Bryan Colangelo is another candidate who could end being CEO/President of MLSE (he was rumour to one of candidates to replace Peddie before TL arrive). Since he's already close friends with one of the owners and still lives in Toronto, I think he will get interview or two if he's interested.

He was fired.

Not a hope in hell.


Ya'll are giving too much power to Tanenbaum in all this.

TFC07
08-21-2014, 11:24 AM
He was fired.

Not a hope in hell.


Ya'll are giving too much power to Tanenbaum in all this.

TL wanted to fire him, but Larry T didn't allow TL to fire BC so TL came up with "president of business side of Raptors" job to give to BC which BC decided not to take in the end.

Alonso
08-21-2014, 11:30 AM
So who thinks this was a personal choice (ie wife is a wuss that can't handle winter) or a coup to oust him?


Seems to me like a coup from within, he didn't get his way and/or had his hands tied, and decided that was that... time to move on.

Ultra & Proud
08-21-2014, 11:38 AM
My understanding is Becks gets to pay for an MLS franchise at a cheap rate. It can't be LA or NY. And, the offer is not abrogated by not getting off the ground in Miami.

I didn't say own. That seems to have gone by the wayside for now. I was thinking more like being President or something along those lines as well as being their shirtless ambassador.

Detroit_TFC
08-21-2014, 11:47 AM
TL started June 30, 2013. To me, putting in a year and some (assuming the process of finding a replacement is already underway) is nowhere near enough. I was thinking 3 full seasons for each team would be a minimum to establish his turn-around specialist cred. Putting in a year makes him seem more like a consultant.

Red CB Toronto
08-21-2014, 12:00 PM
TL started June 30, 2013. To me, putting in a year and some (assuming the process of finding a replacement is already underway) is nowhere near enough. I was thinking 3 full seasons for each team would be a minimum to establish his turn-around specialist cred. Putting in a year makes him seem more like a consultant.

Just like JK and we know what that did for the Reds, but this to be honest has been a completely different situation and we need to see where it ends up before laying judgement.

ManUtd4ever
08-21-2014, 12:54 PM
Just a thought...I wonder if MLSE will revert to hiring a CEO to concentrate on the business side of operations for MLSE (in the mold of Peddie and Anselmi), and have a president with autonomy in place for each franchise that will report to that individual to have the allocation of financial resources approved by the board.

Shanahan is already in place with the Leafs, Ujiri already holds that title with Raptors, and they have both been granted complete autonomy in their respective positions. If a qualified president is hired to oversee the day to day operations of TFC, it's a scenario that could work out well this time as opposed to in the past, because we had the wrong people in place.

As for TFC in particular, I think Bez has done a tremendous job rebuilding the roster and I would like to see him remain in his current role for the foreseeable future. In the absence of Leiweke, I do think he will need the help of a recognized figure in the world of football to help recruit talent oustide of MLS, but that's where the new president of TFC would hypothetically be able to provide valuable expertise.

It will be interesting to see how the search for Leiweke's replacement develops.

C.Ronaldo
08-21-2014, 12:59 PM
T man ruffled too many feathers?


says entrepreneur..damn this guy is ambitious.

C.Ronaldo
08-21-2014, 01:06 PM
Just like JK and we know what that did for the Reds, but this to be honest has been a completely different situation and we need to see where it ends up before laying judgement.

i find it odd to to that they hire him full time, why wasnt he just a consultant? the problems were too high up I guess.

Also, why move your whole family here?

sometime is off. some giant paycheque must have floated in his face

TFC07
08-21-2014, 01:08 PM
Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment may not need to go so far afield to find their next leader.With news that president and CEO Tim Leiweke will leave the company next summer, sources close to the MLSE board say it's already possible to compile a list of potential successors.
Canadian Olympic Committee chief executive Chris Overholt is at the head of the list.
Sources tell TSN that Overholt has "absolutely turned the COC around" since he was hired in 2010, first as marketing director, and then as CEO.
Overholt is a Toronto native and a former MLSE employee. He was the company's vice president of sales and service from 1998 to 2003. He knows the company's culture, and also has experience working with the Miami Dolphins and Florida Panthers.
"Chris absolutely would have to be considered a frontrunner," said one source close to MLSE.

Read more here: http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=459940

Another interesting candidate:


Scott O'Neil would be another candidate.O'Neil is the former CEO of Madison Square Garden, the company that owns the New York Rangers and Knicks. O'Neil was a candidate for the MLSE CEO position when Leiweke was hired.
"Scott had a great interview and got along with (MLSE board chair) Larry Tanenbaum very well," a source told TSN. "He was surprised when he didn't get the job."
O'Neil, a former senior VP of marketing with the NBA, was hired as CEO of the Philadelphia 76ers last year and recently moved to the New Jersey Nets, though the MLSE job would seem to be a more attractive role.
"Scott is a great candidate," Peddie said. "He survived dysfunction with MSG, helped new owners in Philadelphia, and is now in New Jersey with an owner who spends way too much money."

OgtheDim
08-21-2014, 01:20 PM
..Overholt is a Toronto native and a former MLSE employee. He was the company's vice president of sales and service from 1998 to 2003. He knows the company's culture....


And that quote there is why


the Christmas Tree man should not be involved in this decision
sports journalism is dying



The culture of 2003 is not the same as today. Overholt might be a good guy but the culture of 11 years ago under Steve Stavros is nowhere near what MLSE is today. Anything to get people reading I suppose.

ag futbol
08-21-2014, 01:34 PM
COC sounded interesting, then I read former MLSE employee, Florida Panthers, and Miami Dolphins.

Doesn't sound like the type of person who is going to change things, although COC did chop a fair amount of deadwood.

Canary10
08-21-2014, 02:15 PM
From Jeff Blair:

"What does Leiweke’s departure mean? If I was Toronto FC, I’d be concerned because it’s going to be difficult to find another North American sports executive who can match Leiweke’s affinity for the sport of soccer. The feeling among TFC’s fan base is that in Leiweke they finally had a suit who had their back. Translation: there will be no more Jermaine Defoes or Michael Bradleys. So enjoy them now."

http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/leiwekes-marriage-to-mlse-doomed-from-the-start/

I fear he's right.

molenshtain
08-21-2014, 02:19 PM
From Jeff Blair:

"What does Leiweke’s departure mean? If I was Toronto FC, I’d be concerned because it’s going to be difficult to find another North American sports executive who can match Leiweke’s affinity for the sport of soccer. The feeling among TFC’s fan base is that in Leiweke they finally had a suit who had their back. Translation: there will be no more Jermaine Defoes or Michael Bradleys. So enjoy them now."

http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/leiwekes-marriage-to-mlse-doomed-from-the-start/

I fear he's right.

Except for the part where other teams with similar resources seem to be able to get similar calibre DP's. Money talks more than people, even Leiweke.

Ultra & Proud
08-21-2014, 02:23 PM
As long as we have Bez I am good. I think Lieweke gets too much hands on credit for the current state of TFC. I know Lieweke hired him but Bez did the work and got the roster to where it is today. The whole stadium deal is a totally different thing though but I feel it will get done much like this new Raptors practice facility at the Ex. Lieweke is a legacy guy and a me first type and by leaving here after getting MLSE a new practice facility and stadium it will raise his stock and profile while moving into glitzier markets.

Canary10
08-21-2014, 02:24 PM
A few reports now saying Bogers was looking for a commitment from him and he wasn't willing to go past June.

cmonyoureds
08-21-2014, 02:27 PM
Except for the part where other teams with similar resources seem to be able to get similar calibre DP's. Money talks more than people, even Leiweke.

I think it's the ability to pry the the resources out of the coffers that's gonna be the problem, not the interest of the players in taking the $$.

azorean
08-21-2014, 02:29 PM
Except for the part where other teams with similar resources seem to be able to get similar calibre DP's. Money talks more than people, even Leiweke.


AMEN......what bs that was, money speaks loudest....

molenshtain
08-21-2014, 02:30 PM
I think it's the ability to pry the the resources out of the coffers that's gonna be the problem, not the interest of the players in taking the $$.

Bogers didn't buy this team to not give them considerable resources. They knew what they were getting when they hired Leiweke. They want to be ambitious.

Canary10
08-21-2014, 02:31 PM
I think it's the ability to pry the the resources out of the coffers that's gonna be the problem, not the interest of the players in taking the $$.

Yeah, I think that's the point. TFC won't be spending money on players like that again. Somewhere Pookie is probably happy....

Phil
08-21-2014, 02:32 PM
From Jeff Blair:

"What does Leiweke’s departure mean? If I was Toronto FC, I’d be concerned because it’s going to be difficult to find another North American sports executive who can match Leiweke’s affinity for the sport of soccer. The feeling among TFC’s fan base is that in Leiweke they finally had a suit who had their back. Translation: there will be no more Jermaine Defoes or Michael Bradleys. So enjoy them now."

http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/leiwekes-marriage-to-mlse-doomed-from-the-start/

I fear he's right.

The guy who went and landed David Beckham went and got us Defoe and Bradley.

ya...Jeff Blair is right.

Makes you wonder though, really good MLS teams like KC and Houston don't lean on the big DP model. Does Tim Bez start to really concentrate on building a team like that looking forward? So many possibilities, its never dull in TFC land.

Ultra & Proud
08-21-2014, 02:34 PM
That whole AEG non-competition rumor looks like it's got some serious legs now. Rednation or someone quoted a bit on Peddie putting Anselmi in charge of TFC in the past for a nice little learning experience or something along those lines. I wonder if this MLSE time for Lieweke was a proving ground to get a sweet deal come non-competition clause expiration? If so, he proved it in the way that matters to the big wigs. Not Defoe, not Bradley but by getting stadiums built, getting practice facilities done by working with government(s), by hiring what seems to be the right people to steer the MLSE franchises, and by bringing in more advertising bucks. After all if you can basically fix the mess that was the MLSE multiheaded boardroom of chaos, at least enough to basically right the 3 main team's ships, then you have to be doing something right and that would look good on any resume.

azorean
08-21-2014, 02:34 PM
I think it's the ability to pry the the resources out of the coffers that's gonna be the problem, not the interest of the players in taking the $$.

Truth here....

reggie
08-21-2014, 02:38 PM
I think we over spent on those guys...mls cant play with the big boys yet,saying that if tfc win year in and year out like RSL or LA ,we should be ok,its all about winning.

TFC07
08-21-2014, 02:38 PM
You guys underestimating Ryan Nelsen's connection here. Nelsen seem to be well connected to players in EPL, so I think signing big name players isn't going to be much of a problem as long owners are committed and want winning TFC team especially given how fast the league is growing and how newer teams are spending big on DP's. So if TFC is going to stay competitive in MLS 3.0, then signing world class players is a must.

Ultra & Proud
08-21-2014, 02:39 PM
I think it's the ability to pry the the resources out of the coffers that's gonna be the problem, not the interest of the players in taking the $$.
I don't think so. TV owners realize that by having some big names you sell advertising rights. That's all they care about, well that and viewership. The Rogers part of the beast didn't mind shelling out huge bucks to a lot of free agents for the listless Jays. I don't think something like $15M a year investment for a whole squad is a scary proposition to them. The train wreck known as Dickie almost gets that.

Canary10
08-21-2014, 02:39 PM
You guys underestimating Ryan Nelsen's connection here. Nelsen seem to be well connected to players in EPL, so I think signing big name players isn't going to be much of a problem as long owners are committed and want winning TFC team especially given how fast the league is growing and how newer teams are spending big on DP's. So if TFC is going to stay competitive in MLS 3.0, then signing world class players is a must.

I like Ryan Nelsen, but I can guarantee you he is no Tim Leiweke in the boardroom.

TFC07
08-21-2014, 02:43 PM
The guy who went and landed David Beckham went and got us Defoe and Bradley.

ya...Jeff Blair is right.

Makes you wonder though, really good MLS teams like KC and Houston don't lean on the big DP model. Does Tim Bez start to really concentrate on building a team like that looking forward? So many possibilities, its never dull in TFC land.

Houston is good? They're awful and they're falling behind with bigger clubs who spending money on DP's. SKC are playing well together, but they have been together (their core) for a while. Also, let's not forget SKC re-sign couple of their players with DP contracts recently. Tim Leiweke set up TFC nicely for MLS 3.0 where we are going to see a lot of "big name" players playing in the league and winning games.

ManUtd4ever
08-21-2014, 02:44 PM
From Jeff Blair:

"What does Leiweke’s departure mean? If I was Toronto FC, I’d be concerned because it’s going to be difficult to find another North American sports executive who can match Leiweke’s affinity for the sport of soccer. The feeling among TFC’s fan base is that in Leiweke they finally had a suit who had their back. Translation: there will be no more Jermaine Defoes or Michael Bradleys. So enjoy them now."

http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/leiwekes-marriage-to-mlse-doomed-from-the-start/

I fear he's right.

TFC has always been willing to spend money on DPs, well before Leiweke's arrival. The money wasn't always spent wisely, but that's another issue.

Will TFC spend 100 million dollars to acquire two players after Leiweke is gone? No, but then again, that's not necessary to augment the core of a winning team if a solid foundation is in place.

For the record, I think Bez has done more to improve our squad by way of his astute acquisitions than Leiweke has with the signings of Defoe and Bradley.

I'm very happy to have Defoe and Bradley in the fold, but they have both been in and out of the lineup all season, and they have not proven to be worth the outrageous money they signed for. The primary reason we have improved is because of the depth of our squad compared to last season, and Bez has been the architect in that regard.

azorean
08-21-2014, 02:45 PM
I don't think so. TV owners realize that by having some big names you sell advertising rights. That's all they care about, well that and viewership. The Rogers part of the beast didn't mind shelling out huge bucks to a lot of free agents for the listless Jays. I don't think something like $15M a year investment for a whole squad is a scary proposition to them. The train wreck known as Dickie almost gets that.
Not sure about this.......TV ratings still suck, and advertising is driven by TV numbers.

TFC07
08-21-2014, 02:47 PM
Not sure about this.......TV ratings still suck, and advertising is driven by TV numbers.

TFC isn't going to be fixed over night in terms of TV ratings thanks amount of damage done on TFC brand from past 7 years.

Canary10
08-21-2014, 02:47 PM
TFC has always been willing to spend money on DPs, well before Leiweke's arrival. The money wasn't always spent wisely, but that's another issue.

Will TFC spend $100 million dollars to acquire two players after Leiweke is gone? No, but then again, that's not necessary to augment the core of a winning team if a solid foundation is in place.

For the record, I think Bez has done more to improve our squad by way of his astute acquisitions than Leiweke has with the signings of Defoe and Bradley.

I'm very happy to have Defoe and Bradley in the fold, but they have both been in and out of the lineup all season, and they have not proven to be worth the outrageous money they signed for. The reason we have improved is because of the depth of our squad compared to last season, and Bez has been the architect.

That might all be true. All that is being said is that there likely won't be anymore signings at the level of Bradley or Defoe. Going a bit deeper, there likely also won't be a CEO with the same commitment to TFC/MLS/soccer as Leiweke had.

OgtheDim
08-21-2014, 02:50 PM
From Jeff Blair:

"What does Leiweke’s departure mean? If I was Toronto FC, I’d be concerned because it’s going to be difficult to find another North American sports executive who can match Leiweke’s affinity for the sport of soccer. The feeling among TFC’s fan base is that in Leiweke they finally had a suit who had their back. Translation: there will be no more Jermaine Defoes or Michael Bradleys. So enjoy them now."

http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/leiwekes-marriage-to-mlse-doomed-from-the-start/

I fear he's right.

I suspect that reporter's just doing the jealousy thing we have seen from non-soccer Toronto media for the last year.

The problem with all this thinking is everybody is discussing TL through the looking glass of the team they support or the sport they report on.


TL is at his core a Sports conglomerate guy.

Yes, it is unlikely that MLSE will pull in a guy with as much MLS experience as TL.

BUT, does this mean that MLSE will automatically stop reaching for success with TFC? Doubtful.


The bigger problem would be if Tannenbaum puts in a poodle to keep himself happy. But, I doubt Bogers will allow a LT lapdog to run MLSE again. (I note a lot of the talk right now seems to be about people Tannenbaum likes - consider that LT likes to spin stuff to the media).

Yes, this is not a good move for TFC. But, its not the end of the world either.

ensco
08-21-2014, 02:52 PM
I'd start printing NYCFC jerseys with Bradley's name on them today.

Wingback6
08-21-2014, 02:55 PM
Well, this is my two cents.

I think this is performance related. On field performance. I have felt personally, and I don't think I'm alone, that there are some players getting carte blanche, and others getting black listed. Having the fewest Canadians starting on a regular basis, in recent memory, is a sign of this, I think.

TL is an MLS guy, and he has made solid, MLS plays, Warner, Creavalle, and Morrow. Oduro, Jackson. These are TL guys. As is Bradley. I think Nelsen has been playing with TL guys, maybe more than he wanted, and when the results started to go south....

I think if things had continued to go well, then maybe it would be Nelsen out the door eventually, but this team got 'fixed' over the WC break and has been brutals since, and all of those 'fixes' have TL written all over them.

This, of course, is PURE speculation. However, I would not at all be surprised to see some very very different team sheets in coming games. Not to mention some better results.

azorean
08-21-2014, 03:00 PM
I'd start printing NYCFC jerseys with Bradley's name on them today.

Might not be the worst thing for us....

OgtheDim
08-21-2014, 03:01 PM
.. this team got 'fixed' over the WC break and has been brutals since, ...

We have gone 3-4-4 since the WC break. With the 4 losses against the two better teams in our conference.

Far from brutal.


That's pretty middle of the road for MLS.

OgtheDim
08-21-2014, 03:04 PM
Might not be the worst thing for us....

It would be crushing psychologically to the players, staff and supporters.

It would be damning in front of a media who would love to call out MLSE for being fools about that whole soccer thing.

It would endanger the investment of millions now being put into BMO.


I can't see it happening unless Bradley asks for the trade himself and we get a DP asset in return.

molenshtain
08-21-2014, 03:05 PM
I'd start printing NYCFC jerseys with Bradley's name on them today.


I see this thread is going into full blown up its own ass hyperbole mode.

Ultra & Proud
08-21-2014, 03:05 PM
Well, this is my two cents.

I think this is performance related. On field performance. I have felt personally, and I don't think I'm alone, that there are some players getting carte blanche, and others getting black listed. Having the fewest Canadians starting on a regular basis, in recent memory, is a sign of this, I think.

TL is an MLS guy, and he has made solid, MLS plays, Warner, Creavalle, and Morrow. Oduro, Jackson. These are TL guys. As is Bradley. I think Nelsen has been playing with TL guys, maybe more than he wanted, and when the results started to go south....

First point, less Canadians starting/playing is because they just aren't as good as the other players ahead of them in the line up. Period. I am glad Nelsen doesn't start them in some nationality arse kissing campaign like Mo did back in 2009.

Next point; those players are Bez guys. He worked with MLS doing contracts, he knows all the players, their worth and who to deal with.

Lieweke is the CEO of MLSE. CEO. Not GM of TFC. Do you really think he spent all of his time on the phones working deals for guys like Creavalle? The answer is no and I wouldn't be surprised if Liewke knew as much (or less) about Creavalle as the rest of us did when Bez went for that deal.

Canary10
08-21-2014, 03:06 PM
It would be crushing psychologically to the players, staff and supporters.

It would be damning in front of a media who would love to call out MLSE for being fools about that whole soccer thing.

It would endanger the investment of millions now being put into BMO.


I can't see it happening unless Bradley asks for the trade himself and we get a DP asset in return.

A team can pay a fee to defray/cover the transfer fee paid for a big name player, no? You don't think if NYCFC came in with the transfer fee covered MLSE wouldn't consider it?

molenshtain
08-21-2014, 03:07 PM
Well, this is my two cents.

I think this is performance related. On field performance. I have felt personally, and I don't think I'm alone, that there are some players getting carte blanche, and others getting black listed. Having the fewest Canadians starting on a regular basis, in recent memory, is a sign of this, I think.

TL is an MLS guy, and he has made solid, MLS plays, Warner, Creavalle, and Morrow. Oduro, Jackson. These are TL guys. As is Bradley. I think Nelsen has been playing with TL guys, maybe more than he wanted, and when the results started to go south....

I think if things had continued to go well, then maybe it would be Nelsen out the door eventually, but this team got 'fixed' over the WC break and has been brutals since, and all of those 'fixes' have TL written all over them.

This, of course, is PURE speculation. However, I would not at all be surprised to see some very very different team sheets in coming games. Not to mention some better results.


none of the players you listed, bar Bradley, are TL guys. I doubt TL even knows who they are.

ManUtd4ever
08-21-2014, 03:09 PM
I'd start printing NYCFC jerseys with Bradley's name on them today.

If that happens, so be it.

Honest question to all: Has our squad looked tangibly worse on the pitch without Bradley and/or Defoe in the lineup at various points throughout the season?

In my opinion, the answer is no.

That being said, I would love to keep both players in the fold moving forward, but I don't think the team will noticeably regress if they are sold at some point. There are always alternatives that don't require MLS record breaking contracts and transfer fees, and we have the right guy in charge to address deficiencies within the roster.

ensco
08-21-2014, 03:11 PM
I see this thread is going into full blown up its own ass hyperbole mode.

Well it's not just about today's news (though that makes it likelier). I have posted that theory numerous times, including the day he was signed. Bradley is a misallocated asset from an MLS marketing POV.

Ultra & Proud
08-21-2014, 03:13 PM
A team can pay a fee to defray/cover the transfer fee paid for a big name player, no? You don't think if NYCFC came in with the transfer fee covered MLSE wouldn't consider it?
A majority of the money from transfers go to MLS so intra-league transfers from what I know don't happen. No gain for MLS. Trades yes or allocation deals. NYCFC doesn't have enough allocation to pull that off.

ensco
08-21-2014, 03:14 PM
A majority of the money from transfers go to MLS so intra-league transfers from what I know don't happen. No gain for MLS. Trades yes or allocation deals. NYCFC doesn't have enough allocation to pull that off.

I know that intraleague transfer payments aren't allowed. I am assuming some sort of special sauce would be required to do this.

OgtheDim
08-21-2014, 03:19 PM
Defoe has how many goals?

And Bradley always has to be accounted for by midfields.

We are better with them then not.

ensco
08-21-2014, 03:21 PM
Defoe has how many goals?

And Bradley always has to be accounted for by midfields.

We are better with them then not.



My point is not about on-field value but fwiw...

I love Bradley at any price. Not sure about Defoe given contract.

Kaz
08-21-2014, 03:22 PM
I'd start printing NYCFC jerseys with Bradley's name on them today.

I'm ok with this.

OgtheDim
08-21-2014, 03:24 PM
My point is not about on-field value but fwiw...

I love Bradley at any price. Not sure about Defoe given contract.

OH I know where you are coming from on this. I was responding up thread to the question if we were better with them then without.

molenshtain
08-21-2014, 03:25 PM
Well it's not just about today's news (though that makes it likelier). I have posted that theory numerous times, including the day he was signed. Bradley is a misallocated asset from an MLS marketing POV.

that's fine. I'm sure that from an MLS marketing standpoint it wouldn't have looked good to let the once pillar of MLS supporting culture die because of fraudulent mis-management. If they really wanted to they could have let Bradley go somewhere more "All-American", but they didn't.

NYCFC will sign another 30+ year old big name signing to round out the trio of DP spots.

Ultra & Proud
08-21-2014, 03:27 PM
NYCFC will sign another 30+ year old big name signing to round out the trio of DP spots.
Yes. No doubt.

ensco
08-21-2014, 03:29 PM
I am being too subtle. The point I am really making via my Bradley to NY theory:

Thinking about that release today, the Board must be pissed. Leiweke is effectively out today. He now has the job in name only. All his priorities are null and void. He is gone.

Everybody he brought in personally (Defoe, Bradley and Bez, maybe MU and Shanahan too, not sure) will have to decide if they want to stay, and the new guy will have to decide if he wants them. Based on how these things usually go down, most or all will leave. That is the way to bet it anyway.

molenshtain
08-21-2014, 03:30 PM
we all remember the opening day of the season when Bradley and Defoe jointly lifted this team that, in that incarnation, was a heaping pile of shit loaded on to a bus and set on fire, over a top 3 team in MLS, right? That's what Defoe and Bradley are capable of. The problem is getting them on the field together and getting everything working in simpatico. Bradley is still the best CM in MLS. Unless we got some sort of godfather offer for him I wouldn't let him go anywhere in the league for any price.

azorean
08-21-2014, 03:39 PM
we all remember the opening day of the season when Bradley and Defoe jointly lifted this team that, in that incarnation, was a heaping pile of shit loaded on to a bus and set on fire, over a top 3 team in MLS, right? That's what Defoe and Bradley are capable of. The problem is getting them on the field together and getting everything working in simpatico. Bradley is still the best CM in MLS. Unless we got some sort of godfather offer for him I wouldn't let him go anywhere in the league for any price.

For any price? I like Bradley, but we have looked ok without him.....

molenshtain
08-21-2014, 03:42 PM
For any price? I like Bradley, but we have looked ok without him.....

nobody could offer us anything that would make this team better than if we had Bradley.

Ultra & Proud
08-21-2014, 03:42 PM
Everybody he brought in personally (Defoe, Bradley and Bez, maybe MU and Shanahan too, not sure) will have to decide if they want to stay, and the new guy will have to decide if he wants them. Based on how these things usually go down, most or all will leave. That is the way to bet it anyway.
Since when is a CEO of a company the lynch pin to everything?

I like TL and his used car salesman qualities but to make it like he is the supreme ruler of all sports and has such influence over everyone is a bit much.

azorean
08-21-2014, 03:48 PM
nobody could offer us anything that would make this team better than if we had Bradley.
How about if we could spread around all those dollars? Thus, maybe, addressing multiple needs....

OgtheDim
08-21-2014, 03:50 PM
Since when is a CEO of a company the lynch pin to everything?

....

Especially in sports

OgtheDim
08-21-2014, 03:56 PM
How about if we could spread around all those dollars? Thus, maybe, addressing multiple needs....

The cap hit for a DP is less then the sum for the parts you are thinking of assembling.

Ultra & Proud
08-21-2014, 03:59 PM
Especially in sports
I know GMs are key. Usually they want their own management team and coaches and that will trickle down to players. A CEO is totally different. Lieweke is not involved in the day to day activities of any of the teams. Sure he can help recruit players based on bluster and connections but it's not like he's a scout or does contracts. He isn't Defoe's buddy or Bradley's or Masai's or Shanahan's no matter how much it looks like it in pressers. Most of them probably didn't have a clue who he was before they met him and if they did he was probably just regarded as the guy from AEG I read about in papers. Bottom line, he is the boss. Bosses come and bosses go, as long as the manager and GM/President are in place and the system and day to day things remain the same it won't matter that a board room guy left. Happens all the time in other sports and teams don't self destruct because a CEO stepped down or got fired. I can't even name a CEO of any sports team, anywhere. Actually it doesn't always happen when GMs are changed as witnessed in Montreal right now and with the Leafs either.

azorean
08-21-2014, 04:04 PM
The cap hit for a DP is less then the sum for the parts you are thinking of assembling.
May be so, but that does'nt justify overspending....dollars saved on signing a dp is dollars saved that can be put towards remaining parts

Detroit_TFC
08-21-2014, 04:11 PM
^Ultra - I don't think I agree with that. TL essentially functioned as TFC team president, not as some guy who got a 3 page activity report once a quarter. Bez, for all his good works, wasn't developing the strategic plan.

molenshtain
08-21-2014, 04:16 PM
^Ultra - I don't think I agree with that. TL essentially functioned as TFC team president, not as some guy who got a 3 page activity report once a quarter. Bez, for all his good works, wasn't developing the strategic plan.

yes he was: http://www.mlssoccer.com/news/article/2014/08/21/toronto-fc-brass-dont-expect-club-miss-beat-despite-tim-leiwekes-impending-d


“You could see it. I was in front of the board and I had to provide my vision for what we were doing on a monthly basis and the board now knows what it takes to go out and acquire the likes of Jermain Defoe and Michael Bradley and Gilberto and Dwayne De Rosario (http://www.mlssoccer.com/players/dwayne-de-rosario). I think his presence will be felt for a long time at this company.”

 -Bez

Ultra & Proud
08-21-2014, 04:22 PM
^Ultra - I don't think I agree with that. TL essentially functioned as TFC team president, not as some guy who got a 3 page activity report once a quarter. Bez, for all his good works, wasn't developing the strategic plan.
Besides his Bloody Big Deal event and the events surrounding it, what else can anyone be certain that he's had a hand in? There is no evidence that he acted anything like team president. On what basis? I see Bez talking this and that regarding deals and moves and Nelsen too. As for TL, I admit that, even with the growing relevance of TFC, that the club is a small part of what MLSE is all about. Lieweke had bigger and better things to do than than be involved in day to day TFC things. The stadium expansion for sure but Bez is the guy who was and is trusted to form the squad along with Nelsen's input. Liewke is for bigger things than that. He is getting training facilities done, the expansion done, and trying to help with the Bills deal and Argos deal as well. The stuff CEOs actually get highly paid to do and not to cause a redundancy and waste productivity doing Bez's job too.

Edit: article above answered it better.

ensco
08-21-2014, 04:26 PM
Forget I said anything. You guys have it all figured out.

Ultra & Proud
08-21-2014, 04:29 PM
Definition of 'Chief Executive Officer - CEO'


The highest ranking executive in a company whose main responsibilities include developing and implementing high-level strategies, making major corporate decisions, managing the overall operations and resources of a company, and acting as the main point of communication between the board of directors and the corporate operations. The CEO will often have a position on the board, and in some cases is even the chair.





There are various other titles for the position of CEO including president and executive or managing director. The role of the CEO will vary from one company to another depending on its size and organization. In smaller companies, the CEO will often have a much more hands-on role in the company, making a lot of the business decisions, even lower-level ones such as the hiring of staff. However, in larger companies, the CEO will often deal with only the higher-level strategy of the company and directing its overall growth, with most other tasks deligated to managers and departments.



The latter is clearly relevant to this case. TL was and is important, he got us on the map at MLSE and got us board room respect but Bez is the architect of our squad along with help from Nelsen and of course Lieweke with our big DPs. He deserves all due credit for that. I believe his legacy of righting our ship and getting us Bez will hopefully pay off for years (knock on wood).

Ultra & Proud
08-21-2014, 04:49 PM
It sounds like TL leaving is a surprise only to us. Sounds like it was a short term gig all along and everyone knew it. Really seems like a stop gap until the non-competition deal expires.

molenshtain
08-21-2014, 05:10 PM
1)

Do you think the new guy will be able to get MLSE board to spend money on TFC? On players? Will the new guy even be a soccer guy? Will he know enough to hire a proper soccer president if he doesn't do the job itself?


we consistently were in the upper echelons of spending before TL got here, even in the OTPP days. Salary for TFC is also a fraction of what they pay compared to the Raptors and LEafs budgets. It's really not that much of an issue.

Richard
08-21-2014, 05:17 PM
We need another American cowboy. Lets keep the trend going MLSE!

Richard
08-21-2014, 05:26 PM
No, but each team works within a budget.

If you have a budget of $200 and ask for $100 you'll get the $100. It's in the budget.

But if you have a budget of $50 and ask for $100 you have to argue why you need the $100.

I'm sure the millions that Leiweke requested to spend on DPs wasn't in the budget. He had to convince the board on a reason to spend it.

Sure they have of lots of money but people with lots of money have lots of money for a reason. Accountability.

If Defoe and Bradley request a transfer at the end of the season do you think TFC is going to spend loads of money on another DP? Sure the "cap hit" is nothing but they're making big coin relative to the TFC budget.

And it will be years maybe decades before they recoup the money invested on the academy.

Will they recoup the money on renovations? That will remain to be seen.

Well it depends if there is an appetite to subsidise TFC. I highly doubt the board will after Defoe and Bradley are gone, these sigings were a defibrillator to a nearly dead franchise. Once its back to normal don't expect a lot spending. Which is fine for me because I would rather sign a Laba or Gilberto long term.

JonO
08-21-2014, 05:37 PM
ensco is more right than wrong.

Can't agree with that yet. While I agree that his position/understanding is likely, we don't know what will be right until th whole situation plays out...

Detroit_TFC
08-21-2014, 06:00 PM
If TB is the man with the plan, I hope the board and whoever takes the CEO seat make sure he sticks around.

Ultra & Proud
08-21-2014, 06:15 PM
Dreger on TSN saying all teams will be left to run themselves with their current management groups and the new CEO will be for the financial and business sides of MLSE.

Also, TL left AEG and the Galaxy didn't fall off the Earth. I think the board sees the growth of football taking hold in North America and would be stupid to ruin your footing by neglecting TFC. What I would like to see is Bez named Prez too as he has good handle on what it takes to be a MLS squad. Something we've never really ever been because we never had anyone in charge, managers or GMs, who had a clue.

Yohan
08-21-2014, 06:49 PM
Dreger on TSN saying all teams will be left to run themselves with their current management groups and the new CEO will be for the financial and business sides of MLSE.

Also, TL left AEG and the Galaxy didn't fall off the Earth. I think the board sees the growth of football taking hold in North America and would be stupid to ruin your footing by neglecting TFC. What I would like to see is Bez named Prez too as he has good handle on what it takes to be a MLS squad. Something we've never really ever been because we never had anyone in charge, managers or GMs, who had a clue.
Being a team president is a completely different job than a GM.

Tim L, however, hired Chris Klein, who also didn't have much experience, as team president of LA Galaxy

greatwhitenorf
08-21-2014, 06:51 PM
Long before this Leiweke stuff leaked out - and it's been out there for days now - I posted that Defoe would be gone after this season. He's been telling that to family members all summer and it has nowt to do with TL.

Probably more to do with 'Arry Redknapp or Sam Allardyce. But England is where he is headed. This was a gamble to get him enough showcasing to make the England WC squad. Didn't work and he's outta here.

OgtheDim
08-21-2014, 07:01 PM
Neither QPR or wherever Allardyce ends up after he is fired from West Ham have the money to

a) pay the transfer fee MLS will demand

b) match the contract Defoe is getting here

He might want to go but he's going to have trouble getting out.

Qman
08-21-2014, 07:05 PM
I think the more important question is Drake still on board?

as came out lately, their not paying him anything ... so does it matter

TFC07
08-21-2014, 07:05 PM
https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/485405940330405888/RI36eH-6_normal.jpegKurtis Larson @KurtLarSUN (https://twitter.com/KurtLarSUN) · 2h (https://twitter.com/KurtLarSUN/status/502576434100318208)

Bez to the Sun: "From getting a call from (Tanenbaum) personally last night to speaking with people ... they realize the importance of TFC"

ag futbol
08-21-2014, 08:06 PM
https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/485405940330405888/RI36eH-6_normal.jpegKurtis Larson @KurtLarSUN (https://twitter.com/KurtLarSUN) · 2h (https://twitter.com/KurtLarSUN/status/502576434100318208)

Bez to the Sun: "From getting a call from (Tanenbaum) personally last night to speaking with people ... they realize the importance of TFC"




Be interested to see what he means by this. Tanenbaum realizes the value of TFC, but was rumored previously pushing for Anselmi to take the top spot? The guy who consistently drove this team into the ground through a series of bad hires / lack of accountability? How does that demonstrate the message he's parroting?

Kaz
08-21-2014, 08:18 PM
https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/485405940330405888/RI36eH-6_normal.jpegKurtis Larson @KurtLarSUN (https://twitter.com/KurtLarSUN) · 2h (https://twitter.com/KurtLarSUN/status/502576434100318208)

Bez to the Sun: "From getting a call from (Tanenbaum) personally last night to speaking with people ... they realize the importance of TFC"




That suggests highly Tanenbaum did something to cause this.

molenshtain
08-21-2014, 08:22 PM
That suggests highly Tanenbaum did something to cause this.


ahahaha what? there seem to be a fair few people who prescribe to the Alex Jones way of thinking.

Alonso
08-21-2014, 08:34 PM
How about if we could spread around all those dollars? Thus, maybe, addressing multiple needs....


You can't do this.

That is the whole point of the DP rule.

If you could I would totally agree, spend 2 million dollars per year on 5 quality players instead of 10 million per year on 2 quality players.

You can only spend ~ $400,000 or so on any one player unless they are one of 3 DP's.

And the team salary cap is ~ $3,000,000

Areathrasher
08-21-2014, 08:42 PM
Neither QPR or wherever Allardyce ends up after he is fired from West Ham have the money to

a) pay the transfer fee MLS will demand

b) match the contract Defoe is getting here

He might want to go but he's going to have trouble getting out.

QPR can 100% afford to buy Defoe if Tony Fernandes wants him.