At long last, the start of the 2008 MLS campaign is nearly upon us. What does that mean for all of us American soccer lovers? It means it’s almost time to see yet another new coach in the Big Apple. It means it’s almost time to see how the latest influx of foreign talent is going to fit into the league. It means that the time is nearly here to begin speculation on when Fernando Clavijo will be fired in Colorado. But most importantly, it means that now is the time to get your fantasy game on.

Here's how:

1) Join a league. Or start your own.You know you want to. Every soccer fan thinks he or she is an expert, and this is your chance to prove it.

2) Invite some competition. Invite your friends, teammates, enemies and Steve Jolley to play. I'm sure Steve would love to play. If he resists, you can probably convince him by telling him that yes, you're sure it's impossible to score an own goal in fantasy soccer.

3) Create your team. Take your $1M fantasy budget -- which is pretty close to an actual GM's salary budget when you really think about it -- and build your team.

But whom should you select for your side? Only you can make that decision, but here are a few basic tips for you.

This game is like the stock market; prices will be constantly shifting. Obviously, what you really need is good value. Mix things up a little bit. It's ok to spend a good chunk of change on a player or two that you know will probably be good for some point production. Then back those players up with some solid performers who get lots of minutes (can't score points when you're on the bench, right Freddy?). You may even think about throwing a couple of untested but promising rookies into the mix. You can also put some players on your watch list for future consideration.

4) Watch soccer. The only way to really know what players are going to work for you is to actually see them play. It's true that stats are a huge part of the fantasy game, but they really only tell you part of the story. It's also helpful to know which teams are looking strong and are likely to score bunches of goals (see: D.C. United; don't see: RSL) and which teams are strong in the back (see: Houston Dynamo; don't see: RSL). A roster of decent players from good teams can often be just as valuable as one stocked with the best players from all the worst teams.

5) Make your moves. Or don't make your moves. You decide. Come back to the site after the week's action and decide who should stay and who should go. But be smart, because your trades are limited after opening day.

6) Rinse and repeat. You don't really have to rinse. But it probably wouldn't hurt either.

Check back here every Monday to read the fantasy blog and pick up some tips, hear no-holds-barred reviews of team and player performances and much more. Who knows? You may even learn something.