Handicapping MLS Expansion: May 2017 Edition

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http://soccerstadiumdigest.com/2017/05/handicapping-mls-expansion-may-2017-edition/

Handicapping MLS Expansion: May 2017 Edition

Tampa Bay: 3-1 St. Petersburg voters approved an expansion of Al Lang Stadium to accommodate the Tampa Bay Rowdies’ bid for an MLS expansion team. Tampa Bay is a hot market, and a stylishly upgraded Al Lang Stadium on the waterfront could be a major community amenity. Now comes the hard part: the referendum merely gave public approval to the project, but Rowdies owner Bill Edwards needs to come up the $80-million to expand Al Lang Stadium and the reported $150 million expansion fee–dependent on landing an MLS franchise.

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http://www.cltampa.com/arts-entertainment/sports/article/20862960/rowdies-salvage-tough-draw

Rowdies salvage tough draw

Tie one on.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HkiQBOyXdMA

Rowdies' Most Fashionable Player

Tampa Bay Rowdies

Published on May 29, 2017

Find out which of their teammates do the Rowdies think is the most fashionable!

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VaINnBI7Co8

HIGHLIGHTS: Rowdies vs Saint Louis FC - May 27, 2017

Tampa Bay Rowdies

Published on May 27, 2017

HIGHLIGHTS - Check out the recap of Saturday's 1-1 draw against Saint Louis FC, presented by Tijuana Flats.

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https://archpaper.com/2017/05/david-beckham-miami-soccer-stadium/

David Beckham’s Miami soccer stadium won’t include parking

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http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/style-notes-priyanka-chopras-new-fashion-gig-prince-william-covers-british-gq-1008767

Unpacking David Beckham's Shaggy New Look for Tudor Watches

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https://sg.news.yahoo.com/tudor-taps-david-beckham-newest-global-brand-ambassador-205458161.html

Tudor taps David Beckham as newest global brand ambassador

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http://www.esquire.com/style/mens-accessories/news/a55337/tudor-watch-david-beckham/

David Beckham and Tudor Watches Just Joined Forces

Beckham is the face of the new "Born to Dare" campaign.

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http://www.espn.com.au/espn/story/_/id/19495314/next-chapter-adventure-comic-career

Didier Drogba: The next chapter in his adventure comic career

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http://www.wsoctv.com/news/local/idea-of-mls-stadium-kicked-around-at-county-commission-budget-discussion/528036316

Idea of MLS stadium kicked around at County Commission budget discussion

Taxpayers appear to still be on the hook for nearly $44 million and a long-shot chance of landing a Major League Soccer squad.

The plan calls for demolishing Memorial Stadium and the Grady Cole Center and replacing them with a state-of-the-art MLS stadium.

The county is including the funding in its Capital Improvement Plan.

Commissioner Matthew Ridenhour, R-District 5, likes most of the CIP, but wants to split the vote so he can try to stop the project.

“I hope that we are able to vote on each line item individually, or at least break out the Memorial Stadium,” Ridenhour said.

The momentum for soccer has stalled, mainly because of the city of Charlotte's inaction.

Potential stadium owner Marcus Smith is asking the city to match the county's contribution of $43.75 million.

With an election coming up, City Council members don't like what they see.

But County Commissioner Trevor Fuller, D-at-large, said investing in soccer is a smart
move.

“I believe having MLS soccer in Charlotte would be great in our community,” Fuller said.

County Manager Dena Diorio agrees and hopes the city will come around.

“I am still hopeful the city of Charlotte will vote favorably to move $43.75 million in tourism dollars to move the project forward,” she said.

Charlotte is competing against 11 other cities for four MLS expansion spots. Two teams will be announced this summer.

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http://www.sportingnews.com/other-sports/news/christos-fc-us-open-cup-dc-united-mls-lamar-hunt/1a2jkpd5fvp3a1qwxqyjyl0r13

Christos FC: Amateurs named after liquor store who barely train on brink of dream MLS date

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https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6ebjpm/christos_fc_amateurs_named_after_liquor_store_on/

Christos FC: Amateurs named after liquor store on brink of playing MLS club in Open Cup (sports.yahoo.com)

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https://sports.yahoo.com/news/christos-fc-amateurs-named-liquor-120000871.html

Christos FC: Amateurs named after liquor store who barely train on brink of dream MLS date

Walk into Christos Discount Liquor Store on the outskirts of Baltimore, MD and you will spot a row of trophies above shelves filled with brandy, cognac, scotch and bourbon whisky.

Behind the till there is even more silverware on show beneath banners dedicated to a successful local amateur football team.

This is the home of Christos FC.

Christos are a club started by a group of friends 20 years ago with the aid of sponsorship from their local alcohol outlet and they are on the brink of making a name for themselves on a national scale.

They barely train, but victory over Premier Development League outfit Chicago FC United on Wednesday will earn the side from the Maryland Major Soccer League (MMSL) - a regional division on the bottom rung of the United States Soccer Federation's ladder - a trip to face MLS giants DC United, the country's second most successful club, in the fourth round of the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup.

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https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6ebqdv/disney_is_selling_pins_featuring_mls_teams/

Disney is selling pins featuring MLS teams (self.MLS)

Just in case there were any people here that are fans of both MLS and Disney, they are currently offering pins in their online store featuring some, unfortunately not all, MLS teams. I just found this today, so sorry if someone has posted this before.

Link to the store page, thank you to /u/fantasyMLShelper for the link directly to the MLS pins.

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https://www.disneystore.com/disneystore/product/search?searchTerms=mls

Disney Store Logo

We looked and looked

Here's what we found for mls

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https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6eabf0/francesco_totti_has_received_a_contract_offer/

Francesco Totti has received a contract offer from NASL's Miami FC (fiftyfive.one)

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http://fiftyfive.one/2017/05/miami-fc-pursuit-francesco-totti/

Francesco Totti Mulling Offer from NASL’s Miami FC

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https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6ed9vx/francesco_totti_to_miami_fc_it_could_happen/

Francesco Totti to Miami FC? It could happen. (miamiherald.com)

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http://www.miamiherald.com/sports/mls/article153354749.html

Francesco Totti to Miami FC? It could happen.

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https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6e4tzn/with_lead_investor_on_board_efforts_to_bring_pro/

With lead investor on board, efforts to bring pro soccer to Omaha are gaining momentum (omaha.com)

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http://www.omaha.com/sports/local-sports/with-lead-investor-on-board-efforts-to-bring-pro-soccer/article_d7f4bd64-2a20-5591-aeb8-71b0384b59cf.html

With lead investor on board, efforts to bring pro soccer to Omaha are gaining momentum

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https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6e2jcv/dallas_beer_guardians_tifo_for_the_texas_derby/

Dallas Beer Guardians tifo for the Texas Derby (i.imgur.com)

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http://i.imgur.com/XnMRNq1.jpg

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https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6e8qj7/the_growth_of_mls_in_americagillette_world_sport/

The Growth of MLS in America-Gillette World Sport (youtu.be)

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AwPejo6RXio

The Growth of MLS in America | Gillette World Sport

World Sport

Published on May 30, 2017

World Sport visits DC United and the IMG Academy in America to see how Soccer has grown from a 10 team league into a 22 team behemoth. The states now a have a successful youth development program, that have seen many of their soccer stars graduate through its ranks.

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https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6e0yqc/is_it_possible_to_manufacture_a_football_rivalry/

Is it possible to manufacture a football rivalry? MLS has tried ... (amp.theguardian.com)

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https://amp.theguardian.com/football/blog/2017/may/29/is-it-possible-to-manufacture-a-football-rivalry-mls-has-tried-

Is it possible to manufacture a football rivalry? MLS has tried ...

Football thrives on friction between clubs but is it inauthentic to create one? In a young league such as MLS the results can be interesting to say the least

Does MLS have a Texas problem? (theguardian.com) (Comment about Orlando City/Tampa Bay Rowdies guerrilla marketing)

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https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6dhdtv/does_mls_have_a_texas_problem/

Does MLS have a Texas problem? (theguardian.com) (Comment about Orlando City/Tampa Bay Rowdies guerrilla marketing)

Can I say a unpopular opinion? Guerrilla marketing by the fans. I'm going to spill it starting July and I saved up for this project I'm launching a all out guerrilla marketing campaign in Florida with the help of graffiti artists and photographers we are going to plaster Rowdies and Orlando City murals throughout Tampa and Orlando. Also get incredible artistic posters plastered across the state for each team. I'm doing this because I believe Floridian soccer can be maximized, but people in the FO are either lazy or not creative enough to even think of this strategy. This includes getting a Rowdies or OCSC flag in every sports bar establishment possible, corporate or family owned. I'm not waiting on the front office anymore, I'm taking the matter into my own hands with this one. I believe if this works then hey it could be a central plan to not only help MLS Texan teams get the people aware of their teams but other MLS teams as a whole.

Doesn't OCSC sell out every game?

DO they sell every ticket, apparently, but not actual turnstiles...

OCSC's problem is that all departments had their budget's slashed due to the self financing of the stadium. That is why there were limited events throughout the year, no more magnets (not even available for purchase), big drop in marketing, and the apparent hold on the new training facility...

On magnets you can still buy them online but you are paying for one. The 5 for 5 deal as of recently does not exist anymore.

Prematurely I will say we sell out league games, but I want to maximize into selling out US Open Cup and CCL games as well.

I like your style.

I could do that in Chattanooga for Atlanta, With CFC here there's no reason Chattanooga can't have two teams.

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https://mlsmultiplex.com/2017/05/29/us-open-cup-miami-tampa-bay-ready-high-profile-nasl-vs-usl-showdown/

US Open Cup: Miami, Tampa Bay ready for high-profile NASL vs USL showdown

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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/6e0auz/rowdies_home_attendance_thread_game_7_vs_st_louis/

Rowdies Home Attendance Thread - Game 7 vs. St. Louis FC [5/29] (self.TampaBayRowdies)

6,068 was the official number for this past week - our best showing this season outside of the home opener. Weather was beautiful - perfect conditions. I know it was Military Appreciation night - not sure how much that impacted the number. It did close the gap a little bit from last years number, outperforming Game 7 of 2016 (6,068 vs. 5,873). We currently sit 7th in the USL attendance table (likely where we'll finish, as well).

Next home match is Rochester in a couple of weeks - here's hoping we'll see another big crowd.

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https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6dj5qc/we_are_howler_and_dirty_tackle_people_george/

We are Howler and Dirty Tackle people George Quraishi and Brooks Peck. Ask us anything. We dare you. (self.MLS)

Why I am a fan - the road to soccer fandom twists and turns

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http://www.angelsonparade.com/2017/5/25/15689852/why-i-am-a-fan-road-to-soccer-fandom-twists-and-turns-chelsea-earthquakes-lafc

Why I am a fan - the road to soccer fandom twists and turns

From World Cup watcher to “Eurosnob” to MLS.

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http://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/business/article152678059.html

Four months later, what’s next for Charlotte’s Major League Soccer bid?

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https://www.theguardian.com/football/2017/may/26/mls-texas-derby-houston-dynamo-fc-dallas

Does MLS have a Texas problem?

Houston and Dallas, who meet in Sunday’s Texas Derby, are two of MLS’ best clubs this season from two of its biggest cities. So why aren’t they more popular?

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http://www.bizjournals.com/charlotte/news/2017/05/26/cbj-morning-buzz-new-details-of-competing-mls-bid.html

CBJ Morning Buzz: New details of competing MLS bid; Brewers find new ammo in beer battle; Scenes from Speed Street

In local news:

As Major League Soccer officials consider a dozen cities — including Charlotte — for an upcoming expansion, a closer look at one of the competing bids has emerged. The Cincinnati Business Courier, a sister publication to the CBJ, reports officials there have chosen a location and landed financing for a soccer-specific stadium. Meanwhile, Charlotte's bid, led by Speedway Motorsports (NYSE:TRK) CEO Marcus Smith, is still on the hunt for the funding piece. CBJ's Erik Spanberg reported last month that informal talks have resumed between the local bid group and city officials on the possibility of investing public dollars on the project.

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http://www.vocativ.com/433563/cincinnati-fc-money-stadium-debt-soccer/

FC Cincinnati: We Never Asked For Money Before So Give It To Us Now

In its push to jump to Major League Soccer, a Cincinnati team needs a new stadium, even though the city is still paying off $1 billion in debt

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http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/opinion/commentary/sd-utbg-soccer-stadium-youth-20170526-story.html

Commentary San Diegans at a crossroads with stadium development

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http://urbanmilwaukee.com/2017/05/28/urban-reads-subways-stadiums-and-the-return-to-cities/

Subways, Stadiums and the Return to Cities

David Beckham wants to build a Miami stadium with no parking: International soccer star David Beckham wants to build a 25,000-seat stadium in Miami’s Overtown neighborhood to bring Major League Soccer to the city.  The developers want people to take water taxis, Metrorail, and the Metromover to the stadium because they won’t be building any parking. They hope this decision starts a paradigm shift for major events. (Miami Herald). Read more.

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https://ussoccerplayers.com/2017/05/once-again-its-san-diego-telling-an-mls-story.html

Once again, it’s San Diego telling an MLS story

It's ancient history now, but the dark days of contraction weren't just about the Florida teams. It was easy enough to make the case for contracting half the league, with good arguments at the time that the Mutiny and the Fusion weren't the best choices. The league was in obvious trouble, with too many franchises drawing too few fans. At a time when there wasn't the glut of professional soccer available on American television, MLS faced difficulty making a case for itself. Why this league now? Why would existing soccer fans add it to whatever club in whatever league they already supported?

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http://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/news/2017/05/25/its-official-fc-cincinnati-moves-forward-on.html

It's official: FC Cincinnati moves forward on stadium plan

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http://www.wcpo.com/sports/fc-cincinnati/fc-cincinnati-could-be-asking-for-up-to-250-million-in-public-aid-to-join-mls

FC Cincinnati is asking for public aid to build soccer stadium in bid to join Major League Soccer

Club says it can't move up without own stadium

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http://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=11863732

MLS expansion update: Phoenix boost and St. Louis setback

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http://www.devilslakejournal.com/sports/20170525/mls-expansion-update-phoenix-rising-st-louis-setback

MLS expansion update: Phoenix rising, St. Louis setback

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http://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/politics-government/article152568749.html

County plans millions for parks. But critics question big share for soccer stadium.

David Beckham, Steve Cherundolo nominated to U.S. Soccer Hall of Fame

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http://www.espnfc.us/united-states/story/3133356/david-beckham-among-33-nominees-to-us-soccer-hall-of-fame

David Beckham, Steve Cherundolo nominated to U.S. Soccer Hall of Fame

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https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/soccer/2017/05/24/david-beckham-on-us-soccer-hall-of-fame-ballot/102110136/

David Beckham on US Soccer Hall of Fame ballot

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https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2017/05/24/david-beckham-among-first-time-nominees-national-soccer-hall-fame

David Beckham among first-time nominees for National Soccer Hall of Fame

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http://sport.news.keol.hu/live/david-beckham-on-us-soccer-hall-of-fame-ballot

David Beckham on US Soccer Hall of Fame ballot

Also on the ballot for the first time are American defender Steve Cherundolo, midfielder Pablo Mastroeni and forward Brian Ching

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http://www.statesman.com/news/local/david-beckham-soccer-hall-fame-ballot/ureMBp2ZLT6rQ97NiIOJCI/

David Beckham on US Soccer Hall of Fame ballot

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http://wiky.com/news/articles/2017/may/24/beckham-makes-ballot-for-us-soccer-hall-of-fame/

Beckham makes ballot for U.S. Soccer Hall of Fame

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http://www.ctvnews.ca/sports/david-beckham-on-u-s-soccer-hall-of-fame-ballot-1.3428061

David Beckham on U.S. Soccer Hall of Fame ballot

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http://indianexpress.com/article/sports/football/david-beckham-on-us-soccer-hall-of-fame-ballot-4672856/

David Beckham on US Soccer Hall of Fame ballot

David Beckham is among 12 first-time candidates on the 33-player ballot for the U.S. National Soccer Hall of Fame.

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http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/sport/beckham-makes-ballot-for-us-soccer-hall-of-fame-8880738

Beckham makes ballot for US Soccer Hall of Fame

Former England captain David Beckham, who won two Major League Soccer titles with the Los Angeles Galaxy, was among the first-time candidates named on the ballot for the U.S. National Soccer Hall of Fame on Wednesday.

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http://www.thecourierexpress.com/sports/national/david-beckham-on-us-soccer-hall-of-fame-ballot/article_26b59d1a-57dd-53a2-a14c-ca0f1602fe05.html

David Beckham on US Soccer Hall of Fame ballot

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http://news.abs-cbn.com/sports/05/25/17/beckham-makes-ballot-for-us-soccer-hall-of-fame

Beckham makes ballot for U.S. Soccer Hall of Fame

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http://sacramento.cbslocal.com/2017/05/24/mls-expansion-sacramento-republic/

MLS Expansion Update: Miami Still Struggles As Sacramento’s Future Looks Bright

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http://www.oleantimesherald.com/sports/national/mls-expansion-update-phoenix-boost-and-st-louis-setback/article_0aed860c-29e6-522a-a653-cf776d36db58.html

MLS expansion update: Phoenix boost and St. Louis setback

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http://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/796621

Fall, Rhinos Edge Out Rowdies

Rochester takes victory in USL Game of the Week on ESPN3

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http://www.rhinossoccer.com/news_article/show/796665

Rhinos Beat Second-Placed Tampa Bay Rowdies 1-0

Miami River site near Beckham’s stadium hits the market for $11.8M

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https://therealdeal.com/miami/2017/05/23/miami-river-site-near-beckhams-stadium-site-hits-the-market-for-11-8m/

Miami River site near Beckham’s stadium hits the market for $11.8M

Blue Road planned to develop the 1.1-acre site, but listed it due to stadium buzz

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http://www.cladglobal.com/news.cfm?codeid=332143

David Beckham consortium reveals new-look design for mooted Miami MLS stadium

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http://www.indomitablecitysoccer.com/2017/5/23/15678842/usl-eastern-conference-best-xi-week-9

USL Eastern Conference Best XI - Week 9

Check out the Eastern Conference Best XI for Week 9 here!

Defender: Darnell King, Tampa Bay Rowdies: 1698 pts

Leading Tampa in tackles, King makes another appearance among our Eastern Conference Team of the Week. King’s stellar defensive play is another reason why the Rowdies lead the Eastern Conference in clean sheets.

Midfielder: Joe Cole, Tampa Bay Rowdies: 2817 pts

The Rowdies captain leveled the match against Toronto FC II, by scoring his third goal of the season in the 68th minute, eventually leading the way for a 3-1 win for the second place club in the East. Cole is also tied for the most shots on target for Tampa Bay this season.

Honorable Mentions

Forward: Darwin Jones, Tampa Bay Rowdies: 2817 pts

Thoughts

After both clubs lost last week, Ottawa and Louisville rebounded with big road wins and sent three players each to this week’s Best XI. Ottawa’s Tucker Hume and Michael Salazar are two of the top three players in the East this week. Two Rowdies players make repeat appearances on the Team of the Week as well.

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http://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/sports/soccer/2017/05/23/joe-cole-tampa-bay-rowdies-chelsea-rochester-rhinos-preview/340655001/

Former English Premier League player Joe Cole and Tampa Bay play Rhinos

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http://www.tampabay.com/sports/football/bucs/nfl-rewards-tampa-bays-track-record-preparation-with-another-super-bowl/2324937

NFL rewards Tampa Bay's track record, preparation with another Super Bowl

Credit the Glazers. Credit Tampa mayor Bob Buckhorn.

Most of all, credit our secret weapon — Tampa Bay Sports Commission executive director Rob Higgins. Higgins is the Tom Brady of sports executives. A winner. A clutch performer. The guy you want in charge when time is running out and the stakes are high.

Dozens of others played a major part. Heck, if you're reading this, go ahead and take a bow yourself. We all share in this.

So, yeah, maybe we caught a break Tuesday because Los Angeles isn't going to be ready in time to host Super Bowl LV in 2021. But don't say we don't deserve this game. We've already done four of these Big Games and we've done them well. There's plenty of reason to believe the next one will be the best ever.

So how did this happen? Aside from rotten weather in Southern California, how did Tampa get another Super Bowl?

There were three important parts to this, the first going all the way back to February of 2010.

That's when Jeffrey Vinik (another who should get a thumbs up today) agreed to buy the Tampa Bay Lightning. Aside from Vinik helping revitalize downtown Tampa, including the building of the hotel rooms necessary to host a Super Bowl, it was something else that Vinik did that had a huge impact on Tuesday's decision.

Shortly after buying the Lightning, Vinik hired Tod Leiweke to be the team's CEO, a position he held for five years.

Know what Leiweke is doing these days? He is the chief operating officer of the NFL .

You don't think Leiweke had some influence in this? You don't think Leiweke was whispering just the right things in the ears of NFL owners while winking at his old friends back in Tampa?

That brings to the second part, which is something that happened exactly one year ago today. On May 24, 2016, Tampa Bay's bid to host a Super Bowl lost out to Atlanta, South Florida and Los Angeles.

Tampa Bay easily could have pouted, stomped its feet and held its breath over not getting a game. Hillsborough County Commissioner Ken Hagan told Tampa Bay Times reporter Steve Contorno that it was "easy to get frustrated.''

But Tampa Bay took the high ground, said the right things, acted maturely even though there was a sliver of fear that it would never get another Super Bowl with so many state-of-the-art stadiums popping up across the country.

The NFL noticed how Bucs co-chairman Bryan Glazer handled the disappointment with class, how Buckhorn handled the news with grace, how Higgins put on a smile.

That brings us to the third part of all this.

Instead of holding a pity party, Tampa Bay pulled up its britches and proved that it could handle a big event as well as anyone. After the start of $150 million in renovations that have spruced up Raymond James Stadium, the 2017 College Football National Championship in Tampa was a smashing success.

The week was good. The game was great. The stadium was even better.

The new video boards look phenomenal. The new sound system is magnificent. The concourses are gorgeous.

Just in case anyone forgot, the College Football National Championship proved that we know how to do big games.

We have the stadium. And the weather. And the beaches. And the amusement parks. And the restaurants. And the hotels.

And we have the right people in charge.

That's why we have had Frozen Fours and women's Final Fours and NCAA Tournaments in recent years.

That's why we're going to get next year's NHL All-Star Game and the 2019 women's Final Four and the 2020 early rounds of the NCAA men's basketball tournament.

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http://www.insideworldfootball.com/2017/05/23/usl-reports-record-crowds-social-media-numbers/

USL reports record crowds and social media numbers

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http://tbrfootball.com/should-mls-introduce-promotion-and-relegation-to-its-league-system/

Should MLS introduce promotion and relegation to its league system?

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http://www.rhinossoccer.com/news_article/show/795631

Rhinos Host Tampa Bay Rowdies in First Match Since 2010

3-time England World Cup participant Joe Cole headlines Tampa Bay's roster

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http://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/795913

USL Match Preview – #ROCvTBR

Rochester, Tampa Bay meet for first time since 2010 in USL Game of the Week

MLS Expansion: Where Each City Stands

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https://www.orlandocitysc.com/post/2017/05/22/mls-expansion-where-each-city-stands

MLS Expansion: Where Each City Stands

There were 12 teams who met the February 2017 deadline to apply to be a new MLS franchise. Amongst those were newcomers to the soccer scene as well as existing lower league franchises and some cities that don’t even have a squad yet. Out of those 25, only a handful will be selected to join MLS. Who will be next?

This article breaks down each team and looks at their MLS potential.

Tampa Bay/St. Petersburg

Tampa Bay/St. Petersburg offer an interesting area for MLS. Orlando City has proven to be one of the successful markets in the league, and a rivalry between these two sides could create even more supporters. That rivalry is already starting to take place in USL, which the Tampa Bay Rowdies joined this season after spending seven seasons in NASL. They are an established organization, and they received the go-ahead vote for their stadium last week. Overall, things are looking good in Tampa, but it will still be a fight to get to MLS.

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https://www.theguardian.com/football/2017/may/22/mls-standing-areas-los-angeles-fc

MLS: where the standing fan is fast becoming king

Los Angeles FC are the latest team to announce standing areas for their fans, and it is a trend supporters on the other side of the Atlantic will note

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http://www.rhinossoccer.com/news_article/show/795631

Rhinos Host Tampa Bay Rowdies in First Match Since 2010

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http://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/795401

USL Season Attendance Eclipses 500,000

Through Week 9, league attendance trending nearly 30 percent ahead of 2016

‘This is our last chance,’ says Beckham group before MLS Miami stadium vote

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.theguardian.com/football/2017/may/19/miami-mls-stadium-david-beckham

‘This is our last chance,’ says Beckham group before MLS Miami stadium vote

Former England captain now has $500m investment in place, but still needs local approval on the stadium plot required to secure MLS franchise

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.curbed.com/2017/5/19/15663536/football-soccer-stadium-mls

New U.S. soccer stadiums changing the design game

The growing population of the beautiful game has fueled a new generation of urban sports stadiums

(Follow link for full article.)

http://worldsoccertalk.com/2017/05/19/beckham-miami-stadium-faces-june-6-deadline-report/

Beckham Miami stadium faces June 6 deadline – report

(Follow link for full article.)

http://pulse.ng/sports/football/major-league-soccer-beckham-miami-stadium-faces-june-6-deadline-report-id6707975.html

Beckham Miami stadium faces June 6 deadline - Report

David Beckham is set to learn next month whether his long-gestating plans for a Major League Soccer franchise in Miami will come to fruition, it was reported on Friday.

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.firstpost.com/sports/david-beckhams-long-gestating-miami-mls-franchise-stadium-faces-6-june-deadline-3461258.html

David Beckham's long-gestating Miami MLS franchise stadium faces 6 June deadline

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.miamiherald.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/michelle-kaufman/article151768527.html

Beckham group can learn from Orlando City’s success

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/795162

Bedrock Ownership Spurs USL’s Growth

(Follow link for full article.)

https://fansided.com/2017/05/21/david-beckham-mls-last-attempt-miami-stadium-site/

David Beckham MLS group making one last attempt at securing Miami stadium site

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.theunsubs.com/wp/2017/05/21/torvtbr-match-ratings/2937

#TORvTBR Match Ratings

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http://www.theunsubs.com/wp/2017/05/19/rowdies-stage-three-goal-second-half-to-beat-toronto-fc-ii/2927

Rowdies Stage Three-Goal Second Half to Beat Toronto FC II

Tampa Bay Rowdies: We Can Quadruple Attendance With Major League Soccer

(Follow link for full article.)

http://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/post/tampa-bay-rowdies-we-can-quadruple-attendance-major-league-soccer#stream/0

Tampa Bay Rowdies: We Can Quadruple Attendance With Major League Soccer

A panel discussion on the impact of the Tampa Bay Rowdies recent referendum was held Thursday by the Tampa Bay Business Journal. That referendum easily passed, and paves the way for the team to bid to be one of four Major League Soccer expansion teams.

Rowdies owner Bill Edwards has proposed $80 million of his own money to expand Al Lang Stadium. Former St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Baker, president of the Edwards Group, says the team could quadruple its attendance. He cited the Orlando City Soccer Club, which in 2015 joined Major League Soccer.

"Orlando is, I think they were averaging 4,000 to 4,500 a game before they got an MLS franchise three years ago," Baker said. "And we probably average about 5,500 a game. They went to 24,000 people a game. And it really just overtook the whole city. And I really think that's what would happen."

Baker says in the meantime, fans can send a message to Major League Soccer by going to games, buying season tickets, or becoming a sponsor. The league is expected to choose two expansion teams this summer.

"The more season tickets you have, the better," he said. "The more people who attend the games, the better. The more sponsors -- small or large -- if you're a small business, you can become a sponsor of the team in some way, that's good. So I would just encourage everybody here to be part of that. To get season tickets, to come to the games, to support what we've got now."

San Diego is up for a similar referendum later this year. Rowdies officials say that team is modeling their campaign after the Rowdies' efforts.

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/794428

Arena Impressed with USL’s Evolution

U.S. Head Coach visits league office, reflects on soccer’s continual growth

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.thenextmiami.com/first-rendering-beckhams-500m-overtown-soccer-stadium/

First Rendering Of Beckham’s $500M Overtown Soccer Stadium

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/broward/article151421217.html

David Beckham ready to buy $9M county lot, but the actual $9M will wait

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Daily/Morning-Buzz/2017/05/18/Beckham.aspx

Beckham's MLS Group Shows Off Latest Stadium Plan At Town Hall

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https://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Daily/Issues/2017/05/18/Facilities/Beckham.aspx

David Beckham Group Reveals Retooled Design For Proposed Miami MLS Stadium

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http://miami.cbslocal.com/2017/05/18/michelle-kaufman-on-miami-mls-stadium-the-main-concern-is-parking/

Michelle Kaufman on Miami MLS Stadium: “The Main Concern Is Parking”

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http://m.espn.com/soccer/story?storyId=3128915&top&wjb=

David Beckham group unveils new Miami stadium plan without parking

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.espnfc.com/major-league-soccer/story/3128915/david-beckham-group-unveils-new-miami-stadium-plan-without-parking

David Beckham group unveils new Miami stadium plan without parking

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.bizjournals.com/southflorida/news/2017/05/18/beckham-group-promises-all-private-funding-local.html

Beckham group promises all private funding, local jobs with $500M MLS stadium

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http://www.bizjournals.com/southflorida/news/2017/05/18/beckham-group-promises-all-private-funding-local.html

Beckham group promises all private funding, local jobs with $500M MLS stadium

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http://wlrn.org/post/overtown-community-members-weigh-beckhams-soccer-stadium

Overtown Community Members Weigh In Beckham's Soccer Stadium

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.sacbee.com/sports/mls/article151300777.html

David Beckham group unveils new Miami stadium plan

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2017/05/18/david-beckham-miami-mls-expansion-overtown-stadium

Miami-Dade mayor: Overtown site 'last opportunity here' for MLS expansion

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.miaminewtimes.com/news/david-beckhams-stadium-plans-met-with-skepticism-at-first-overtown-meeting-9356613

Overtown Is Skeptical of David Beckham's New Soccer Stadium Plan

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http://www.bizjournals.com/tampabay/news/2017/05/18/economic-impact-study-foresees-economic-win-in-new.html

Economic impact study foresees economic win in new St. Pete Pier

(Follow link for full article.)

http://deadspin.com/a-brief-history-of-david-beckhams-futile-attempts-to-bu-1795357337

A Brief History Of David Beckham's Futile Attempts To Build An MLS Stadium In Miami

(Follow link for full article.)

http://cbs12.com/sports/content/beckham-group-meets-with-community-about-proposed-soccer-stadium

Beckham group meets with community about proposed soccer stadium

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http://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/794238

USL Match Preview – #TORvTBR

Rowdies look to continue streak in visit to Toronto

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https://therealdeal.com/miami/2017/05/18/beckham-group-reveals-new-design-of-mls-stadium-in-overtown/

David Beckham group reveals new design of Miami soccer stadium in Overtown

$300M-plus stadium design still lacks parking

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.fox13news.com/news/local-news/255617358-story

Study: New pier could bring $80 million to St. Pete

(Follow link for full article.)

http://news.volan.hu/latest/david-beckham-group-unveils-new-miami-stadium-plan

David Beckham group unveils new Miami stadium plan

The group headed by David Beckham, which is trying to bring an MLS expansion franchise to Miami, Florida, unveiled a plan on Wednesday for a brand new 25,000-seater stadium....

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-4521760/David-Beckham-group-unveils-new-Miami-stadium-plan.html

David Beckham group unveils new Miami stadium plan with ground set to open in 2021... but where is the parking?

    'Miami Beckham United' have unveiled a rendering for a 25,000-seater stadium
    David Beckham's group is near to completing a deal to secure the last piece land
    There is a lack of available parking due to local concerns over vehicle congestion
    A new MLS team would rely on fans using Metrorail shuttle, buses & water taxis

David Beckham group unveils new Miami stadium plan

When you've got MBU's lawyer/lobbyist using buzzwords like "paradigm shift" and talking about expecting people in South Florida to change their travel habits in order to sell your stadium plan, alarm bells should be going off. No parking, expecting people in South Florida to use public transit and to walk through a rather dicey neighborhood, to an MLS stadium? And this doesn't sound like a bad idea to anyone?

The county seems pretty set on making this happen quickly, however. Where is the due diligence? The traffic and parking impact studies? The public transit use impact studies? Will there be actual local opposition beyond just a few complaints at a public meeting? 

Well we shall see. Who knows, it might work out okay. But I wouldn't want to be risking my own money on a "paradigm shift" in a place like Overtown, though. I guess that's why Beckham & friends wanted an outsider investor/billionaire to take most of the financial risk. 

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/article151188752.html

David Beckham group unveils new Miami stadium plan

David Beckham’s Miami negotiators unveiled an airy, open-roof stadium for Overtown Wednesday night, a retooled design that still sticks with the central premise that the 25,000-seat soccer venue doesn’t need parking facilities.

“We’re going to be encouraging the use of Metromover, Metrorail, water taxis, ride-sharing,” said Spencer Crowley, a lawyer and lobbyist representing Miami Beckham United in its talks with Miami-Dade to buy a parcel needed for its nine-acre stadium site near the Miami River. “We view this as a paradigm shift for the county as to how people get to large events.” [. . .]

Leiweke faced the harshest questions from residents of Spring Garden, a more affluent neighborhood next to Overtown. Homeowners said the lack of garages at the Beckham facility promises to clog their neighborhood with cars and fans seeking a place to park. They argued Beckham wasn’t bringing enough to Overtown to compensate for the disruption.

“A lot of times, stadiums overpromise and underdeliver,” said Carlos Salas, a Spring Garden resident. “I don’t think we should sell out for 50 jobs.”

Among the scores of residents who expressed approval or dismay at the proposed stadium, none got applause as big as Rev. Clayton Harrell, who said he was not opposed to the stadium, but hoped members of the Beckham investor team focused their energy on helping the homeless and churches in the area.

“I say to the stockholders and people that are investing in this to make an investment in the house of God,” he said.

To address parking concerns, Leiweke unveiled a strategy he said would help keep cars away from the stadium area. He said the team plans to arrange for a dinner-cruise boat to deliver fans to the Miami River a few blocks away, and would arrange for shuttle buses from parking garages in Miami. The team plans to secure at least 2,000 spaces a game, he said. The main focus would be on the nearby Metrorail station, with the Beckham group relying on soccer’s tradition of fans “marching” to the game.

John DeLeon, a Spring Garden resident, argued soccer could help Overtown lead the way in embracing public transit.

“It’s going to help redefine who we are a community,” he said. “We’re going to be a pedestrian community.” [. . .]

Peter Ehrlich · Real Estate Investor at Industrial 59, LLC
Still huge opposition to the proposed soccer stadium. Taxpayers are still livid over the Marlins Scam and its $3 Billion cost forced upon taxpayers. This Soccer stadium in Overtown/Spring Garden requires City and County to agree to close NW 7th Street. Traffic is already bad and getting worse. Little Havana is getting more developed. Closing NW 7th Street appears to be major hurdle.

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/soccer/fl-sp-beckham-overtown-meeting-audio-20170517-story.html

Listen: Overtown and Spring Gardens residents speak with county, Beckham reps

(Follow link for full article.)

http://miami.cbslocal.com/2017/05/17/town-hall-beckham-soccer-stadium/

Traffic, Safety Concern Residents Near Possible Beckham Stadium

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/Meeting-Taking-Place-Wednesday-Over-Proposed-Overtown-Soccer-Stadium-422736814.html

Neighborhood Meeting Over Proposed Overtown Soccer Stadium

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/soccer/fl-sp-mls-beckham-overtown-20170517-story.html

Beckham representatives face public in quest to bring MLS to Miami

(Follow link for full article.)

https://twitter.com/BrianBandell/status/864971912828645377

Brian Bandell‏

@BrianBandell

The planned Beckham MLS stadium in Miami

3:32 PM - 17 May 2017

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6bs7pn/bandell_the_planned_beckham_mls_stadium_in_miami/

[Bandell] The planned Beckham MLS stadium in Miami. (twitter.com)

Metromover (free downtown loop) drops off ~10 blocks from stadium and metro rail (similar to most subway systems) drops off like 3 blocks from stadium. Not bad, but people don't take public transit and walk through Overtown. That said, they likely will if this goes through, as that she the only option.

(Follow link for full article.)

https://twitter.com/doug_hanks/status/864976298657107975

Doug Hanks‏

Verified account @doug_hanks

No parking garages at Beckham stadium, but there will be a boat!

3:49 PM - 17 May 2017

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/article150858572.html

Neighborhood group bashes David Beckham’s stadium plan for Miami

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6bqzgg/neighborhood_group_bashes_david_beckhams_stadium/

Neighborhood group bashes David Beckham’s stadium plan for Miami (miamiherald.com)

> He said the Beckham group did not have a rendering of the proposed stadium to share with the public.

How is that even possible after all this time? This group is such a mess.

While I'm inclined to disagree with NIMBYism as a rule, they might have a point about traffic/parking. Miami has 35th highest transit usage in the country, with a mode share of ~10%. Not great. Has the team discussed these plans with MetroLink? Are there going to be extra buses/trains laid on for game day? Will there be stewards to shuttle the people between the station and the stadium? Will they close the street before kickoff? Given how slapdash everything else about this bid has been, I think the locals are right to question any "plans" the team says it has.

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Awy1TbkLlkk

Highlights - Rowdies vs Jacksonville Armada U23 - U.S. Open Cup 2nd Round - May 16, 2017

Tampa Bay Rowdies

Published on May 16, 2017

HIGHLIGHTS - Check out the recap of Tuesday, May 16's 3-0 U.S. Open Cup win over Jacksonville Armada U-23 presented by Tijuana Flats. Goals by Kype Porter, Alex Morrell and Martin Paterson, propelled the Rowdies to the 3rd round of the U.S. Open Cup.

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_X561mtWRg

Tampa Bay Rowdies vs. Jacksonville Armada FC U23 - May 16, 2017 - U.S. Open Cup - 2nd Round

Tampa Bay Rowdies

Streamed live on May 16, 2017

U.S. Open Cup - 2nd Round

Tampa Bay Rowdies vs. Jacksonville Armada FC U23

May 16, 2017

Al Lang Stadium, St. Petersburg

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x0bEju-vsQU

Rowdies' Phobias

Tampa Bay Rowdies

Published on May 15, 2017

What are the Rowdies most scared of? Find out in our latest Pregame Show feature!

www.RowdiesSoccer.com

Facebook.com/TampaBayRowdies

727-222-2000

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.cltampa.com/arts-entertainment/sports/article/20861884/martin-paterson-scores-in-rowdies-usopen-cup

Martin Paterson makes impact in Rowdies' 2017 Open Cup debut

(Follow link for full article.)

http://chiefexecutive.net/game-changer-billionaire-jeff-vinik-helping-remake-tampa/

Game Changer: How Billionaire Jeff Vinik is Helping to Remake Tampa

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https://youtu.be/SIR86pWuxeY

Speed Art - Georgi Hristov, Tampa Bay Rowdies

Jonathan Arnholz

Published on May 13, 2017

With one more appearance, Tampa Bay Rowdies forward Georgi Hristov will set the club record for appearances in the Rowdies modern era (2010-Pres).

Art by Jonathan Arnholz

Follow me on Twitter: twitter.com/jarnholz

Music by DJ Quads

"Here I Go"

https://soundcloud.com/aka-dj-quads/here-i-go-vlogmusic

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.theguardian.com/football/2017/may/18/mls-stadium-gentrification-orlando-city

The club next door: as MLS expands, concerns over gentrification loom

As Major League Soccer thrives with a fleet of new soccer-specific stadiums cast as anchors for urban revitalization, the specter of gentrification only grows

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.socceramerica.com/article/73437/mls-expansion-leiweke-makes-pitch-for-miami-stadi.html

MLS Expansion: Leiweke makes pitch for Miami stadium

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.tbo.com/news/briefs/hometown-pinellas/2323761

St. Anthony's to offer fans care at Rowdies matches

In the fourth consecutive year of being named the official medical partner for the Tampa Bay Rowdies, St. Anthony's Hospital has expanded its role by offering care for fans at all matches. In addition to providing medical care for the team, BayCare Event Medicine now will be in the clinic space at Al Lang Stadium to assist fans in case of medical emergencies during matches.

Neighborhood group bashes David Beckham’s stadium plan for Miami

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/article150858572.html

Neighborhood group bashes David Beckham’s stadium plan for Miami

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/793208

Rowdies Begin Open Cup Campaign on Home Turf

Tampa Bay kicks off against Armada U23 aiming to replicate 2013 run

(Follow link for full article.)

https://streamable.com/jbp6t

Georgi Hristov...WILL NOT ALLOW THE BAGELS!!!

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2017/05/15/football-bagels-combine-glorious-american-soccer-commentary/

Football and bagels combine in glorious American soccer commentary

Bagels and football crossover is usually kept to a minimum, but a US pundit has changed all that after a bizarre piece of commentary gold.

The Tampa Bay Rowdies were taking on Louisville City FC in the United Soccer League when the discussion took a bizarre bagel turn, moments before the opening goal.

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.theunsubs.com/wp/2017/05/15/everybody-loves-georgi/2898

Everybody Loves Georgi

Georgi Hristov did what he does best on Saturday night. Six minutes after entering as substitute to make his 121st appearance and pass Takuya Yamada for the record, Hristov grabbed the lead for the Rowdies against Louisville City with an outstanding strike. His teammates and Coach Stuart Campbell weighed in on Hristov’s massive impact on the match and why everyone in the locker room and in the stands at Al Lang love him.

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/6bbjcs/rowdies_home_attendance_thread_game_6_vs/

Rowdies Home Attendance Thread - Game 6 vs. Louisville City FC [5/13] (self.TampaBayRowdies)

5,410 for this week, not bad all things considering, but this game was going up against Game 6 last year (FLO-RIDA!!! FIREWORKS!!!). We're behind last year's pace, but some of that is timing of the NASL Fall finale/Spring opener. We should begin to make up ground now that it's behind us.

Rain likely killed walkup sales. The forecast showed 60-80% chance of rain during the match, but it held off. It did however rain for about an hour prior to kickoff. Unfortunate since this was shaping up to be a good one at the gate. Still was a great match and the Mob was amazing.

Open Cup (Free tickets) this week on Tuesday and then we'll be back home against St. Louis in two weeks.

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lkXwjnmtu2Q

Hristov Makes History: 121 Games and Counting

Tampa Bay Rowdies

Published on May 15, 2017

On Saturday night, Georgi Hristov broke the Rowdies' All-Time Appearance Record with his 121st appearance. Hear the Bulgarian forward reflect on the past four years in Tampa Bay.

(Follow link for full article.)

https://i1.wp.com/www.theunsubs.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/RowdiesFCE-14.jpg

Ralph's Mob Georgi Hristov Tifo

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.theunsubs.com/wp/2017/05/16/rowdies-knock-off-armada-u23-3-0-in-first-us-open-cup-action/2905

Rowdies Knock Off Armada U23 3-0 in First US Open Cup Action

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.leagueoffans.org/2017/05/13/reforming-american-professional-sports-a-proposal/

Reforming American Professional Sports: A Proposal

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.ussoccer.com/stories/2017/05/17/01/09/20170516-feat-usoc-rowdies-beat-armada-second-round

Rowdies open #USOC2017 Second Round with a bang

The opening game of the 2017 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup’s Second Round went the way of the hosts at Al Lang Stadium in St. Petersburg, Florida as the Tampa Bay Rowdies of the United Soccer League (USL) hammered Jacksonville Armada U-23 of the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) 3-0 without so much as breaking a sweat.

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/793621

Rowdies Comfortably Oust Armada U23

Tampa Bay advances to Third Round of Open Cup with 3-0 win

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.tampabay.com/sports/soccer/rowdies-dominate-jacksonville-under-23-team-in-us-open-cup/2324154

Rowdies dominate Jacksonville Under-23 team in U.S. Open Cup

(Follow link for full article.)

 http://saintpetersblog.com/rowdies-advance-u-s-open-cup-3-0-win-jacksonville-armada-u23/

Rowdies advance in U.S. Open Cup after 3-0 win over Jacksonville Armada U23

David Beckham soccer stadium faces the neighbors at Wednesday town hall

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/article150623297.html

David Beckham soccer stadium faces the neighbors at Wednesday town hall

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/soccer/fl-sp-beckham-overtown-meeting-20170515-story.html

Meeting with area residents, David Beckham reps scheduled for Wednesday

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/sport/these-american-commentators-couldnt-stop-talking-about-bagels-when-georgi-hristov-scored-789741.html

These American commentators couldn't stop talking about bagels when Georgi Hristov scored

When Georgi Hristov looks back on a fine goal scored during his record-breaking appearance for the Tampa Bay Rowdies, he might be surprised by the sheer volume of bagel chat that surrounded his effort.

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.cltampa.com/arts-entertainment/sports/article/20861431/hristov-rowdies-break-record-with-win

Georgi Hristov help lifts Rowdies to another win

And he's breaking records, too.

WE ARE SONS OF PIRATES!!!

(Follow link for full article.)

https://twitter.com/phat7deuce/status/863538650855985152

Mike Pendleton‏

@phat7deuce

WE ARE SONS OF PIRATES!!!

4:37 PM - 13 May 2017 from Al Lang Stadium

Ralph's Mob

(Follow link for full article.)

https://twitter.com/timbersfc/status/862849291777212416

Portland Timbers

‏Verified account @TimbersFC

Check it out. 👀 Some new renderings of the proposed expansion for Providence Park. #RCTID

6:57 PM - 11 May 2017 from Portland, OR

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2017/5/11/15625878/us-open-cup-2017-pitch-invader-tartan-devils-fc-derby-city

U.S. Open Cup game stopped by pitch invader upset that supporters’ section is keeping their kids awake

Enough of your drums and singing, soccer fans.

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6argnz/us_open_cup_game_stopped_by_pitch_invader_upset/

U.S. Open Cup game stopped by pitch invader upset that supporters’ section is keeping their kids awake (sbnation.com)

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6iKfkrBuoo

What Happened To Beckham's MLS Miami Franchise?

Published on May 12, 2017

In 2007 David Beckham entered Major League Soccer with the Los Angeles Galaxy. Inserted into his megabucks deal was a promise that once retired he could seek to purchase his own ‘MLS franchise’ for a set rate of $25million. This video examines Beckham's attempts to realise this dream with his touted Miami United.

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6at29n/what_happened_to_beckhams_mls_miami_franchise/

What Happened To Beckham's MLS Miami Franchise? (youtu.be)

(Follow link for full article.)

http://sport360.com/article/football/global/233112/what-happened-to-david-beckhams-mls-miami-franchise/

What Happened To Beckham's MLS Miami Franchise?

uMAXit Football's video explains what issues David Beckham's Major League Soccer Miami franchise has had over the years.

(Follow link for full article.)

https://twitter.com/mitchelltierney/status/862485300202917890

Mitchell Tierney‏

@mitchelltierney

Meanwhile, in the Canadian Championship....

6:51 PM - 10 May 2017

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6akztf/howler_of_a_goal_in_the_canadian_championship/

Howler of a goal in the Canadian Championship (twitter.com)

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.thebluetestament.com/2017/5/13/15582028/mls-expansion-update

MLS Expansion Update: Phoenix, Nashville, Tampa Bay, Miami, St. Louis and More

The latest news on the teams racing for MLS expansion including news about Phoenix, Nashville, Tampa Bay, Miami, St. Louis, Sacramento, San Diego, FC Cincinnati, Detroit and LAFC.

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/792456

Rowdies Snap Louisville’s Undefeated Start

Hristov scores winner in front of 5,410, sets Rowdies modern-era appearance record

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.tampabay.com/sports/soccer/rowdies-get-just-enough-offense-in-victory-over-louisville-city/2323864

Rowdies get just enough offense in victory over Louisville City

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.newsandtribune.com/sports/louisville-city-drops-first-game---at-tampa-bay/article_8dfae788-3859-11e7-a6b2-03696d3e024b.html

Louisville City drops first game, 2-0 at Tampa Bay

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.wave3.com/story/35423461/tampa-bay-shuts-down-lou-city

Tampa Bay shuts down Lou City

(Follow link for full article.)

http://saintpetersblog.com/tampa-bay-rowdies-overpower-louisville-city-fc-2-0-win/

Tampa Bay Rowdies overpower Louisville City FC in 2-0 win

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/792530

Hristov Marks Historic Moment in Style

Making 121st appearances for Rowdies, notches game-winner vs. Louisville

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.tbo.com/sports/soccer/rowdies-get-just-enough-offense-in-victory-over-louisville-city/2323864

Rowdies get just enough offense in victory over Louisville City

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9wqILdzcEoo

USL LIVE - Tampa Bay Rowdies vs Louisville City FC 5/13/17

United Soccer League

Streamed live on May 13, 2017

http://uslsoccer.com/

Keep up with the latest news and subscribe!

https://twitter.com/USL

https://www.facebook.com/USL

http://instagram.com/usl/

#USL

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyhYfRBGB2k

Rowdies Highlights vs Louisville City FC - May 13, 2017

Tampa Bay Rowdies

Published on May 13, 2017

HIGHLIGHTS - Check out the recap of Saturday's 2-0 win over Louisville City FC presented by Tijuana Flats. Georgi Hristov scored the game winner in the second half, while Deshorn Brown added to the Rowdies lead several minutes later.

NASL Sues Strikers’ Owners

Some Ft. Lauderdale Strikers news today. Lawsuits. Hopefully this mess gets cleared up soon and the Strikers can take to the pitch again. 

SoccerWarz!

Chillounge at Al Lang Stadium! 

Best Burgers in Florida!

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.empireofsoccer.com/nasl-sues-strikers-owners-60968/

NASL Sues Strikers’ Owners

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/6al1y1/bill_edwards_granted_summary_judgment_against_ftl/

Bill Edwards Granted Summary Judgment Against FTL Strikers Owners [OC] (empireofsoccer.com)

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6al4y9/nasl_sues_the_current_owners_of_the_ft_lauderdale/

NASL sues the current owners of the Ft. Lauderdale Strikers (empireofsoccer.com)

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.espnfc.com/north-american-soccer-league/story/3123980/nasl-to-add-orange-county-club-and-sues-fort-lauderdale-strikers

NASL to add Orange County club, sues Fort Lauderdale Strikers

(Follow link for full article.)

http://mlsmultiplex.com/2017/05/11/soccerwarz-book-review-read-book/

“SoccerWarz”: 3 Q’s and 1 Good Reason To Read This Book

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.cltampa.com/music/article/20860393/chillounges-rainer-scheer-may-be-heading-north-for-a-while-summer-guide-2017

Summer Guide 2017: The King of Chill — Chillounge's Rainer Scheer may be heading north for a while

The name has two “L”s, not three, and Scheer wants the nation to know it.

On Nov. 18, Chillounge Night will be back in St. Pete for its 10th anniversary. Scheer plans to do something a little different this time around, and he couldn’t resist sharing a key detail about this milestone occasion: He hopes to transform the field at the Tampa Bay Rowdies’ Al Lang Stadium into a magnificent outdoor lounge.

“Now, everyone [can feel] like, I’m a soccer king, I’m a soccer player,” he says.

Of course, Scheer feels on top of his game when everyone is having fun at one of his uniquely designed experiences. He sacrifices his chill so you can lounge, and he wouldn’t have it any other way.

(Follow link for full article.)

https://bestthingsfl.com/burgers/

The 10 Best Burgers in Florida!

3. Engine No. 9, St. Petersburg, FL

What started as a small bar in 2012 has now grown and expanded to two restaurants on the West Coast. This sports bar is a great place to catch the Tampa Bay Lightning play while enjoying prime black angus beef patties.

5. Burger Culture, Tampa, FL

Sometimes the very best meals are served out of a good ole food truck. If you’re in the Tampa area, check out Burger Culture. Their truck is always found in the Harley Davidson parking lot!

7. Oblivion Taproom, Orlando, FL

With over 15 tasty burgers to choose from, Oblivion Taproom has a great burger combination for anyone who walks through their doors. Bring a group of friends for one of their events like karaoke night to enjoy the music and good food.

9. S’macks Burgers and Shakes, Sarasota, FL

S’macks Burgers is a great spot for lunch or dinner if you find yourself in Sarasota and are craving a tasty burger. The spicy XXX Burger served on a pretzel bun is always a solid choice.

David Beckham ready to buy last parcel for Miami soccer stadium

So if the below is correct, Miami Beckham United (MBU) is close to buying the land in Overtown that they need for their MLS soccer specific stadium (SSS).

However, there will be a hearing next month. Local politician is making “I’ve got to see what my community says" noises, and thus forces a community hearing next month, so this won't be quickly rubber stamped by Miami-Dade County. 

This may mean nothing more than a bit of political posturing, followed by a quick rubber stamped approval; or, local activists and NIMBYs (or whatever one calls NIMBYs in "underpriviledged" neighborhoods) might actually throw a monkey wrench into the works. We shall see.

As far as I know, since MBU bought land in Overtown over a year ago, MBU hasn't done anything to cultivate and win over the local neighborhood groups, businesses, and others in Overtown, like was done in, say, previously, in Orlando, and currently, in St. Petersburg. And no, I'm not talking about holding a town hall meeting.

If locals in Overtown somehow torpedo the stadium deal, this lack of attention to these kinds of local details could bite MBU in the ass, so to speak. But we shall see.

Also, below, Phil Rawlins is out at Orlando City, but will remain on the MLS expansion committee, if I am reading between the lines correctly.

Finally, below, excellent video essay about the Tampa Bay Rowdies and the Tampa Bay Mutiny.

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/article149488729.html

David Beckham ready to buy last parcel for Miami soccer stadium

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6a72f4/david_beckham_ready_to_buy_last_parcel_for_miami/

David Beckham ready to buy last parcel for Miami soccer stadium (miamiherald.com)

(Follow link for full article.)

http://miami.cbslocal.com/2017/05/09/beckham-group-finally-ready-to-purchase-last-piece-of-land-for-miami-soccer-stadium/

Beckham Group Finally Ready To Purchase Last Piece Of Land For Miami Soccer Stadium

(Follow link for full article.)

https://therealdeal.com/miami/2017/05/09/david-beckham-to-buy-final-piece-of-overtown-land-for-miami-soccer-stadium/

David Beckham to pay $9M for final piece of stadium development site in Overtown

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.socceramerica.com/article/73337/report-beckham-miami-land-deal-gains-momentum.html

Report: Beckham Miami land deal gains momentum

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/sports/orlando-city-lions/os-sp-orlando-city-phil-rawlins-moving-mike-bianchi-0510-20170509-story.html

Commentary: Phil Rawlins is leaving Orlando, and it's a much better place than he found it

Even though he’s moving, Phil says he will keep an apartment in Orlando, return regularly and still be a visible part of the team. He still owns a minority share of the franchise, will continue to be the “life president” and represent the club at select MLS meetings and functions.

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6a9niy/phil_rawlins_leaving_orlando_city/

Phil Rawlins leaving Orlando city (orlandosentinel.com)

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0PXLKJL44E

#MLS2StPete - The Rowdies vs. The Mutiny

Jonathan Arnholz

Published on May 9, 2017

On May 2, 2017, Tampa Bay took a step forward in its bid to join Major League Soccer when residents of St. Petersburg, FL voted overwhelmingly in favor of allowing the St. Pete government to negotiate with Tampa Bay Rowdies owner Bill Edwards on a lease extension vital to the team's plans to expand Al Lang Stadium should the region be awarded a slot in MLS' league expansion.

With the #MLS2StPete movement earning a major victory, many critics point to the failure of original MLS team Tampa Bay Mutiny (1996-2001) as a sign that Tampa Bay can't support a top-tier soccer team. This video analyzes the struggles the Mutiny faced and how the current Rowdies bid has turned those weaknesses into strengths.

Learn more about #MLS2StPete: http://www.rowdiessoccer.com/mls2stpete

Modern Rowdies photographs by Matt May/Tampa Bay Rowdies http://www.mattmayphotography.com/

Modern Rowdies footage from Tampa Bay Rowdies YouTube page

https://www.youtube.com/user/RowdiesOfficial

Based on story by Jonathan Arnholz: #MLS2StPete — And why the failure of the Mutiny doesn’t matter https://medium.com/@JArnholz/mls2stpete-and-why-the-failure-of-the-mutiny-doesnt-matter-4c0c60b513a9

Music by Approaching Nirvana

https://www.youtube.com/user/approachingnirvana

Song 1: "Running"

Song 2: "Shadows' Vigilante"

Song 3: "The Things We Did"

Song 4: "First Flight Relaunched"

All songs are from the album Lapse In Time: http://apple.co/1gb2JjY

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6a9t4p/video_essay_tampa_bay_rowdies_vs_tampa_bay_mutiny/

Video Essay: Tampa Bay Rowdies vs. Tampa Bay Mutiny (history and contrast of both clubs) (youtu.be)

30 Days

I'm not going to bother posting links to every MLS and lower league soccer story that interests me here anymore; it was getting to be a bit too much. I shall just post a few things that directly interest me as long as it is related to the Tampa Bay Rowdies (or if there is ever anything of interest to my current local football club, the New England Revolution, which is almost never). 

So it's been a week and a half and no real news about the Miami situation; however a few rumors and chatter. Everyone seems convinced that Miami is going to happen now; we shall see. I am skeptical, but I have nothing valid to back that hunch up with at the moment, really. 

(Follow link for full article.)

http://www.miamiherald.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/barry-jackson/article149186064.html

A-Rod passes on Marlins; Spoelstra honored; Heat nuggets; Beckham move

Some Marlins, Heat and Miami/David Beckham/MLS notes on a Sunday:

### With Dodgers co-owner Todd Boehly joining David Beckham’s Miami soccer ownership group, they’re in good shape financially and not looking for more investors. The next hurdle, which shouldn’t be a big one: acquiring Miami-Dade County-owned land, where a slice of the proposed Overtown stadium will sit, for upwards of $10 million.

Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez told WQAM’s Joe Rose: “We’re ready to go. We’re waiting for the league to award the franchise. We can get our part of the deal done within 30 days.”

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/69z89w/with_dodgers_coowner_todd_boehly_joining_david/

With Dodgers co-owner Todd Boehly joining David Beckham’s Miami soccer ownership group, they’re in good shape financially and not looking for more investors. (miamiherald.com)

(Follow link for full article.)

https://twitter.com/WilliamsBob75/status/857551807492567040

Bob Williams‏

Verified account

@WilliamsBob75

Re Miami MLS bid: Final piece of land in Overtown will only be bought if/when MLS board approves bid. "Things are moving fast," am told.

4:07 AM - 27 Apr 2017

(Follow link for full article.)

https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/67uxlx/bob_williams_re_miami_mls_bid_final_piece_of_land/

[Bob Williams] Re Miami MLS bid: Final piece of land in Overtown will only be bought if/when MLS board approves bid. "Things are moving fast," am told (twitter.com)