Soccer, NBA audiences trending younger, while NASCAR, golf, pro wrestling audiences are growing older

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http://awfulannouncing.com/soccer/mls-youngest-tv-audience-sports-pga-tour-oldest.html

Soccer, NBA audiences trending younger, while NASCAR, golf, pro wrestling audiences are growing older

TV audience changes don't bode well for NASCAR or golf.

This week Sports Business Journal published a fascinating study about how sports audiences on television are getting older. The good news is that it’s happening at a slower rate versus primetime television, but it’s still at a faster rate versus the total population.

The data confirms a couple popular narratives about sports on television. The biggest headline might be just how young soccer’s average fan is compared to everybody else. MLS looks to be well-positioned for the future with their average fan just 40 years of age and the NBA right behind them at 42 years of age. This fits the general idea that both of those sports are supremely popular with younger fans.

At the other end of the spectrum, the conventional wisdom is that golf has the oldest audience in sports and that was proven correct with an average age of 64. Considering ratings have also gone down from the Tiger Woods era, it’s a bit concerning for the sport’s long-term prospects. Perhaps the biggest alarm bells might be going off for NASCAR, though, who have seen their average audience increase in age by almost a decade since 2006. That means the sport is failing to attract new, younger fans, which would explain why their ratings continue to suffer.

Here’s the entire chart where another interesting note is that the WTA was the only organization to see its audience skew younger.

These facts and figures might not be surprises, but it’s only part of the overall television picture. Yes, the trends look much better for MLS than they do for NASCAR. But, let’s not forget that NASCAR’s overall audience is still very good compared to a lot of other sports. Last month’s Kansas race still drew 2.5 million viewers. MLS is often 10 times behind that in their ratings for regular season games and would give you a free expansion franchise if you could find a way for them to get that kind of viewership for any game.

One of the issues facing MLS that other leagues don’t face is the other competition from other leagues around the world all vying for the same eyeballs in America. When it’s just as easy to watch the EPL as it is MLS, and the EPL has better players, MLS is fighting an uphill battle.

When more specific options are included in the study, four out of the five youngest audiences are soccer-related. The EPL (43), NBA (42), MLS (40), international soccer (39), and Liga MX (39) make up the youngest audiences.

One last fascinating note from the study is what’s happened to professional wrestling on television. Since 2000, the average age of pro wrestling fans has increased a whopping 26 years of age to 54. It’s raised 21 years of age in just the last 10 years. Professional wrestling was in a very different place in 2000 at the height of WWE’s Attitude Era and the competition with WCW going strong. It’s ironic because WWE switch to a more family friendly TV-PG product that had the hope of reaching children and younger fans. WWE has had their won struggles with television ratings falling in recent times and perhaps this is a sign that the company needs to change course soon or risk their audience going into extinction.

These age figures might not explain everything about sports on television, but they do provide some key evidence of trends taking place around the industry. And while it may not provide the entire picture about the total audience for these sports, it’s always better to be getting younger instead of older.

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https://www.soccernation.com/down-but-not-out-soccercity-rallies-after-disappointing-first-half/

Down But Not Out – SoccerCity Rallies After Disappointing First Half

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https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6fnn3k/san_diegos_mls_bid_hanging_by_a_thread/

San Diego's MLS bid hanging by a thread (soccernation.com)

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https://thefloridasqueeze.com/2017/06/06/the-time-for-miami-beckham-united-is-now/

The time for Miami Beckham United is now

June 6, 2017

by Kartik Krishnaiyer

Four years ago, David Beckham attended a Miami Heat playoff game with future-Sprint CEO Marcelo Claure. Beckham who had just played his final professional soccer match with PSG was looking at cashing in on a provision to own a team. This item was placed  in his MLS contact which was signed in January 2007 . In 2008 and 2009, Claure had led a bid to bring an expansion team to Miami in conjunction with FC Barcelona. But the great recession hit Claure, then the CEO of Brightstar harder than most and as it appeared Miami would be awarded a team to begin play in 2010, he pulled the plug. Southeast Florida has been without MLS since 2001 when the Miami Fusion, based in Fort Lauderdale folded despite being in the middle of the pack in attendance that final season. Miami Beckham United (MBU) in early 2014 announced that they were seeking a spot in Major League Soccer but almost immediately hurdles appeared. The hopes for a waterfront ground were dashed as were later proposals for other downtown sites. For a long while political and community support was found wanting. Now MBU is finally close to locking things down in Overtown on the west side of I-95, outside of but within view of Downtown.

As someone who has worked with the area’s soccer leadership closely through the years I remain skeptical about whether or not the Miami/Fort Lauderdale market deserves a second bite at the MLS apple – but that’s really not the point any longer. While few people have publicly expressed as skepticism about the idea of this club  Major League Soccer NEEDS to be in southeast Florida for its international profile and relevance among Latino fans. Despite the recent runaway success of MLS’ in medium-sized places like Portland, Seattle, Salt Lake City and our own Orlando City SC, MLS hasn’t conquered the big markets or the consciousness of the media internationally – Miami with Beckham as the face of the club can change that. The fourth largest urban area in the nation,, the third largest Hispanic TV market in the country and one of the most cosmopolitan places in the western hemisphere make Miami a must for a league that unlike in 2001 has a chance to be a global player. This was MLS’ thinking behind second clubs in New York and Los Angeles and going into Philadelphia with a pure startup in an era when every other new MLS clubs was promoted from the minor leagues.

Miami’s stadium proposal will move forward this week after finally obtaining the political and community support that MLS finds much easier to obtain in smaller markets. This locale many feel isn’t ideal but indulge me for a moment while I make the case that it’s a better deal than many might think. The stadium can help revive the portion of Overtown cut off from the heart of the community thanks to the building of I-95 right through the urban core in the early 1960’s.

Much of the criticism of this proposal is that it doesn’t have car parking – well neither do most of the real intimate grounds in England, grounds that Americans flock to the TV sets every weekend to watch games from on NBC. The (English) Premier League gets on average higher viewership numbers in the United States than MLS does, something boosters of the domestic game hope changes in the near future. Venues like Orlando City SC’s new stadium help to create the type of on-air ambiance that those who watch the Premier League will hope to find in MLS. For all the highfalutin talk that Americans watch the Premier League in great numbers because of the perceived quality on the pitch, a factor as to why many watch it for the ambiance and atmospheres at the grounds. MBU’s ground potentially will be intimate and acoustically pleasing enough to help try and move MLS’ TV numbers, which is after all the whole ball game now. For years MLS’ has focused on attendance, but TV numbers have been relatively stagnant despite expansion and the exponentially growing footprint of soccer in this country.

We’ve heard lots of complaints about the stadium location and lack of parking, largely from people who probably won’t attend a game anyway. Those elites from parts of southeast Florida who don’t want to use public transit or go to Overtown can be safely ignored at this point and perhaps mocked in the future if this club draws well. Ridership on Metrorail and Metromover has increased by 72% since 2001 and Tri-Rail ridership has increased 67% in the same period. While southeastern Florida has never given up love of the car mass transit is making more and more of a dent in the region’s transportation culture. It’s worth noting Metrorail and Tri-Rail have have not since 2001 had a “destination” for sports and entertainment linked to the system outside of the University of Miami’s basketball arena.

At this point, it’s worth noting soccer has never been treated with a level of fairness by some in the local media – this is a problem MLS has run into time and again in big markets where entrenched media elites thumb their noses at the world’s game. This summer’s El Clasico Miami, might for a time dampen those attitudes and perhaps win some converts – so while the game being hosted by the Miami Dolphins and Relevant Sports, a competing outlet to MLS’ Soccer United Marketing may on the surface not help MBU, it may soften some local media attitudes toward the sport.

What about the local minor league teams in the region? We’ve spent a lot of time on this site discussing the demise of the Fort Lauderdale Strikers. We haven’t spent much time on Miami FC, the Strikers (former?) local NASL rival, but MFC is a club that can be more or less ignored with regards to the MBU and MLS discussion.

Miami FC has nothing near the community or political support that Orlando City SC  had at the same point in its existence despite reporting similar second year attendance. The club has done well to stay afloat in a tough market but has relied on postgame concerts and massive ticket giveaways to bolster numbers and unlike Orlando in 2012 as they were making an MLS push, the supporters group remains small and many fans are disengaged except on game days. Miami FC is the odds-on favorite to win the second division NASL this season, but does that make a difference?

The Fort Lauderdale Strikers in six seasons went from NASL’s top drawing team (minus Montreal who had already announced a move to MLS for the following season) in 2011 to its worst draw in 2016 and on indefinite hiatus in 2017. The Strikers’ forerunner Miami FC once in 2009 in the heart of the ESPN branded “Summer of Soccer” had a grand total 44 people in the building watching a game at FIU. It’s plainly obvious minor league soccer doesn’t work in south Florida in terms of moving the local needle.

Additionally, winning has virtually no correlation to attendance at the lower division level in the United States. Fort Lauderdale is one of only three NASL clubs to have made four postseason appearances, yet attendance and the signing of big-name foreign players never did any good for the club’s bottom line. The ambiance, experience and local ties are what bind fans and a community to a lower-division club.  Neither Miami FC with its pricey roster made up almost entirely of players from outside the area or the Fort Lauderdale Strikers at the end of their most recent run (The Strikers have existed in four different iterations in the past) really captured the local imagination.

The evidence at the division 2  level in American pro soccer points to attendance having little to do with winning. After all, 90%-95% of the players at this level are not particularly well-known even to hardcore soccer fans. While some names like Joe Cole or Raul may move the needle ever so slightly for a few games at a time, by in large signing expensive, higher-profile players makes no difference in terms of crowd building. What does help is having strong community bonds with local organizations, youth clubs and a roster with many local players.

Also importantly attendance doesn’t translate to fan intensity necessary to sustain a club in difficult times or to represent a base for an MLS bid. Orlando City SC’s impressive numbers when in third division USL was not necessarily the attendance though it was certainly decent. It was the intensity of the support, the amount of chatter about the club that would sustain itself during the week and the growing interest in watching away matches as well as the strong supporters culture that was built. It was how soccer got the attention of local political leaders and community institutions. Orlando City SC provided a model for how to build a club into a power off the field at the minor league level and attendance numbers were just one piece of a complicated puzzle which southeast Florida’s local sides have never figured out (in fairness, the Fort Lauderdale Strikers under former President Tom Mulroy were getting there when he departed the organization after the Braziian takeover in November 2014).

It’s also worth noting supporters groups in southeast Florida have been consistently weak. Part of the difficulty MBU had politically and community-wise is that the organized efforts by fans to promote the MLS bid were weaker than in any other city seeking MLS in recent memory. That might be an indicator of the types of tribal turf wars that plague southeast Florida’s soccer community, an area that currently has a total of  SEVEN teams competing in the two national leagues representing the fourth division of American soccer. A fragmented soccer community never seems to be willing to come together behind minor league products, so we can hope MLS MBU is different. But even the allure of MLS didn’t tempt some fans with tribal or other considerations to jump into bed with MBU (on this score, I plead guilty myself).

But even if it isn’t different, I have come to the conclusion that for the sake of American soccer’s global footprint, its TV presence and the health and perception of the domestic game with Latino audiences having a top-flight team in Miami is essential. Many of the local considerations I have applied in the past to critique this bid I have come to the conclusion simply don’t apply to Miami the way they do to places like Cincinnati, Sacramento, St Petersburg or Nashville. Miami is a global city and MLS needs to be in the market. In David Beckham, they have the best possible public face to put on a startup in choppy waters.

A word on David Beckham’s cut rate $25 million dollar entry fee for his team, a figure which is one sixth of the $150 million which now represents the going rate for MLS franchises, even those existing clubs like the Tampa Bay Rowdies that seek to move up from the second division USL. It’s easy for johnny-come-lately’s to forget where MLS was when David Beckham took a massive career risk and signed to play in the United States at the age of 31 (not 35 or 36 like many of the recent “big name” signings). MLS’ is where it is today, in a position to charge $150 million for a team because Beckham signed in the league – nobody will convince me otherwise. Many around MLS’ constantly talk about the sacrfices the early owners in the league made and how they are now owed the money they receive in terms of expansion fees from other clubs and Soccer United Marketing. I would hold Beckham to the same standard, and state in my opinion he is OWED a cut-rate entry to MLS.

The time is now for Miami Beckham United to seal the deal. Whether it’s the most viable plan or the best open market for MLS in terms of local support no longer matters. It’s the bigger picture macro considerations that make this move critical.

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https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6fmc60/the_time_for_miami_beckham_united_is_now/

The time for Miami Beckham United is now (thefloridasqueeze.com)

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http://www.businessreviewusa.com/leadership/5868/David-Beckham-one-step-closer-to-Miami-MLS-franchise-after-crucial-stadium-decision

David Beckham one step closer to Miami MLS franchise after crucial stadium decision

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http://www.gdnonline.com/Details/218926/David-Beckham-clears-Major-League-Soccer-team-hurdle

David Beckham clears Major League Soccer team hurdle

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http://www.canindia.com/beckham-acquires-land-to-build-football-stadium-in-miami/

Beckham acquires land to build football stadium in Miami

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http://www.atlanticbb.net/news/read/category/sports/article/the_miami_herald-miami_slams_countys_lastminute_police_deal_for_dav-tca

Miami slams county's last-minute police deal for David Beckham soccer stadium

June 08--Miami is pushing back on a last-minute requirement that David Beckham's soccer stadium only hire county police officers to patrol inside the facility while city officers are left with traffic control and other duties outside.

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http://the18.com/soccer-news/david-beckham-miami-mls-expansion-team-stadium

David Beckham’s MLS Expansion Team Is Finally Seeing The Light Of Day

David Beckham had a great week with a US Soccer Hall of Fame nod and some long-awaited news regarding his MLS stadium site.

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http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/article155170759.html

Miami widens fight over police deal for David Beckham soccer stadium

Miami commissioners on Thursday requested a legal opinion on whether Miami-Dade could require David Beckham to employ county police and paramedics for off-duty shifts at the 25,000-seat soccer stadium he wants to build within city limits.

“I think it’s wrong,” Keon Hardemon, chairman of the Miami City Commission, said of the county requirement tacked onto a $9 million sale of county land that Beckham needs to complete his stadium site. “I think it’s good for the city of Miami to stand up for this.”

The unanimous resolution amplified a mini squabble that broke out hours after Miami-Dade commissioners granted Beckham a milestone in his four-year quest for a Miami soccer stadium. In agreeing to sell Beckham a three-acre truck depot in Miami’s Overtown neighborhood, Miami-Dade commissioners added a last-minute demand: that only county police and fire personnel be hired inside the privately owned stadium, while the city could pick up the off-duty shifts in the streets surrounding the stadium.

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https://www.local10.com/news/why-arent-miami-police-fire-rescue-thrilled-about-beckham-stadium-deal

City vs county fight underway for first responders at future soccer stadium

Miami commissioners decide to formally fight Miami-Dade County

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http://wwos.nine.com.au/2017/06/08/06/09/beckham-closer-to-forming-new-mls-club

Beckham closer to forming new MLS club

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http://www.gdnonline.com/Details/218926/David-Beckham-clears-Major-League-Soccer-team-hurdle

David Beckham clears Major League Soccer team hurdle

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http://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/soccer/fc-cincinnati/2017/06/08/mls-audition-deck-fc-cincinnati/102634346/

MLS 'audition' on deck for FC Cincinnati

The ultimate Major League Soccer dress rehearsal is about to commence for Futbol Club Cincinnati, and it's likely MLS will be watching.

A forthcoming eight-day stretch starting Saturday looks to be an unparalleled period in FC Cincinnati's relatively short history....

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http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/soccer/bs-sp-usl-soccer-baltimore-0609-20170608-story.html

United Soccer League hopes to have Baltimore franchise, stadium site approved by end of year, official says

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http://www.bizjournals.com/baltimore/news/2017/06/08/united-soccer-league-scouting-canton-fells-point.html

United Soccer League scouting Canton, Fells Point for potential stadium site

The United Soccer League is hoping to close a deal with a Baltimore ownership group by the end of the summer that would bring a franchise to the city and is looking around Fells Point and Canton for a possible stadium of up to 12,000 seats.

Edwards surprise heart surgery hasn't dimmed Rowdies owner's hopes for MLS franchise

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http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/baybuzz/edwards-surprise-heart-surgery-hasnt-dimmed-rowdies-owners-hopes-for-mls/2326405

Edwards surprise heart surgery hasn't dimmed Rowdies owner's hopes for MLS franchise

Charlie Frago, Times Staff Writer

Tuesday, June 6, 2017 6:10pm

Bill Edwards is on the mend.

The 72-year-old owner of the Tampa Bay Rowdies had a health scare last month when he traveled to Ohio to have a pacemaker installed. Doctors ended up performing a double bypass surgery.

Edwards is recovering at home in St. Petersburg, keeping track of his business affairs.

“It’ll take two or three months to get back to 100 percent,” Edwards said. “But I’m trying to get better as quickly as possible.

The May 5 surgery at the Cleveland Clinic went well and Edwards hasn’t lost his zest to bring a Major League Soccer expansion franchise to St. Petersburg.

San Diego’s recent apparent implosion is the latest good news for the Rowdies’ chances, he said.

“It certainly helps us move up the ladder. We don’t have those problems,” Edwards said of the recent decision by the San Diego City Council not to fund a special election this year coupled with poll numbers that show mediocre public support for an MLS team.

Tuesday’s news out of Miami that David Beckham’s group had secured the final piece of the land puzzle to build an MLS stadium didn’t faze the Rowdies owner either.

City residents in a May special election overwhelmingly approved a plan for the Rowdies to negotiate with the city to expand Al Lang Stadium to 18,000 seats and secure a long-term lease for the club if selected by MLS for an expansion franchise.

The league is expected to announce four expansion cities in the next year or so with two slots picked by the end of the year.

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http://www.mor-tv.com/article/rowdies-to-host-july-6th-independence-day-celebration/9984045

Rowdies to Host July 6th Independence Day Celebration

St. Petersburg, Fla. (June 2, 2017) – Mark your calendars and get ready to enjoy the Rowdies’ largest event of the season – the Independence Day Celebration - Thursday, July 6, at Al Lang Stadium as the Tampa Bay Rowdies take on FC Cincinnati. Kickoff is at 8 p.m.

The night will kick-off with the U.S. Special Operations Command Parachute Demonstration Team, widely known as the Para-Commandos, delivering the American Flag to the field from an altitude of 12,500 feet. The Para-Commandos are comprised of U.S. Special Operations Command personnel headquartered at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa. Most are combat veteran special operators from the US Army Special Forces or Rangers, the US Air Force’s Special Tactics Squadrons, US Navy SEALs, or US Marine Corps Special Operations Raiders.

After the match, fans will enjoy a FREE Kool & the Gang concert presented by Big Storm Brewing Co., the official craft beer partner of the Tampa Bay Rowdies and brewer of Kick in the Grass – a light, refreshing Pilsner style lager. The multiple-platinum selling Kool & the Gang will get fans moving with top hits including “Celebration,” “Fresh” and “Get Down On It”.

Kool & the Gang has sold more than 70 million albums worldwide and performed continuously for the past 35 years, longer than any R&B group in history. More of their smash hits include “Jungle Boogie”, “Too Hot” and “Fresh”.

The concert is included with the purchase of a match ticket. Tickets for the Independence Day celebration can be purchased by clicking here or by calling (727) 222-2000.

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http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/soundcheck/i-love-the-90s-tlc-sugar-rays-mark-mcgrath-more-coming-to-al-lang-stadium/2326350

'I Love the '90s': TLC, Sugar Ray's Mark McGrath, more coming to Al Lang Stadium in St. Petersburg

Jay Cridlin, Pop Music/Culture Critic

Tuesday, June 6, 2017 2:46pm

If you're going to mount a throwback tour, you might as well stage it at St. Petersburg's ultimate throwback venue, 60-year-old Al Lang Stadium.

"I Love the '90s: The Party Continues," featuring TLC, Sugar Ray's Mark McGrath, Coolio and All-4-One is coming to Al Lang Stadium on Sept. 10. Tickets start at $44.50 and go on sale at 10 a.m. June 14. Click here for details.

Even without their late member Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes, TLC is definitely the star attraction here, with Tionne "T-Boz" Watkins and Rozonda "Chilli" Thomas forging an independent path back to the spotlight. On Tuesday, they premiered Way Back, the first video from their fifth and final studio album TLC, which is due June 30. This show will also give fans the chance to hear iconic singles like No Scrubs, Creep and Waterfalls for the first time in years.

Between McGrath (Fly), Coolio (Gangsta's Paradise) and All-4-One (I Swear), it'll a veritable nostalgia-palooza for fans of '90s pop. But just as interesting on a local level is the fact that a concert is taking place at Al Lang at all.

"I Love the '90s" is organized by Bill Edwards Presents, marking one of the first big plays by the St. Pete entertainment magnate to link his enterprise at the Mahaffey Theater to his work with the Tampa Bay Rowdies next door at 7,500-seat Al Lang.

Edwards' desire to lure a Major League Soccer team to St. Petersburg, increasing stadium capacity to 18,000 in the process, has raised the question of whether more outdoor concerts might be in the offing for Al Lang. The Rowdies have already hosted postgame concerts by artists like Flo Rida and Rachel Platten. This show suggests Al Lang might start hosting concerts more frequently, potentially even competing for shows with Clearwater's Ruth Eckerd Hall-backed Coachman Park.

Click here for all the details on the show.

-- Jay Cridlin

[Last modified: Tuesday, June 6, 2017 3:03pm]

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http://www.themahaffey.com/show/I-Love-the-90s-The-Party-Continues-at-Al-Lang-Stadium/810

I Love the 90's The Party Continues at Al Lang Stadium

Al Lang Stadium will come alive with music when  “I Love the 90s- The Party Continues featuring TLC with Sugar Ray’s Mark McGrath, Coolio and All-4-One” heads to St. Pete. The superstar blast from the past show tour last year had rave reviews and now back by popular demand with an all new line-up of greatest hit-makers for 2017.

A stellar cast features the Grammy award-winning TLC, selling over 65 million records worldwide, including their classic sophomore album CrazySexyCool. Hear songs from their new album and favorite hits like “Creep,” “Unpretty,” “Waterfalls” and “No Scrubs.” Enjoy Sugar Ray's Mark McGrath performing Sugar Ray’s breakout number-one hit single “Fly,” in addition to their later hits like “Every Morning,” “Someday” and “When It's Over.”  The too hot to handle group All-4-One is the American male R&B/pop group best known for their cover hit single "I Swear" from their self-titled 1994 debut album. Coolio, (Artis Leon Ivey Jr)  is the American rapper, chef, actor, and record producer who achieved mainstream success in the mid to late 1990s with his albums: It Takes a Thief, Gangsta's Paradise, and My Soul.

VIP packages are available!

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https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2017/06/06/san-diego-mayor-pushes-public-vote-soccercity-project-november

San Diego mayor pushes for public vote on SoccerCity project in November

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http://miami.cbslocal.com/2017/06/06/miami-dade-commissioners-voting-purchase-land-beckham-soccer-stadium/

Miami-Dade Commissioners Approve Sale Of Land To Beckham Group For Soccer Stadium

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http://www.thenational.ae/sport/miami-dade-county-make-deal-with-david-beckham-on-mls-stadium-land

Miami-Dade County make deal with David Beckham on MLS stadium land

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http://www.goal.com/en-us/news/1110/major-league-soccer/2017/06/06/36160842/beckham-takes-major-step-toward-miami-mls-franchise-with

The former Manchester United and LA Galaxy star's ownership group has secured the land for its privately-funded 25,000-seat stadium in Miami

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https://sports.yahoo.com/david-beckham-mls-ownership-group-201906337.html

David Beckham’s MLS ownership group has Miami land sale approved

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https://sports.yahoo.com/david-beckham-might-actually-getting-mls-team-miami-ownership-group-finally-secures-land-215005925.html

David Beckham might actually be getting his MLS team after ownership group finally secures stadium land in Miami

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http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/sport/soccer---beckham-clears-another-hurdle-in-miami-mls-bid-8923444

Soccer - Beckham clears another hurdle in Miami MLS bid

A group headed by David Beckham cleared another hurdle in their bid to establish a Major League Soccer franchise in Miami on Tuesday when the sale of a three-acre parcel of land for a stadium was approved.

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https://sports.yahoo.com/county-approves-sales-land-beckhams-182657079.html

County approves sales of land for Beckham's Miami MLS expansion stadium

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http://www.espnfc.com/major-league-soccer/19/blog/post/3139827/david-beckham-ownership-group-has-bought-land-but-miami-mls-saga-not-over

David Beckham's group has bought land, but Miami MLS saga not over

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http://www.chathamdailynews.ca/2017/06/06/beckham-one-step-closer-to-bringing-miami-a-mls-soccer-stadium

Beckham one step closer to bringing Miami a MLS soccer stadium

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http://www.scmp.com/sport/soccer/article/2097233/david-beckhams-miami-based-mls-team-edges-closer-after-city-officials

David Beckham’s Miami-based MLS team edges closer after city officials approve land deal

Englishman’s hopes of launching a Major League Soccer franchise in Miami take a giant step towards becoming reality

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http://www.espnfc.com/major-league-soccer/story/3139655/david-beckham-finally-gets-land-deal-to-build-mls-stadium-in-miami

David Beckham finally gets land deal to build MLS stadium in Miami

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http://www.malaysiandigest.com/frontpage/29-4-tile/679767-david-beckham-finally-gets-to-build-his-own-football-stadium-in-miami.html

David Beckham Finally Gets To Build His Own Football Stadium In Miami

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http://www.firstpost.com/sports/david-beckham-takes-major-step-towards-owning-miami-mls-franchise-after-securing-land-deal-for-stadium-3526153.html

David Beckham takes major step towards owning Miami MLS franchise after securing land deal for stadium

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https://www.hofmag.com/david-beckham-team-moves-to-miami/221277

David Beckham MLS Team Moves to Miami, Will He and Wife Victoria Move to Miami Too?

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http://www.itv.com/news/2017-06-07/beckham-close-to-forming-mls-club-in-miami/

Beckham close to forming MLS club in Miami

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http://www.eurosport.com/football/david-beckham-given-green-light-for-land-purchase-to-set-up-mls-club-in-miami_sto6204168/story.shtml

David Beckham given green light for land purchase to set up MLS club in Miami

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http://thesource.com/2017/06/07/david-beckham-plans-build-major-league-soccer-stadium-miami/

David Beckham Plans To Build Major League Soccer Stadium In Miami

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http://www.thestatesman.com/sports/david-beckham-acquires-land-to-build-football-stadium-in-miami-1496836703.html

David Beckham acquires land to build football stadium in Miami

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http://www.wdtimes.com/news/national/article_a13b0efd-1cbd-5488-a003-833b3f0e4aa3.html

Deal for Beckham's Miami soccer stadium land gets approval

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http://www.newstalk.com/Beckham-moves-step-closer-to-forming-Miami-franchise

Beckham moves step closer to forming Miami franchise

A group led by the former England captain has secured the purchase of land to build a new stadium there

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http://wina.com/news/030030-beckham-clears-another-hurdle-in-miami-mls-bid/

Beckham clears another hurdle in Miami MLS bid

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http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/article154621519.html

David Beckham wins $9 million land deal for Miami soccer stadium

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http://www.statesman.com/news/deal-for-beckham-miami-soccer-stadium-land-gets-approval/CP0rPxjdOq9iZLAkezVYqJ/

Deal for Beckham's Miami soccer stadium land gets approval

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https://www.theguardian.com/football/2017/jun/06/david-beckham-miami-soccer-stadium-approved-mls

David Beckham's Miami soccer stadium land sale gets approval

Commissioners vote nine to four in favor of sale to Beckham’s group

Beckham’s looks to bring MLS to Miami in city’s Overtown district

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http://www.mybrctv.com/news/read/category/sports/article/the_miami_herald-the_highs_and_lows_of_david_beckhams_hunt_for_a_mi-tca

The highs and lows of David Beckham's hunt for a Miami soccer stadium. It's a long list.

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http://www.miaminewtimes.com/news/david-beckham-wins-miami-dade-county-approval-to-buy-9-million-land-for-new-stadium-9399711

Miami-Dade Approves $9 Million Land Sale to David Beckham for Stadium

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http://www.foxsports.com/soccer/story/david-beckham-miami-stadium-mls-expansion-land-vote-overtown-060617

David Beckham finally secures land for Miami MLS stadium, boosting troubled expansion plans

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https://m.espn.com/soccer/story?storyId=3139655&wjb=

David Beckham finally gets land deal to build MLS stadium in Miami

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http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/soccer/fl-sp-david-beckham-stadium-land-20170605-story.html

Miami-Dade Commission approves sale of land to David Beckham's group, paving path to MLS stadium

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https://sports.vice.com/en_us/article/david-beckhams-miami-soccer-stadium-gets-first-public-approval

David Beckham's Miami Soccer Stadium Gets First Public Approval

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http://www.nwcable.net/news/read/category/sports/article/the_associated_press-deal_for_beckhams_miami_soccer_stadium_land_gets_a-ap

Deal for Beckham's Miami soccer stadium land gets approval

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http://hosted2.ap.org/APDEFAULT/347875155d53465d95cec892aeb06419/Article_2017-06-06-SOC--MLS-Miami-Beckham/id-8665941eeb8e41c9ad5d64dec68c55ca

Deal for Beckham's Miami soccer stadium land gets approval

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http://www.sportingnews.com/other-sports/news/david-beckham-mls-team-miami-stadium-land-deal/rz5sjecroi6d1srww1zblpvkd

David Beckham one step closer to MLS team in Miami

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http://www.atlanticbb.net/news/read/category/sports/article/miami_herald-david_beckham_wins_9_million_land_deal_for_miami_s-tca

David Beckham wins $9 million land deal for Miami soccer stadium

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https://www.sportlobster.com/fanzone/1/football/news/474529/david-beckham-one-step-closer-to-mls-team-in-miami

David Beckham one step closer to MLS team in Miami

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http://floridapolitics.com/archives/239552-deal-david-beckhams-miami-soccer-stadium-land-gets-approval

Deal for David Beckham’s Miami soccer stadium land gets approval

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https://patch.com/florida/miami/david-beckham-scores-big-win-miami-soccer

David Beckham Scores Big Win for Miami Soccer

After the political equivalent of a three-year soccer match, Miami-Dade County approved a land deal for the erection of a new stadium.

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http://www.dnaindia.com/sports/report-soccer-beckham-clears-another-hurdle-in-miami-mls-bid-2463931

Soccer-Beckham clears another hurdle in Miami MLS bid

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http://wiky.com/news/articles/2017/jun/07/soccer-beckham-clears-another-hurdle-in-miami-mls-bid/

Soccer: Beckham clears another hurdle in Miami MLS bid

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http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/david-beckham-mls-miami-football/1/972555.html

David Beckham clears another hurdle in Miami MLS bid

The 9-4 vote by the the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners gives the consortium a total of nine acres on which to construct a soccer-specific 25,000 seat stadium in the Overtown neighbourhood of the south Florida city.

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http://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/Miami-Dade-Commission-Approves-Land-Sale-for-David-Beckhams-Soccer-Stadium-426806891.html

Miami-Dade Commission Approves Land Sale for David Beckham's Soccer Stadium

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http://www.hindustantimes.com/football/david-beckham-s-proposed-mls-franchise-from-miami-moves-closer-to-reality/story-Q0bZ4KmjqrWCbVchzH1ilO.html

David Beckham’s proposed MLS franchise from Miami moves closer to reality

David Beckham has moved a step closer to launching his own Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise from Miami after authorities approved the sale of land for the proposed stadium

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http://indianexpress.com/article/sports/football/david-beckhams-miami-team-edges-closer-after-land-deal-for-stadium-4692915/

David Beckham’s Miami team edges closer after land deal for stadium

David Beckham cleared another hurdle in their bid to establish a Major League Soccer franchise in Miami on Tuesday when the sale of a three-acre parcel of land for a stadium with 25,000 seater in the South Florida city was approved.

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http://www.oneindia.com/sports/football/david-beckham-acquires-land-build-football-stadium-miami-2457017.html

David Beckham acquires land to build football stadium in Miami

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https://www.fourfourtwo.com.au/news/beckham-one-step-closer-to-mls-team-in-miami-464387

Beckham one step closer to MLS team in Miami

Miami-Dade County approved Beckham's request to have three acres of land for a soccer stadium.

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http://www.constructiondive.com/news/miami-dade-approves-9m-david-beckham-stadium-land-deal/444403/

Miami-Dade approves $9M David Beckham stadium land deal

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http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/international/miami-beckham-united-david-beckham-major-league-soccer-mls-team-a7777436.html

David Beckham overcomes significant hurdle as dream of MLS franchise edges closer

Beckham, who played Major League Soccer with the Los Angeles Galaxy towards the end of his career, revealed three years ago that he wanted to establish an MLS franchise in Miami

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http://www.denverpost.com/2017/06/07/david-beckham-miami-soccer-stadium-deal/

David Beckham’s Miami soccer stadium land deal finally gets approval

The land is the final piece in a nine-acre plot on which a 25,000-seat soccer stadium is planned

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http://www.slate.com/blogs/moneybox/2017/06/07/in_miami_david_beckham_has_wrought_america_s_best_stadium_deal.html

In Miami, David Beckham Has Wrought America’s Best Stadium Deal

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https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/david-beckham-purchases-land-as-mls-franchise-bid-steps-up-a3559026.html

David Beckham purchases land as MLS franchise bid steps up

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https://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Daily/Issues/2017/06/07/Facilities/Beckham.aspx

Beckham Secures Land To Build MLS Stadium Following Miami-Dade County Approval

Published June 7, 2017

David Beckham yesterday "secured land to build a soccer stadium in Miami, after county commissioners approved selling him three acres" for $9M, according to a front-page piece by Douglas Hanks of the MIAMI HERALD. The 9-4 vote by Miami-Dade commissioners gives Beckham the "right to bu...

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http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/article154960954.html

Miami slams county’s last-minute police deal for David Beckham soccer stadium

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http://www.stltoday.com/sports/other/digest-beckham-group-gets-final-piece-of-land-for-stadium/article_11e99cb5-4602-5f65-8ff5-912405a7f451.html

Digest: Beckham group gets final piece of land for stadium

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http://www.wjbdradio.com/national-sports/2017/06/07/deal-for-beckhams-miami-soccer-stadium-land-gets-approval

Deal for Beckham's Miami soccer stadium land gets approval

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http://remezcla.com/sports/david-beckham-miami-stadium/

Miami Residents Are Already Opposing David Beckham’s MLS Stadium

However, the project is not universally supported, especially by residents of both Overtown and the neighboring Spring Garden neighborhood. In an impassioned plea to commissioners before the vote approving the land purchase, Spring Garden resident Meredith Vey said that she wants them to “consider me and think of me when I’m not able to sleep at night because of the lights and the sounds from the crowd.”

Additionally, the stadium will not include any on-site parking, which will lead to more traffic via shuttles and pedestrian congestion; Miami’s public transportation is also not up to the quality of other metropolitan areas, which will further complicate the arrival of fans to the new stadium.

Aside from the inconvenience of the construction and operation of the stadium, Miami also has a history of being burned by professional stadiums. The Marlins committed highway robbery on the city for the state-of-the-art mausoleum known as Marlins Park, leaving the city with a name-changed team–from Florida to Miami–and a huge tax bill, to the tune of over $350 million. In fact, the deal was so bad that it led to the recall of the Mayor of Miami at the time, Carlos Alvarez.

Although the MBU group is looking to privately finance the estimated $220 million cost of the soccer stadium, the cost of infrastructure to the surrounding area would surely fall on the city and its less-than-welcoming taxpayers. Beckham and co. also have to get zoning approval to actually start building the stadium, so there are even more opportunities for community opposition. So, stay tuned; the much-discussed Miami FC may be well on its way, but the residents of its future home don’t look to back down without a fight.

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http://www.bizjournals.com/southflorida/news/2017/06/06/goal-beckham-united-scores-deal-for-stadium-with.html

Goal! Beckham United scores deal for stadium with Miami-Dade commission

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http://www.dailycommercial.com/sports/20170606/deal-for-beckhams-miami-soccer-stadium-land-gets-approval

Deal for Beckham’s Miami soccer stadium land gets approval

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https://www.si.com/planet-futbol/2017/06/06/david-beckham-miami-mls-stadium-land-approval-expansion

County approves sales of land for Beckham's Miami MLS expansion stadium

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https://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20170608/football/Football-news.650196

Beckham clears another hurdle

A group headed by David Beckham cleared another hurdle in their bid to establish a Major League Soccer franchise in Miami yesterday when the sale of a three-acre parcel of land for a stadium was approved.

The 9-4 vote by the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners gives the consortium a total of nine acres on which to construct a soccer-specific 25,000 seat stadium in the Overtown neighbourhood of the south Florida city.

More than three years have passed since Beckham unveiled his plan to bring an MLS team to Miami.

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http://www.nationnews.com/nationnews/news/97533/beckham-inches-closer-getting-mls-franchise-miami

Beckham inches closer to getting MLS franchise in Miami

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http://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/beckham-lands-boost-in-miami-mls-franchise-bid

Beckham lands boost in Miami MLS franchise bid

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http://www.bta.bg/en/gallery/image/4179157

David Beckham, Don Garber, Carlos Gimenez

FILE - In this Feb. 5, 2014, file photo, former English soccer star David Beckham, third from left, poses with MLS Commissioner Don Garber, left, Miami-Dade County mayor Carlos Gimenez, right, and soccer fans with the Southern Legion at a news conference where he announced he will exercise his option to purchase a Major League Soccer expansion team, in Miami. David Beckham may finally be moving closer to bringing an MLS team to Miami. County commissioners are planning to vote Tuesday, June 6, 2017, on a deal that would give Beckham the last piece of land he needs for a stadium site. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky, File)
Source: AP

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https://www.forbes.com/sites/biancasalonga/2017/06/06/david-beckham-headlines-tudors-born-to-dare-campaign/#79c8ba0320ce

David Beckham Headlines Tudor's "Born To Dare" Campaign

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http://www.charlotteobserver.com/sports/article154713029.html

Orlando City condemns supporter's post about referee

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https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mls/2017/06/06/orlando-city-condemns-supporters-post-about-referee/102566072/

Orlando City condemns supporter's post about referee

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http://www.hottimeinoldtown.com/2017/6/7/15758452/division-iii-soccer-nisa-plans-for-2018-launch

Division III Soccer? NISA Plans for 2018 Launch

Promotion and Relegation could be coming to US soccer in the near future

Eastern Conference Power Rankings - Week 11

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http://www.indomitablecitysoccer.com/2017/6/5/15738610/eastern-conference-power-rankings-week-11

Eastern Conference Power Rankings - Week 11

Offensive skills were put on display, as 21 goals were scored in total in the Eastern Conference this week!

2 (2). Tampa Bay Rowdies (1123)

Despite striking first, the Rowdies needed an 83rd minute goal from Keith Savage to take a point from their bout with Charlotte on Sunday night. After starting the season winning their first three matches, Tampa Bay have now seen their winless streak reach a third match, their longest streak since April.

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http://saintpetersblog.com/tampa-bay-rowdies-score-late-equalizer-charlotte-independence-secure-2-2-draw%E2%80%8B/

Tampa Bay Rowdies score late equalizer against Charlotte Independence to secure 2-2 draw​

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http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/article154485779.html

The highs and lows of David Beckham’s hunt for a Miami soccer stadium. It’s a long list.

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http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2713201-wright-phillips-rising-again-in-phoenix-and-he-sees-a-bright-and-bold-future

Wright-Phillips Rising Again in Phoenix, and He Sees a Bright and Bold Future

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http://thesoccertour.com/2017/06/fc-cincinnati-wait-this-is-lower-division-soccer/

The Soccer Tour

FC Cincinnati: Wait… This is Lower-division Soccer?

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https://thelinknewspaper.ca/article/the-zambrano-era-begins-against-curacao1

Zambrano Era Begins Against Curaçao

Canada Soccer Head Coach Hints Bernier to Wear the Armband

Octavio Zambrano’s and team Canada’s Gold Cup quest has begun.

Canada’s Soccer Golden Age?

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http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/allstate-becomes-official-insurance-sponsor-of-concacaf-renews-sponsorship-with-major-league-soccer-and-the-mexican-national-team-300468611.html

Allstate Becomes Official Insurance Sponsor of CONCACAF, Renews Sponsorship with Major League Soccer and the Mexican National Team

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http://theprovince.com/sports/soccer/mls/vancouver-whitecaps/didier-drogba-to-make-phoenix-soccer-debut-against-whitecaps-fc-2

Didier Drogba to make Phoenix soccer debut against Whitecaps FC 2

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http://www.sportspromedia.com/news/allstate-adds-concacaf-to-soccer-sponsorship-portfolio

Allstate adds Concacaf to soccer sponsorship portfolio

Insurer also renews with MLS and the Mexican national team.

Breakthrough for David Beckham in plans for MLS stadium in Miami

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http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/breakthrough-david-beckham-plans-mls-10553041

Breakthrough for David Beckham in plans for MLS stadium in Miami

Star wins backing of local politician to buy the final piece of land needed to build futuristic stadium

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https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/3716310/david-beckhams-mls-franchise-miami/

Miami nice David Beckham’s MLS franchise takes huge boost after he is granted permission to buy last plot of land

England legend hopes to have a new stadium built in Miami by 2021 but has been scuppered by legal documentation until now

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http://www.90min.com/posts/5093005-david-beckham-s-dream-of-creating-an-mls-franchise-receives-huge-boost

David Beckham's Dream of Creating an MLS Franchise Receives Huge Boost

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http://www.wcpo.com/news/insider/fc-cincinnati-players-focus-on-the-pitch-amid-new-stadium-efforts-and-major-league-soccer-quest

FC Cincinnati players focus on the pitch amid new stadium efforts and Major League Soccer quest

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https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2017/06/03/fc-cincinnati-unveil-design-potential-mls-stadium-june-12

FC Cincinnati to unveil design for potential MLS stadium on June 12

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http://www.tampabay.com/things-to-do/music/a-rained-out-led-zeppelin-concert-caused-a-riot-at-tampa-stadium-40-years/2326008

A rained-out Led Zeppelin concert caused a riot at Tampa Stadium 40 years ago today

Tampa Stadium — June 3, 1977 — with Robert Plant belting out Nobody's Fault But Mine, the rain descends, the concert ends abruptly and the crowd riots. Here's how it went down.

This story appeared in the pages of the Evening Independent on June 4, 1977. What follows is the text of the original story, interspersed with photos from the event.

Led Zeppelin Mini-riot erupts after rain cancels concert

"It was probably as close to a disaster as we've had in a long time," said St. Joseph's Hospital emergency head nurse Mrs. Sandra Britt. "We just started calling in doctors and nurses for the mini-disaster."

Stadium official Pierce said last night's flurry of fighting would not affect the future of rock concerts in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Tampa Bay Rowdies home playing field. "That is," Pierce added, "unless there's something to last night we don't know about."

Damage to the stadium and playing field was limited to the stage and the natural grass which Pierce said is little more than "ruffled" and filled with broken glass.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frZVhxDNAk0

Led Zeppelin Live in Tampa 1977

Randy Butternubs

Published on Aug 29, 2014

Led Zeppelin's infamous stop in Tampa, Florida on their tour of the US on Friday, June 3, 1977.

The band came out firing on all cylinders for the short time they were on stage in front the +70,000 people at the Tampa Stadium that evening. After blazing, shredding and pummeling through very impressive performances of 'The Song Remains the Same' and 'The Rover/Sick Again', Robert Plant greeted the ecstatic crowd, lamenting on the four year absence since their record-breaking show at the Stadium on May 5, 1973. Unfortunately, partway through 'Nobody's Fault But Mine', mother nature intervened, pouring rain on the crowd, band, and the equipment, much to the fright of the crew. After the song was over, Robert relayed to the ocean of wild fans that the band were to take a 15 minute break and return.

As one fan from that day recalled, "For a good 45 minutes it rained like I've never seen before, then it totally cleared up, and we were expecting the show to go on. But with no explanation, the announcer came on and said the concert was cancelled. The fans couldn't understand why. Bottles of liquor were being hurled onto the stage, and then police in riot gear came charging over the barricades and swatting fans."

It didn't help that the tickets read, "GOOD THIS DATE ONLY/RAIN OR SHINE". After the riot the show was to be rescheduled for the next day, but the level of violence put a stop to any chances of that.

I used audience source #2 for the main portion of this video, but used AUD#1 for a longer beginning and AUD#3 for the end. All sources come from the "Stormwatch" fan release.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YB3emW7Ak40

HIGHLIGHTS: Rowdies at Charlotte Independence - June 4, 2017

Tampa Bay Rowdies

Published on Jun 4, 2017

HIGHLIGHTS - Check out highlights of Sunday's 2-2 draw against Charlotte Independence, presented by Tijuana Flats. Goals by Georgi Hristov and Keith Savage helped the Rowdies play to a tough draw on the road.

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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/6f3tns/til_we_have_a_womans_team/

TIL: We have a woman's team (twitter.com)

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https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/871125106680098817

Tampa Bay Rowdies‏

Verified account @TampaBayRowdies

Tampa Bay Rowdies Retweeted tbusoccer

Good luck girls! #COYR

Tampa Bay Rowdies added,

tbusoccer

@tbusoccer

TBU Rowdies Women get ready to open their WPSL season v Krush today. Good luck ladies! Coached by George Fotopoulos.

3:03 PM - 3 Jun 2017

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https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6f8k21/diplo_drogba_the_coolest_team_youve_never_heard_of/

Diplo, Drogba & the coolest team you’ve never heard of (youtube.com)

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_OW9P35Bmw

Diplo, Drogba & the coolest team you’ve never heard of

KICK

Published on Jun 4, 2017

Didier Drogba, Diplo, Omar Bravo and Shaun Wright-Phillips are just SOME of the big names involved in one of American soccer's most ambitious project, Phoenix Rising FC.

Soccer culture and the game itself are energetic, vibrant, and exciting. At the heart of this are the fans. Today’s fans have the opportunity to define the culture and identify of the future of the sport. KICK is pushing the soccer agenda at home and abroad through daily content and editorial that celebrates and empowers fans of the beautiful game.

This is our game. Now is our time.

Between our daily news show, The Mixer, and our on location pieces, KICK is bringing the world’s game to you. We don’t care if it’s Barcelona vs. Real Madrid, Portland vs. Seattle, or your two local teams – they all have a place here at KICK.

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/KICK

Like us on Facebook: http://on.fb.me/GNeG9u

Follow us on Tumblr: http://bit.ly/IoH6Yr

Check out our Instagram: http://bit.ly/1HTZc1X

Follow us on Snapchat: (kicktv)

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https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6f1woc/canpl_canada_soccer_wont_support_alternative_to/

CanPL: Canada Soccer won’t support alternative to Ticats-owned pro team (thespec.com)

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http://www.thespec.com/news-story/7350073-canada-soccer-won-t-support-alternative-to-ticats-owned-pro-team/

Canada Soccer won’t support alternative to Ticats-owned pro team

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https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6f1s05/from_the_la_times_archives_soccer_kick_in_face/

From the (LA Times) Archives: Soccer kick in face (latimes.com)

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http://www.latimes.com/visuals/photography/la-me-fw-archives-soccer-kick-in-face-20170420-story.html

From the Archives: Soccer kick in face

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http://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/800138

Charlotte Closes Eagle Field with Draw

Tampa Bay nets late equalizer; Castillo records brace for Independence

ROCK HILL, S.C. – The Charlotte Independence, playing their final game at Winthrop University’s Eagle Field, closed their tenure at the venue with a 2-2 draw against the Tampa Bay Rowdies on Sunday. Charlotte defender Dennis Castillo provided a second-half brace within a five-minute span to lead the host side. That put the Independence up, but Keith Savage would find an 83rd-minute equalizer for the Rowdies to split the points. Tampa Bay actually had a chance to win it with the final attempt of the match in stoppage time, but Tamika Mkandawire hit the right post in a dramatic final stretch. The Rowdies’ George Hristov opened the match with a penalty kick conversion. Charlotte moves to 3-2-3 (12 points) overall and 1-1-2 at home, while Tampa Bay is now 6-3-4 (22 points) overall and 1-2-3 on the road. Charlotte will play its home matches at the new Sportsplex at Matthews, starting on June 17 when the club welcomes the Harrisburg City Islanders.

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http://www.sports360az.com/2017/06/rising-fc-notebook-drogba-debut-trouble-san-diego-mls-bid/

Rising FC Notebook-Drogba Debut, Trouble With San Diego MLS Bid?

Thurs. June 8th: Rodney Marsh and Tommy Smyth will be hosting their SiriusXM FC show "Grumpy Pundits" at Sundial St. Pete (with guests Joe Cole, former Rowdies Steve Wegerle & Mark Lindsay) (twitter.com)

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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/6evbj6/thurs_june_8th_rodney_marsh_and_tommy_smyth_will/

Thurs. June 8th: Rodney Marsh and Tommy Smyth will be hosting their SiriusXM FC show "Grumpy Pundits" at Sundial St. Pete (with guests Joe Cole, former Rowdies Steve Wegerle & Mark Lindsay) (twitter.com)

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https://twitter.com/SiriusXMFC/status/869904136258670592

SiriusXM FC

‏Verified account @SiriusXMFC

SiriusXM FC Retweeted SiriusXM FC

We'll also be joined by Joe Cole and @TampaBayRowdies legends Steve Wegerle & Mark Lindsay!

Come join @RodneyMarsh10 & @TommySmythESPN!

SiriusXM FC added,

SiriusXM FC

Verified account @SiriusXMFC

BREAKING NEWS!

The #GrumpyPundits are going on the road!…

6:11 AM - 31 May 2017

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http://saintpetersblog.com/rowdies-hosting-independence-day-celebration-july-6-parachute-demo-concert/

Rowdies hosting Independence Day Celebration July 6 with parachute demo, concert

Tampa Bay Rowdies are hosting the club’s largest event of the season – the Independence Day Celebration – Thursday, July 6, at Al Lang Stadium as the Tampa Bay Rowdies take on FC Cincinnati.

Kickoff is at 8 p.m.

The night will begin with the U.S. Special Operations Command Parachute Demonstration Team, widely known as the Para-Commandos, delivering the American Flag to the field from an altitude of 12,500 feet.

Para-Commandos are comprised of U.S. Special Operations Command personnel headquartered at Tampa’s MacDill Air Force Base. Most members are combat veteran special operators from the U.S. Army Special Forces or Rangers, the U.S. Air Force’s Special Tactics Squadrons, U.S. Navy SEALs, or U.S. Marine Corps Special Operations Raiders.

After the match, fans will enjoy a free concert by Kool & the Gang, presented by Big Storm Brewing Co., the Rowdies’ official craft beer partner and brewer of Kick in the Grass – a light, refreshing Pilsner style lager.

The multiple-platinum selling Kool & the Gang will get fans moving with top hits including “Celebration,” “Fresh” and “Get Down on It.” Kool & the Gang has sold more than 70 million albums worldwide and performed continuously for the past 35 years, longer than any rhythm and blues group in history. More of their smash hits include “Jungle Boogie,” “Too Hot” and “Fresh.”

The concert is included with the purchase of a match ticket. Tickets for the Independence Day celebration are available online or by calling (727) 222-2000.

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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/6ewc2z/unused_substitutes_2017_you_are_my_sunshine_scarf/

Unused Substitutes 2017 YOU ARE MY SUNSHINE scarf - PREORDER [OC] (facebook.com)

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https://www.facebook.com/commerce/products/1253235601440632

2017 YOU ARE MY SUNSHINE scarf - PREORDER

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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/6ew74m/did_you_know_this_sub_reddit_has_a_twitter/

Did you know this sub reddit has a Twitter account? (@rTBRowdies) (twitter.com)

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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/6ewmtp/game_preview_saturday_marks_start_of_tropics/

Game preview: Saturday marks start of Tropics, Rowdies rivalry at Bryant Stadium (lakelandtropics.com)

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http://www.lakelandtropics.com/news/game-preview-saturday-marks-start-of-tropics-rowdi

Game preview: Saturday marks start of Tropics, Rowdies rivalry at Bryant Stadium

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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/6e45id/comment_about_guerrilla_marketing_for_orlando/

Comment about guerrilla marketing for Orlando City and Tampa Bay Rowdies. (reddit.com)

Comment from SoccerForEveryone: "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."

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

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http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/columnists/kevin-acee/sd-sp-acee-soccer-city-mls-san-diego-city-council-0604-story.html

Column City likely will miss out on MLS if SoccerCity vote is delayed

It is possible Major League Soccer could wait for San Diego to get its act together.

But it’s not likely, and it certainly isn’t something that should be counted on by those of us who live here and believe that not only does the sun set just off our shore but rises just beyond Boulevard.

“We think very highly of the market, we think very highly of the stadium location, and we think very highly of the ownership group,” said MLS Deputy Commissioner Mark Abbott, who is spearheading the league’s expansion quest. “We would hate to see this opportunity be lost over the timing of the vote.”

It wasn’t a threat, Abbott stressed repeatedly in a Friday afternoon conversation. It was an expression of the reality that, given the circumstances, MLS likely would not wait for San Diego.

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http://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/soccer/fc-cincinnati/2017/06/02/fc-cincinnati-unveil-stadium-plans-woodward-theater/102437062/

FC Cincinnati to unveil 'innovative' stadium design June 12

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https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2017/06/02/why-minnesota-united-are-nicknamed-loons

Why Minnesota United are nicknamed "the Loons"

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https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2017/06/02/san-diego-launches-original-supporters-group-bid-mls-expansion

San Diego launches "Original Supporters Group" in bid for MLS expansion

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https://twitter.com/24thminute/status/870377828122054662

Duane Rollins‏

@24thminute

Confirmed with two regular sources: #CanPL will launch with a plan to switch to a *ducking* Pro/Rel system once they hit 16 teams.

1:33 PM - 1 Jun 2017

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https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6eplqe/duane_rollins_confirmed_with_two_regular_sources/

[Duane Rollins]: "Confirmed with two regular sources: #CanPL will launch with a plan to switch to a *ducking* Pro/Rel system once they hit 16 teams." (twitter.com)

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http://us.blastingnews.com/business/2017/06/seatgeek-scores-a-deal-to-become-official-ticket-partner-of-new-york-red-bulls-001745743.html

SeatGeek scores a deal to become official ticket partner of New York Red Bulls

The New York Red Bulls joins Minnesota United FC, Portland Timbers and Sporting Kansas City to team up with secondary-market ticket SeatGeek.

David Beckham group to neighbors: Stadium can help revitalize Overtown

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http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/article154008399.html

David Beckham group to neighbors: Stadium can help revitalize Overtown

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https://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Daily/Issues/2017/06/02/Facilities/Beckham.aspx

David Beckham's Miami MLS Group Details Off-Site Parking Plan For Possible Stadium

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https://therealdeal.com/miami/2017/06/02/overtown-neighbors-not-sold-on-beckham-stadium-deal-ahead-of-commission-vote/

Overtown neighbors not sold on Beckham stadium deal ahead of commission vote

$4M balance would be paid $1M annually at a 5% interest rate

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https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2017/06/01/david-beckhams-miami-stadium-plan-earns-key-political-endorsement

David Beckham's Miami stadium plan earns key political endorsement

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http://www.watchtime.com/wristwatch-industry-news/lifestyle/brand-it-like-beckham-tudor-announces-david-beckham-as-new-brand-ambassador/

Brand it Like Beckham: Tudor Announces David Beckham as New Brand Ambassador

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http://www.cincinnati.com/story/opinion/contributors/2017/06/02/fc-cincinnati-were-not-asking-voters-build-stadium/367161001/

FC Cincinnati: We're not asking voters to build a stadium

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https://ussoccerplayers.com/2017/06/underdog-story-2017-us-open-cup-christos.html

An underdog story in the US Open Cup

By Jason Davis – WASHINGTON, DC (Jun 2, 2017) US Soccer Players - Christos FC, the amateur adult league team from Baltimore, is quite the story in this year’s edition of the US Open Cup. The team is little more than a weekend pastime for its players, many of whom gave up on serious careers long ago and who very rarely train together. The club’s name comes from a liquor store that fronted the initial league fee back in the mid-90s and who proudly display the club’s trophies. In order to pay for their third round trek to Chicago to face a PDL squad, the club launched a (successful) GoFundMe page. When they faced Chicago FC United on Wednesday at Loyola University in Chicago, they didn’t dress a full contingent of 18 players because they didn’t have 18 players with them to dress.

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http://www.theskyboat.com/houston-dynamo/archives/06-2017

Dynamo to Begin U.S. Open Cup Campaign June 14 at North Carolina FC

Houston Dynamo Communications

NEED TO KNOW:

Dynamo travel to North Carolina before crossing the country to face LA Galaxy in MLS play June 17

Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup is the oldest cup competition in American soccer, dating to 1914

Tournament is single-elimination and includes teams from all levels of pro and semi-pro soccer in the United States

Rick Baker says he won't negotiate Al Lang lease if MLS awards bid to St. Pete during mayoral campaign

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http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/baybuzz/rick-baker-says-he-wont-negotiate-al-lang-lease-if-mls-awards-bid-to-st/2325853

Rick Baker says he won't negotiate Al Lang lease if MLS awards bid to St. Pete during mayoral campaign

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http://www.miamiherald.com/sports/mls/article153712034.html

Miami FC advances to fourth round U.S. Open Cup with 2-0 win over Tampa Bay

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http://www.tbreporter.com/government/st-pete-clears-final-hurdle-start-construction-pier/

St. Pete Clears Final Hurdle to Start Construction on the Pier

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers issued a permit today (May 31).

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http://saintpetersblog.com/st-pete-gets-army-corps-engineers-ok-build-new-pier/

St. Pete gets Army Corps of Engineers OK to build new Pier

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http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/soccer/fl-sp-beckham-overtown-meeting-20170601-story.html

Days ahead of county commission vote, Beckham reps back in Overtown

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http://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/community/miami-dade/article153523524.html

Miami-Dade unveils David Beckham’s stadium deal, which wins crucial endorsement

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https://miami.curbed.com/2017/5/31/15719334/miami-david-beckhams-stadium-mls

Miami commissioner gives David Beckham’s stadium deal the green light

Few hurdles remain

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http://www.espnfc.com/major-league-soccer/story/3137006/david-beckhams-miami-beckham-united-group-nearing-stadium-conclusion

David Beckham's Miami Beckham United group nearing stadium conclusion

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https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2017/06/01/david-beckhams-miami-stadium-plan-earns-key-political-endorsement

David Beckham's Miami stadium plan earns key political endorsement

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http://www.constructiondive.com/news/miami-dade-commissioner-backs-300m-david-beckham-soccer-stadium-deal/443963/

Miami-Dade commissioner backs $300M David Beckham soccer stadium deal

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http://www.espnfc.com/major-league-soccer/story/3137006/david-beckhams-miami-beckham-united-group-nearing-stadium-conclusion

David Beckham's Miami Beckham United group nearing stadium conclusion

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http://www.sportspromedia.com/news/david-beckham-clocks-in-with-tudor

David Beckham clocks in with Tudor

Former England soccer star named as brand ambassador for Swiss luxury watchmaker.

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http://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/article/david-beckham-signs-on-with-tudor

David Beckham signs on as the new face of Tudor watches

The former England captain and all-round style icon debuts the brand's new 'Born To Dare' campaign

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https://augustman.com/my/Watches/Tudor-Makes-Bold-Statement-With-International-Man-of-Style-David-Beckham

Tudor Makes Bold Statement With International Man of Style David Beckham

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http://sg.asiatatler.com/watches-jewellery/watches/can-david-beckham-score-as-tudor-s-global-brand-ambassador

How David Beckham Scores As Tudor’s Global Brand Ambassador

Three reasons why DB7 makes a great face and wrist for Tudor.

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http://www.bizjournals.com/nashville/news/2017/06/01/no-quick-answers-in-nashvilles-quest-for-mls.html

No quick answers in Nashville's quest for MLS stadium

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http://www.tennessean.com/story/news/2017/05/31/metro-exploring-two-spots-nashville-fairgrounds-mls-stadium/358214001/

Metro exploring two spots at Nashville fairgrounds for MLS stadium

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http://www.nashvillepost.com/sports/sports-business/blog/20863274/mayors-office-weighs-two-possible-soccer-stadium-sites

Mayor's office weighs two possible stadium sites

Venue will be at Nashville Fairgrounds but exact spot still to be determined

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http://www.bizjournals.com/sanantonio/news/2017/06/01/sweeping-of-spurs-could-boost-sa-s-mls-pursuit.html

Sweeping of Spurs could boost SA’s MLS pursuit

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http://www.ranchosantafereview.com/news/local-news/sd-cm-rsf-soccercity-vote-20170531-story.html

SoccerCity likely headed for citywide vote

The San Diego Chargers may be bolting town but the stadium drama remains as the SoccerCity initiative seeks to bring a Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise to a revitalized Qualcomm Stadium site in Mission Valley.

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http://apachejunctionindependent.com/sports/the-state-of-soccer-in-arizona/

The state of soccer in Arizona

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https://www.thecorsaironline.com/corsair/2017/5/30/mls-means-business

MLS Means Business

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https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2017/05/31/minnesota-united-fc-secures-tax-breaks-soccer-specific-stadium

Minnesota United FC secures tax breaks for soccer-specific stadium

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http://www.satprnews.com/2017/05/31/krakus-brings-a-true-imported-polish-ham-to-major-league-soccer-as-official-deli-meat-of-the-chicago-fire-soccer-club/

Krakus® Brings a True Imported Polish Ham to Major League Soccer as Official Deli Meat of the Chicago Fire Soccer Club

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https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6eq28q/minnesota_united_and_surly_producing_rising_north/

Minnesota United and Surly producing Rising North Pale Ale in tall boys. (self.MLS)

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https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6em5l8/dc_united_construction_cam_gears_are_in_motion/

DC United construction Cam, gears are in motion boys! (app.oxblue.com)

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https://app.oxblue.com/open/tuner/dcunitedstadium

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https://www.reddit.com/r/MLS/comments/6ern28/stadium_construction_update_mnufc/

Stadium Construction Update MNUFC (self.MLS)

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https://www.mnufc.com/post/2017/06/01/stadium-construction-update

Stadium Construction Update

With the recent passage of an essential bill through the Minnesota legislature, most of the groundwork is in place for construction to move forward on a new home for MNUFC in the Midway neighborhood of Saint Paul. Here’s the most up-to-date timeline for future progress, subject — as always — to change:

    Early summer 2017: Groundbreaking
    Late winter 2018: Structural steel complete
    Fall 2018: Envelope (outer structure) complete
    Spring 2019: Opening

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http://www.businessobserverfl.com/section/detail/conrad-garner-studios

Conrad Garner Studios

So in 2013, Garner headed back south, to the Tampa area. He was an art director for a few marketing and branding firms, including Spark, Fry Hammond Barr and Dunn & Co., before he went out on his own full time. He specializes in packaging, branding and marketing, in addition to posters. Past and current clients include Bright House Networks, the Tampa Bay Rowdies soccer team, the Tampa Bay Lightning, PayPal and Clif Bar.