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https://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/926608
Schäfer to Depart Rowdies, Return to Vfl Wolfsburg
German midfielder appointed Sporting Director at former club, will make final appearance June 22
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https://www.eurosport.de/fussball/bundesliga/2017-2018/ruckkehr-nach-wolfsburg-schafer-wird-sportdirektor-an-der-seite-von-schmadtke_sto6805908/story.shtml
Rückkehr zum VfL Wolfsburg: Marcel Schäfer wird Sportdirektor an der Seite von Schmadtke
Der frühere Fußball-Nationalspieler Marcel Schäfer beendet seine Profikarriere und kehrt in neuer Funktion zum Bundesligisten VfL Wolfsburg zurück. Der 34-Jährige wird ab 1. Juli Sportdirektor bei den Niedersachsen und damit ein enger Mitarbeiter des neuen Wölfe-Geschäftsführers Jörg Schmadtke. Zuletzt spielte Schäfer in den USA bei den Tampa Bay Rowdies (United Soccer League).
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http://www.tampabay.com/sports/2018/06/13/just-as-the-world-cup-prepares-to-go-on-without-us-hope-arrives/
Just as the World Cup prepares to go on without us, hope arrives
"There's no way to really explain it," said Tampa Bay Rowdies player and assistant coach Joe Cole, who played for England in three World Cups, the last in 2010. "Countries stop for it. But we want you to come to the party. Sometimes you leave early. Sometimes you never show up. I think the hard part is America, it has so many other things. And it likes to win. There's not much chance of you winning the World Cup right now. What does it mean to us? You can't put it into words."
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https://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/926585
USL Players, Coaches Welcome World Cup Decision
Three-time participant Cole believes announcement will further sport’s growth in United States
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http://www.miamiherald.com/sports/mls/article213081354.html
The United States will co-host the 2026 World Cup. Here's how Miami plans to be involved
The 2026 World Cup is coming to America — and Miami is expected to be one of the venues.
The united bid of the United States, Mexico and Canada on Wednesday morning was selected to host the 2026 Cup by the FIFA Congress in Moscow, Russia, where the 2018 World Cup kicks off Thursday morning. The tri-nation bid, a first in Cup history, won by a vote of 134 to 65 over Morocco.
It is the first time the tournament will be played in North America since the United States hosted in 1994.
Two Miami residents — newly-elected U.S. Soccer President Carlos Cordeiro and former University of Miami president and congressional candidate Donna Shalala, a U.S. Soccer board member — were deeply involved in the bid process. Cordeiro, who was co-chair of the bid, spent much of his first few months in office traveling the world, lobbying.
"Obviously, Miami is very special to me, being my hometown; in fact, the beaches figure prominently in some of our slides," Cordeiro said by phone from Moscow following the announcement. Hard Rock Stadium, which was built to FIFA soccer specifications by Joe Robbie and recently renovated by Stephen Ross, has hosted sellout soccer crowds the past few summers for the International Champions Cup and is considered a leading candidate to be a World Cup stadium in 2026.
The fact that Miami is a gateway to Latin America and easy to get to from Europe will also make it a favorable site for team training camps. In the past few years, many of the world's top clubs have played here. Barcelona and Real Madrid sold out last summer for El Clasico Miami. This summer, in late-July, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Manchester City will play at Hard Rock, and the national teams of Colombia and Venezuela have a game there Sept. 7.
Twenty-three proposed cities were included in the winning bid -- 17 from the United States, three from Mexico and three from Canada. That list will be whittled down to 16 host cities by the bid committee and FIFA. In addition to Miami, the U.S. cities are Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Cincinnati, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Nashville, New York/New Jersey, Orlando, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle and Washington, D.C.
The Mexican cities are Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. Canadian cities are Toronto, Montreal and Edmonton.
Miami Dolphins president and CEO Tom Garfinkel is hopeful Miami will be chosen to play a significant role in the 2026 World Cup. Miami was not a host city for the 1994 Cup because of schedule conflicts with the Marlins, who played at the stadium at the time.
“I think it’s exciting for the United States and North America...we’ll see what it means for Hard Rock Stadium. That’s something that still needs to be seen. I know that (Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium Owner) Stephen Ross put a lot of money into the stadium, and we designed it to be a global entertainment destination," Garfinkel said. "I think it’s among, if not the best, place to do soccer in the world now. We had El Clasico last year. We’ve got three matches coming here soon... We’re excited about that. We’ll have a couple more, hopefully, to announce by the end of the season. International soccer is going to be a big thing here. We hope to get one of the big games and be one of the final places for the World Cup when it comes here.”
Sixty of the 80 games will be played on U.S. soil, including all games from the quarterfinals through the final.
"We are blessed with 23 world class facilities, some iconic, some brand new, cutting edge and everything in between," Cordeiro said. "We will have a very difficult decision to make when we have to determine the final 16. It's a good problem. It speaks to the quality of the facilities we have. This is not a decision I'm looking forward to, but we are very, very excited about hosting. We got outstanding marks from from the FIFA task force for our facilities; that’s Miami, but also everywhere else."
Although the United States, Mexico and Canada have had some rifts on political fronts, the three nations -- and their governments -- were united in their efforts to secure the World Cup.
“Hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup is a rare and important moment to demonstrate that we are all truly united through sport," Cordeiro said. “We are humbled by the trust our colleagues in the FIFA family have put in our bid; strengthened by the unity between our three countries and the CONCACAF region; and excited by the opportunity we have to put football on a new and sustainable path for generations to come.”
David Beckham, owner of the Miami Major League Soccer team scheduled to begin play in 2020, has been behind the United Bid from the start. He said in a video: "I played for the L.A. Galaxy for six years and I know the passion that runs through those three countries." He said the 2026 Cup should be even more exciting than the 1994 Cup because "the excitement is more there now, and the infrastructure is more there."
"Hosting a FIFA World Cup is an extraordinary honor and privilege," said Steven Reed, President of Canada Soccer and Co-Chair of the United Bid. "Canada, Mexico, and the United States are ready to welcome the world to North America and serve as stewards of the largest FIFA World Cup in history. Our vision is of a world of opportunity for our Candidate Host Cities and for the global football community."
"We are grateful for the chance to bring to life FIFA's new vision for the future of football," said Decio de Maria, President of Mexico Football Federation and Co-Chair of the United Bid. "Together-in partnership with our Candidate Host Cities, the Member Associations, and FIFA-we will use this platform to unite the world around football and help create a new and sustainable blueprint for the future of FIFA World Cups."
DeMaria congratulated Miami soccer investors such as Robbie, Ross and now Beckham and his partners Jorge and Jose Mas and Marcelo Claure for their efforts.
"Miami being part of this project is a recognition of the investors for a long time and now more openly in investing in development of football in Miami," he said. "If someone had to be very excited, and receive an applause, it’s those investors that now are going to develop further football in the area of Miami."
MLS released the following statement: “The decision to host World Cup 2026 in Canada, Mexico and the United States is a testament to our three nations coming together for the United Bid, and a monumental step in our collective mission to further advance the game of soccer in North America. We congratulate all of those who worked tirelessly to bring the World Cup back to North America and thank the countries that voted for the United Bid, and for their belief in our vision for the future of the sport in our region. There is no doubt that World Cup 2026 will elevate the sport of soccer to entirely new levels and Major League Soccer is honored to be a part of this joyous day.”
The United Bid is expected to generate more than $14 billion in revenue and $11 billion in profits for FIFA, which will be shared with the 211 FIFA Member Associations, helping further develop and expand the game of football across the globe.
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.fox13news.com/news/local-news/private-donors-step-up-for-st-pete-pier-sculpture
Private donors step up for St. Pete Pier sculpture
ST. PETERSBURG (FOX 13) - The city of St. Petersburg is hoping to bring in a world-renowned artist to create a sculpture to make the new pier pop.
Until now, the fight has been how to pay for the massive hanging rope sculptures.
Wayne Athernolt, with St. Pete’s Cultural Affairs Office, says the artwork designed by sculptor Janet Echelman would allow St. Pete to join cities like London and Boston, which feature her work.
Athernolt says the signature art piece would be one of the most significant displays of public art in Florida.
“It says St. Petersburg is ready to play on the world market in terms of art,” Athernolt said.
There had been a controversy between Mayor Rick Kriseman and members of City Council over the $2.5-million price tag, but some private donors are stepping in and helping foot almost half of the bill. That was enough to get council member Steve Kornell onboard.
“The only way I would say no is if the donations didn’t come through,” Kornell told FOX 13 Tuesday.
A little less than half of the money needed for the design would come from private donors. The rest of the sculpture would be funded through St. Pete’s Art Council and money the city gets from the county.
Athernolt says the county money is specifically required to be spent on infrastructure projects like the Echelman piece.
“Somebody who is complaining about potholes in the Old Northeast, [the money] can’t be used for that,” Athernolt said.
Echelman is from St. Pete and her mom still lives there. Mayor Rick Kriseman tweeted pictures while visiting her studio in Boston.
The city just completed a study to engineer the sculpture with the size of the pier. The study also indicates it wouldn’t pose a threat to wildlife.
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https://www.sportingkc.com/post/2018/06/12/rangers-midfielder-chase-minter-named-usl-team-week
Rangers midfielder Chase Minter named to USL Team of the Week
F – Leon Taylor, Tampa Bay Rowdies: Taylor scored a late equalizer on his debut for the Rowdies to preserve Tampa Bay’s undefeated home record in a 1-1 draw against Nashville SC.
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https://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/926331
USL Fans’ Choice Save of the Week – Week 13
Some of the league’s top shot-stoppers featured prominently in the past week, who gets your vote?
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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8qslrp/leon_taylor_named_to_usl_team_of_the_week/
Leon Taylor Named To USL Team of the Week (rowdiessoccer.com)
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https://www.rowdiessoccer.com/news_article/show/926382
Leon Taylor Named To USL Team of the Week
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (June 12, 2018) — Tampa Bay Rowdies forward Leon Taylor has been named to the USL Team of the Week following his excellent debut.
Taylor came off the bench in his first-ever appearance for the Rowdies and scored the game-tying goal in the 84th minute.
The full USL Team of the Week is below.
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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8qx7b5/rowdies_partnering_with_spiideo_and_cinesports/
Rowdies partnering with Spiideo and CineSports for advanced video capture analysis (spiideo.com)
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https://www.spiideo.com/tampa-bay-rowdies-spiideo-agreement-soccer-usa/
USL Pro club Tampa Bay Rowdies using Spiideo for video capturing and analysis
The Tampa Bay Rowdies, Spiideo and CineSports have recently agreed to a new and exciting partnership. Established in 1975, the Florida based team played its inaugural season as part of the NASL (North American Soccer League), the first professional league based in the United States and Canada.
As part of the growing United Soccer League (USL), Tampa Bay haven’t wasted any time utilizing Spiideo’s camera system to enhance their home pitch.
“The installation of the Spiideo camera system has provided the staff with an enhanced teaching tool for providing players with immediate tactical feedback.” says Stuart Dobson, assistant coach for the Tampa Bay Rowdies.
The Spiideo camera system is already transforming how the Rowdies incorporate video and analysis into their daily routine by recording training and their most recent USL match against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds.
“The live tagging feature has given us powerful teaching moments in which we are able to immediately review key moments from pitchside, whether it be during training sessions or following games. The system allows the staff to switch between having the full team in view, for assessing key tactical moments, to zooming in on a small area to focus on an individual play.”, Stuart continues.
As coach or analyst you can pan and zoom in on the footage, pause, rewind, create clips, draw, tag, create presentations etc. Spiideo puts a lot of focus on ease of use and accessibility, since anything that you want to use in our daily process must be extremely low maintenance and remove manual work like charging batteries, dealing with memory cards and cables etc. (here are a few such examples of how coaches are using Spiideo in their work )
To to know more about the Tampa Bay Rowdies setup visit: www.cinesports.tv
To learn more about Spiideo solutions in general for football visit: https://www.spiideo.com/soccer/
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8qwf99/what_position_do_you_think_is_most_important_for/
What position do you think is most important for the Rowdies to add midseason? (twitter.com)
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https://twitter.com/BayInvasion/status/1006964180602245120?s=19
Bay Invasion - Tampa Bay Sports Coverage
@BayInvasion
With three starters now gone from the pitch (Collins, Schäfer, Najem), plus other injuries, what position is most important for the #Rowdies to acquire mid-season? #COYR
2:19 PM - 13 Jun 2018
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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8qslbq/marcel_sch%C3%A4fer_departs_rowdies_for_vfl_wolfsburg/
Official Marcel Schäfer Departs Rowdies for VfL Wolfsburg Return (rowdiessoccer.com)
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https://www.rowdiessoccer.com/news_article/show/926592
Marcel Schäfer Departs Rowdies for VFL Wolfsburg Return
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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8qtcjr/vfl_wolfsburg_%C7%80_early_return_for_sch%C3%A4fer/
VfL Wolfsburg ǀ Early Return for Schäfer (vfl-wolfsburg.de)
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https://www.vfl-wolfsburg.de/en/info/news/detailspage/artikel/early-return-50429.html
Early return
VfL’s all-time record appearance maker Marcel Schäfer ends his active playing career and returns as the Wolves new Sporting director.
Early than expected, Marcel Schäfer is to end his stint with American second-flight club Tampa Bay Rowdies and return to VfL Wolfsburg, where the Green-Whites all-time record appearance maker (256 league games/13 goals) will take over the function as Sporting director as from July 1st. It had originally been planned that the 34-year-old would end the season in the United States and return to take over a functionary position at VfL Wolfsburg in 2019. Following intensive discussions between the Supervisory Board and management, a decision was quickly reached, which effectively marks the end of the active playing career of the eight-time German international.
"The return of a figure of identification"
"In our talks with Marcel, it quickly became clear that we were on the same wave-length and following the same target. He knows VfL inside-out, is highly motivated and has a lot of good ideas, as to how we can guide the club back on to a successful track. We are really looking forward to collaborating with him," commented VfL general-manager Jörg Schmadtke. His management colleague Dr. Tim Schumacher added: "In Marcel Schäfer, we can look forward to the return of a real figure of identification to VfL Wolfsburg. Everyone who knows Marcel, knows how much the Wolves mean to him and just how much will and energy he will bring to the task. As a player, he always had his eye on the big picture, gave his all for VfL and he now brings some new impressions with him from the USA, which we can benefit from."
"Raring to go"
Marcel Schäfer is very eager to get stuck in again with the Wolves: "I am delighted about returning to help the club that’s holds such a special place in my heart. What VfL has to offer immediately convinced me and I am very happy about the opportunity to play my part. Of course I am also leaving Tampa Bay with a tear in my eye. I am very thankful to the Rowdies, in particular club owner Bill Edwards, for making my dream of playing in America and gathering some new experiences come true. They laid no stones in the path of my return either! My family and I always felt completely comfortable in Florida and we made a lot of friends. I will never forget my time at Tampa Bay, but I am now raring to go in my new function at VfL. I want to get stuck right in and have lots to learn in my new area."
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8ql5fh/scottish_daily_mail_sport_collins_has_found_his/
Scottish Daily Mail Sport: Collins Has Found His Light at End of Tunnel (i.redd.it)
https://i.redd.it/lg51tf2y0m311.jpg
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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8qds3p/reports_sch%C3%A4fer_may_depart_rowdies_early_to_join/
Reports: Schäfer may depart Rowdies early to join Wolfsburg Front Office (OC) (theunsubs.com)
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http://www.theunsubs.com/wp/2018/06/11/reports-marcel-schafer-may-depart-rowdies-early-to-join-wolfsburg-front-office/3924
Reports: Marcel Schäfer may depart Rowdies early to join Wolfsburg Front Office
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https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1006538711893454849
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
You may have won $5,000 in the #RowdiesRiches Sweepstakes! Grab your match program this past Saturday & head to http://RowdiesRiches.com .
10:08 AM - 12 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/JHollowayWriter/status/1006435852464087040
Jonathan Holloway
@JHollowayWriter
Check out my article in todays Scottish Daily Mail @ScotMailSport, @neillycollins3's impressive rise to management is a credit to himself, his career and @TampaBayRowdies. Great guy and pleasure to talk to, Neill is flying the flag for Scottish coaches abroad.
3:19 AM - 12 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1006591199950594048
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
1️⃣ appearance,
1️⃣ goal,
1️⃣ @USL Team of the Week nod!
Congrats to El Smoove, @LeonTTaylor!
1:36 PM - 12 Jun 2018
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https://twitter.com/USL/status/1006854186703769601
USL
Verified account @USL
BREAKING: #United2026 has won the right to host the #WorldCup after earning 67% of the FIFA Congress vote!
7:01 AM - 13 Jun 2018
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https://twitter.com/spiideo/status/1006853768405757952
Spiideo
@spiideo
Read more about how USL pro club Tampa Bay Rowdies, one of the latest additions to the Spiideo family, use the system in their daily work #sportstech #soccer #USL
7:00 AM - 13 Jun 2018
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https://twitter.com/united2026/status/1006851829769129984
United 2026
Verified account @united2026
The world will unite in North America! #United2026 has officially won the right to host the @FIFAWorldCup!
🇨🇦🇲🇽🇺🇸 | http://united2026.com
6:52 AM - 13 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/united2026/status/1006854226713161728
United 2026
Verified account @united2026
The moment our united dream became a reality! 🇨🇦🇲🇽🇺🇸
7:02 AM - 13 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/ussoccer/status/1006856402059612161
U.S. Soccer
Verified account @ussoccer
The world's biggest sporting event is returning to our shores! #United2026 will host the @FIFAWorldCup!
🇨🇦🇲🇽🇺🇸 | http://united2026.com
7:10 AM - 13 Jun 2018
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https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1006859985245138944
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
Rowdies midfielder Joe Cole🗣
“Having the 2026 FIFA World Cup awarded to the region shows how much the sport has grown here in the US in recent years. Traveling around the country during the season, it’s easy to note the passion fans have for soccer here in America.”
#United2026
7:25 AM - 13 Jun 2018
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https://twitter.com/USL/status/1006858832241137777
USL
Verified account @USL
Are you ready?
#United2026 | #WorldCup
7:20 AM - 13 Jun 2018
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https://twitter.com/NJEMurray/status/1006861038124445696
Nicholas Murray
@NJEMurray
"Congratulations to everyone involved in bringing the biggest tournament on the globe to North America once again.” - @TampaBayRowdies & former @England international Joe Cole.
The #USL's #WorldCup alumni welcome success of @united2026 bid.
7:29 AM - 13 Jun 2018
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https://twitter.com/USL/status/1006865546250539009
USL
Verified account @USL
Need the complete #United2026 rundown? We have the highlights from @FIFAcom!
More → http://uslsc.cr/2l8pIn2
7:47 AM - 13 Jun 2018
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https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1006883928668561411
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
NEWS: The Rowdies are releasing Marcel Schäfer from his contract to allow him to return to @VfL_Wolfsburg to take the position of Sporting Director. Schäfer will make his final appearance for the Rowdies on June 22.
Read more: http://bit.ly/2HLw5We
9:00 AM - 13 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1006885619640029184
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
Comments from Rowdies Chairman and CEO Bill Edwards, Head Coach @neillycollins3 and Marcel Schäfer on Schäfer’s return to Wolfsburg.
9:06 AM - 13 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1006886266896609282
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
While he's leaving soon, we still have one chance to watch Marcel Schäfer play in the green and gold! He'll make his final appearance for the Rowdies on June 22 against @PennFCOfficial at Al Lang Stadium.
9:09 AM - 13 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TheHoopedSleeve/status/1006896697589395459
The Hooped Sleeve
⚽️
👌
@TheHoopedSleeve
The Hooped Sleeve
⚽️
👌 Retweeted Tampa Bay Rowdies
As sad as it is to let him go, we know that this is a huge opportunity for ANY player with the storied career and legendary status that Marcel has had at @VfLWolfsburg_US. 🐺
He certainly graced us with that quality here. 🙂
#ThankYouMarcel #DankeMarcel 💪👏🇩🇪🇺🇸
The Hooped Sleeve
⚽️
👌 added,
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
NEWS: The Rowdies are releasing Marcel Schäfer from his contract to allow him to return to @VfL_Wolfsburg to take the position of Sporting Director. Schäfer will make his final appearance for the Rowdies on June 22.…
9:50 AM - 13 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/RalphsMob/status/1006944540597473280
Ralph's Mob
@RalphsMob
Danke Schäfi! Thanks Marcel, for giving us your all. All the best back at @VfLWolfsburg_US 💚💛
1:01 PM - 13 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1006982897293672448
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
You’ll be seeing some new faces on the sidelines this summer, our first EVER Rowdies Jr. Reporters. Stay tuned to our social media for some Jr. Reporter content!
Meet this year's Rowdies Jr. Reporters
Powered by SnappyTV
3:33 PM - 13 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1006997389738160128
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
Marcel Schäfer addressing his teammates before we hit the field for this afternoon’s training session.
4:31 PM - 13 Jun 2018
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http://www.sacbee.com/news/local/news-columns-blogs/city-beat/article213123774.html
Texts reveal new details about Sacramento's MLS bid and the financiers being courted
Southern California billionaire Ron Burkle toured Sacramento's soccer stadium site and has had detailed discussions with Republic FC and Mayor Darrell Steinberg about becoming the lead investor in a Major League Soccer expansion franchise, according to text messages obtained by The Sacramento Bee.
City and team officials also have met with a group led by former Sacramento Kings player Omri Casspi and two East Coast real estate magnates, one of whom owns a stake in the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves, text messages show.
Public records show that a third ownership scenario for an MLS team in Sacramento may also be in play. A city records request filed by an Austin, Texas, law firm in April sought correspondence between city officials and Anthony Precourt, owner of the Columbus Crew MLS team. Precourt plans to move the Crew to Austin before next season, but the records request — combined with an ESPN analyst’s prediction last week that the Crew will move to Sacramento — has fueled speculation that Sacramento may be Precourt’s second option if he’s unable to secure a stadium deal in Austin.
Neither Precourt nor the law firm that filed the records request responded to requests for comment.
The text messages obtained by The Bee through a Public Records Act request detail the intense campaign by Republic FC and City Hall to recruit a deep-pocketed investor who can lead Sacramento's bid for one of two remaining expansion spots in Major League Soccer. Potential investors were given tours of a planned soccer stadium site in the downtown railyard and the mayor was in frequent communication with MLS Commissioner Don Garber over the past six months.
The messages from the mayor, his aides and top Republic FC officials also show that in addition to the Burkle and Casspi groups, several other potential investors have expressed interest in leading or becoming involved in Sacramento’s bid, including a financier from Miami and an individual from Chicago who was not identified in the messages.
Sacramento was passed over for a spot in the latest round of MLS expansion because the league wants Republic FC to find a wealthy investor who can help cover the $400 million upfront cost of a franchise and keep the team financially viable in the long term. Teams were instead awarded to Nashville and Cincinnati, although MLS plans to add two more teams in the future.
Republic FC Chairman Kevin Nagle has said he is willing to bring in a new investor to help lead the bid. Text messages showed that Nagle has agreed to contribute $125 million toward the MLS franchise fee.
“As we’ve shared before, we’ve been in active discussions for some time with several potential investors to finalize our ownership group and deliver the MLS club our fans and community deserve,” Nagle said in a written statement. “We remain in close contact with both MLS and Mayor Steinberg as we make steady progress towards our goal. We look forward to sharing more details with our fans, but must continue to respect the private nature of our ongoing conversations at this time.”
Major League Soccer spokesman Dan Courtemanche said Wednesday that the league’s board of governors will discuss the next round of expansion during its meeting at the All-Star Game on Aug. 1 in Atlanta. Multiple cities are expected to compete with Sacramento for the final two spots, including Detroit, Phoenix and San Diego.
Steinberg has made recruiting a lead investor a priority, telling Garber in a December text message he would “personally vet any potential investors with you and your team before we went too deep in any one direction.”
During that same text message, Steinberg asked that MLS give Sacramento “due consideration” toward an expansion franchise when it secures a lead investor and requested that the league not force the city to compete against other cities vying for the final two spots.
“Please don’t put Sacramento back in the larger pile,” he wrote to Garber. “We have earned a different consideration. I will deliver for MLS and Sacramento if you give me and us the chance.”
Garber did not respond to the message with a text of his own, although texts show the two have spoken on the phone on numerous occasions.
In an interview Wednesday, Steinberg said he has “been encouraged by all of the conversations we’ve had over the months because what I’ve seen is a significant interest in partnering with our local ownership group and making Sacramento a Major League Soccer city.”
“This takes time, but these months have not been wasted in any way,” the mayor said.
Burkle appears to be Sacramento’s preferred investor.
The Southern California billionaire was recruited to lead Sacramento’s bid to purchase the Kings in both 2011 and 2013, but had to back out over concerns that his ownership stake in a sports management company would create a conflict of interest. Burkle owns a share of the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins and his net worth is estimated at $2.3 billion.
On March 14, Burkle was joined by three partners during a visit to Sacramento, according to a text message from Republic FC Chief Operating Officer Ben Gumpert to mayoral aide Scott Whyte. The Burkle group toured the site of a planned soccer stadium in the downtown railyard with developer Larry Kelley, whose company owns the site; had lunch with Kelley and Sacramento developer Mark Friedman; and visited the Republic FC offices.
“Ron certainly is up the curve on sports investing given his experience (unlike most of the other ones you have met or spoken with),” Gumpert wrote to Whyte. “Also has spent enough time in Sacramento to appreciate the market.”
Steinberg personally texted Burkle as recently as April 30, asking if there was “anything new on the MLS front?” Burkle did not respond to the text.
Frank Quintero, a principal at Burkle’s Yucaipa Company investment firm, confirmed in an interview that he and Burkle were “definitely up in Sacramento,” but declined to elaborate on Burkle’s interest in Republic FC. Burkle sat in the front row of a Kings game at Golden 1 Center the night of his visit.
The group involving Casspi also received significant attention, according to the text messages. Casspi, who was drafted by the Kings in 2009 and most recently played for the Golden State Warriors last season, first expressed interest in buying a stake in Republic FC in 2014.
His partners in the MLS bid were identified in messages as Meyer Orbach and Ezra Stark.
Orbach is a New Jersey-based real estate investor whose company owns hundreds of high-end apartments on the East Coast, including several prominent properties in Manhattan. He purchased a 9.5 percent stake in the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves in 2016.
Stark, based in Cleveland, is the chief operating officer of Stark Enterprises, a real estate firm that has been quickly expanding, especially in the New York area.
Gumpert told city officials in a text that Stark and Orbach are “connected to Omri through Israel/Jewish organizations.” Casspi is a native of Israel. Gumpert said both Stark and Orbach had met with MLS league officials and that “both are very focused on the real estate side” of an investment in Republic FC.
Casspi, Stark and Orbach did not return messages Wednesday.
As for Precourt, there were no text messages released this week detailing conversations between his company and Sacramento officials. Precourt is in negotiations with the city of Austin to take control of a site for a planned MLS soccer stadium, setting a deadline for the end of June.
Last week, ESPN soccer analyst Taylor Twellman said on air that he does not think the Crew will move to Austin, but instead will “end up in Sacramento.” He did not elaborate.
(Follow link for full article.)
http://wwd.com/eye/lifestyle/simon-doonan-soccer-style-1202708235/
Simon Doonan’s Deep Dive Into ‘Soccer Style’
For his ninth book, Doonan is kicking it back to the Sixties, when the birth of soccer style began. Here, he opens up about "Soccer Style: The Magic and Madness," out now.
n a Venn diagram of soccer and fashion, the overlap might include some combination of David Beckham in a sarong, Neymar in head-to-toe black and Cristiano Ronaldo napping under an Hermès blanket on a private plane. If there’s one person who knows the ins and outs of this overlap, it’s Simon Doonan, creative director at large for Barneys New York whose latest work, “Soccer Style: The Magic and Madness,” is out now.
In the book — the author’s ninth, though he’s “stopped counting” — Doonan dives deep into the off-the-field fashion of soccer’s biggest players. His research included four years of reading autobiographies and magazine interviews, as well a lifetime of watching the sport. The result is a highly detailed, yet equally amusing read in which the biggest soccer players in the world are classified into one of the following fashion tribes: Good Taste Ambassadors, Label Kings, Psychedelic Ninjas, Hired Assassins and Bohemians and Fauxhemians.
“As I looked at the landscape of contemporary football, I felt a burning need to classify it and understand it because there were clearly very different groups here,” says Doonan on a recent afternoon at his Manhattan apartment. “What most people do is say, ‘I don’t like this but I do like that.’ I don’t do that ‘cause I’m looking at the culture of football.”
The Good Taste Ambassadors, he says, are more reserved — think Álvaro Morata, Xabi Alonso and modern-day Beckham — whereas the Label Kings — Ronaldo, for example — are more flashy. “They’re great patrons of à la mode,” Doonan says of the Label Kings. “God bless them, because they pay full retail. Hello.”
The Psychedelic Ninjas, Doonan’s favorite group, love to mix and match designer and vintage finds — and most likely own a Givenchy rottweiler printed T-shirt — while the Hired Assassins wear “lots of black, a black ripped Balmain jean, maybe an Off-White hoodie.” The Bohemians and Fauxhemians go against soccer’s traditionally antihippie attitude, with Andy Carroll, who posed for Alexander Wang’s 2014 H&M collaboration, as a leading example.
“Soccer players are very noteworthy in their absolute commitment to style and to fashion,” says Doonan. “It comes from several things. First of all, their build. They’re totally sample-size, they’re like a designer dream. Secondly, they’ve got the cash. I have quotes from Georgie Best in the Sixties. People who played with him would note that even after training, he would get washed and look like he was going dancing. Shouldn’t we all look like we’re going dancing all the time?”
Doonan identifies the start of true soccer style as the moment the Professional Footballers’ Association lifted its 20-pound wage cap in 1961.
“Suddenly you have players like George Best buying clothes, opening a boutique, having an E-Type Jaguar, that was all unheard of,” Doonan says. “Before they barely had bicycles to go to the training and the game. This incredible moment of timing came together where the Swinging Sixties collided with sports, collided with a new era of personality obsession. The same kind of confluence happened in the Nineties, where with new TV deals, football was suddenly this mega financial thing and new obsession with celebrity and new obsession with fashion.”
He also dedicated a section of the book to the personal tastes of the wives and girlfriends of professional athletes, and in another, he explores the players’ tattoo choices and various hairdos throughout the years. The most stylish player, he says, is “absolutely David Beckham.”
“He’s the patron saint of soccer style, no question,” Doonan says. “If you’re a working-class English kid and you’re hardworking and you’re creative and you’re positive in the way you approach life and you look great, it’s a fantastically inspiring story. I have nothing but admiration for [David and Victoria Beckham]. Both of them made that same transition. [David] from being a footballer, which was historically not considered to be so cool and he made it cool. She was a pop star, she made it into the fashion world very successfully. Victoria Beckham is cool. People want to be her, they want to see what she’s wearing.”
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.dentonrc.com/sports/ap_sports_headlines/atlanta-s-hot-soccer-scene-featured-in-winning-world-cup/article_19a5a1ea-018b-51c8-ad9a-0aa9fb2b2867.html
Atlanta's hot soccer scene featured in winning World Cup bid
ATLANTA — Atlanta’s burgeoning soccer scene was featured in North America’s successful bid for 2026 World Cup.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium was shown off in the videos the North American bid officials played for FIFA voters Wednesday in Russia. The images were all shiny, new and impressive — from the stadium’s retractable roof and huge oval video board to the all-important shots of sellout crowds for MLS Atlanta United.
The video evidence helped sway FIFA to overwhelmingly approve the bid from the United States, Mexico and Canada. The bid suggested Atlanta and Dallas-Fort Worth as host sites for 2026 semifinals, and Atlanta United season ticket-holder Ken Harper can’t wait.
“Based on the worldwide interest in the World Cup, I think it has the potential to have the same impact the Olympics did in ’96 on our city,” Harper said Wednesday. “I think it’s fantastic.”
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.sportsnet.ca/soccer/canada-will-ride-enormous-wave-soccer-support-2026-world-cup/
Canada will ride enormous wave of soccer support into 2026 World Cup
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https://www.bostonglobe.com/sports/2018/06/13/world-cup-foxborough-think-have-great-chance-bid-president-says/UR2Da4QLoESnRYhHMTCZ7O/story.html
World Cup in Foxborough? ‘I think we have a great chance,’ bid president says
FOXBOROUGH — The World Cup is coming to North America in 2026. Will Gillette Stadium be one of the host locations?
Brian Bilello, president of Boston Soccer 2026, believes his recently launched nonprofit can lure World Cup action to the Greater Boston area.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.thedailytimes.com/sports/local-soccer-coaches-thrilled-by-news-of-u-s-hosting/article_22df1b1d-ebda-5a97-8bce-6f35ad7cef43.html
Local soccer coaches thrilled by news of U.S. hosting 2026 World Cup
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http://bluehqmedia.com/tom-ricketts-bringing-more-soccer-to-chicago/
Tom Ricketts Bringing More Soccer to Chicago?
Chicago Cubs owner Tom Ricketts appears to be taking a business venture with another Chicago sports team. Ricketts has recently become the majority owner of Chicago’s new United Soccer League team. The team, which is still unnamed, is expected to begin playing for the USL in 2021. There is currently a club name contest going on for the future team. Simply fill out the information on this page to have your vote cast for the new team’s name.
Ricketts and real estate developer Sterling Bay have joined together to bring another soccer team to Chicago. While the new team is not affiliated with the Chicago Fire, that could happen in the near future. Ricketts and Sterling Bay seem to be the perfect duo to start a sports team. Sterling Bay will keep a minority ownership stake and will be responsible for developing the stadium, while Ricketts controls the more day-to-day operations. The team is expected to be one of the main attractions to the new Lincoln Yards development. The location of the stadium could be a vital part of the expansion of the USL. The Chicago Fire are criticized often for being located in the suburbs. The stadium in Lincoln Yards could have advantages when trying to lure fans from the Fire.
The USL is rapidly growing and game attendance continues to climb. Teams like FC Cincinnati consistently have over 20,000 people in attendance, higher than many of the teams in the MLS. Major League Soccer is still superior, but the USL is on the rise. If the United Soccer League can form a formidable farm system for the MLS, it could do wonders for soccer in the United States. Soccer is growing and it’s not too crazy to expect the United States national team making large steps forward in the future. The team may not hit the field for a few more years, but there is quite a bit of excitement for the new team.
(Follow link for full article.)
http://sacramento.cbslocal.com/2018/06/14/mls-investors-text-messages/
Texts Shed Light On Sacramento’s Hunt For MLS Investors
SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — Sacramento is still fighting hard to bring an MLS franchise to the capital city, despite losing an official bid to Cincinnati last month.
Now newly revealed text messages and emails are showing some of the behind the scenes deal-making to get a Major League Soccer team awarded here.
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.espn.com/soccer/club/united-states/660/blog/post/3524720/what-winning-the-2026-world-cup-election-means-for-future-of-united-states-soccer
Will winning the 2026 World Cup election unite a fractured U.S. Soccer Federation?
Wednesday, June 13, 2018
Monday, June 11, 2018
Attendance Thread Rowdies Home Attendance Thread - Game 6 vs. Nashville SC [6/9] (self.TampaBayRowdies)
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8q9kbh/rowdies_home_attendance_thread_game_6_vs/
Attendance Thread Rowdies Home Attendance Thread - Game 6 vs. Nashville SC [6/9] (self.TampaBayRowdies)
We've had a really strong start to the season at the gate this year. The weather couldn't have been more perfect for the Nashville game. 6,082 showed up for the game, which felt about right in context to our numbers. With the Lightning wrapping up their season, good chance we see some of those folks come across. We're 12.5% up against the first 6 games of last season (which we didn't have a great start against).
Next match against Penn FC is our first Friday match (ever?...or at least in a long, long time). Was originally Saturday, it got bumped to Friday because of the Pride parade in Downtown St. Pete (which will be absolutely crazy packed). It's also Pride night for the Rowdies. A lot of people come into town, so it's possible that could bring people in, but a Friday night is a total wild card. I have no idea what to expect.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8qebzy/tropicana_field_will_come_down_one_day_what_will/
Tropicana Field will come down one day. What will replace it? (tbo.com)
For anyone interested, it’s kind of cool to see the current redevelopment plan...there’s so much potential there. It really will be transformational for the city and probably the Rowdies – whether we stay at the current Al Lang site or not. I think a lot of people don’t realize how big this project will be for the region if done well...
http://www.stpete.org/city_initiatives/tropicana_field_conceptual_master_plan/docs/Tropicana%20Report%20FINAL%20-%20Page.pdf
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.tbo.com/news/business/Tropicana-Field-will-come-down-one-day-What-will-replace-it-_168943176
Tropicana Field will come down one day. What will replace it?
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8qds3p/reports_sch%C3%A4fer_may_depart_rowdies_early_to_join/
Reports: Schäfer may depart Rowdies early to join Wolfsburg Front Office (OC) (theunsubs.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.theunsubs.com/wp/2018/06/11/reports-marcel-schafer-may-depart-rowdies-early-to-join-wolfsburg-front-office/3924
Reports: Marcel Schäfer may depart Rowdies early to join Wolfsburg Front Office
(Follow link for full article.)
https://wsvn.com/sports/david-beckham-shares-update-on-miami-mls-team/
David Beckham shares update on Miami MLS team
MIAMI (WSVN) - Soccer icon David Beckham is back in Miami to continue working on the Major League Soccer team he’s bringing to South Florida.
Beckham posted a photo on his Instagram with the caption, “Productive few days in Miami working on @futbolmiamimls can’t wait to tell you soon …”
Beckham became the owner of the MLS team set to debut in Miami in 2020.
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/soccer/world-cup/sd-sp-us-soccer-world-cup-zeigler-20180610-story.html
Column | What's changed since U.S. failed to qualify for 2018 World Cup? Sadly, nothing
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.themaneland.com/2018/6/11/17445950/should-orlando-citys-usl-pro-stats-be-compared-with-its-mls-stats
Orlando City’s USL Stats are an Important Part of Its History
Some say Orlando City’s USL stats are incomparable with its MLS stats, but the past should be remembered.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://communityimpact.com/austin/northwest-austin/city-county/2018/06/11/austin-city-council-will-discuss-mls-proposal-tuesday-and-4-other-things-to-know-about-mckalla-place-this-week/
Austin City Council will discuss MLS proposal Tuesday and 4 other things to know about McKalla Place this week
Austin City Council is planning to discuss the official proposal from Precourt Sports Ventures to build a $200 million soccer park on the city-owned property at McKalla Place.
Catch up on news from last week on McKalla Place here and here. This week, here are 5 things to know:
(Follow link for full article.)
https://blogs.voanews.com/all-about-america/2018/06/11/the-us-wont-be-at-the-world-cup-but-soccer-still-strong/
The US Won’t Be at the World Cup, but Soccer Still Strong
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https://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/news/2018/06/11/fc-cincinnati-changing-national-perception-of-city.html
FC Cincinnati changing national perception of city, Forbes says
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https://theathletic.com/388793/2018/06/11/what-moves-should-fc-cincinnati-make-in-its-major-league-soccer-transition/
What moves should FC Cincinnati make in its Major League Soccer transition?
Jeff Rueter wrote last week about what FC Cincinnati can learn from other Major League Soccer expansion franchises as it prepares for its first MLS season. Which current players would you keep? What big-name Designated Players, if any, would you pursue? On what aspect of the team would you focus resources? What strategy would you like to see heading to MLS?
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.spectrumlocalnews.com/tx/austin/news/2018/06/11/poll--majority-of-austin-residents-would-welcome-major-league-soccer
Poll: Majority of Austin residents would welcome Major League Soccer
AUSTIN, Texas -- New poll results show nearly 75 percent of Austin residents would welcome Major League Soccer to the city.
The survey of 400 likely voters was paid for by Precourt Sports Ventures.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.bizjournals.com/columbus/news/2018/06/11/crew-sc-owner-major-league-soccer-ask-appeals.html
Crew SC owner, Major League Soccer ask appeals court to dismiss lawsuit
Precourt Sports Ventures, Major League Soccer and Columbus Crew SC are taking their battle with Columbus and the state to the Ohio 10th District Court of Appeals, saying that the "Art Modell Law" being used to try to keep the team in Columbus is unconstitutional and that the Franklin County Common Pleas Court overstepped its reach in the case.
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.dw.com/en/world-cup-2026-when-donald-trump-takes-to-twitter/a-44157571
World Cup 2026: When Donald Trump takes to Twitter
FIFA is set to decide which country or countries will host the 2026 World Cup: the United States, Canada and Mexico – or Morocco. Could a tweet by the US president swing the vote in Morocco's favor?
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/soccer/ct-spt-2026-world-cup-bid-vote-20180611-story.html
North America is confident ahead of 2026 World Cup vote: 'We have a path to victory'
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https://www.bizjournals.com/albuquerque/news/2018/06/11/how-nms-newest-pro-team-owner-went-from-finance-to.html
How NM's newest pro team owner went from finance to soccer
After meeting with a group of potential investors for a potential soccer club in New Mexico, Peter Trevisani took it a step further and decided he wanted to run the team.
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.dispatch.com/sports/20180611/crew-cuts-psv-mls-file-brief-in-appeal-of-judges-order
Crew Cuts: PSV, MLS file brief in appeal of judge’s order
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https://www.mystatesman.com/sports/soccer/council-discussion-could-first-chance-gauge-psv-mls-proposal/CfaEluhghvVBA67P1Xp5PJ/
Council discussion could be first chance to gauge PSV’s MLS proposal
Kathie Tovo on McKalla: ‘supportive of (MLS) stadium to this point’
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.foxnews.com/sports/2018/06/11/world-cup-terms-to-know.html
World Cup terms to know
The 2018 FIFA World Cup is set to begin on Thursday in Russia -- but do you know how to discuss “the beautiful game”?
Certain terms may repeatedly pop up while watching coverage of the international soccer tournament over the next few weeks.
Read to discover a few words you may encounter and what they signify.
Cap: This is when a someone “plays for his national team in an international game,” Major League Soccer (MLS) explains online.
Corner kick: The International Football Association Board (IFAB) says such a move is given out “when the whole of the ball passes over the goal line, on the ground or in the air, having last touched a player of the defending team, and a goal is not scored.”
Boots: A player’s soccer cleats.
Free kick: Viewers tuning in may see both indirect and direct free kicks during a competition, depending on the circumstances involved.
"Direct and indirect free kicks and penalty kicks can only be awarded for offenses committed when the ball is in play," the IFAB says.
Header: This term describes when a player uses their head to maneuver the ball.
Kit: A player’s uniform, which may feature bright colors and designs. You can check out the kits for all 32 teams competing in the 2018 FIFA World Cup here.
Match: A soccer game.
Nutmeg: It’s a move that involves kicking a soccer ball through another person’s legs, according to MLS.
Panenka: A way of making a penalty kick “in which the player, instead of kicking the ball directly into the goal, gives a subtle touch underneath the ball, causing it to rise and fall within the goal thus deceiving the goalkeeper,” MLS says.
Panini sticker books: An Italian collectibles company called Panini publishes sticker books, whose allure is similar to baseball or Pokemon cards — challenging fans to complete the set.
Each book has spots for 681 stickers depicting stadiums, players, host cities and other items. The stickers themselves are sold in packs of six.
Pitch: Another term for the soccer field.
Offside: “When a player is closer to the opponent’s goal than the ball or the penultimate defender,” the Washington Post explains.
Set piece: These can happen after play has stopped, the MLS team Orlando City Soccer Club says online.
Depending on the particular circumstances involved, a goal kick, corner kick, throw-in, free kick or a penalty kick can take place, during this time.
Throw-ins: This is when players throw the ball back onto the pitch. The IFAB explains online who gets to complete the move.
“A throw-in is awarded to the opponents of the player who last touched the ball when the whole of the ball passes over the touchline, on the ground or in the air,” it says.
Yellow card: Referees give these to players as warnings. If they get two yellow cards, they are automatically given a red card and kicked out of the game.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zvobe5O3uSQ
Front Row: Rowdies vs Hounds May 19, 2018
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Published on Jun 11, 2018
Relive all the action from Neill Collin's coaching debut against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_F8b3ImjGg
Rowdies Front Row vs Nashville SC
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Published on Jun 11, 2018
Relive the action from Matt Pickens' homecoming as the Rowdies battled Nashville SC
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ceZ_JfvBxI
Rowdies' World Cup Memories
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Published on Jun 11, 2018
As we prepare for the World Cup to kick off, the Rowdies' reflect back on their favorite memories from the tournament.
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https://twitter.com/CoachesVoice/status/1006159118422495234
The Coaches’ Voice
@CoachesVoice
🗣️ "I'm proud of what I've done, but if I could give back all the medals, the money, the memories and start my career again, I would."
📝 | @TampaBayRowdies player/assistant coach Joe Cole on his love for the game. ⚽️ #WHUFC #CFC
➡️ https://www.coachesvoice.com/the-next-step/
6:00 AM - 11 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1006187912109707265
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
Join us at our next home game on Friday, June 22, when we host @PennFCOfficial for #PrideNight, presented by @tbtnewspaper.
TIX: 727-222-2000 / http://bit.ly/2MaNCKK
7:54 AM - 11 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1006198382833094656
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
Check out the @GasSouth Quote of the Game from Saturday's draw against @NashvilleSC🎙️
8:36 AM - 11 Jun 2018
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https://twitter.com/ccchsmarauders/status/1006179775596187654
CCC High School
@ccchsmarauders
Shoutout to @kyle_curinga10 and the @TampaBayRowdies for our incredible front cover photo!!! We are so proud to call you an alumni, Kyle!!! #ForeverAMarauder #InspiringExcellence
7:22 AM - 11 Jun 2018
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https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1006246109084200961
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
Saturday was a special night for @NashvilleSC goalkeeper Matt Pickens, as he came to Al Lang Stadium to face his former club for the first time.
Here's what Pickens had to say after the match.
Matt Pickens discusses his return to Al Lang
Powered by SnappyTV
11:45 AM - 11 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1006257526843662336
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
The Rowdies and @NashvilleSC faced off for the first time this past Saturday. Check out the recap with the latest Rowdies Front Row.
Rowdies Front Row vs Nashville SC
Relive the action from Matt Pickens' homecoming as the Rowdies battled Nashville SC
12:31 PM - 11 Jun 2018
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8q9kbh/rowdies_home_attendance_thread_game_6_vs/
Attendance Thread Rowdies Home Attendance Thread - Game 6 vs. Nashville SC [6/9] (self.TampaBayRowdies)
We've had a really strong start to the season at the gate this year. The weather couldn't have been more perfect for the Nashville game. 6,082 showed up for the game, which felt about right in context to our numbers. With the Lightning wrapping up their season, good chance we see some of those folks come across. We're 12.5% up against the first 6 games of last season (which we didn't have a great start against).
Next match against Penn FC is our first Friday match (ever?...or at least in a long, long time). Was originally Saturday, it got bumped to Friday because of the Pride parade in Downtown St. Pete (which will be absolutely crazy packed). It's also Pride night for the Rowdies. A lot of people come into town, so it's possible that could bring people in, but a Friday night is a total wild card. I have no idea what to expect.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8qebzy/tropicana_field_will_come_down_one_day_what_will/
Tropicana Field will come down one day. What will replace it? (tbo.com)
For anyone interested, it’s kind of cool to see the current redevelopment plan...there’s so much potential there. It really will be transformational for the city and probably the Rowdies – whether we stay at the current Al Lang site or not. I think a lot of people don’t realize how big this project will be for the region if done well...
http://www.stpete.org/city_initiatives/tropicana_field_conceptual_master_plan/docs/Tropicana%20Report%20FINAL%20-%20Page.pdf
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.tbo.com/news/business/Tropicana-Field-will-come-down-one-day-What-will-replace-it-_168943176
Tropicana Field will come down one day. What will replace it?
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8qds3p/reports_sch%C3%A4fer_may_depart_rowdies_early_to_join/
Reports: Schäfer may depart Rowdies early to join Wolfsburg Front Office (OC) (theunsubs.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.theunsubs.com/wp/2018/06/11/reports-marcel-schafer-may-depart-rowdies-early-to-join-wolfsburg-front-office/3924
Reports: Marcel Schäfer may depart Rowdies early to join Wolfsburg Front Office
(Follow link for full article.)
https://wsvn.com/sports/david-beckham-shares-update-on-miami-mls-team/
David Beckham shares update on Miami MLS team
MIAMI (WSVN) - Soccer icon David Beckham is back in Miami to continue working on the Major League Soccer team he’s bringing to South Florida.
Beckham posted a photo on his Instagram with the caption, “Productive few days in Miami working on @futbolmiamimls can’t wait to tell you soon …”
Beckham became the owner of the MLS team set to debut in Miami in 2020.
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/soccer/world-cup/sd-sp-us-soccer-world-cup-zeigler-20180610-story.html
Column | What's changed since U.S. failed to qualify for 2018 World Cup? Sadly, nothing
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.themaneland.com/2018/6/11/17445950/should-orlando-citys-usl-pro-stats-be-compared-with-its-mls-stats
Orlando City’s USL Stats are an Important Part of Its History
Some say Orlando City’s USL stats are incomparable with its MLS stats, but the past should be remembered.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://communityimpact.com/austin/northwest-austin/city-county/2018/06/11/austin-city-council-will-discuss-mls-proposal-tuesday-and-4-other-things-to-know-about-mckalla-place-this-week/
Austin City Council will discuss MLS proposal Tuesday and 4 other things to know about McKalla Place this week
Austin City Council is planning to discuss the official proposal from Precourt Sports Ventures to build a $200 million soccer park on the city-owned property at McKalla Place.
Catch up on news from last week on McKalla Place here and here. This week, here are 5 things to know:
(Follow link for full article.)
https://blogs.voanews.com/all-about-america/2018/06/11/the-us-wont-be-at-the-world-cup-but-soccer-still-strong/
The US Won’t Be at the World Cup, but Soccer Still Strong
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/news/2018/06/11/fc-cincinnati-changing-national-perception-of-city.html
FC Cincinnati changing national perception of city, Forbes says
(Follow link for full article.)
https://theathletic.com/388793/2018/06/11/what-moves-should-fc-cincinnati-make-in-its-major-league-soccer-transition/
What moves should FC Cincinnati make in its Major League Soccer transition?
Jeff Rueter wrote last week about what FC Cincinnati can learn from other Major League Soccer expansion franchises as it prepares for its first MLS season. Which current players would you keep? What big-name Designated Players, if any, would you pursue? On what aspect of the team would you focus resources? What strategy would you like to see heading to MLS?
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.spectrumlocalnews.com/tx/austin/news/2018/06/11/poll--majority-of-austin-residents-would-welcome-major-league-soccer
Poll: Majority of Austin residents would welcome Major League Soccer
AUSTIN, Texas -- New poll results show nearly 75 percent of Austin residents would welcome Major League Soccer to the city.
The survey of 400 likely voters was paid for by Precourt Sports Ventures.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.bizjournals.com/columbus/news/2018/06/11/crew-sc-owner-major-league-soccer-ask-appeals.html
Crew SC owner, Major League Soccer ask appeals court to dismiss lawsuit
Precourt Sports Ventures, Major League Soccer and Columbus Crew SC are taking their battle with Columbus and the state to the Ohio 10th District Court of Appeals, saying that the "Art Modell Law" being used to try to keep the team in Columbus is unconstitutional and that the Franklin County Common Pleas Court overstepped its reach in the case.
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.dw.com/en/world-cup-2026-when-donald-trump-takes-to-twitter/a-44157571
World Cup 2026: When Donald Trump takes to Twitter
FIFA is set to decide which country or countries will host the 2026 World Cup: the United States, Canada and Mexico – or Morocco. Could a tweet by the US president swing the vote in Morocco's favor?
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/soccer/ct-spt-2026-world-cup-bid-vote-20180611-story.html
North America is confident ahead of 2026 World Cup vote: 'We have a path to victory'
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.bizjournals.com/albuquerque/news/2018/06/11/how-nms-newest-pro-team-owner-went-from-finance-to.html
How NM's newest pro team owner went from finance to soccer
After meeting with a group of potential investors for a potential soccer club in New Mexico, Peter Trevisani took it a step further and decided he wanted to run the team.
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.dispatch.com/sports/20180611/crew-cuts-psv-mls-file-brief-in-appeal-of-judges-order
Crew Cuts: PSV, MLS file brief in appeal of judge’s order
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.mystatesman.com/sports/soccer/council-discussion-could-first-chance-gauge-psv-mls-proposal/CfaEluhghvVBA67P1Xp5PJ/
Council discussion could be first chance to gauge PSV’s MLS proposal
Kathie Tovo on McKalla: ‘supportive of (MLS) stadium to this point’
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.foxnews.com/sports/2018/06/11/world-cup-terms-to-know.html
World Cup terms to know
The 2018 FIFA World Cup is set to begin on Thursday in Russia -- but do you know how to discuss “the beautiful game”?
Certain terms may repeatedly pop up while watching coverage of the international soccer tournament over the next few weeks.
Read to discover a few words you may encounter and what they signify.
Cap: This is when a someone “plays for his national team in an international game,” Major League Soccer (MLS) explains online.
Corner kick: The International Football Association Board (IFAB) says such a move is given out “when the whole of the ball passes over the goal line, on the ground or in the air, having last touched a player of the defending team, and a goal is not scored.”
Boots: A player’s soccer cleats.
Free kick: Viewers tuning in may see both indirect and direct free kicks during a competition, depending on the circumstances involved.
"Direct and indirect free kicks and penalty kicks can only be awarded for offenses committed when the ball is in play," the IFAB says.
Header: This term describes when a player uses their head to maneuver the ball.
Kit: A player’s uniform, which may feature bright colors and designs. You can check out the kits for all 32 teams competing in the 2018 FIFA World Cup here.
Match: A soccer game.
Nutmeg: It’s a move that involves kicking a soccer ball through another person’s legs, according to MLS.
Panenka: A way of making a penalty kick “in which the player, instead of kicking the ball directly into the goal, gives a subtle touch underneath the ball, causing it to rise and fall within the goal thus deceiving the goalkeeper,” MLS says.
Panini sticker books: An Italian collectibles company called Panini publishes sticker books, whose allure is similar to baseball or Pokemon cards — challenging fans to complete the set.
Each book has spots for 681 stickers depicting stadiums, players, host cities and other items. The stickers themselves are sold in packs of six.
Pitch: Another term for the soccer field.
Offside: “When a player is closer to the opponent’s goal than the ball or the penultimate defender,” the Washington Post explains.
Set piece: These can happen after play has stopped, the MLS team Orlando City Soccer Club says online.
Depending on the particular circumstances involved, a goal kick, corner kick, throw-in, free kick or a penalty kick can take place, during this time.
Throw-ins: This is when players throw the ball back onto the pitch. The IFAB explains online who gets to complete the move.
“A throw-in is awarded to the opponents of the player who last touched the ball when the whole of the ball passes over the touchline, on the ground or in the air,” it says.
Yellow card: Referees give these to players as warnings. If they get two yellow cards, they are automatically given a red card and kicked out of the game.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zvobe5O3uSQ
Front Row: Rowdies vs Hounds May 19, 2018
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Published on Jun 11, 2018
Relive all the action from Neill Collin's coaching debut against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_F8b3ImjGg
Rowdies Front Row vs Nashville SC
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Published on Jun 11, 2018
Relive the action from Matt Pickens' homecoming as the Rowdies battled Nashville SC
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ceZ_JfvBxI
Rowdies' World Cup Memories
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Published on Jun 11, 2018
As we prepare for the World Cup to kick off, the Rowdies' reflect back on their favorite memories from the tournament.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/CoachesVoice/status/1006159118422495234
The Coaches’ Voice
@CoachesVoice
🗣️ "I'm proud of what I've done, but if I could give back all the medals, the money, the memories and start my career again, I would."
📝 | @TampaBayRowdies player/assistant coach Joe Cole on his love for the game. ⚽️ #WHUFC #CFC
➡️ https://www.coachesvoice.com/the-next-step/
6:00 AM - 11 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1006187912109707265
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
Join us at our next home game on Friday, June 22, when we host @PennFCOfficial for #PrideNight, presented by @tbtnewspaper.
TIX: 727-222-2000 / http://bit.ly/2MaNCKK
7:54 AM - 11 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1006198382833094656
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
Check out the @GasSouth Quote of the Game from Saturday's draw against @NashvilleSC🎙️
8:36 AM - 11 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/ccchsmarauders/status/1006179775596187654
CCC High School
@ccchsmarauders
Shoutout to @kyle_curinga10 and the @TampaBayRowdies for our incredible front cover photo!!! We are so proud to call you an alumni, Kyle!!! #ForeverAMarauder #InspiringExcellence
7:22 AM - 11 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1006246109084200961
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
Saturday was a special night for @NashvilleSC goalkeeper Matt Pickens, as he came to Al Lang Stadium to face his former club for the first time.
Here's what Pickens had to say after the match.
Matt Pickens discusses his return to Al Lang
Powered by SnappyTV
11:45 AM - 11 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1006257526843662336
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
The Rowdies and @NashvilleSC faced off for the first time this past Saturday. Check out the recap with the latest Rowdies Front Row.
Rowdies Front Row vs Nashville SC
Relive the action from Matt Pickens' homecoming as the Rowdies battled Nashville SC
12:31 PM - 11 Jun 2018
USL Surges Past 1 Million Attendance in 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/925706?referrer_id=2364194-news-archive
USL Surges Past 1 Million Attendance in 2018
League reaches major landmark one month earlier than record-setting 2017 season
Sacramento Republic FC’s sellout crowd of 11,569, the final game of Saturday night’s slate, sent the league past the one-million mark, with Indy Eleven also welcoming a five-figure crowd to Lucas Oil Stadium on Saturday night as 10,034 fans saw the hosts take a 2-0 victory against ATL UTD 2. The Tampa Bay Rowdies continued their strong season at the turnstiles as 6,082 fans were on hand for a compelling contest against fellow Eastern Conference playoff contender Nashville SC, while Penn FC recorded its highest attendance of the season with 4,507 fans on hand for a thrilling 3-2 victory for the hosts against Toronto FC II.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.themaneland.com/2018/6/10/17444180/lion-links-6-10-18
Lion Links: 6/10/18
City visits Vancouver, Yanks surprise Les Bleus, FC Cincinnati supporters join the #SaveTheCrew movement, and more.
I really like this one: Joe Cole has taken on a player-coach role for the USL’s Tampa Bay Rowdies.
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.infosurhoy.com/cocoon/saii/xhtml/en_GB/news/joe-cole-becomes-assistant-coach-of-second-tier-tampa-bay/
Joe Cole becomes assistant coach of second-tier Tampa Bay
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Joe Cole has been appointed assistant coach of the Tampa Bay Rowdies of the United Soccer League while continuing to play for the second-tier club.
The 36-year-old midfielder joined the team in 2016 after splitting the 2015-16 season between Aston Villa and Coventry City. Cole scored 10 goals in 56 appearances for England from 2001-10 and also has played for West Ham, Chelsea, Liverpool, Lille, West Ham.
Rowdies head coach Neill Collins says “Joe has an incredible store of knowledge about the game to share with our young players and with our coaching staff.
“One of the main provisos of me taking the head coaching job a few weeks ago was that I wanted to open an avenue for Joe to share that knowledge as an assistant coach. Though he is now a member of the coaching staff as well, Joe’s primary role will remain as a player for the Rowdies.”
Tampa Bay announced the appointment Friday.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.expressnews.com/guidetosa/article/San-Antonio-s-pro-sports-scene-features-Spurs-12967332.php
San Antonio’s pro sports scene features Spurs, Rampage, San Antonio FC, Missions
Three of San Antonio’s four pro sports teams are owned and operated by Spurs Sports and Entertainment. The lone exception is the San Antonio Missions.
A fifth franchise, the Spurs-owned Stars of the WNBA, moved to Las Vegas after the 2017 season following the sale of the team.
UNITED SOCCER LEAGUE
San Antonio Football Club
Skinny: San Antonio FC kicked off its’ third season in the United Soccer League in March 2018. The USL is the largest pro soccer league in North America with 33 teams covering 22 states and two Canadian provinces. The USL is split into two conference, Eastern and Western (SAFC is in the West). The USL is expanding with six more teams joining the league in the next three years (four in 2019, two in 2021). San Antonio FC is an affiliate of Major League Soccer’s New York City FC.
Head coach: Darren Powell.
Notable players: Diego Restrepo, goalkeeper
Restrepo, who helped lead Virginia to the 2009 NCAA Division I championship, signed with San Antonio FC in March 2017. He didn’t begin last season as the starter but assumed the spot when Matt Cardone was injured five games into the season. Restrepo ended 2017 leading the USL in shutouts with 12 clean sheets. This season, Restrepo is one of the USL’s top five leaders in saves and ranks in the top 10 league wide in clean sheets.
Season: 34 regular season games (17 home, 17 away) over a 31-week period that began in mid-March and concludes in early October.
Home: Toyota Field (seating 8,296), 5106 David Edwards Dr.
Online: www.sanantoniofc.com
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8q12gm/random_fandom_a_rowdies_jersey_features/
Random Fandom: A Rowdies jersey features prominently on the studio set for "The Ringer's" World Cup coverage (youtube.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0E2N83mY6A&list=PLiI3wRw9PbSY_BuJHQQu-w8HJElyEa0tQ
Can an Underdog Win the World Cup? | Ringer FC 2018 World Cup Preview | The Ringer
The Ringer
Published on Jun 6, 2018
Only eight countries have won the World Cup in its 88-year history. Why is it so hard to do, when in other tournaments upsets abound? Our 'Ringer FC' crew (Chris Ryan, Donnie Kwak, Ryan O'Hanlon) speculates on which teams could surprise audiences at this year's World Cup, and which top-tier teams could have an early exit.
We finally have merch! Get your official Ringer gear at the web store: https://theringer.com/shop
CONNECT
Website: http://theringer.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ringer
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ringer
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ringer
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCT83YP07yVuaH9J19YABhlw
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8q0x78/newcomer_salvages_tie_for_rowdies/
Newcomer salvages tie for Rowdies (tampabay.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.tampabay.com/sports/2018/06/09/newcomer-salvages-tie-for-rowdies/
Newcomer salvages tie for Rowdies
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8q2hoy/coffee_talk_still_unbeaten_yet_still_a_work_in/
Coffee Talk: Still Unbeaten, Yet Still a Work in Progress (theunsubs.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.theunsubs.com/wp/2018/06/10/coffee-talk-still-unbeaten-yet-still-a-work-in-progress/3919
Coffee Talk: Still Unbeaten, Yet Still a Work in Progress
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/Ry_Bass/status/1005613505377169409
Ryan Bass
Verified account @Ry_Bass
Haven’t been to many @TampaBayRowdies games, but I’ll tell you what, I’ll sign up for any sporting event with @RalphsMob in the crowd. These guys are amazing.
5:51 PM - 9 Jun 2018 from St Petersburg, FL
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/Ry_Bass/status/1005596529434988544
Ryan Bass
Verified account @Ry_Bass
This is gorgeous @TampaBayRowdies
4:44 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005801105496985600
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
Rowdies fans, who was your Man of the Match in last night’s 1-1 draw against @NashvilleSC?
6:17 AM - 10 Jun 2018
https://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/925706?referrer_id=2364194-news-archive
USL Surges Past 1 Million Attendance in 2018
League reaches major landmark one month earlier than record-setting 2017 season
Sacramento Republic FC’s sellout crowd of 11,569, the final game of Saturday night’s slate, sent the league past the one-million mark, with Indy Eleven also welcoming a five-figure crowd to Lucas Oil Stadium on Saturday night as 10,034 fans saw the hosts take a 2-0 victory against ATL UTD 2. The Tampa Bay Rowdies continued their strong season at the turnstiles as 6,082 fans were on hand for a compelling contest against fellow Eastern Conference playoff contender Nashville SC, while Penn FC recorded its highest attendance of the season with 4,507 fans on hand for a thrilling 3-2 victory for the hosts against Toronto FC II.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.themaneland.com/2018/6/10/17444180/lion-links-6-10-18
Lion Links: 6/10/18
City visits Vancouver, Yanks surprise Les Bleus, FC Cincinnati supporters join the #SaveTheCrew movement, and more.
I really like this one: Joe Cole has taken on a player-coach role for the USL’s Tampa Bay Rowdies.
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.infosurhoy.com/cocoon/saii/xhtml/en_GB/news/joe-cole-becomes-assistant-coach-of-second-tier-tampa-bay/
Joe Cole becomes assistant coach of second-tier Tampa Bay
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – Joe Cole has been appointed assistant coach of the Tampa Bay Rowdies of the United Soccer League while continuing to play for the second-tier club.
The 36-year-old midfielder joined the team in 2016 after splitting the 2015-16 season between Aston Villa and Coventry City. Cole scored 10 goals in 56 appearances for England from 2001-10 and also has played for West Ham, Chelsea, Liverpool, Lille, West Ham.
Rowdies head coach Neill Collins says “Joe has an incredible store of knowledge about the game to share with our young players and with our coaching staff.
“One of the main provisos of me taking the head coaching job a few weeks ago was that I wanted to open an avenue for Joe to share that knowledge as an assistant coach. Though he is now a member of the coaching staff as well, Joe’s primary role will remain as a player for the Rowdies.”
Tampa Bay announced the appointment Friday.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.expressnews.com/guidetosa/article/San-Antonio-s-pro-sports-scene-features-Spurs-12967332.php
San Antonio’s pro sports scene features Spurs, Rampage, San Antonio FC, Missions
Three of San Antonio’s four pro sports teams are owned and operated by Spurs Sports and Entertainment. The lone exception is the San Antonio Missions.
A fifth franchise, the Spurs-owned Stars of the WNBA, moved to Las Vegas after the 2017 season following the sale of the team.
UNITED SOCCER LEAGUE
San Antonio Football Club
Skinny: San Antonio FC kicked off its’ third season in the United Soccer League in March 2018. The USL is the largest pro soccer league in North America with 33 teams covering 22 states and two Canadian provinces. The USL is split into two conference, Eastern and Western (SAFC is in the West). The USL is expanding with six more teams joining the league in the next three years (four in 2019, two in 2021). San Antonio FC is an affiliate of Major League Soccer’s New York City FC.
Head coach: Darren Powell.
Notable players: Diego Restrepo, goalkeeper
Restrepo, who helped lead Virginia to the 2009 NCAA Division I championship, signed with San Antonio FC in March 2017. He didn’t begin last season as the starter but assumed the spot when Matt Cardone was injured five games into the season. Restrepo ended 2017 leading the USL in shutouts with 12 clean sheets. This season, Restrepo is one of the USL’s top five leaders in saves and ranks in the top 10 league wide in clean sheets.
Season: 34 regular season games (17 home, 17 away) over a 31-week period that began in mid-March and concludes in early October.
Home: Toyota Field (seating 8,296), 5106 David Edwards Dr.
Online: www.sanantoniofc.com
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8q12gm/random_fandom_a_rowdies_jersey_features/
Random Fandom: A Rowdies jersey features prominently on the studio set for "The Ringer's" World Cup coverage (youtube.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0E2N83mY6A&list=PLiI3wRw9PbSY_BuJHQQu-w8HJElyEa0tQ
Can an Underdog Win the World Cup? | Ringer FC 2018 World Cup Preview | The Ringer
The Ringer
Published on Jun 6, 2018
Only eight countries have won the World Cup in its 88-year history. Why is it so hard to do, when in other tournaments upsets abound? Our 'Ringer FC' crew (Chris Ryan, Donnie Kwak, Ryan O'Hanlon) speculates on which teams could surprise audiences at this year's World Cup, and which top-tier teams could have an early exit.
We finally have merch! Get your official Ringer gear at the web store: https://theringer.com/shop
CONNECT
Website: http://theringer.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ringer
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ringer
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ringer
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCT83YP07yVuaH9J19YABhlw
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8q0x78/newcomer_salvages_tie_for_rowdies/
Newcomer salvages tie for Rowdies (tampabay.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.tampabay.com/sports/2018/06/09/newcomer-salvages-tie-for-rowdies/
Newcomer salvages tie for Rowdies
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8q2hoy/coffee_talk_still_unbeaten_yet_still_a_work_in/
Coffee Talk: Still Unbeaten, Yet Still a Work in Progress (theunsubs.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.theunsubs.com/wp/2018/06/10/coffee-talk-still-unbeaten-yet-still-a-work-in-progress/3919
Coffee Talk: Still Unbeaten, Yet Still a Work in Progress
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/Ry_Bass/status/1005613505377169409
Ryan Bass
Verified account @Ry_Bass
Haven’t been to many @TampaBayRowdies games, but I’ll tell you what, I’ll sign up for any sporting event with @RalphsMob in the crowd. These guys are amazing.
5:51 PM - 9 Jun 2018 from St Petersburg, FL
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/Ry_Bass/status/1005596529434988544
Ryan Bass
Verified account @Ry_Bass
This is gorgeous @TampaBayRowdies
4:44 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005801105496985600
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
Rowdies fans, who was your Man of the Match in last night’s 1-1 draw against @NashvilleSC?
6:17 AM - 10 Jun 2018
Sunday, June 10, 2018
Joe Cole takes on player-coach role for USL's Tampa Bay Rowdies
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.espn.com/soccer/united-soccer-leagues/story/3521193/joe-cole-takes-on-player-coach-role-for-usls-tampa-bay-rowdies
Joe Cole takes on player-coach role for USL's Tampa Bay Rowdies
(Follow link for full article.)
http://kwese.espn.com/football/tampa-bay-rowdies/story/3520354/former-england-midfielder-joe-cole-becomes-assistant-coach-at-tampa-bay-rowdies
Former England midfielder Joe Cole becomes assistant coach at Tampa Bay Rowdies
(Follow link for full article.)
https://tucson.com/sports/joe-cole-becomes-assistant-coach-of-second-tier-tampa-bay/article_d7781ebd-05fb-5611-acf4-be99dcd4edc6.html
Joe Cole becomes assistant coach of second-tier Tampa Bay
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.360nobs.com/2018/06/joe-cole-appointed-assistant-coach-at-tampa-bay-rowdies-fc/
Joe Cole Appointed Assistant Coach At Tampa Bay Rowdies FC
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.tennessean.com/story/sports/nashvillesc/2018/06/09/nashville-sc-score-tampa-bay-rowdies-saturday/685164002/
Nashville SC extends unbeaten streak in 1-1 draw with Tampa Bay Rowdies
(Follow link for full article.)
https://patch.com/florida/stpete/st-pete-boutique-hotel-owner-open-3-restaurants-pier
St. Pete Boutique Hotel Owner To Open 3 Restaurants At Pier
The St. Petersburg City Council has approved a lease Birchwood restaurant owner Chuck Prather to open three eateries at The Pier.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Ub0A0mqVbg
Rowdies Rundown - Rowdies vs Nashville SC
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Published on Jun 9, 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KUNsYyiBnic
Highlights - Tampa Bay Rowdies vs. Nashville SC - June 9, 2018
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Published on Jun 9, 2018
HIGHLIGHTS presented by Tampa International Airport
The Rowdies score a late equalizer, as Tampa Bay and Nashville SC battle to a 1-1 draw.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005634810507874304
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
.@LeonTTaylor's debut goal earned up a point against @NashvilleSC. #TBRvNSH
Recap 👉 http://bit.ly/2sIgTnU
10:16 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005632184521142272
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
HIGHLIGHTS presented by @FlyTPA
The Rowdies score a late equalizer, as Tampa Bay and @NashvilleSC battle to a 1-1 draw. #TBRvNSH
10:06 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005632060260847622
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
Congratulations to @LeonTTaylor on scoring his first goal as a member of the Tampa Bay Rowdies!
10:05 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005623448058630145
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
FINAL @LeonTTaylor's late equalizer earns us a point and extends our home unbeaten run with a 1-1 draw against @NashvilleSC. #TBRvNSH
9:31 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005621907528417280
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
84' - ROWDIES GOAL presented by @VSPC
@LeonTTaylor makes it 1-1 as we inch closer to the end of the match. #TBRvNSH
9:25 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005621800741597184
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
84' ROWDIES GOAL! @LeonTTaylor scores on his debut to pull us even at 1-1 against @NashvilleSC! #TBRvNSH
9:24 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005619860192354304
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
83' @KapokMarketing Rowdies sub
Jochen Graf IN
Max Lachowecki OUT
3/3 used
9:17 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005615538595422209
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
64' @KapokMarketing Rowdies sub
Leon Taylor IN
Sebastian Guenzatti OUT
2/3 used
9:00 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005610548350869504
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
46' @KapokMarketing Rowdies sub
Leo Fernandes IN
Alex Morrell OUT
1/3 used
8:40 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005606667592065025
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
HALFTIME @NashvilleSC leads 1-0 after 45.
8:24 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8prknx/nsc_matt_pickens_ready_for_rowdies_in_return_to/
[NSC] Matt Pickens Ready for Rowdies in Return to Tampa Bay (nashvillesc.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.nashvillesc.com/news_article/show/925390
Matt Pickens Ready for Rowdies in Return to Tampa Bay
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8psek6/sidelined_by_yellow_cards_rowdies_joe_cole_adds/
Sidelined by yellow cards, Rowdies’ Joe Cole adds assistant coach to his title (tampabay.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.tampabay.com/sports/2018/06/08/sidelined-by-yellow-cards-rowdies-joe-cole-adds-assistant-coach-to-his-title/
Sidelined by yellow cards, Rowdies’ Joe Cole adds assistant coach to his title
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8pt0ni/unused_substitutes_the_bench_vol_3_issue_3_oc/
Unused Substitutes: The Bench Vol 3 Issue 3 (OC) (theunsubs.com)
Nice piece on "What's Next"...couldn't match my sentiment any more...
I'm going to post a string of thoughts that occurred to me on Twitter, after reading Jake's piece. (And I'm copy/pasting because I'm lazy).
As far as I am aware, the four-year term of control of Al Lang by Edwards Group ends at the end of this season (unless there was a renegotiation I missed @jakenutting?) Edwards got control by promising (and over delivering) on capital into the facility (rumored to be $2M-$4M)
As far as we know publicly it's a great deal. Yes there was a capital investment, but from an operating profitability standpoint, the Rowdies have full control over the revenue in that exchange which is the holy grail of "make it or break it" in the lower divisions.
It stands to reason that Edwards would be inclined to make a similar deal to get a longer-term extension for the facility – I'll invest more capital in the facility if you allow us to retain the management and revenue control of Al Lang.
W/ the insane development of DTSP, the Rays uncertainty, the plan for the site for this purpose in the Waterfront Master Plan, & the unlikeliness of someone privately funding a Spring Training redevelopment of Al Lang, it would seem to be a good option for the city to consider
(One other note, if he is even considering selling the team at any point, a huge part of the valuation would be due to the economics related to control of the facility. Doing what he can to get a favorable extension would be likely worth his while.)
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.theunsubs.com/wp/2018/06/09/the-bench-volume-3-issue-3/3914
The Bench, volume 3 issue 3
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.theunsubs.com/wp/2018/06/07/episode-163-sliders-on-max/3906
Episode 163: Sliders on Max
Dan’s found his voice and we’re back to talk about everything from the last two weeks and looking ahead to this weekend!
In tonight’s show:
TFC2 2:4 Rowdies
Rowdies 0:0 ATL2Nited
Eastern Conference Standings
League & Club News
Patron Questions
Chat with Speedway Soccer Podcast
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8pwl39/lineups_up_for_the_pickens_return/
Lineups up for the Pickens return! (rowdiessoccer.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.rowdiessoccer.com/news_article/show/925601?referrer_id=2909153
Taylor Scores Debut Goal In 1-1 Draw
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8pytrg/rowdie_takeaways_week_13_tbr_v_nsh/
Rowdie Takeaways Week 13 - TBR v NSH (self.TampaBayRowdies)
F***ING PICKENS- Man I loved rooting for Pickens. But man it SUCKS to root against him. I had many an expletive as he continuously did his usual Pickens routine and swatted away shots and opportunities. His Nanchoff save was absolutely incredible. Nanchoff hit a rocket and Pickens goes full Air Bud World Pup and swats the ball away like he's offended that Nanchoff would even take a shot on him. Pickens is the sort of keeper where if you don't beat his defense, you'll need an extraordinary effort to get by him.
Counter-attacking School- The most frustrating part of the Rowdies game right now is their inability to capitalize off of the counter-attack. The Rowdies create great runs up the field after working hard to get turnovers, but get too sloppy or don't have the vision to make the right pass at the right time. That was especially evident tonight for Morrell and Flemmings who are the two guys you want to give the ball to on a quick counter. But even Fernandes had a moment where he gave away a clear counter-attacking opportunity. The Rowdies made it extremely hard on themselves to score a goal tonight because most of their chances came when Nashville was settled into their defense. If I'm Neill Collins, I'm practicing counter attacks with my forwards all week long. 2 on 1 counter attacks. 3 on 2. 3 on 3. The through balls the Rowdies played were all much too heavy or off target. Too many missed opportunities in the counter department.
A Half to Forget About- Morrell's halftime substitution was likely a disciplinary reaction by Collins letting Morrell know he can't make critical mistakes like the turnover that led to the Nashville goal. I think it's the right move because it's a teachable moment for Morrell, you need to earn your minutes by playing smart on and off the ball. Morrell in the first 30 minutes went full Flemmings on the ball before settling in for the last 15 and creating a few good chances. This game should've been a shutout if it wasn't for that bad turnover by Morrell.
Solid Defense, For Now- I'm weary of the current defensive roster the Rowdies have right now as far as talent is concerned. Tam is a depth guy I would've said is washed that's been thrust into Collins' role. I'm glad to admit that Tam has more than admirably stepped up to the task but I'm not sure Tam is a viable starting center back when the Rowdies have to face against Cinci, Louisville, or especially Red Bulls 2. I wouldn't be surprised to see a couple defensive signings in the near future. Magalhaes and Gorskie have been fine. I'll say Lachowecki has made me the most nervous of the group. The back line played well tonight and were unlucky not to have a clean sheet. They'll need to take care of business against Penn before we see the Rowdies really up against it versus Charlotte on the road.
Offensive pace- With Cole and Schafer out of the lineup, the Rowdies midfield was admirably championed by Nanchoff. I haven't liked Nanchoff when Cole and Schafer are in the lineup, but with both of them out, he was definitely making it happen in the midfield tonight in the distributor role. Fernandes once again showed he may be worthy of more and more minutes. Even Guenzatti had some moments where I was like, wait, Guenzatti did that? Flemmings continues to be a short-fused dynamite that explodes before it was supposed to. He'll have a moment where you think he's about to do something great, and then he places his game-winning chip like a missed Phil Mickelson putt 5 feet wide of the net. Moving Flemmings to the striker position though is an adjustment I'm a fan of, the less Flemmings has to pass the better. I thought Flemmings was playing way too far wide in the second half.
Trashville?- Am I going too far? I know I heard that the almighty Brandon Allen wasn't playing and that Nashville had some other subs in the game. I would assume that's because they're still in the Open Cup having just beat the worst team in the MLS (PRO-REL system come on US Soccer!!!). Nashville didn't look good since the opening whistle. After they got their goal they went full on park the bus. It was astounding to see, and it almost worked.
Welcome to the Club- Finally, a quick shoutout to Leon Taylor for his first ever goal as a Rowdie. A clutch goal at that. In pure Georgi fashion, the ball took a ping pong deflection in the box and bounced right at his feet. Taylor had the wherewithal to bury it in the back of the net, nothing Pickens could do. Hopefully someone bought Taylor a beer or two tonight.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.bizjournals.com/austin/news/2018/06/09/while-austin-weighs-whether-to-put-a-soccer.html
While Austin weighs whether to put a soccer stadium at McKalla Place, competing mixed-use visions emerge
Other uses for site would come with their own benefits, challenges
A June 1 report from the city of Austin found that McKalla Place was a "suitable site" for a Major League Soccer stadium. But it also left the window open for other development opportunities, such as affordable housing, creative space, parks and partnerships with non-profits.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/925645?referrer_id=2603770
Late Strike Sees Rowdies, Nashville End Level
Taylor’s first goal for Tampa Bay earns 1-1 draw before crowd of 6,082
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.tampabay.com/sports/2018/06/09/newcomer-salvages-tie-for-rowdies/
Newcomer salvages tie for Rowdies
ST. PETERSBURG — Former Rowdies goalkeeper Matt Pickens, coming off a game with Nashville that required him to make no saves, was a lot busier Saturday. As were the Rowdies, making their effort throughout a humid night mostly to no avail.
Until the new kid came through. Leon Taylor, a 24-year-old making his Rowdies debut, hammered a loose ball past Pickens in the 84th minute for a 1-1 draw with Nashville that still might have been less than what Tampa Bay desired.
"Leon's been unfortunate in the last few games, that circumstances dictated that I couldn't really get him (in)," Rowdies coach Neill Collins said. "He's everything that this club needs in terms of hunger, desire, almost like a chip on their shoulder. We need to get more of that into our team. It's just the start for him."
The Rowdies (5-5-3) were not happy with just leveling matters, pressing hard for a winner before a crowd of 6,082 at Al Lang Stadium.
Early into the five minutes of extra time, Pickens was drawn out of goal but Tampa Bay's Junior Flemmings could not score on a chipped shot. It resulted in the Rowdies' third straight home draw since Collins took over as coach.
"I praise their hard work and effort, but the times for praising hard work and effort are going to be slowly coming to an end here. That's the minimum," Collins said.
Tampa Bay ended up with a 25-7 shot advantage.
Collins inserted Taylor in the 64th minute, and he quickly boosted the energy level.
Nashville's approach, seemingly, was to score a goal and then hang on for dear life. And, have Pickens pull off a couple of clutch stops. He was coming off a shutout win against Colorado last week, holding the Rapids to no shots on net.
The Tampa Bay starter for the previous four seasons obliged until one of the Rowdies' surges resulted in the ball bouncing to Taylor, who scored Tampa Bay's goal.
"It feels real good to be able to pull my side back from 1-0 down and put us back even," Taylor said.
"The ball kind of just fell to me. Somebody crossed from the right and the ball was kind of just bouncing around and I got my foot on it. I connected well with it and beat a good keeper in Matt Pickens."
Lebo Moloto scored Nashville's goal in the 22nd minute with a left-footed strike past Rowdies keeper Akira Fitzgerald.
http://www.espn.com/soccer/united-soccer-leagues/story/3521193/joe-cole-takes-on-player-coach-role-for-usls-tampa-bay-rowdies
Joe Cole takes on player-coach role for USL's Tampa Bay Rowdies
(Follow link for full article.)
http://kwese.espn.com/football/tampa-bay-rowdies/story/3520354/former-england-midfielder-joe-cole-becomes-assistant-coach-at-tampa-bay-rowdies
Former England midfielder Joe Cole becomes assistant coach at Tampa Bay Rowdies
(Follow link for full article.)
https://tucson.com/sports/joe-cole-becomes-assistant-coach-of-second-tier-tampa-bay/article_d7781ebd-05fb-5611-acf4-be99dcd4edc6.html
Joe Cole becomes assistant coach of second-tier Tampa Bay
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.360nobs.com/2018/06/joe-cole-appointed-assistant-coach-at-tampa-bay-rowdies-fc/
Joe Cole Appointed Assistant Coach At Tampa Bay Rowdies FC
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.tennessean.com/story/sports/nashvillesc/2018/06/09/nashville-sc-score-tampa-bay-rowdies-saturday/685164002/
Nashville SC extends unbeaten streak in 1-1 draw with Tampa Bay Rowdies
(Follow link for full article.)
https://patch.com/florida/stpete/st-pete-boutique-hotel-owner-open-3-restaurants-pier
St. Pete Boutique Hotel Owner To Open 3 Restaurants At Pier
The St. Petersburg City Council has approved a lease Birchwood restaurant owner Chuck Prather to open three eateries at The Pier.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Ub0A0mqVbg
Rowdies Rundown - Rowdies vs Nashville SC
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Published on Jun 9, 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KUNsYyiBnic
Highlights - Tampa Bay Rowdies vs. Nashville SC - June 9, 2018
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Published on Jun 9, 2018
HIGHLIGHTS presented by Tampa International Airport
The Rowdies score a late equalizer, as Tampa Bay and Nashville SC battle to a 1-1 draw.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005634810507874304
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
.@LeonTTaylor's debut goal earned up a point against @NashvilleSC. #TBRvNSH
Recap 👉 http://bit.ly/2sIgTnU
10:16 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005632184521142272
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
HIGHLIGHTS presented by @FlyTPA
The Rowdies score a late equalizer, as Tampa Bay and @NashvilleSC battle to a 1-1 draw. #TBRvNSH
10:06 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005632060260847622
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
Congratulations to @LeonTTaylor on scoring his first goal as a member of the Tampa Bay Rowdies!
10:05 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005623448058630145
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
FINAL @LeonTTaylor's late equalizer earns us a point and extends our home unbeaten run with a 1-1 draw against @NashvilleSC. #TBRvNSH
9:31 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005621907528417280
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
84' - ROWDIES GOAL presented by @VSPC
@LeonTTaylor makes it 1-1 as we inch closer to the end of the match. #TBRvNSH
9:25 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005621800741597184
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
84' ROWDIES GOAL! @LeonTTaylor scores on his debut to pull us even at 1-1 against @NashvilleSC! #TBRvNSH
9:24 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005619860192354304
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
83' @KapokMarketing Rowdies sub
Jochen Graf IN
Max Lachowecki OUT
3/3 used
9:17 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005615538595422209
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
64' @KapokMarketing Rowdies sub
Leon Taylor IN
Sebastian Guenzatti OUT
2/3 used
9:00 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005610548350869504
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
46' @KapokMarketing Rowdies sub
Leo Fernandes IN
Alex Morrell OUT
1/3 used
8:40 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005606667592065025
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
HALFTIME @NashvilleSC leads 1-0 after 45.
8:24 PM - 9 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8prknx/nsc_matt_pickens_ready_for_rowdies_in_return_to/
[NSC] Matt Pickens Ready for Rowdies in Return to Tampa Bay (nashvillesc.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.nashvillesc.com/news_article/show/925390
Matt Pickens Ready for Rowdies in Return to Tampa Bay
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8psek6/sidelined_by_yellow_cards_rowdies_joe_cole_adds/
Sidelined by yellow cards, Rowdies’ Joe Cole adds assistant coach to his title (tampabay.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.tampabay.com/sports/2018/06/08/sidelined-by-yellow-cards-rowdies-joe-cole-adds-assistant-coach-to-his-title/
Sidelined by yellow cards, Rowdies’ Joe Cole adds assistant coach to his title
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8pt0ni/unused_substitutes_the_bench_vol_3_issue_3_oc/
Unused Substitutes: The Bench Vol 3 Issue 3 (OC) (theunsubs.com)
Nice piece on "What's Next"...couldn't match my sentiment any more...
I'm going to post a string of thoughts that occurred to me on Twitter, after reading Jake's piece. (And I'm copy/pasting because I'm lazy).
As far as I am aware, the four-year term of control of Al Lang by Edwards Group ends at the end of this season (unless there was a renegotiation I missed @jakenutting?) Edwards got control by promising (and over delivering) on capital into the facility (rumored to be $2M-$4M)
As far as we know publicly it's a great deal. Yes there was a capital investment, but from an operating profitability standpoint, the Rowdies have full control over the revenue in that exchange which is the holy grail of "make it or break it" in the lower divisions.
It stands to reason that Edwards would be inclined to make a similar deal to get a longer-term extension for the facility – I'll invest more capital in the facility if you allow us to retain the management and revenue control of Al Lang.
W/ the insane development of DTSP, the Rays uncertainty, the plan for the site for this purpose in the Waterfront Master Plan, & the unlikeliness of someone privately funding a Spring Training redevelopment of Al Lang, it would seem to be a good option for the city to consider
(One other note, if he is even considering selling the team at any point, a huge part of the valuation would be due to the economics related to control of the facility. Doing what he can to get a favorable extension would be likely worth his while.)
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.theunsubs.com/wp/2018/06/09/the-bench-volume-3-issue-3/3914
The Bench, volume 3 issue 3
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.theunsubs.com/wp/2018/06/07/episode-163-sliders-on-max/3906
Episode 163: Sliders on Max
Dan’s found his voice and we’re back to talk about everything from the last two weeks and looking ahead to this weekend!
In tonight’s show:
TFC2 2:4 Rowdies
Rowdies 0:0 ATL2Nited
Eastern Conference Standings
League & Club News
Patron Questions
Chat with Speedway Soccer Podcast
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8pwl39/lineups_up_for_the_pickens_return/
Lineups up for the Pickens return! (rowdiessoccer.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.rowdiessoccer.com/news_article/show/925601?referrer_id=2909153
Taylor Scores Debut Goal In 1-1 Draw
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8pytrg/rowdie_takeaways_week_13_tbr_v_nsh/
Rowdie Takeaways Week 13 - TBR v NSH (self.TampaBayRowdies)
F***ING PICKENS- Man I loved rooting for Pickens. But man it SUCKS to root against him. I had many an expletive as he continuously did his usual Pickens routine and swatted away shots and opportunities. His Nanchoff save was absolutely incredible. Nanchoff hit a rocket and Pickens goes full Air Bud World Pup and swats the ball away like he's offended that Nanchoff would even take a shot on him. Pickens is the sort of keeper where if you don't beat his defense, you'll need an extraordinary effort to get by him.
Counter-attacking School- The most frustrating part of the Rowdies game right now is their inability to capitalize off of the counter-attack. The Rowdies create great runs up the field after working hard to get turnovers, but get too sloppy or don't have the vision to make the right pass at the right time. That was especially evident tonight for Morrell and Flemmings who are the two guys you want to give the ball to on a quick counter. But even Fernandes had a moment where he gave away a clear counter-attacking opportunity. The Rowdies made it extremely hard on themselves to score a goal tonight because most of their chances came when Nashville was settled into their defense. If I'm Neill Collins, I'm practicing counter attacks with my forwards all week long. 2 on 1 counter attacks. 3 on 2. 3 on 3. The through balls the Rowdies played were all much too heavy or off target. Too many missed opportunities in the counter department.
A Half to Forget About- Morrell's halftime substitution was likely a disciplinary reaction by Collins letting Morrell know he can't make critical mistakes like the turnover that led to the Nashville goal. I think it's the right move because it's a teachable moment for Morrell, you need to earn your minutes by playing smart on and off the ball. Morrell in the first 30 minutes went full Flemmings on the ball before settling in for the last 15 and creating a few good chances. This game should've been a shutout if it wasn't for that bad turnover by Morrell.
Solid Defense, For Now- I'm weary of the current defensive roster the Rowdies have right now as far as talent is concerned. Tam is a depth guy I would've said is washed that's been thrust into Collins' role. I'm glad to admit that Tam has more than admirably stepped up to the task but I'm not sure Tam is a viable starting center back when the Rowdies have to face against Cinci, Louisville, or especially Red Bulls 2. I wouldn't be surprised to see a couple defensive signings in the near future. Magalhaes and Gorskie have been fine. I'll say Lachowecki has made me the most nervous of the group. The back line played well tonight and were unlucky not to have a clean sheet. They'll need to take care of business against Penn before we see the Rowdies really up against it versus Charlotte on the road.
Offensive pace- With Cole and Schafer out of the lineup, the Rowdies midfield was admirably championed by Nanchoff. I haven't liked Nanchoff when Cole and Schafer are in the lineup, but with both of them out, he was definitely making it happen in the midfield tonight in the distributor role. Fernandes once again showed he may be worthy of more and more minutes. Even Guenzatti had some moments where I was like, wait, Guenzatti did that? Flemmings continues to be a short-fused dynamite that explodes before it was supposed to. He'll have a moment where you think he's about to do something great, and then he places his game-winning chip like a missed Phil Mickelson putt 5 feet wide of the net. Moving Flemmings to the striker position though is an adjustment I'm a fan of, the less Flemmings has to pass the better. I thought Flemmings was playing way too far wide in the second half.
Trashville?- Am I going too far? I know I heard that the almighty Brandon Allen wasn't playing and that Nashville had some other subs in the game. I would assume that's because they're still in the Open Cup having just beat the worst team in the MLS (PRO-REL system come on US Soccer!!!). Nashville didn't look good since the opening whistle. After they got their goal they went full on park the bus. It was astounding to see, and it almost worked.
Welcome to the Club- Finally, a quick shoutout to Leon Taylor for his first ever goal as a Rowdie. A clutch goal at that. In pure Georgi fashion, the ball took a ping pong deflection in the box and bounced right at his feet. Taylor had the wherewithal to bury it in the back of the net, nothing Pickens could do. Hopefully someone bought Taylor a beer or two tonight.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.bizjournals.com/austin/news/2018/06/09/while-austin-weighs-whether-to-put-a-soccer.html
While Austin weighs whether to put a soccer stadium at McKalla Place, competing mixed-use visions emerge
Other uses for site would come with their own benefits, challenges
A June 1 report from the city of Austin found that McKalla Place was a "suitable site" for a Major League Soccer stadium. But it also left the window open for other development opportunities, such as affordable housing, creative space, parks and partnerships with non-profits.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/925645?referrer_id=2603770
Late Strike Sees Rowdies, Nashville End Level
Taylor’s first goal for Tampa Bay earns 1-1 draw before crowd of 6,082
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.tampabay.com/sports/2018/06/09/newcomer-salvages-tie-for-rowdies/
Newcomer salvages tie for Rowdies
ST. PETERSBURG — Former Rowdies goalkeeper Matt Pickens, coming off a game with Nashville that required him to make no saves, was a lot busier Saturday. As were the Rowdies, making their effort throughout a humid night mostly to no avail.
Until the new kid came through. Leon Taylor, a 24-year-old making his Rowdies debut, hammered a loose ball past Pickens in the 84th minute for a 1-1 draw with Nashville that still might have been less than what Tampa Bay desired.
"Leon's been unfortunate in the last few games, that circumstances dictated that I couldn't really get him (in)," Rowdies coach Neill Collins said. "He's everything that this club needs in terms of hunger, desire, almost like a chip on their shoulder. We need to get more of that into our team. It's just the start for him."
The Rowdies (5-5-3) were not happy with just leveling matters, pressing hard for a winner before a crowd of 6,082 at Al Lang Stadium.
Early into the five minutes of extra time, Pickens was drawn out of goal but Tampa Bay's Junior Flemmings could not score on a chipped shot. It resulted in the Rowdies' third straight home draw since Collins took over as coach.
"I praise their hard work and effort, but the times for praising hard work and effort are going to be slowly coming to an end here. That's the minimum," Collins said.
Tampa Bay ended up with a 25-7 shot advantage.
Collins inserted Taylor in the 64th minute, and he quickly boosted the energy level.
Nashville's approach, seemingly, was to score a goal and then hang on for dear life. And, have Pickens pull off a couple of clutch stops. He was coming off a shutout win against Colorado last week, holding the Rapids to no shots on net.
The Tampa Bay starter for the previous four seasons obliged until one of the Rowdies' surges resulted in the ball bouncing to Taylor, who scored Tampa Bay's goal.
"It feels real good to be able to pull my side back from 1-0 down and put us back even," Taylor said.
"The ball kind of just fell to me. Somebody crossed from the right and the ball was kind of just bouncing around and I got my foot on it. I connected well with it and beat a good keeper in Matt Pickens."
Lebo Moloto scored Nashville's goal in the 22nd minute with a left-footed strike past Rowdies keeper Akira Fitzgerald.
Saturday, June 9, 2018
Rowdy return: Bill Edwards comes back with a plan (businessobserverfl.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8poh7z/rowdy_return_bill_edwards_comes_back_with_a_plan/
Rowdy return: Bill Edwards comes back with a plan (businessobserverfl.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.businessobserverfl.com/article/stpete-bill-edwards-rowdies-soccer
Rowdy return: Leader comes back with a plan
Bill Edwards endured a health scare that forced him to take a step back from his businesses and beloved soccer team. Now he’s back, and ready to continue to reshape downtown St. Petersburg.
St. Petersburg real estate impresario and entertainment businessman Bill Edwards acknowledges it was unusual for him to be out of the public eye for much of 2017 and into the early months of 2018.
“I spent about a year in a fog,” says the 72-year-old owner and general manager of the Tampa Bay Rowdies soccer club, reflecting on the health scare that sidelined him, just as the St. Petersburg-based team was amid what would prove to be an unsuccessful push to join the Major League Soccer pantheon.
Edwards had double-bypass heart surgery in May 2017. Looking back, he says the time away from the Rowdies and his other business dealings — he also owns the Sundial shopping, dining and entertainment complex in downtown St. Pete, in addition to Big 3 Entertainment, which manages the city’s Mahaffey Theater — helped teach him the latest in a series of lessons he’s learned from the classic texts of the School of Hard Knocks.
While Edwards is known mostly for owning the Rowdies, he maintains a significant real estate portfolio. His investment company, the Edwards Group, spent $12 million to acquire and assemble vacant land in downtown St. Pete now being developed by the Kolter Group LLC. Kolter is building the 41-story One St. Petersburg tower there, which will help reshape the city’s skyline.
“It was a big deal to unlock that parcel for downtown St. Pete,” says Greg Holden, the 2016 chairman of the St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce and an area financial planning executive. “The number one characteristic of Bill’s success is his bold vision. That’s what you have to do when you are a leader.”
That, and have a deep perspective.
“I’ve had three life-threatening instances in my life — one was when I was in the Marines, in Vietnam; one in the '90s; and now with the double-bypass, and each time, it’s enlightened me,” Edwards says. “Each time, it’s changed my life for the better. I got closer to my family, my children, and that was huge. I work out more now, as much as I can, and I’m feeling better. It’s changed my life in a lot of ways.”
MAN WITH A PLAN
Despite the Rowdies not making the cut for the first round of MLS expansion — although the team’s bid is still alive — Edwards has come roaring back with a plan to bring even more high-profile live entertainment to downtown St. Pete. It's a city he’s grown to love and call home after a childhood in Boston and a detour to Detroit as an adult.
In May, Big 3 Entertainment announced a deal with Live Nation that will bring performers such as Counting Crows, Lauryn Hill, Poison, Collective Soul, 3 Doors Down and Soul Asylum to Al Lang Stadium, the downtown waterfront home of the Rowdies, for a series of outdoor concerts. The shows are intended to goose economic activity for downtown hoteliers, restaurateurs and retailers during the slow summer months. Edwards’ company has also booked a slate of high-profile speakers and entertainers — ranging from Joe Biden and David Blaine to Donny and Marie Osmond — for shows at the nearby Mahaffey Theater.
Edwards says he looked across the bay, to downtown Tampa, for inspiration when considering ways to “activate” what he views as underutilized real estate — namely, Al Lang Stadium. He points out Amalie Arena, home of the Tampa Bay Lightning, is often a hive of activity — thanks to concerts, circuses, conferences and other events — when the Bolts are on the road and during the NHL offseason.
“How can you afford to pay for the seats and the electricity and all the rest of it if you don't have other income coming in from an asset that's sitting there underutilized?” he asks. “In our little corner of the world down here at Al Lang, there's no reason why we can’t have five to 10 summer concerts and fully utilize the stadium."
Edwards says ticket sales for the events have been brisk, and it's not just locals.
“We did a study of the people who are buying tickets and about 60 to 65% have been bought in the five-county [Tampa Bay] area,” he says, “but the other 35% were bought in Austin, Texas; Chicago; Alberta, Canada; and all these other places. So we know that people are going to come and need rooms. They're going to spend time here. They're going to shop here; they're going to eat here."
ROWDY BEHAVIOR
Hot on the heels of the concert series announcement, Edwards made more headlines in mid-May, when he cut ties with Rowdies head coach Stuart Campbell, elevating veteran Tampa Bay player Neill Collins, 34, to take his place. Collins owns and operates NC3 Coaching Academy in Lakewood Ranch in east Manatee County.
The hiring follows one of Edwards' guiding principles of his business career: to groom people for leadership. “Don’t hire bosses — make bosses,” he says.
Another key piece of the team’s future — its bid to join MLS — presented Edwards with a roadblock he hopes to turn into an opportunity. MLS chose Nashville and Cincinnati for its latest round of expansion — a disappointment, to be sure, but that brings the number of teams in the league to 26 and it wants to get to 28, which leaves the door open for the Rowdies.
Edwards’ plan to upgrade Al Lang Stadium, via $80 million in private financing, already won the approval of St. Petersburg voters in a 2016 referendum. Now he says he might go ahead with improvements regardless of whether the Rowdies join MLS or stay put in the second-tier but rapidly growing United Soccer League.
“I have two different business plans,” he says. “As a businessman, you have to make a decision: Which one’s better for me? Which one’s better for the fans? Which one’s better for … whatever? You make those decisions and then you move on. This is our second year in the USL and we’re very satisfied with the competition."
MLS expansion would not come cheap, says Holden, vice president of Manning & Napier Advisors in St. Petersburg and leader of the Rowdies Council, a volunteer group that drums up business community support for the team. As soccer’s popularity has grown in the United States, MLS has hiked its franchise fee to $200 million — and that’s just to get into the club.
“Major League Soccer, they don't just want a billionaire; they want several billionaires,” Holden says. “They want a David Beckham and a Spice Girl sitting on the sidelines at every game. So I think that’s part of the magic that Bill is trying to pull together.”
Edwards doesn’t deny that he is looking to bolster the Rowdies ownership team with additional investors. The process, he says, is confidential, but he indicates investors with deep ties to professional soccer would be top the list.
“Everybody has a partner,” he says. “Sometimes you have to go out and get other people to make things work and get input, and you know I’m no authority on soccer. Five years ago, I had never even been to a soccer game, so I’ve learned the sport quite a bit, but certainly I’m no expert; I’m still learning; but I’ve learned enough to realize how to run the team and get it where I wanted it to go.”
Edwards is similarly coy when asked whether he intends to remain majority owner of the team if/when additional investors come onboard, saying only he intends to “play an active role with the team for many years to come.”
PERSONALLY INVESTED
Unlike many a pro sports team owner, no one could accuse Edwards of being a hands-off, passive executive. His office in western St. Petersburg overflows with Rowdies memorabilia, and he is quick to drape team scarves around visitors’ necks and pose for photos with them. He loves talking about the team and is quick to make decisions about it based on a sense of personal responsibility that has shaped the way he’s done business over the course of his entire career.
“I look at things differently than a lot of entrepreneurs,” Edwards says. “I look at people who, if they’re not doing well [in their jobs], it’s my fault. If they’re not succeeding, it’s my fault. I look at myself as being responsible for everything that’s going wrong and then it’s my job to fix it."
That attitude has impressed people who’ve been pulled into Edwards’ orbit. Like Holden, a Business Observer 40 under 40 winner in 2017 who first met Edwards after the mogul arrived in St. Petersburg and bought the beleaguered Rowdies franchise in late 2013.
“Bill did not cut corners,” Holden says of Edwards’ free-spending efforts to rescue the Rowdies from the brink of annihilation. “And so he has not been willing to discount tickets to put butts in seats. Many of the other USL teams give heavily discounted tickets out, and that’s helpful; you can get big [attendance] numbers that way. But when you think about your path to Major League Soccer, you really want to have fans who see the value proposition and are willing to pay to be part of it. Also, when you look across the country at sports franchises, the ones that are most successful, and almost all the ones that have true fan love and loyalty, have strong local ownership representation.”
Work ethic and dedication to community are two other key Edwards strengths, says Holden. “Bill doesn't have to put his capital at risk in St Pete. He could do that in a lot of places and spend his time in a lot of places," Holden says."But he sees the opportunity in St. Pete and he cares about making the place better and leaving his mark.”
Holden, who says the colorful Edwards is prone to say things both profound and profane, has come back from his medical leave with vigor. “He’s come back swinging,” he says. “When he came back, he came back with gusto.”
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8pq1j0/ybor_city_fc_jersey_release/
Ybor City FC Jersey release (twitter.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/YborCityFC/status/1005088492035198976?s=19
Ybor City FC
@YborCityFC
Jersey release time!! Inspired by the craft beer, wine, and cigar culture of Ybor City; presenting our home kit.
Big thanks to @soccerdotcom and @coppertail for making it all possible!
#homejersey #jerseyrelease #LosGallos #YborCityFC
10:05 AM - 8 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8porr4/toronto_fc_ii_tampa_bay_rowdies/
Toronto FC II @ Tampa Bay Rowdies :) (self.TampaBayRowdies)
Hey, sorry to be a bother again. It's now a few weeks out from the game and when I go to MLS games to watch Toronto play on the road I usually get in contact with the FO at this time to see if there's an away section and code of conduct for us and what can be brought in and most importantly if we can get a security escort in and out of the stadium. If anyone has emails of important people in the club that would be much appreciated. Thanks, and enjoy the rest of your season.
How many people are you bringing? I don’t think you’d need security with us (only Orlando does).
No smoke, only home supporters with a waiver. They might set aside part of the GA section, but you’re going to want to get on it. The July 4th game often sells out.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8pomyt/nashville_unbeaten_in_nine_risks_ending_streak/
Nashville, unbeaten in nine, risks ending streak against hot-at-home Tampa [OC] (nashvillegoldengoal.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
https://nashvillegoldengoal.com/2018/06/08/nashville-sc-looks-to-extend-unbeaten-streak-with-rowdy-florida-trip/
Nashville SC looks to extend unbeaten streak with rowdy Florida trip
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8pjps2/joe_cole_promoted_to_playerassistant_coach_for/
Joe Cole Promoted to Player/Assistant Coach for Tampa Bay Rowdies (rowdiessoccer.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.rowdiessoccer.com/news_article/show/925137?referrer_id=2824806
Joe Cole Promoted to Player/Assistant Coach for Tampa Bay Rowdies
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8plogd/oc_checking_in_on_matt_pickens_after_his/
C: Checking in on Matt Pickens after his departure from Tampa Bay (nashvillegoldengoal.com)
Matt Pickens thrilled Rowdies fans during his tenure in Tampa Bay, and he hasn't cooled off since leaving the Sunshine State. We took a look at his Tampa tenure and how it compares to his early returns in Nashville.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://nashvillegoldengoal.com/2018/06/07/nashvilles-pickens-continues-to-prove-hes-a-keeper/
Nashville’s Pickens continues to prove he’s a keeper
Ralph’s Mob doesn’t cheer for opposing players, but expect Nashville SC goalkeeper Matt Pickens to get a warm welcome when he returns to Al Lang Stadium on Saturday to take on his former club.
Pickens, nicknamed the “The Beard” by Rowdies supporters, made 107 appearances in goal from 2014 to 2017 before joining Nashville SC this season. He is one of five players to make more than 100 appearances for the Tampa Bay Rowdies in its modern era.
Ralph’s Mob honored Pickens’ 100 appearance milestone on Aug. 5, 2017 with a special tifo adorned with his face and the message “Fear The Beard” and the number 100.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/925293?referrer_id=2349190
Cole Promoted to Rowdies Assistant Coach
Midfielder adds coaching to playing responsibilities
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1004803138036039689
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
Make sure to get to the stadium early this Saturday to get your Rowdies/@AshleyHomeStore thunder sticks!
The first 1,000 fans in the gates go home with this great giveaway! Gates open at 6 P.M.
TIX: 727-222-2000 / http://bit.ly/TBRvsNSHJun9
3:11 PM - 7 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005072024983793664
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
NEWS: Joe Cole has been named a player/assistant coach for the Rowdies, effective immediately. His primary role will remain as a player, but he has taken on additional duties as an assistant coach.
Read more: http://bit.ly/2xTFuLT
9:00 AM - 8 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/USL/status/1005083275008749569
USL
Verified account @USL
“I’m very excited to start this chapter of my career with the Rowdies."
Joe Cole is now a player/assistant coach for the @TampaBayRowdies.
Details ↓
9:45 AM - 8 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/DrewSportsTV/status/1005102874253242369
Drew Fellios 👌🏻
@DrewSportsTV
Competition and Community ... @TampaBayRowdies greeting some young visitors at training this morning. @USL
11:02 AM - 8 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005104668446425088
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
💪 Set and ready to face @NashvilleSC tomorrow night at Al Lang.
11:10 AM - 8 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/neillycollins3/status/1005113653182500869
Neill Collins
Verified account @neillycollins3
I am delighted to announce that Joe Cole will join our @TampaBayRowdies coaching staff as a player/coach. 🔰
11:45 AM - 8 Jun 2018 from St Petersburg, FL
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005116609877307392
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
Make sure to get to the stadium early this Saturday to get your Rowdies/@AshleyHomeStore thunder sticks!
The first 1,000 fans in the gates go home with this great giveaway! Gates open at 6 P.M.
TIX: 727-222-2000 / http://bit.ly/TBRvsNSHJun9
Help Pete the Pelican cheer on the Rowdies with Thunder Sticks
Powered by SnappyTV
11:57 AM - 8 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/whnz/status/1005169856860295168
1250 WHNZ
@whnz
SOCCER tomorrow night 7:30 @tampabayrowdies v @nashvillesc on 1250 AM radio @whnz plus iHeartRadio app on your phone + Amazon Echo http://ihe.art/lprhHNh
3:29 PM - 8 Jun 2018
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8poh7z/rowdy_return_bill_edwards_comes_back_with_a_plan/
Rowdy return: Bill Edwards comes back with a plan (businessobserverfl.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.businessobserverfl.com/article/stpete-bill-edwards-rowdies-soccer
Rowdy return: Leader comes back with a plan
Bill Edwards endured a health scare that forced him to take a step back from his businesses and beloved soccer team. Now he’s back, and ready to continue to reshape downtown St. Petersburg.
St. Petersburg real estate impresario and entertainment businessman Bill Edwards acknowledges it was unusual for him to be out of the public eye for much of 2017 and into the early months of 2018.
“I spent about a year in a fog,” says the 72-year-old owner and general manager of the Tampa Bay Rowdies soccer club, reflecting on the health scare that sidelined him, just as the St. Petersburg-based team was amid what would prove to be an unsuccessful push to join the Major League Soccer pantheon.
Edwards had double-bypass heart surgery in May 2017. Looking back, he says the time away from the Rowdies and his other business dealings — he also owns the Sundial shopping, dining and entertainment complex in downtown St. Pete, in addition to Big 3 Entertainment, which manages the city’s Mahaffey Theater — helped teach him the latest in a series of lessons he’s learned from the classic texts of the School of Hard Knocks.
While Edwards is known mostly for owning the Rowdies, he maintains a significant real estate portfolio. His investment company, the Edwards Group, spent $12 million to acquire and assemble vacant land in downtown St. Pete now being developed by the Kolter Group LLC. Kolter is building the 41-story One St. Petersburg tower there, which will help reshape the city’s skyline.
“It was a big deal to unlock that parcel for downtown St. Pete,” says Greg Holden, the 2016 chairman of the St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce and an area financial planning executive. “The number one characteristic of Bill’s success is his bold vision. That’s what you have to do when you are a leader.”
That, and have a deep perspective.
“I’ve had three life-threatening instances in my life — one was when I was in the Marines, in Vietnam; one in the '90s; and now with the double-bypass, and each time, it’s enlightened me,” Edwards says. “Each time, it’s changed my life for the better. I got closer to my family, my children, and that was huge. I work out more now, as much as I can, and I’m feeling better. It’s changed my life in a lot of ways.”
MAN WITH A PLAN
Despite the Rowdies not making the cut for the first round of MLS expansion — although the team’s bid is still alive — Edwards has come roaring back with a plan to bring even more high-profile live entertainment to downtown St. Pete. It's a city he’s grown to love and call home after a childhood in Boston and a detour to Detroit as an adult.
In May, Big 3 Entertainment announced a deal with Live Nation that will bring performers such as Counting Crows, Lauryn Hill, Poison, Collective Soul, 3 Doors Down and Soul Asylum to Al Lang Stadium, the downtown waterfront home of the Rowdies, for a series of outdoor concerts. The shows are intended to goose economic activity for downtown hoteliers, restaurateurs and retailers during the slow summer months. Edwards’ company has also booked a slate of high-profile speakers and entertainers — ranging from Joe Biden and David Blaine to Donny and Marie Osmond — for shows at the nearby Mahaffey Theater.
Edwards says he looked across the bay, to downtown Tampa, for inspiration when considering ways to “activate” what he views as underutilized real estate — namely, Al Lang Stadium. He points out Amalie Arena, home of the Tampa Bay Lightning, is often a hive of activity — thanks to concerts, circuses, conferences and other events — when the Bolts are on the road and during the NHL offseason.
“How can you afford to pay for the seats and the electricity and all the rest of it if you don't have other income coming in from an asset that's sitting there underutilized?” he asks. “In our little corner of the world down here at Al Lang, there's no reason why we can’t have five to 10 summer concerts and fully utilize the stadium."
Edwards says ticket sales for the events have been brisk, and it's not just locals.
“We did a study of the people who are buying tickets and about 60 to 65% have been bought in the five-county [Tampa Bay] area,” he says, “but the other 35% were bought in Austin, Texas; Chicago; Alberta, Canada; and all these other places. So we know that people are going to come and need rooms. They're going to spend time here. They're going to shop here; they're going to eat here."
ROWDY BEHAVIOR
Hot on the heels of the concert series announcement, Edwards made more headlines in mid-May, when he cut ties with Rowdies head coach Stuart Campbell, elevating veteran Tampa Bay player Neill Collins, 34, to take his place. Collins owns and operates NC3 Coaching Academy in Lakewood Ranch in east Manatee County.
The hiring follows one of Edwards' guiding principles of his business career: to groom people for leadership. “Don’t hire bosses — make bosses,” he says.
Another key piece of the team’s future — its bid to join MLS — presented Edwards with a roadblock he hopes to turn into an opportunity. MLS chose Nashville and Cincinnati for its latest round of expansion — a disappointment, to be sure, but that brings the number of teams in the league to 26 and it wants to get to 28, which leaves the door open for the Rowdies.
Edwards’ plan to upgrade Al Lang Stadium, via $80 million in private financing, already won the approval of St. Petersburg voters in a 2016 referendum. Now he says he might go ahead with improvements regardless of whether the Rowdies join MLS or stay put in the second-tier but rapidly growing United Soccer League.
“I have two different business plans,” he says. “As a businessman, you have to make a decision: Which one’s better for me? Which one’s better for the fans? Which one’s better for … whatever? You make those decisions and then you move on. This is our second year in the USL and we’re very satisfied with the competition."
MLS expansion would not come cheap, says Holden, vice president of Manning & Napier Advisors in St. Petersburg and leader of the Rowdies Council, a volunteer group that drums up business community support for the team. As soccer’s popularity has grown in the United States, MLS has hiked its franchise fee to $200 million — and that’s just to get into the club.
“Major League Soccer, they don't just want a billionaire; they want several billionaires,” Holden says. “They want a David Beckham and a Spice Girl sitting on the sidelines at every game. So I think that’s part of the magic that Bill is trying to pull together.”
Edwards doesn’t deny that he is looking to bolster the Rowdies ownership team with additional investors. The process, he says, is confidential, but he indicates investors with deep ties to professional soccer would be top the list.
“Everybody has a partner,” he says. “Sometimes you have to go out and get other people to make things work and get input, and you know I’m no authority on soccer. Five years ago, I had never even been to a soccer game, so I’ve learned the sport quite a bit, but certainly I’m no expert; I’m still learning; but I’ve learned enough to realize how to run the team and get it where I wanted it to go.”
Edwards is similarly coy when asked whether he intends to remain majority owner of the team if/when additional investors come onboard, saying only he intends to “play an active role with the team for many years to come.”
PERSONALLY INVESTED
Unlike many a pro sports team owner, no one could accuse Edwards of being a hands-off, passive executive. His office in western St. Petersburg overflows with Rowdies memorabilia, and he is quick to drape team scarves around visitors’ necks and pose for photos with them. He loves talking about the team and is quick to make decisions about it based on a sense of personal responsibility that has shaped the way he’s done business over the course of his entire career.
“I look at things differently than a lot of entrepreneurs,” Edwards says. “I look at people who, if they’re not doing well [in their jobs], it’s my fault. If they’re not succeeding, it’s my fault. I look at myself as being responsible for everything that’s going wrong and then it’s my job to fix it."
That attitude has impressed people who’ve been pulled into Edwards’ orbit. Like Holden, a Business Observer 40 under 40 winner in 2017 who first met Edwards after the mogul arrived in St. Petersburg and bought the beleaguered Rowdies franchise in late 2013.
“Bill did not cut corners,” Holden says of Edwards’ free-spending efforts to rescue the Rowdies from the brink of annihilation. “And so he has not been willing to discount tickets to put butts in seats. Many of the other USL teams give heavily discounted tickets out, and that’s helpful; you can get big [attendance] numbers that way. But when you think about your path to Major League Soccer, you really want to have fans who see the value proposition and are willing to pay to be part of it. Also, when you look across the country at sports franchises, the ones that are most successful, and almost all the ones that have true fan love and loyalty, have strong local ownership representation.”
Work ethic and dedication to community are two other key Edwards strengths, says Holden. “Bill doesn't have to put his capital at risk in St Pete. He could do that in a lot of places and spend his time in a lot of places," Holden says."But he sees the opportunity in St. Pete and he cares about making the place better and leaving his mark.”
Holden, who says the colorful Edwards is prone to say things both profound and profane, has come back from his medical leave with vigor. “He’s come back swinging,” he says. “When he came back, he came back with gusto.”
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8pq1j0/ybor_city_fc_jersey_release/
Ybor City FC Jersey release (twitter.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/YborCityFC/status/1005088492035198976?s=19
Ybor City FC
@YborCityFC
Jersey release time!! Inspired by the craft beer, wine, and cigar culture of Ybor City; presenting our home kit.
Big thanks to @soccerdotcom and @coppertail for making it all possible!
#homejersey #jerseyrelease #LosGallos #YborCityFC
10:05 AM - 8 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8porr4/toronto_fc_ii_tampa_bay_rowdies/
Toronto FC II @ Tampa Bay Rowdies :) (self.TampaBayRowdies)
Hey, sorry to be a bother again. It's now a few weeks out from the game and when I go to MLS games to watch Toronto play on the road I usually get in contact with the FO at this time to see if there's an away section and code of conduct for us and what can be brought in and most importantly if we can get a security escort in and out of the stadium. If anyone has emails of important people in the club that would be much appreciated. Thanks, and enjoy the rest of your season.
How many people are you bringing? I don’t think you’d need security with us (only Orlando does).
No smoke, only home supporters with a waiver. They might set aside part of the GA section, but you’re going to want to get on it. The July 4th game often sells out.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8pomyt/nashville_unbeaten_in_nine_risks_ending_streak/
Nashville, unbeaten in nine, risks ending streak against hot-at-home Tampa [OC] (nashvillegoldengoal.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
https://nashvillegoldengoal.com/2018/06/08/nashville-sc-looks-to-extend-unbeaten-streak-with-rowdy-florida-trip/
Nashville SC looks to extend unbeaten streak with rowdy Florida trip
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8pjps2/joe_cole_promoted_to_playerassistant_coach_for/
Joe Cole Promoted to Player/Assistant Coach for Tampa Bay Rowdies (rowdiessoccer.com)
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.rowdiessoccer.com/news_article/show/925137?referrer_id=2824806
Joe Cole Promoted to Player/Assistant Coach for Tampa Bay Rowdies
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/8plogd/oc_checking_in_on_matt_pickens_after_his/
C: Checking in on Matt Pickens after his departure from Tampa Bay (nashvillegoldengoal.com)
Matt Pickens thrilled Rowdies fans during his tenure in Tampa Bay, and he hasn't cooled off since leaving the Sunshine State. We took a look at his Tampa tenure and how it compares to his early returns in Nashville.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://nashvillegoldengoal.com/2018/06/07/nashvilles-pickens-continues-to-prove-hes-a-keeper/
Nashville’s Pickens continues to prove he’s a keeper
Ralph’s Mob doesn’t cheer for opposing players, but expect Nashville SC goalkeeper Matt Pickens to get a warm welcome when he returns to Al Lang Stadium on Saturday to take on his former club.
Pickens, nicknamed the “The Beard” by Rowdies supporters, made 107 appearances in goal from 2014 to 2017 before joining Nashville SC this season. He is one of five players to make more than 100 appearances for the Tampa Bay Rowdies in its modern era.
Ralph’s Mob honored Pickens’ 100 appearance milestone on Aug. 5, 2017 with a special tifo adorned with his face and the message “Fear The Beard” and the number 100.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.uslsoccer.com/news_article/show/925293?referrer_id=2349190
Cole Promoted to Rowdies Assistant Coach
Midfielder adds coaching to playing responsibilities
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1004803138036039689
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
Make sure to get to the stadium early this Saturday to get your Rowdies/@AshleyHomeStore thunder sticks!
The first 1,000 fans in the gates go home with this great giveaway! Gates open at 6 P.M.
TIX: 727-222-2000 / http://bit.ly/TBRvsNSHJun9
3:11 PM - 7 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005072024983793664
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
NEWS: Joe Cole has been named a player/assistant coach for the Rowdies, effective immediately. His primary role will remain as a player, but he has taken on additional duties as an assistant coach.
Read more: http://bit.ly/2xTFuLT
9:00 AM - 8 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/USL/status/1005083275008749569
USL
Verified account @USL
“I’m very excited to start this chapter of my career with the Rowdies."
Joe Cole is now a player/assistant coach for the @TampaBayRowdies.
Details ↓
9:45 AM - 8 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/DrewSportsTV/status/1005102874253242369
Drew Fellios 👌🏻
@DrewSportsTV
Competition and Community ... @TampaBayRowdies greeting some young visitors at training this morning. @USL
11:02 AM - 8 Jun 2018
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https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005104668446425088
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
💪 Set and ready to face @NashvilleSC tomorrow night at Al Lang.
11:10 AM - 8 Jun 2018
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/neillycollins3/status/1005113653182500869
Neill Collins
Verified account @neillycollins3
I am delighted to announce that Joe Cole will join our @TampaBayRowdies coaching staff as a player/coach. 🔰
11:45 AM - 8 Jun 2018 from St Petersburg, FL
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https://twitter.com/TampaBayRowdies/status/1005116609877307392
Tampa Bay Rowdies
Verified account @TampaBayRowdies
Make sure to get to the stadium early this Saturday to get your Rowdies/@AshleyHomeStore thunder sticks!
The first 1,000 fans in the gates go home with this great giveaway! Gates open at 6 P.M.
TIX: 727-222-2000 / http://bit.ly/TBRvsNSHJun9
Help Pete the Pelican cheer on the Rowdies with Thunder Sticks
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11:57 AM - 8 Jun 2018
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https://twitter.com/whnz/status/1005169856860295168
1250 WHNZ
@whnz
SOCCER tomorrow night 7:30 @tampabayrowdies v @nashvillesc on 1250 AM radio @whnz plus iHeartRadio app on your phone + Amazon Echo http://ihe.art/lprhHNh
3:29 PM - 8 Jun 2018
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