There is a light side of American soccer culture as well, it just doesn't get talked about as much.
It's been a tough season so far for MLS based supporters groups. The year started off with a league-wide uproar when MLS banned Matthew Parsons, a leading member of DC United's District Ultras supporters group. Parsons was banned from all MLS venues for the 2016 season due to "possession and ignition of illegal smoke device on RFK Stadium Property". The team and league lacked clarity on where their rules apply and which specific items are banned all the while marketing MLS' most passionate supporters to showcase the league's unique sporting environment.