Hats off and congratulations to the founders of the WUSA League. The hard work of so many will finally pay off as the league starts its inaugural season on April 14th. The formation of this league is a staggering accomplishment and everyone involved can take great pride in getting the new league off the ground. For all of the hard work, however, ultimately, the success of the league will be judged by the quality of the product put on the field. This begs the question: What exactly can we expect from the "World's Premier Women's Professional Soccer League?"

First, lets review our points of reference. To most Americans, women's soccer means the US Women's National Team. Surely it is unfair of us to expect the kind of drama and intensity witnessed in the last two Olympic finals. Just as surely, we will never again see the total adoration and devotion generated during WWC '99 (well, at least not until the next Women's World Cup played in the USA). While there may be comparable moments of skill, perhaps Tiffeny Milbrett skying over a taller defender to nod home an equalizer with seconds remaining, generally the level of play at those competitions is much higher than we can initially hope for from the WUSA.

The next most recognizable reference point is the NCAA Division I college championships. This tournament has grown in popularity and viewership over the last few years. Most semi-serious soccer fans can recall the teams from the final four, or at least name the current champion (granted, a less difficult task if you have any knowledge of the history of this tournament).

The NCAA tournament always unearths genuine talent, scintillating soccer, and moments of high drama. However, the participants are all college undergrads ranging in age from 18-21. While the skill level is the best in the country for this age group, we have the right to expect a faster game with a higher level of play when we consider the best women soccer players in the world. Few college defenders are a match for Sun Wen or Charmaine Hooper.

There are women's soccer leagues already in existence, notably the W-League. US fans will have some trouble using that league as a point of reference simply because they are unfamiliar with the league and its players. Lack of promotion and TV coverage has limited the word to all but the most dedicated soccer fan. It should be noted however, that the W-League has been the source for many of the players in the WUSA League. Many of the no-name stars of the W-League will shine in WUSA.

On April 14th the Bay Area CyberRays (an unfortunate team name choice, but this is being picky) will travel to Washington D.C. to take on the Washington Freedom. This is a well planned opening clash, featuring two of America's most famous women soccer players. The thought of Mia Hamm barreling down on Brandi Chastain, or Tisha Venturini driving to goal on Siri Mullinix is mouth watering. The international flavor will be present as well, as the Freedom's Pretinha will face countrywomen Sissi and Katia.

We should expect high quality soccer, somewhat above the W-League but below the level of international competitions. The game itself will be secondary to the historic launch of the league. Perhaps it is too much to ask to expect greatness on the first day. We can forgive an initial hiccup on the league's genesis (as we did for MLS). Having said that, if this league is to thrive, it is imperative that the product on the field be entertaining, professional, and of the highest standard. Americans won't support anything less.