First Kick Prep

The 2011 Major League Soccer season is finally upon us with tonight's First Kick between Seattle and LA (8:30 p.m. CT on ESPN) and this year, like never before, MLS has rolled out the digital goods for fans to enjoy it all year long via video subscription services, mobile applications and fantasy games. See below for a brief sampling of what's available and why you'll want it:

• Video Services
• MLS Direct Kick returns for $79/year (residential) or $100/year (commercial) via DirecTV or DISH Network on satellite and iN DEMAND or Avail-TVN through cable providers. See 200+ matches live from all the markets, week one all the way up through the MLS Cup playoffs. Try it out this weekend for FREE.
• MLS MatchDay Live brings the games live to your computer with HD quality video, DVR functionality and the ability to watch two (picture-in-picture) or even three (mosaic mode) games at once. Buy now and you'll get it for $39.99/year as part of the First Kick special ($59.99 after March 28th).
• Mobile Applications
• MatchDay app for iPad, iPhone or iPod touch allows users to watch live matches, see real-time highlights, set up customizable alerts and access the MatchCenter interface all while on the go and all for no charge.
• Android users too can download the MatchDay app for free with real-time highlights, live scores and play-by-play, customizable content and featured video channels for their mobile devices.
• Fantasy Games
• This year's salary cap game boasts all new features, from a new interface with live scoring to a revised point system. There's paid and free versions and plenty of leagues to join, including the Fans of Sporting Kansas City.
• MLS is also offering it's first-ever commissioner-style, league manager game. Fantasy Challenge allows for customized scoring, season, trade and waiver regulations, as well a whole new gameplay that begins with live drafts and uses weekly head-to-head match-ups.
• Pro Soccer Picks will test even the most avid MLS fans to see who can build the longest streak of correct answers in a variety of predictions. Help us grow the group of Sporting KC fans currently competing in the game.
• Still can't get enough fantasy action? ESPN offers FC Manager, the game of choice for The Full 90.