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https://www.tampabay.com/news/florida/2020/01/07/is-orlando-the-future-for-the-tampa-bay-rays/
Is Orlando the future for the Tampa Bay Rays?
A retired Orlando Magic executive thinks it’s a perfect fit for Stu Sternberg to move his team east on Interstate 4.
Pat Williams, co-founder of the NBA Orlando Magic basketball team, says Orlando is the natural home for the Tampa Bay Rays.
Retired Orlando Magic executive Pat Williams says Orlando is the natural future home for the Tampa Bay Rays.
And he’s made that pitch to team executives in recent months.
Rays co-presidents Matt...
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https://www.tampabay.com/news/st-petersburg/2020/01/09/three-mayors-hot-topics-but-no-baseball/
Three mayors, hot topics, but no baseball
Jane Castor, George Cretekos and Rick Kriseman, mayors of the Tampa Bay area’s largest cities, met Thursday to discuss the state of the region. The fate of the Tampa Bay Rays never came up.
Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, left, St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman, center, and Clearwater Mayor George Cretekos took questions from Suncoast Tiger Bay Club members during the club's annual State of the Bay discussion Thursday.
ST. PETERSBURG — Mayors from the Tampa Bay area’s three largest cities met Thursday to discuss issues facing their communities and the region, including climate change, preemption, transportation and...
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https://news.wjct.org/post/tampa-bay-mayors-talk-transit-climate-change-and-joke-about-rays-future-during-state-bay
Tampa Bay Mayors Talk Transit, Climate Change And Joke About Rays' Future During 'State Of The Bay'
Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Krisemand and Clearwater Mayor George Cretekos talk about regional issues during the "State of the Bay" discussion hosted by the Suncoast Tiger Bay Club Thursday.
The mayors of Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater talked about how to grow as a region during a "State of the Bay" conversation hosted by the Suncoast Tiger Bay Club Thursday.
Climate change and transportation received a lot of attention while the future of the Tampa Bay Rays remains a mystery.
Listen Listening... Stephanie Colombini sums up what the mayors did -- and didn't -- talk about during their "State of the Bay" discussion.
The mayors said governments and residents alike need to reduce their carbon footprints to protect Tampa Bay from climate change. That came in response to an attendee demanding the mayors convince her why she doesn’t need to move out of Florida because of environmental threats.
St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman touted new construction in the city that’s being designed to meet stricter resiliency standards, including the St. Pete Pier.
Mayor Jane Castor talked about Tampa's stormwater mitigation plan and urged residents to do a better job at properly recycling.
Clearwater Mayor George Cretekos said the situation is not dire now, but stressed the importance of being able to “pass on” these communities to future residents.
“Not one of us has to worry about leaving right now,” he said. “If the sea level were to rise one foot in Clearwater we would still have a beach…We need to take responsibility now for future generations.”
RELATED: Tampa Bay Cities Unite In Effort To Combat Climate Change
As for transportation, Kriseman and Cretekos talked about their desires to expand ferry service to connect the three cities. Kriseman indicated Pinellas County may not be ready to attempt another transit referendum, while Castor expressed frustration that Hillsborough's transportation tax, approved by voters in November 2018, is still held up in the courts.
"I'm not convinced, you know anything can happen these days, but I believe it will pass,” she said. “The majority of citizens voted for it, that’s what they want and we need to move forward.”
As for whether the Tampa Bay Rays could get a new stadium across the bridge in Tampa or split its season between St. Pete and Montreal, the mayors never addressed the issue seriously. Instead, a running joke throughout the event was that the Rays would be moving to Clearwater.
“Rick and I have decided that we’re going to give the Rays to George as a parting gift because they have individuals who can afford [to have them,]” Castor said in her opening remarks.
She was likely referring to Scientologists, and later on in the program event moderator Adam Smith, former Tampa Bay Times Political Editor, joked, “Dianetics Field has a nice ring to it."
That is a reference to the title of the best-selling book by the founder of The Church of Scientology, L. Ron Hubbard.
RELATED: Kriseman Holding Rays To Tropicana Field Lease
Despite the overall camaraderie and emphasis on regionalism, there was one point of contention.
Kriseman and Cretekos spoke out against the October decision by the former Tampa-Hillsborough Economic Development Corp. to change its name to the Tampa Bay Economic Development Council.
Both mayors said that could damage efforts to brand all three cities as a region. And Kriseman said the group's decision to change the name without consulting communities outside of Tampa has become a trust issue.
“It's incumbent at this point in time if they're not going to reconsider a name change, that they've got to go out of their way to regain our trust,” he said.
Castor said she was unaware of the name change ahead of the group's announcement and called it a "lesson in how not to roll out something." But she said she disagrees with claims that the name change will hamper efforts to market the entire region.
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https://www.cltampa.com/news-views/local-news/article/21109419/st-petersburg-finally-makes-the-brown-pelican-the-citys-official-bird
St. Petersburg finally makes the brown pelican the city’s official bird
What you thought was official, is actually official now.
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https://stpetecatalyst.com/transportation-regionalism-dominate-discussion-at-state-of-the-bay/
Transportation, regionalism dominate discussion at State of the Bay
The issues that didn’t come up that were notable as well. No one asked about the fate of the Tampa Bay Rays and Tropicana Field, although there were joking references to the Rays moving to Clearwater. And no one challenged Kriseman’s statement that St. Petersburg and Tampa Bay “have never been better,” although just hours earlier the Tampa Bay Partnership released a report showing widening economic disparity in the region.
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https://floridapolitics.com/archives/315315-city-of-st-pete-officially-names-the-brown-pelican-its-city-bird-and-its-about-time
City of St. Pete officially names the Brown Pelican its city bird — and it’s about time
Over the years the Brown Pelican has become more St. Pete than St. Pete itself.
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https://www.tampabay.com/news/st-petersburg/2020/01/09/st-petersburg-makes-the-brown-pelican-the-official-city-bird/
St. Petersburg makes the brown pelican the official city bird
The Brown Pelican was endangered in the 1980s. Now it’s numbers are steady, but threats still exist around the Tampa Bay area.
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https://floridapolitics.com/archives/315261-five-things-to-expect-in-state-of-the-region-tampa-bay-talk
Five things to look for at Tiger Bay forum with Jane Castor, Rick Kriseman, and George Cretekos
Baseball, climate and Scientology are sure to be on the plate.
What the heck is up with the Tampa Bay Rays and the team’s ongoing quest for a new stadium?
Up until this week the question on the future of the Rays had come down to whether the team would move to Tampa. Though questions were confounded last year when the Rays punted on a Tampa stadium plan and when they announced interest in negotiating a split season between St. Pete and Montreal, there was still plenty reason to think a Tampa option might still be on the table.
Castor kept her eye on the prize for Tampa and Kriseman has still not, at least not publicly, lost hope that the team will eventually see the light and stick around.
But now there’s another option, not quite on the table, but near it, to have the Rays move to Orlando. The Tampa Bay Times reported Tuesday that Orlando Magic executive Pat Williams said his city would make a fine home for the Major League Baseball team. The Rays admitted there had been talks about a possible move after its contract expires with St. Pete in 2027.
So now the question becomes, will Castor and Kriseman (and let’s not forget about Cretekos) come together with a united front to keep the team in the region.
The fate of baseball in Tampa Bay could be in peril. The topic is sure to come up at least once, probably more.
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https://www.tampabay.com/opinion/letters/2020/01/08/the-city-of-st-petersburg-should-commit-to-carter-g-woodson-museum/
The city of St. Petersburg should commit to Carter G. Woodson museum
Here’s what readers have to say in Thursday’s letters to the editor.
Artist rendition of the new Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum. Presented at a press conference at the Manhattan Casino by the City of St. Petersburg, Tuesday, December 10, 2019.
City should be first, all in on new museum
Museum vision has a long way to go | Editorial, Jan. 3
One of the most glaring truths I encountered in my time representing the people of St. Petersburg is...
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https://www.bizjournals.com/tampabay/news/2020/01/08/cross-bay-ferry-reels-in-more-ridership-this.html
Cross Bay Ferry reels in more ridership this season with Tampa Convention Center stop
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https://floridapolitics.com/archives/315200-cross-bay-ferry-continues-to-shatter-ridership-records
Cross Bay Ferry continues to shatter ridership records
Sunday ridership is up nearly 400%.
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https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/pinellascounty/echelman-sculpture-at-st-pete-pier-has-to-come-down-for-adjustments/67-b07f3d14-4cc2-499d-90fd-370b9591ea26
Echelman sculpture at St. Pete Pier has to come down for adjustments
It's not yet known when it'll come back up.
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https://www.mor-tv.com/article/krewe-of-sant-yago-knight-parade/14442413
Krewe of Sant' Yago Knight Parade
Krewe of Sant' Yago Illuminated Knight Parade
Where: Ybor City
When: Saturday, Feb 8 at 7pm
The Knight Parade, presented by MOR, follows Tampa's annual Gasparilla celebration. The Krewe of the Knights of Sant' Yago has hosted it every year since 1974, and it is considered the largest of its kind in the Southeast.
The Krewe Of Sant Yago Knight Parade presented by MOR
Since the early 1970s, The Krewe of the Knights of Sant’ Yago has organized and hosted the Knight Parade, an annual celebration of Tampa civic pride. Each year, the Knight Parade, as well as other fundraising events, helps raise funds for the Krewe of the Knights of Sant’ Yago Education Foundation, which has provided more than $2 million in scholarships for local students. Visit www.KnightParade.com and www.KreweOfSantYago.com for more information.
Road Closures: Seventh Avenue will close at 2 p.m. Cross streets will close at 6:30 p.m. Paradegoers are encouraged to come to Ybor City early for the pre-parade events and grab a bite to eat at one of the many Ybor City restaurants.
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https://www.bizjournals.com/tampabay/news/2020/01/10/tampa-restaurants-cuban-sandwich-lands-on-food.html
Tampa restaurant's Cuban sandwich lands on Food Network list
Columbia Restaurant, which holds the claim as the oldest dining establishment in Florida, made the list of the 100 best sandwiches in America for its Cuban sandwich. It was the only restaurant in Florida to make the list.
A local Tampa restaurant has landed on the Food Network's 100 Best Sandwiches in America list.
The Columbia Restaurant, which holds the claim as the oldest dining establishment in Florida, made the Food Network's list for its Cuban sandwich. It was the only restaurant in Florida to make the list.
Here is what Food Network had to say about the sandwich:
“The Cuban sandwich is a misnomer on many levels — neither the sandwich itself nor its culturally diverse fillings originated in Cuba. It’s like an ode to the cultural fabric that made up its home city when it was created in 1915. Invented at Tampa’s Columbia Restaurant, the oldest dining establishment in the state, the iconic sandwich was actually called a mixto when it was first created. It combines Genoa salami from Italy, Spanish ham, Cuban-style mojo-marinated pork, Swiss cheese, German pickles and mustard, nestled in fluffy Cuban bread. The bread still comes from century-old La Segunda Central Bakery, which has been the supplier since shortly after the sandwich was invented.”
The list consists of “98 iconic sandwiches” and the best restaurants to enjoy each, the website explains.
Other restaurants on the list include New York-based Katz’s Deli for its pastrami sandwich and Los Angeles-based Canter’s Deli for its corned beef.
Casimiro Hernandez Sr., a Cuban immigrant, opened the restaurant in Tampa’s Ybor City in 1905. Besides its flagship location in Ybor City, the restaurant has locations in Sarasota, St. Augustine, Clearwater Beach and Celebration.
The Columbia Restaurant Group is one of the Tampa Bay area's largest restaurant companies.
The full Food Network list can be found here.
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https://www.wfla.com/news/gasparilla/gasparilla-2020-schedule-of-events/
Gasparilla 2020: Schedule of events
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https://www.wtsp.com/article/entertainment/events/gasparilla/gasparilla-pirate-festival-guide/67-9bab11c9-05cc-4973-afa6-54b6c21ae0e6
Gasparilla Guide: Everything you need to know about the 2020 pirate festival
From parking to parties, 10News has you covered.
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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/em4080/it_was_great_to_see_a_busy_al_lang_tonight_for/
It was great to see a busy Al Lang tonight for the Florida Cup game between Hertha Berlin and Eintracht Frankfurt!
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https://imgur.com/5Zud8fu
It was great to see a busy Al Lang tonight for the Florida Cup game between Hertha Berlin and Eintracht Frankfurt!
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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/en1ma4/the_athletic_im_launching_the_second_wave_of_my/
[The Athletic] ‘I’m launching the second wave of my football career’ Kevin Foley heads to Florida for a Wolves reunion
a couple interesting tidbits from the article - Edwards originally wanted to hire Joe Cole as the manager when Stu was let go, Joe said to hire Neill instead. Neill was offered the chance to be player/manager but said he needed to do it all the way
Yeah...thought that Cole tidbit was really interesting. Felt like he wasn’t ready...
or he knew he was going back to England/Chelsea after the season so didn't want to take the gig knowing he was leaving
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https://theathletic.co.uk/1521901/2020/01/10/kevin-foley-neill-collins-wolves-tampa-rowdies/
‘I’m launching the second wave of my football career’ Kevin Foley heads to Florida for a Wolves reunion
It was just last month that Kevin Foley took the phone call that has completely transformed his life.
The call came via an old team-mate from 10 years ago, one he’d kept in touch with who had since moved abroad to manage the Tampa Bay Rowdies, one league below MLS.
“Kevin, it’s Neill… do you fancy coming to Florida to be my assistant?” came the question.
“Erm… let me speak to the wife first!” was the immediate reply.
Foley didn’t take much convincing. He’d watched his friend Neill Collins flourish since his move to Florida three years earlier, ending his career as he always thought he would.
Scottish centre-half Collins, who in addition to a three-year spell at Wolves also played for Sunderland, Preston, Leeds and Sheffield United, joined the Rowdies in 2016, initially as a player and then as manager from 2018.
The Rowdies had considered giving the job to Joe Cole, a...
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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/enpeog/talkingwolves_wolves_goalkeeper_harry_burgoyne_is/
[TalkingWolves] Wolves goalkeeper Harry Burgoyne is weighing up a possible move to Tampa Bay Rowdies in Florida, where ex-Wolves defender Neill Collins is now being assisted by Kevin Foley. [source: Tim Spiers via The Athletic]
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https://twitter.com/talkingwolves/status/1216374492039122946?s=21
Talking Wolves
@TalkingWolves
Wolves goalkeeper Harry Burgoyne is weighing up a possible move to Tampa Bay Rowdies in Florida, where ex-Wolves defender Neill Collins is now being assisted by Kevin Foley. [source: Tim Spiers via The Athletic]
#WWFC #TalkingWolves
10:00 AM · Jan 12, 2020·Buffer
Sunday, January 12, 2020
Florida soccer team hosts open tryouts for first time in five years
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https://www.mysuncoast.com/2020/01/12/florida-soccer-team-hosts-open-tryouts-first-time-five-years/
LOCAL NEWS
Florida soccer team hosts open tryouts for first time in five years
SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - The Tampa Bay Rowdies hit the field on Saturday to find it’s next soccer star.
The team held an open tryout at the Premier Sports Campus in Lakewood Ranch on Saturday morning.
Dozens of professional players kicked it like Beckham in order to make the team.
Their original plan was to select at least one player to join the Rowdies, but Coach Neill Collins might be inviting more.
“Today is unlimited,” Collins said. “If we see 5 guys that are great, if we see 10 guys that are great then we’ll bring them forward...full opportunity.”
This is the first open tryout since 2015.
The Rowdies 2020 season kicks off this Spring.
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https://www.footballfancast.com/premier-league/manchester-united/on-this-day-david-beckham-joins-la-galaxy-and-simultaneously-transforms-the-mls
On this day: David Beckham joins La Galaxy and simultaneously transforms the MLS
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https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-7864969/Austin-FC-join-MLS-Hollywood-actor-owner.html
The city's first professional sports league team, a state-of-the-art stadium and Hollywood actor Matthew McConaughey is a part owner... meet Austin FC, a side ready to rival the A-list appeal of David Beckham's Inter Miami when they join MLS
Austin FC are ready to become a Major League Soccer side from 2021 season
They have had 30,000 deposits for season tickets as they build a stadium
A-List Hollywood actor Matthew McConaughey is involved as a part-owner
Sportsmail takes a look at the club ready to make its name as a leading side
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https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-7878479/David-Beckhams-Inter-Miami-agree-terms-Lewis-Morgan-Celtic-winger-nears-300-000-move.html
Inter Miami agree terms with Lewis Morgan as Celtic winger prepares for £300,000 switch to David Beckham's side
Inter Miami have agreed terms with Celtic winger Lewis Morgan ahead of move
Morgan is set to make a £300,000 switch to join David Beckham's MLS side
The 23-year-old is eager for regular playing time and is set to be a key player
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https://www.thesun.ie/sport/football/4979804/man-utd-battling-david-beckhams-inter-miami-for-19-year-old-boca-juniors-wonderkid-agustin-almendra/
BECK OFF! Man Utd set for transfer battle with David Beckham’s Inter Miami for 19-year-old Boca Juniors wonderkid Agustin Almendra
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https://www.sounderatheart.com/2020/1/11/21057697/mls-collective-bargaining-negotiations-where-things-stand-part-i-free-agency
MLS Collective Bargaining negotiations: Where things stand (Part I: Free Agency)
We comb through the various reports to give a lay of the land.
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https://www.sounderatheart.com/2020/1/12/21059263/mls-collective-bargaining-negotiations-where-things-stand-part-ii-compensation
MLS Collective Bargaining negotiations: Where things stand (Part II: Compensation)
As you might imagine, players are looking for a significant boost to the salary pool and really want to get rid of TAM.
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https://phillysportsnetwork.com/2020/01/11/ajayi-fails-to-win-a-single-match-as-unions-newest-emls-gamer/
AJAYI FAILS TO WIN A SINGLE MATCH AS UNION’S NEWEST EMLS GAMER
Former Eagles running back and Super Bowl 52 champion, Jay Ajayi, struggled mightily in his first official eMLS event ending with a 0-13 record and a -67 goal differential.
The Philadelphia Union marked the announcement of Jay Ajayi as their newest eMLS gamer Tuesday afternoon and with declared the moment a “historical” one. Ajayi became one of the first former pro athletes and very first former NFL player to transition into the eSports realm.
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https://www.dispatch.com/sports/20200112/uptick-in-home-attendance-last-season-positive-sign-for-columbus-crew
Uptick in home attendance last season positive sign for Columbus Crew
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https://infosurhoy.com/sports/real-madrid-star-luka-modric-has-held-talks-over-sensational-move-to-mls-side-dc-united/
Real Madrid star Luka Modric 'has held talks over sensational move to MLS side DC United'
Infosurhoy
The 2018 Ballon d'Or winner has also been linked with Inter Miami, the new MLS franchise owned by David Beckham. The Croatian midfielder has 18 ...
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https://www.pe.com/2020/01/09/landon-donovan-brings-search-for-soccer-talent-for-his-new-team-to-inland-area/
Landon Donovan brings search for soccer talent for his new team to Inland area
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https://www.prosoccerusa.com/usl/usl-tim-howard-sporting-director-memphis-901-2020-goalkeeper-usmnt/
USL: Tim Howard named sporting director at Memphis 901 FC
Howard retired from playing pro soccer after starting 25 games for the Colorado Rapids this past season.
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https://www.si.com/soccer/2020/01/09/tim-howard-memphis-901-sporting-director-usl
Already Minority Owner, Tim Howard Becomes Sporting Director of Memphis USL Team
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https://www.frontrowsoccer.com/2020/01/08/the-century-mark-100-teams-will-compete-in-u-s-open-cup/
THE CENTURY MARK: 100 teams will compete in U.S. Open Cup
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https://www.sportingkc.com/post/2020/01/08/usl-championship-unveils-2020-national-tv-schedule
USL Championship unveils 2020 national TV schedule
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https://www.frontrowsoccer.com/2020/01/08/a-soccer-team-grows-in-brooklyn-brooklyn-city-fc-joins-united-womens-soccer-with-wyant-as-head-coach/
A SOCCER TEAM GROWS IN BROOKLYN: Brooklyn City FC joins United Women’s Soccer with Wyant as head coach
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https://www.ussoccer.com/stories/2020/01/record-setting-100-teams-confirmed-for-2020-lamar-hunt-us-open-cup
RECORD-SETTING 100 TEAMS CONFIRMED FOR 2020 LAMAR HUNT U.S. OPEN CUP, 107TH EDITION OF U.S. SOCCER’S NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
MODERN-ERA RECORD NUMBER OF PRO TEAMS TO TAKE PART, INCLUDING CLUBS FROM NEW DIVISION III CIRCUIT; TWENTY-FIVE SLOTS ALLOCATED TO OPEN DIVISION NATIONAL LEAGUES; GEOGRAPHICALLY-BASED, RANDOM DRAW WILL DETERMINE THIRD ROUND MATCHUPS WHEN MLS TEAMS ENTER; TOURNAMENT KICKS OFF MARCH 24
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https://www.uslchampionship.com/news_article/show/1076245
BACK IN THE FOLD: Miami FC Announces Quartet of Returnees
PAIS, MARKEY, HEATH, SAM ALL SET TO SUIT UP IN CLUB’S CHAMPIONSHIP DEBUT
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https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/article/MLS-plans-jersey-reveals-other-events-to-mark-14959791.php
MLS plans jersey reveals, other events to mark 25th season
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https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2020/01/08/major-league-soccer-unveils-plans-25th-season-celebration-2020
Major League Soccer unveils plans for 25th season celebration in 2020
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https://www.frontrowsoccer.com/2020/01/10/more-than-hopeful-szetela-wants-to-return-to-the-cosmos/
MORE THAN HOPEFUL: Szetela wants to return to the Cosmos
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https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/sport/football/5159294/celtic-lewis-morgan-accepts-inter-miami-transfer/
GOING STATESIDE Celtic star Lewis Morgan ‘accepts Inter Miami deal’ with winger set to join MLS side
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http://sportwitness.co.uk/manchester-united-midfielder-list-possible-additions-face-fight-david-beckham-signing/
Manchester United have midfielder on list of ‘possible additions’ but face fight with David Beckham for signing
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https://www.ussoccer.com/stories/2020/01/brian-mcbride-named-general-manager-of-us-mens-national-team
BRIAN MCBRIDE NAMED GENERAL MANAGER OF U.S. MEN’S NATIONAL TEAM
THREE-TIME U.S. WORLD CUP VETERAN WITH 17-YEAR PROFESSIONAL CAREER TO BEGIN POSITION IMMEDIATELY; CONFERENCE CALL WITH MCBRIDE AND U.S. SOCCER SPORTING DIRECTOR EARNIE STEWART SCHEDULED FOR JAN. 13
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https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2020/01/12/qatar-world-cup-faces-its-latest-cause-concern-safety-midst-persian-gulf-turmoil/
Qatar World Cup faces its latest cause for concern: Safety in midst of Persian Gulf turmoil
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http://thyblackman.com/2020/01/13/male-celebrities-most-suitable-watch-brands/
Male Celebrities’ Most Suitable Watch Brands.
David Beckham and Tudor
David Beckham has been a collector of watches over the years. He’s been seeing with different Rolexes and bought a Submariner in London. Tudor approached him, and that’s how they started a partnership.
Tudor and Rolex are both a brainchild of Hans Waldorf. The brand started with offering a more inexpensive version of its parent company. Being an admirer of the brand for a long time, Beckham took a big part in the current “Born to Dare” campaign.
His most favorite piece is the Tudor Black Bay Bronze. It is a 43 mm colored PVD-treated steel case back and satin finish. It has a unidirectional rotatable bronze bezel with a 60-minute graduated disc in matte slate grey anodized aluminum, rounded black nubuck leather with a bronze buckle, and fitted with the signature Tudor Manufacture Calibre MT5601. The brand’s history inspired this elegant timepiece.
Beckham loves the versatility of this piece as it can pair perfectly with a suit, with jeans, or to the gym, which is his first consideration in choosing his watches.
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https://extra.ie/2020/01/12/sport/soccernews/beckham-agrees-deal-to-sign-celtic-man-to-inter-miami
Beckham agrees deal to sign Celtic man to Inter Miami
David Beckham is starting to make moves in the transfer market as his Inter Miami team is taking shape.
Diego Alonso is the manager tasked with leading the new MLS franchise as their first game fast approaches.
The team will be in action against FC Dallas on February 22nd and Becks is hoping to have a Hoop in the team.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – NOVEMBER 28: Lewis Morgan of Celtic celebrates after he scores his sides first goal during the UEFA Europa League group E match between Celtic FC and Stade Rennes at Celtic Park on November 28, 2019 in Glasgow, United Kingdom. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Reports claims the former England captain has agreed a £300,000 deal to bring Celtic’s Lewis Morgan to the United States, with the 23 year old seeing time in Celtic’s first team limited.
Morgan has had spells on loan with Sunderland and St Mirren but has not managed to hold down a regular place in Neil Lennon’s side, although he has made 18 appearances this season, with two goals in the Europa League.
The club were expected to try and land a marquee player for their first season, but that seems more difficult now as the deadline is fast approaching.
Miami had the first pick in the 2020 MLS draft system and chose Robbie Robinson from Clemson University.
The forward, who just won the MAC Hermann trophy after netting 18 times this season, will be looking to make a big impression on the league in his debut season.
As they wait on their new mega money stadium to be built, Inter Miami will be based in Fort Laurderdale, and Beckham will be hoping his own star name will bring fans through the gate.
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https://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/beckham-threatens-man-utd-plans-for-boca-juniors-wonderkid-almendra-4311462
Beckham threatens Man Utd plans for Boca Juniors wonderkid Almendra
https://www.mysuncoast.com/2020/01/12/florida-soccer-team-hosts-open-tryouts-first-time-five-years/
LOCAL NEWS
Florida soccer team hosts open tryouts for first time in five years
SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - The Tampa Bay Rowdies hit the field on Saturday to find it’s next soccer star.
The team held an open tryout at the Premier Sports Campus in Lakewood Ranch on Saturday morning.
Dozens of professional players kicked it like Beckham in order to make the team.
Their original plan was to select at least one player to join the Rowdies, but Coach Neill Collins might be inviting more.
“Today is unlimited,” Collins said. “If we see 5 guys that are great, if we see 10 guys that are great then we’ll bring them forward...full opportunity.”
This is the first open tryout since 2015.
The Rowdies 2020 season kicks off this Spring.
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https://www.footballfancast.com/premier-league/manchester-united/on-this-day-david-beckham-joins-la-galaxy-and-simultaneously-transforms-the-mls
On this day: David Beckham joins La Galaxy and simultaneously transforms the MLS
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https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-7864969/Austin-FC-join-MLS-Hollywood-actor-owner.html
The city's first professional sports league team, a state-of-the-art stadium and Hollywood actor Matthew McConaughey is a part owner... meet Austin FC, a side ready to rival the A-list appeal of David Beckham's Inter Miami when they join MLS
Austin FC are ready to become a Major League Soccer side from 2021 season
They have had 30,000 deposits for season tickets as they build a stadium
A-List Hollywood actor Matthew McConaughey is involved as a part-owner
Sportsmail takes a look at the club ready to make its name as a leading side
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https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-7878479/David-Beckhams-Inter-Miami-agree-terms-Lewis-Morgan-Celtic-winger-nears-300-000-move.html
Inter Miami agree terms with Lewis Morgan as Celtic winger prepares for £300,000 switch to David Beckham's side
Inter Miami have agreed terms with Celtic winger Lewis Morgan ahead of move
Morgan is set to make a £300,000 switch to join David Beckham's MLS side
The 23-year-old is eager for regular playing time and is set to be a key player
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https://www.thesun.ie/sport/football/4979804/man-utd-battling-david-beckhams-inter-miami-for-19-year-old-boca-juniors-wonderkid-agustin-almendra/
BECK OFF! Man Utd set for transfer battle with David Beckham’s Inter Miami for 19-year-old Boca Juniors wonderkid Agustin Almendra
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https://www.sounderatheart.com/2020/1/11/21057697/mls-collective-bargaining-negotiations-where-things-stand-part-i-free-agency
MLS Collective Bargaining negotiations: Where things stand (Part I: Free Agency)
We comb through the various reports to give a lay of the land.
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https://www.sounderatheart.com/2020/1/12/21059263/mls-collective-bargaining-negotiations-where-things-stand-part-ii-compensation
MLS Collective Bargaining negotiations: Where things stand (Part II: Compensation)
As you might imagine, players are looking for a significant boost to the salary pool and really want to get rid of TAM.
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https://phillysportsnetwork.com/2020/01/11/ajayi-fails-to-win-a-single-match-as-unions-newest-emls-gamer/
AJAYI FAILS TO WIN A SINGLE MATCH AS UNION’S NEWEST EMLS GAMER
Former Eagles running back and Super Bowl 52 champion, Jay Ajayi, struggled mightily in his first official eMLS event ending with a 0-13 record and a -67 goal differential.
The Philadelphia Union marked the announcement of Jay Ajayi as their newest eMLS gamer Tuesday afternoon and with declared the moment a “historical” one. Ajayi became one of the first former pro athletes and very first former NFL player to transition into the eSports realm.
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https://www.dispatch.com/sports/20200112/uptick-in-home-attendance-last-season-positive-sign-for-columbus-crew
Uptick in home attendance last season positive sign for Columbus Crew
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https://infosurhoy.com/sports/real-madrid-star-luka-modric-has-held-talks-over-sensational-move-to-mls-side-dc-united/
Real Madrid star Luka Modric 'has held talks over sensational move to MLS side DC United'
Infosurhoy
The 2018 Ballon d'Or winner has also been linked with Inter Miami, the new MLS franchise owned by David Beckham. The Croatian midfielder has 18 ...
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https://www.pe.com/2020/01/09/landon-donovan-brings-search-for-soccer-talent-for-his-new-team-to-inland-area/
Landon Donovan brings search for soccer talent for his new team to Inland area
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https://www.prosoccerusa.com/usl/usl-tim-howard-sporting-director-memphis-901-2020-goalkeeper-usmnt/
USL: Tim Howard named sporting director at Memphis 901 FC
Howard retired from playing pro soccer after starting 25 games for the Colorado Rapids this past season.
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https://www.si.com/soccer/2020/01/09/tim-howard-memphis-901-sporting-director-usl
Already Minority Owner, Tim Howard Becomes Sporting Director of Memphis USL Team
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https://www.frontrowsoccer.com/2020/01/08/the-century-mark-100-teams-will-compete-in-u-s-open-cup/
THE CENTURY MARK: 100 teams will compete in U.S. Open Cup
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https://www.sportingkc.com/post/2020/01/08/usl-championship-unveils-2020-national-tv-schedule
USL Championship unveils 2020 national TV schedule
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https://www.frontrowsoccer.com/2020/01/08/a-soccer-team-grows-in-brooklyn-brooklyn-city-fc-joins-united-womens-soccer-with-wyant-as-head-coach/
A SOCCER TEAM GROWS IN BROOKLYN: Brooklyn City FC joins United Women’s Soccer with Wyant as head coach
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https://www.ussoccer.com/stories/2020/01/record-setting-100-teams-confirmed-for-2020-lamar-hunt-us-open-cup
RECORD-SETTING 100 TEAMS CONFIRMED FOR 2020 LAMAR HUNT U.S. OPEN CUP, 107TH EDITION OF U.S. SOCCER’S NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
MODERN-ERA RECORD NUMBER OF PRO TEAMS TO TAKE PART, INCLUDING CLUBS FROM NEW DIVISION III CIRCUIT; TWENTY-FIVE SLOTS ALLOCATED TO OPEN DIVISION NATIONAL LEAGUES; GEOGRAPHICALLY-BASED, RANDOM DRAW WILL DETERMINE THIRD ROUND MATCHUPS WHEN MLS TEAMS ENTER; TOURNAMENT KICKS OFF MARCH 24
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https://www.uslchampionship.com/news_article/show/1076245
BACK IN THE FOLD: Miami FC Announces Quartet of Returnees
PAIS, MARKEY, HEATH, SAM ALL SET TO SUIT UP IN CLUB’S CHAMPIONSHIP DEBUT
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https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/article/MLS-plans-jersey-reveals-other-events-to-mark-14959791.php
MLS plans jersey reveals, other events to mark 25th season
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https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2020/01/08/major-league-soccer-unveils-plans-25th-season-celebration-2020
Major League Soccer unveils plans for 25th season celebration in 2020
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https://www.frontrowsoccer.com/2020/01/10/more-than-hopeful-szetela-wants-to-return-to-the-cosmos/
MORE THAN HOPEFUL: Szetela wants to return to the Cosmos
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https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/sport/football/5159294/celtic-lewis-morgan-accepts-inter-miami-transfer/
GOING STATESIDE Celtic star Lewis Morgan ‘accepts Inter Miami deal’ with winger set to join MLS side
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http://sportwitness.co.uk/manchester-united-midfielder-list-possible-additions-face-fight-david-beckham-signing/
Manchester United have midfielder on list of ‘possible additions’ but face fight with David Beckham for signing
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https://www.ussoccer.com/stories/2020/01/brian-mcbride-named-general-manager-of-us-mens-national-team
BRIAN MCBRIDE NAMED GENERAL MANAGER OF U.S. MEN’S NATIONAL TEAM
THREE-TIME U.S. WORLD CUP VETERAN WITH 17-YEAR PROFESSIONAL CAREER TO BEGIN POSITION IMMEDIATELY; CONFERENCE CALL WITH MCBRIDE AND U.S. SOCCER SPORTING DIRECTOR EARNIE STEWART SCHEDULED FOR JAN. 13
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https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2020/01/12/qatar-world-cup-faces-its-latest-cause-concern-safety-midst-persian-gulf-turmoil/
Qatar World Cup faces its latest cause for concern: Safety in midst of Persian Gulf turmoil
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http://thyblackman.com/2020/01/13/male-celebrities-most-suitable-watch-brands/
Male Celebrities’ Most Suitable Watch Brands.
David Beckham and Tudor
David Beckham has been a collector of watches over the years. He’s been seeing with different Rolexes and bought a Submariner in London. Tudor approached him, and that’s how they started a partnership.
Tudor and Rolex are both a brainchild of Hans Waldorf. The brand started with offering a more inexpensive version of its parent company. Being an admirer of the brand for a long time, Beckham took a big part in the current “Born to Dare” campaign.
His most favorite piece is the Tudor Black Bay Bronze. It is a 43 mm colored PVD-treated steel case back and satin finish. It has a unidirectional rotatable bronze bezel with a 60-minute graduated disc in matte slate grey anodized aluminum, rounded black nubuck leather with a bronze buckle, and fitted with the signature Tudor Manufacture Calibre MT5601. The brand’s history inspired this elegant timepiece.
Beckham loves the versatility of this piece as it can pair perfectly with a suit, with jeans, or to the gym, which is his first consideration in choosing his watches.
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https://extra.ie/2020/01/12/sport/soccernews/beckham-agrees-deal-to-sign-celtic-man-to-inter-miami
Beckham agrees deal to sign Celtic man to Inter Miami
David Beckham is starting to make moves in the transfer market as his Inter Miami team is taking shape.
Diego Alonso is the manager tasked with leading the new MLS franchise as their first game fast approaches.
The team will be in action against FC Dallas on February 22nd and Becks is hoping to have a Hoop in the team.
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – NOVEMBER 28: Lewis Morgan of Celtic celebrates after he scores his sides first goal during the UEFA Europa League group E match between Celtic FC and Stade Rennes at Celtic Park on November 28, 2019 in Glasgow, United Kingdom. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Reports claims the former England captain has agreed a £300,000 deal to bring Celtic’s Lewis Morgan to the United States, with the 23 year old seeing time in Celtic’s first team limited.
Morgan has had spells on loan with Sunderland and St Mirren but has not managed to hold down a regular place in Neil Lennon’s side, although he has made 18 appearances this season, with two goals in the Europa League.
The club were expected to try and land a marquee player for their first season, but that seems more difficult now as the deadline is fast approaching.
Miami had the first pick in the 2020 MLS draft system and chose Robbie Robinson from Clemson University.
The forward, who just won the MAC Hermann trophy after netting 18 times this season, will be looking to make a big impression on the league in his debut season.
As they wait on their new mega money stadium to be built, Inter Miami will be based in Fort Laurderdale, and Beckham will be hoping his own star name will bring fans through the gate.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/beckham-threatens-man-utd-plans-for-boca-juniors-wonderkid-almendra-4311462
Beckham threatens Man Utd plans for Boca Juniors wonderkid Almendra
Tuesday, January 7, 2020
FREE ADMISSION TO BUNDESLIGA FRIENDLY WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8
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https://www.rowdiessoccer.com/news_article/show/1075077
FREE ADMISSION TO BUNDESLIGA FRIENDLY WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8
An incredible opportunity to watch Bundesliga soccer awaits fans in Tampa Bay next week when Eintracht Frankfurt and Hertha Berlin contest a winter friendly at Al Lang Stadium on Wednesday, January 8.
The two German giants will square off against one another at 7 p.m. with free entry to everyone. No ticket is required. Gates will open at 6 p.m. Parking in Lot A at Al Lang Stadium is available for $10.
Eintracht Frankfurt
Eintracht Frankfurt arrives in St. Petersburg in 13th place in the Bundesliga with a record of 5-9-3 (W-L-T) at the midway point of the campaign. Frankfurt finished 7th last season and is still active in the Europa League having finished second in Group A behind Arsenal.
Frankfurt returns to Bundesliga action January 18 against Hoffenheim. Frankfurt picks up European action February 20 in the Europa League Round of 32 against Red Bull Salzburg.
Eintracht Frankfurt is managed by Austrian coach Adi Hütter. The squad includes American defender Timmy Chandler, who has made 29 appearances for the U.S. He was on the final American roster for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
Portuguese forward Gonçalo Paciência leads Frankfurt in scoring with seven goals this season.
Hertha Berlin
Hertha Berlin arrives in St. Petersburg just above Eintracht Frankfurt in 12th place in the Bundesliga with a record of 5-8-4 (W-L-T) this season. Hertha finished in 11th place last season.
Following this visit to Florida, Hertha will resume the Bundesliga season January 19 at home against Bayern Munich.
It's been a tumultuous season so far for Hertha Berlin, with former USA manager Jurgen Klinsmann taking over following the departure of former coach Ante Čović in late November. Klinsmann managed the USA from 2011-2016, including a trip to the Round of 16 at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
Dodi Lukebakio and Vedad Ibišević are the club's joint top scorers with five goals each this season.
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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/elabjt/hope_to_see_you_there/
Hope to see you there!
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https://imgur.com/5yFdIAO
Hope to see you there!
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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/elabx8/unleash_the_bantz/
Unleash the bantz!
Smash the pelicans!
Puny little battleducks got nothin. Believe I'm bringing a tire gauge to make sure there is no foolishness!
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https://imgur.com/mw7LjUR
Unleash the bantz!
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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/ekyq8t/rowdies_first_3_games_of_2020_announced/
Rowdies first 3 games of 2020 announced
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https://www.uslchampionship.com/news_article/show/1075640
USL Championship Announces 2020 Home Openers
10TH SEASON TO KICK OFF MARCH 6 WITH 16 GAMES SLATED FOR OPENING WEEKEND
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https://soccer.nbcsports.com/2020/01/06/report-dc-united-holds-talks-with-luka-modric/
Report: DC United holds talks with Luka Modric
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https://sports.yahoo.com/usmnt-likely-play-wales-march-031015755.html
USMNT likely to play at Wales on March 30
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https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/jan/07/us-soccer-wants-coaches-its-a-shame-the-feeling-isnt-mutual
US Soccer wants coaches. It's a shame the feeling isn't mutual
Raphael Wicky is the latest coach to defect from a job at US Soccer to MLS. It’s a worrying trend as the federation attempts to rebuild itself
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https://www.frontrowsoccer.com/2020/01/06/30415/
SOME HOME COOKING: USL Championship unveils home openers
TAMPA, Fla. – The United Soccer League Monday announced the home openers for all 35 clubs in the USL Championship, with the league’s 10th anniversary season set to kick off on Friday, March 6.
The campaign opens with a Friday doubleheader that will feature three teams that reached the postseason in the Western Conference last season, with Orange County SC set to host El Paso Locomotive FC in the opening game at Championship Stadium in California before Tacoma Defiance takes on Reno 1868 FC at Cheney Stadium.
The first Saturday of the season contains plenty to watch for, too, with perennial playoff contenders North Carolina FC hosting Louisville City FC and the New York Red Bulls II hosting the Tampa Bay Rowdies. In the Western Conference, Real Monarchs SLC will open its title defense on the road against San Antonio FC, while two sides that reached the postseason in their inaugural seasons will kick off their second campaigns when Austin Bold FC hosts New Mexico United.
The weekend’s marquee matchup arrives late on Saturday night when expansion side San Diego Loyal SC, led by Landon Donovan, hosts Las Vegas Lights FC and head coach Eric Wynalda as the former U.S. men’s national team legends square off on the sidelines for the first time.
Other notable home openers include the first game at home for defending champion Real Monarchs SLC, which welcomes 2019 Regular Season Title-Winner Phoenix Rising FC to Zions Bank Stadium on Saturday, March 14, while Miami FC and the Tampa Bay Rowdies will meet for the first time in the USL Championship on Friday, March 13 at Riccardo Silva Stadium.
Louisville City FC will be the visitor for two early 2019 Eastern Conference playoff rematches as it visits Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC on Saturday, March 21 at Highmark Stadium and then takes on Indy Eleven on April 4 at Lucas Oil Stadium. The two-time champion will then open its new 11,700-seat Lynn Family Stadium on Saturday, April 11 as it plays host to Birmingham Legion FC, kicking off a new era for the club as it aims to reach the USL Championship Final for an unprecedented fourth consecutive season.
2020 USL Championship home openers
March 6
Orange County SC vs. El Paso Locomotive FC
Tacoma Defiance vs. Reno 1868 FC
March 7
Austin Bold FC vs. New Mexico United
Memphis 901 FC vs. Indy Eleven
New York Red Bulls II vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies
North Carolina FC vs. Louisville City FC
OKC Energy FC vs. Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC
Philadelphia Union II vs. Loudoun United FC
Phoenix Rising FC vs. Portland Timbers 2
Sacramento Republic FC vs. FC Tulsa
Saint Louis FC vs. Miami FC
San Antonio FC vs. Real Monarchs SLC
San Diego Loyal SC vs. Las Vegas Lights FC
March 8
ATL UTD 2 vs. Charleston Battery
Rio Grande Valley FC vs. LA Galaxy II
Sporting Kansas City II vs. Charlotte Independence
March 13
LA Galaxy II vs. Austin Bold FC
Miami FC vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies
March 14
Charlotte Independence vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC
Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC vs. San Antonio FC
El Paso Locomotive FC vs. Portland Timbers 2
FC Tulsa vs. New Mexico United
Las Vegas Lights FC vs. Sacramento Republic FC
Real Monarchs SLC vs. Phoenix Rising FC
Reno 1868 FC vs. OKC Energy FC
March 15
Birmingham Legion FC vs. Charleston Battery
March 21
Hartford Athletic vs. Charleston Battery
New Mexico United vs. El Paso Locomotive FC
Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC vs. Louisville City FC
Tampa Bay Rowdies vs. North Carolina FC
March 22
Portland Timbers 2 vs. Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC
March 28
Charleston Battery vs. Philadelphia Union II
April 4
Indy Eleven vs. Louisville City FC
April 11
Louisville City FC vs. Birmingham Legion FC
May 6
Loudoun United FC vs. Charlotte Independence
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https://www.blackandredunited.com/2020/1/6/21050018/loudoun-united-bethlehem-steel-charlotte-independence
Loudoun United season opens March 7 at Philadelphia, home opener in May
Loudoun will host Charlotte after another mini road trip.
However, the roster has not been without movement; last week fullback Hunter Gorskie signed with San Antonio FC, but before Christmas, leading goalscorer and team captain Kyle Murphy signed with the Tampa Bay Rowdies. The only incoming signing known thus far is Jake Dengler, a 6 foot 5 defender who played with Pipeline Soccer and Baltimore Armour as a youth, and recently completed two years of college at the University of Connecticut after transferring from Loyola University. Roster decisions and announcements should be expected soon.
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https://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/real-madrid-find-buyer-gareth-21227190
Real Madrid 'find buyer' for Gareth Bale, with David Beckham's Inter Miami linked
Gareth Bale may finally be set to leave Real Madrid, with two MLS sides said to be interested in the forward
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https://www.sportskeeda.com/football/5-most-famous-footballers-to-have-played-in-the-mls
5 Most famous footballers to have played in the MLS
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https://www.espn.com/soccer/soccer-transfers/story/4028788/real-madrids-modric-approached-by-dc-united-inter-miami-atlanta-sources
Real Madrid's Modric approached by D.C. United, Inter Miami, Atlanta - sources
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https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2020/01/07/charlotte-mls-appoint-marc-nicholls-technical-director
Charlotte MLS appoint Marc Nicholls as technical director
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https://mlsmultiplex.com/2020/01/07/d-c-united-luka-modric-not-learned-anything/
D.C. United and Luka Modric: Have we not learned anything?
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https://www.upi.com/Sports_News/Soccer/2020/01/07/Three-MLS-teams-linked-to-Real-Madrids-Luka-Modric/5561578413771/
Three MLS teams linked to Real Madrid's Luka Modric
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https://www.sportingkc.com/post/2020/01/07/sporting-face-real-salt-lake-phoenix-rising-fc-and-new-york-red-bulls-visit-tucson
Sporting to face Real Salt Lake, Phoenix Rising FC and New York Red Bulls in Visit Tucson Sun Cup
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https://ussoccerplayers.com/2020/01/expansion-isnt-the-biggest-story-for-mls-in-2020.html
EXPANSION ISN’T THE BIGGEST STORY FOR MLS IN 2020
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https://www.wfae.org/post/charlotte-talks-mike-and-mayor-strategies-reduce-violence-mls-excelsior-club-sale#stream/0
Charlotte Talks 'Mike and the Mayor:' Strategies To Reduce Violence; MLS; Excelsior Club Sale
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http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001095191/article/exeagles-rb-jay-ajayi-signs-with-mls-esports-team
Ex-Eagles RB Jay Ajayi signs with MLS e-sports team
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https://www.uslchampionship.com/news_article/show/1076066
PRESEASON SLATE: Rising FC to Host Three MLS Clubs
CREW SC, SPORTING KANSAS CITY, REAL SALT LAKE TO VISIT AS PART OF 2020 VISIT TUCSON SUN CUP
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https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2020/01/07/what-could-real-madrid-superstar-luka-modric-bring-mls
What could Real Madrid superstar Luka Modric bring to MLS?
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https://www.prosoccerusa.com/mls/expansion/charlotte/charlotte-mls-expansion-technical-director-marc-nicholls-seattle-sounders-2020/
Charlotte’s MLS expansion team hires Seattle Sounders veteran as technical director
Marc Nicholls is Charlotte’s second hire to the unnamed expansion team’s technical staff.
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https://www.lowellsun.com/2020/01/07/lowells-malango-will-join-revolution-affiliate/
Lowell’s Malango will join Revolution affiliate
FOXBORO — Lowell resident Mayele Malango’s soccer journey has taken him from Lowell High to Salem State University and to UMass Lowell.
But on Tuesday, his journey continued — to the third level in the U.S. soccer pyramid.
Malango, a midfielder who helped LHS win back-to-back Merrimack Valley Conference titles, will join the New England Revolution II club pending league and federation approval.
Revs II is the brand new third-level side of Major League Soccer original New England Revolution, which launched the new squad in October 2019. Revs II will take part in the United Soccer League’s League One. MLS is the first division, with the USL Championship — which includes a team in nearby Hartford — on the second division.
As a freshman with Salem State in 2017, the 21-year-old Malango led the MASCAC with 17 goals and 43 points in 19 games, earning MASCAC Player and Rookie of the Year honors. In 2018, he transferred to UMass Lowell, where he appeared in all of the team’s 18 games and submitted one goal and two assists.
Malango, a native of Kinshasa, Congo, attended Lowell High School. He was a two-time Lowell Sun Player of the Year and led the Red Raiders to consecutive Merrimack Valley Championships.
In 2019, he spent time training with the Revolution’s first team.
He is one of four initial signings for this second team, and is one of two Massachusetts residents: Attleboro’s Nick Woodruff is the other.
In addition, forward Connor Presley and defender Collin Verfurth played with Loudoun United FC under Revs’ assistant coach Richie Williams.
“Welcoming these four talented players as the first Revolution II signings marks an exciting milestone for the club as we continue to enhance the development pathway in New England,” club Technical Director Curt Onalfo said. “Identifying and securing promising young players is one key part of our multifaceted approach to constructing the second team roster, and we look forward to making more additions in the weeks to come.”
“As we continue making strides in the build up to our inaugural season, we are proud and excited to welcome these four young players onto Revolution II,” head coach Clint Peay said. “We are pleased to be adding players from a variety of backgrounds, which we hope will help each of the players on our roster develop and grow.”
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https://www.davisenterprise.com/sports/fc-davis-secures-historic-u-s-open-cup-bid/
FC Davis secures historic U.S. Open Cup bid
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https://www.riverbender.com/articles/details/granite-city-native-trittschuh-named-head-coach-of-saint-louis-fc-38936.cfm
Granite City Native Trittschuh Named Head Coach Of Saint Louis FC
Trittschuh then played in the final year for the original St. Louis Steamers in the Major Indoor Soccer League in 1987-88, leaving when the team folded in the spring of 1988. After being signed by the United States Soccer Federation to play for the USMNT, Trittschuh played for the Tampa Bay Rowdies of the old American Soccer League, then for the USMNT when they qualified for the 1990 World Cup. He only appeared in one game, a 5-1 loss to Czechoslovakia, but was signed to play for Sparta Prague in the Czech first division after the World Cup. He played only one season for Sparta, scoring one goal, but helped the team to the league championship, and was also the first American to play in the UEFA European Cup, the forerunner of today's UEFA Champions League.
He then played for the Rowdies for two seasons before signing with Dutch club SVV Dordrecht, but when the club went bankrupt, Trittschuh returned to Tampa Bay, then played in the indoor National Professional Soccer League, winning a title with the St. Louis Ambush in 1994-95. He joined the Montreal Impact in the forerunner to the USL Championship, the American Professional Soccer League.
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https://www.socceramerica.com/publications/article/84665/datebook-usl-championship-will-kick-off-2020-seas.html
Datebook: USL Championship will kick off 2020 season on March 6
Soccer America
... in the NPSL and NISA, will play its first home game in the USL on March 13 when it hosts the Tampa Bay Rowdies at Riccardo Silva Stadium.
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https://www.blackandredunited.com/2020/1/7/21055007/dc-united-ted-ku-dipietro-loudoun-united-new-england-revolution
Academy player Ku-DiPietro signs contract with Loudoun
D.C.’s USL team will bring back 7 faces for 2020.
Doue appeared in 23 games (starting 20) and played 1,757 minutes, though suffered injuries during the year. Doue’s minutes were sixth-most for Loudoun players, though with Collin Verfurth and Connor Presley signing with the New England Revolution II today, Kyle Murphy signing with the Tampa Bay Rowdies and Antonio Bustamante exploring pro offers elsewhere, Doue would appear to be primed for an elevated on-field leadership role in 2020.
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https://www.coventrytelegraph.net/sport/football/football-news/joe-cole-signs-coventry-city-11297053
'Great memories' - Why Coventry City will always be special to former England star
Coventry City nostalgia | It's four years ago today since former Chelsea and England star Joe Cole joined Coventry City on a permanent deal
The former England international made 22 appearances for City before joining North American Soccer League side Tampa Bay Rowdies in the following summer.
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https://infosurhoy.com/news/real-madrid-find-buyer-for-gareth-bale-with-david-beckhams-inter-miami-linked/
Real Madrid ‘find buyer’ for Gareth Bale, with David Beckham’s Inter Miami linked
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.frontrowsoccer.com/2020/01/06/staying-home-bardic-turns-down-offers-wants-to-remain-with-the-cosmos/
STAYING HOME: Bardic turns down offers, wants to remain with the Cosmos
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.tampabay.com/arts-entertainment/2020/01/07/wwes-titus-oneil-is-the-gasparilla-knight-parade-grand-marshal/
WWE’s Titus O’Neil is the Gasparilla Knight Parade grand marshal
Fan favorite Jerry Springer will also attend the Ybor City tradition in February.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://patch.com/florida/southtampa/wwe-star-titus-o-neil-named-knight-parade-grand-marshal
WWE star Titus O'Neil named Knight Parade Grand Marshal
Fan favorite Jerry Springer returns to the Feb. 8 parade as a special guest
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https://thatssotampa.com/catrinas-tacos-tequila-bar-announces-2020-opening-in-west-tampa/
Catrina’s Tacos & Tequila Bar announces 2020 opening in West Tampa
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https://patch.com/florida/southtampa/michelle-faedo-opening-new-location-downtown-tampa-january-8th
Michelle Faedo opening new location in Downtown Tampa January 8th
The new location will be located inside the Hillsborough County Building on Kennedy Boulevard.
Faedo's Famous Traditional Cuban Sandwich (Carlos Hernandez | CarlosEats.com)
Michelle Faedo's second location is set to open in Downtown Tampa on Wednesday, January 8th at the Hillsborough County Building.
"I feel blessed, humbled, and very thankful," said owner Michelle Faedo about her new restaurant location opening.
Faedo is an award-winner who has been recognized in the past for her popular Cuban Sandwich at the National Cuban Sandwich Festival held annually in Ybor City. Faedo is originally from Tampa and many of the dishes on the menu pay homage to Tampa's history.
Her signature garlic butter topping on La Segunda Bread has won the hearts and stomachs of many in Tampa.
As Miami and Tampa fought over who originally created the Cuban Sandwich, Faedo whipped out hundreds of sandwiches on a daily basis all over Tampa on her gourmet food truck, Faedo's on the Go, that eventually led to her restaurant at the ENCORE! building. That location will stay open as she expands further into Downtown.
City of Tampa Mayor Jane Castor is expected to be at the location at around 1PM on opening date.
More info: http://carloseats.com/2020/01/07/news-michelle-faedos-2nd-location-opening-january-8th-in-downtown-tampa/
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https://news.yahoo.com/tampa-host-variety-food-drink-121239067.html
Tampa to host a variety of food and drink deals this week
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https://www.tampabay.com/news/st-petersburg/2020/01/07/janet-echelmans-pier-sculpture-will-be-taken-down-and-reinstalled/
Janet Echelman’s Pier sculpture will be taken down and reinstalled
The internationally famous artist says adjustments must be made to the billowing net sculpture
A look down at Bending Arc as cranes begin to raise the net-like structure over the new St. Pete Pier on Friday, Jan. 3, 2020 in St. Petersburg. The $1.5 million sculpture from artist Janet Echelman, is scheduled to be complete in February with the Pier scheduled to open this spring. Echelman's sculpture will measure about the length of a football field, and will be suspended from 65-foot pylons. The structure will move with the wind and be illuminated at night. [DIRK SHADD | Tampa Bay Times]
ST. PETERSBURG — There was great excitement a few days ago as world-renowned artist Janet Echelman’s aerial net sculpture rose above the city’s new Pier District.
Mayor Rick Kriseman, a major champion...
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https://infosurhoy.com/sports/david-beckham-makes-anthony-pulis-tonys-son-part-of-the-coaching-staff-at-inter-miami/
David Beckham ‘makes Anthony Pulis, Tony’s son, part of the coaching staff at Inter Miami’
David Beckham is ready to appoint Tony Pulis’ son, Anthony, as assistant coach at Inter Miami according to the Telegraph.
Beckham’s new side play their first MLS match against Los Angeles on March 1.
And Pulis, who began his coaching career at Orlando City B before joining Saint Louis as head coach in 2017, will be among the backroom team.
The former midfielder played for a number of English clubs including Portsmouth, Stoke and Plymouth before moving to the States in 2012.
Pulis will be assistant to former Uruguay international Diego Alonso who has been appointed the manager of Beckham’s MLS side.
Beckham was trying to hire Patrick Vieira and Carlo Ancelotti but they turned him down.
Pulis has been in charge at Sant Louis for two years in American soccer’s second tier and is now earning a promotion.
He established an excellent reputation in the States with Saint Louis and has been rewarded after agreeing a compensation fee on Friday.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/sport/football/5140295/3-40pm-transfer-news-live-dembele-likes-liverpool-kit-post-man-city-and-barcelona-want-70m-traore-from-wolves/
GET YOUR GOSS 11pm Transfer news LIVE: Man City to replace Silva with Isco, Real Madrid’s Modric to DC United, Neymar to Barcelona
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https://www.frontrowsoccer.com/2020/01/07/signing-with-the-big-club-nyrbiis-standouts-stroud-lema-agreement-to-contracts-with-red-bulls/
SIGNING WITH THE BIG CLUB: NYRBII’s standouts Stroud, Lema agree to contracts with Red Bulls
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https://valleycentral.com/sports/vipers-toros/utrgvs-kyle-edwards-signs-with-rio-grande-valley-fc-toros
UTRGV's Kyle Edwards signs with Rio Grande Valley FC Toros
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https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/attleboro-s-woodruff-signs-with-revolution-ii-usl-squad/article_505862ac-52e2-576f-a026-ba7b7d232c8a.html
Attleboro's Woodruff signs with Revolution II USL squad
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https://www.baynews9.com/fl/tampa/entertainment/2020/01/08/ott-krewe-of-sant-yago-announces-grand-marshal-for-2020-parade
On the Town: Krewe of Sant' Yago Announces Grand Marshal for 2020 Knight Parade
YBOR CITY, Fla. — WWE Superstar Titus O’Neil will be the grand Marshal for the for the Krewe of Sant’ Yago Knight Parade in Ybor City this year.
“It's my first time being involved in a Knight Parade in any capacity and I’ve been living here in Tampa since ’04, so for me to be able to experience it as the Grand Marshal is very cool,” O’Neil said.
In case you're new to the area or you've never been to a Krewe of Sant' Yago Knight Parade, there's a little background:
The Krewe of the Knights of Sant' Yago, who host the parade, were founded in 1972
The Krewe's mission year-round is to preserve Tampa's Hispanic heritage
The Parade first marched in Ybor City in 1974 as a celebration of heritage and civic pride
This year's parade will march on February 8 at 7 p.m. in Ybor City
To learn more, watch the video above and visit https://krewesantyago.org.
https://www.rowdiessoccer.com/news_article/show/1075077
FREE ADMISSION TO BUNDESLIGA FRIENDLY WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8
An incredible opportunity to watch Bundesliga soccer awaits fans in Tampa Bay next week when Eintracht Frankfurt and Hertha Berlin contest a winter friendly at Al Lang Stadium on Wednesday, January 8.
The two German giants will square off against one another at 7 p.m. with free entry to everyone. No ticket is required. Gates will open at 6 p.m. Parking in Lot A at Al Lang Stadium is available for $10.
Eintracht Frankfurt
Eintracht Frankfurt arrives in St. Petersburg in 13th place in the Bundesliga with a record of 5-9-3 (W-L-T) at the midway point of the campaign. Frankfurt finished 7th last season and is still active in the Europa League having finished second in Group A behind Arsenal.
Frankfurt returns to Bundesliga action January 18 against Hoffenheim. Frankfurt picks up European action February 20 in the Europa League Round of 32 against Red Bull Salzburg.
Eintracht Frankfurt is managed by Austrian coach Adi Hütter. The squad includes American defender Timmy Chandler, who has made 29 appearances for the U.S. He was on the final American roster for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
Portuguese forward Gonçalo Paciência leads Frankfurt in scoring with seven goals this season.
Hertha Berlin
Hertha Berlin arrives in St. Petersburg just above Eintracht Frankfurt in 12th place in the Bundesliga with a record of 5-8-4 (W-L-T) this season. Hertha finished in 11th place last season.
Following this visit to Florida, Hertha will resume the Bundesliga season January 19 at home against Bayern Munich.
It's been a tumultuous season so far for Hertha Berlin, with former USA manager Jurgen Klinsmann taking over following the departure of former coach Ante Čović in late November. Klinsmann managed the USA from 2011-2016, including a trip to the Round of 16 at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
Dodi Lukebakio and Vedad Ibišević are the club's joint top scorers with five goals each this season.
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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/elabjt/hope_to_see_you_there/
Hope to see you there!
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https://imgur.com/5yFdIAO
Hope to see you there!
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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/elabx8/unleash_the_bantz/
Unleash the bantz!
Smash the pelicans!
Puny little battleducks got nothin. Believe I'm bringing a tire gauge to make sure there is no foolishness!
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https://imgur.com/mw7LjUR
Unleash the bantz!
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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/ekyq8t/rowdies_first_3_games_of_2020_announced/
Rowdies first 3 games of 2020 announced
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https://www.uslchampionship.com/news_article/show/1075640
USL Championship Announces 2020 Home Openers
10TH SEASON TO KICK OFF MARCH 6 WITH 16 GAMES SLATED FOR OPENING WEEKEND
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https://soccer.nbcsports.com/2020/01/06/report-dc-united-holds-talks-with-luka-modric/
Report: DC United holds talks with Luka Modric
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https://sports.yahoo.com/usmnt-likely-play-wales-march-031015755.html
USMNT likely to play at Wales on March 30
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https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/jan/07/us-soccer-wants-coaches-its-a-shame-the-feeling-isnt-mutual
US Soccer wants coaches. It's a shame the feeling isn't mutual
Raphael Wicky is the latest coach to defect from a job at US Soccer to MLS. It’s a worrying trend as the federation attempts to rebuild itself
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https://www.frontrowsoccer.com/2020/01/06/30415/
SOME HOME COOKING: USL Championship unveils home openers
TAMPA, Fla. – The United Soccer League Monday announced the home openers for all 35 clubs in the USL Championship, with the league’s 10th anniversary season set to kick off on Friday, March 6.
The campaign opens with a Friday doubleheader that will feature three teams that reached the postseason in the Western Conference last season, with Orange County SC set to host El Paso Locomotive FC in the opening game at Championship Stadium in California before Tacoma Defiance takes on Reno 1868 FC at Cheney Stadium.
The first Saturday of the season contains plenty to watch for, too, with perennial playoff contenders North Carolina FC hosting Louisville City FC and the New York Red Bulls II hosting the Tampa Bay Rowdies. In the Western Conference, Real Monarchs SLC will open its title defense on the road against San Antonio FC, while two sides that reached the postseason in their inaugural seasons will kick off their second campaigns when Austin Bold FC hosts New Mexico United.
The weekend’s marquee matchup arrives late on Saturday night when expansion side San Diego Loyal SC, led by Landon Donovan, hosts Las Vegas Lights FC and head coach Eric Wynalda as the former U.S. men’s national team legends square off on the sidelines for the first time.
Other notable home openers include the first game at home for defending champion Real Monarchs SLC, which welcomes 2019 Regular Season Title-Winner Phoenix Rising FC to Zions Bank Stadium on Saturday, March 14, while Miami FC and the Tampa Bay Rowdies will meet for the first time in the USL Championship on Friday, March 13 at Riccardo Silva Stadium.
Louisville City FC will be the visitor for two early 2019 Eastern Conference playoff rematches as it visits Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC on Saturday, March 21 at Highmark Stadium and then takes on Indy Eleven on April 4 at Lucas Oil Stadium. The two-time champion will then open its new 11,700-seat Lynn Family Stadium on Saturday, April 11 as it plays host to Birmingham Legion FC, kicking off a new era for the club as it aims to reach the USL Championship Final for an unprecedented fourth consecutive season.
2020 USL Championship home openers
March 6
Orange County SC vs. El Paso Locomotive FC
Tacoma Defiance vs. Reno 1868 FC
March 7
Austin Bold FC vs. New Mexico United
Memphis 901 FC vs. Indy Eleven
New York Red Bulls II vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies
North Carolina FC vs. Louisville City FC
OKC Energy FC vs. Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC
Philadelphia Union II vs. Loudoun United FC
Phoenix Rising FC vs. Portland Timbers 2
Sacramento Republic FC vs. FC Tulsa
Saint Louis FC vs. Miami FC
San Antonio FC vs. Real Monarchs SLC
San Diego Loyal SC vs. Las Vegas Lights FC
March 8
ATL UTD 2 vs. Charleston Battery
Rio Grande Valley FC vs. LA Galaxy II
Sporting Kansas City II vs. Charlotte Independence
March 13
LA Galaxy II vs. Austin Bold FC
Miami FC vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies
March 14
Charlotte Independence vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC
Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC vs. San Antonio FC
El Paso Locomotive FC vs. Portland Timbers 2
FC Tulsa vs. New Mexico United
Las Vegas Lights FC vs. Sacramento Republic FC
Real Monarchs SLC vs. Phoenix Rising FC
Reno 1868 FC vs. OKC Energy FC
March 15
Birmingham Legion FC vs. Charleston Battery
March 21
Hartford Athletic vs. Charleston Battery
New Mexico United vs. El Paso Locomotive FC
Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC vs. Louisville City FC
Tampa Bay Rowdies vs. North Carolina FC
March 22
Portland Timbers 2 vs. Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC
March 28
Charleston Battery vs. Philadelphia Union II
April 4
Indy Eleven vs. Louisville City FC
April 11
Louisville City FC vs. Birmingham Legion FC
May 6
Loudoun United FC vs. Charlotte Independence
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.blackandredunited.com/2020/1/6/21050018/loudoun-united-bethlehem-steel-charlotte-independence
Loudoun United season opens March 7 at Philadelphia, home opener in May
Loudoun will host Charlotte after another mini road trip.
However, the roster has not been without movement; last week fullback Hunter Gorskie signed with San Antonio FC, but before Christmas, leading goalscorer and team captain Kyle Murphy signed with the Tampa Bay Rowdies. The only incoming signing known thus far is Jake Dengler, a 6 foot 5 defender who played with Pipeline Soccer and Baltimore Armour as a youth, and recently completed two years of college at the University of Connecticut after transferring from Loyola University. Roster decisions and announcements should be expected soon.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/real-madrid-find-buyer-gareth-21227190
Real Madrid 'find buyer' for Gareth Bale, with David Beckham's Inter Miami linked
Gareth Bale may finally be set to leave Real Madrid, with two MLS sides said to be interested in the forward
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https://www.sportskeeda.com/football/5-most-famous-footballers-to-have-played-in-the-mls
5 Most famous footballers to have played in the MLS
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https://www.espn.com/soccer/soccer-transfers/story/4028788/real-madrids-modric-approached-by-dc-united-inter-miami-atlanta-sources
Real Madrid's Modric approached by D.C. United, Inter Miami, Atlanta - sources
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https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2020/01/07/charlotte-mls-appoint-marc-nicholls-technical-director
Charlotte MLS appoint Marc Nicholls as technical director
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https://mlsmultiplex.com/2020/01/07/d-c-united-luka-modric-not-learned-anything/
D.C. United and Luka Modric: Have we not learned anything?
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https://www.upi.com/Sports_News/Soccer/2020/01/07/Three-MLS-teams-linked-to-Real-Madrids-Luka-Modric/5561578413771/
Three MLS teams linked to Real Madrid's Luka Modric
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https://www.sportingkc.com/post/2020/01/07/sporting-face-real-salt-lake-phoenix-rising-fc-and-new-york-red-bulls-visit-tucson
Sporting to face Real Salt Lake, Phoenix Rising FC and New York Red Bulls in Visit Tucson Sun Cup
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https://ussoccerplayers.com/2020/01/expansion-isnt-the-biggest-story-for-mls-in-2020.html
EXPANSION ISN’T THE BIGGEST STORY FOR MLS IN 2020
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https://www.wfae.org/post/charlotte-talks-mike-and-mayor-strategies-reduce-violence-mls-excelsior-club-sale#stream/0
Charlotte Talks 'Mike and the Mayor:' Strategies To Reduce Violence; MLS; Excelsior Club Sale
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http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001095191/article/exeagles-rb-jay-ajayi-signs-with-mls-esports-team
Ex-Eagles RB Jay Ajayi signs with MLS e-sports team
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https://www.uslchampionship.com/news_article/show/1076066
PRESEASON SLATE: Rising FC to Host Three MLS Clubs
CREW SC, SPORTING KANSAS CITY, REAL SALT LAKE TO VISIT AS PART OF 2020 VISIT TUCSON SUN CUP
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https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2020/01/07/what-could-real-madrid-superstar-luka-modric-bring-mls
What could Real Madrid superstar Luka Modric bring to MLS?
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https://www.prosoccerusa.com/mls/expansion/charlotte/charlotte-mls-expansion-technical-director-marc-nicholls-seattle-sounders-2020/
Charlotte’s MLS expansion team hires Seattle Sounders veteran as technical director
Marc Nicholls is Charlotte’s second hire to the unnamed expansion team’s technical staff.
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https://www.lowellsun.com/2020/01/07/lowells-malango-will-join-revolution-affiliate/
Lowell’s Malango will join Revolution affiliate
FOXBORO — Lowell resident Mayele Malango’s soccer journey has taken him from Lowell High to Salem State University and to UMass Lowell.
But on Tuesday, his journey continued — to the third level in the U.S. soccer pyramid.
Malango, a midfielder who helped LHS win back-to-back Merrimack Valley Conference titles, will join the New England Revolution II club pending league and federation approval.
Revs II is the brand new third-level side of Major League Soccer original New England Revolution, which launched the new squad in October 2019. Revs II will take part in the United Soccer League’s League One. MLS is the first division, with the USL Championship — which includes a team in nearby Hartford — on the second division.
As a freshman with Salem State in 2017, the 21-year-old Malango led the MASCAC with 17 goals and 43 points in 19 games, earning MASCAC Player and Rookie of the Year honors. In 2018, he transferred to UMass Lowell, where he appeared in all of the team’s 18 games and submitted one goal and two assists.
Malango, a native of Kinshasa, Congo, attended Lowell High School. He was a two-time Lowell Sun Player of the Year and led the Red Raiders to consecutive Merrimack Valley Championships.
In 2019, he spent time training with the Revolution’s first team.
He is one of four initial signings for this second team, and is one of two Massachusetts residents: Attleboro’s Nick Woodruff is the other.
In addition, forward Connor Presley and defender Collin Verfurth played with Loudoun United FC under Revs’ assistant coach Richie Williams.
“Welcoming these four talented players as the first Revolution II signings marks an exciting milestone for the club as we continue to enhance the development pathway in New England,” club Technical Director Curt Onalfo said. “Identifying and securing promising young players is one key part of our multifaceted approach to constructing the second team roster, and we look forward to making more additions in the weeks to come.”
“As we continue making strides in the build up to our inaugural season, we are proud and excited to welcome these four young players onto Revolution II,” head coach Clint Peay said. “We are pleased to be adding players from a variety of backgrounds, which we hope will help each of the players on our roster develop and grow.”
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https://www.davisenterprise.com/sports/fc-davis-secures-historic-u-s-open-cup-bid/
FC Davis secures historic U.S. Open Cup bid
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https://www.riverbender.com/articles/details/granite-city-native-trittschuh-named-head-coach-of-saint-louis-fc-38936.cfm
Granite City Native Trittschuh Named Head Coach Of Saint Louis FC
Trittschuh then played in the final year for the original St. Louis Steamers in the Major Indoor Soccer League in 1987-88, leaving when the team folded in the spring of 1988. After being signed by the United States Soccer Federation to play for the USMNT, Trittschuh played for the Tampa Bay Rowdies of the old American Soccer League, then for the USMNT when they qualified for the 1990 World Cup. He only appeared in one game, a 5-1 loss to Czechoslovakia, but was signed to play for Sparta Prague in the Czech first division after the World Cup. He played only one season for Sparta, scoring one goal, but helped the team to the league championship, and was also the first American to play in the UEFA European Cup, the forerunner of today's UEFA Champions League.
He then played for the Rowdies for two seasons before signing with Dutch club SVV Dordrecht, but when the club went bankrupt, Trittschuh returned to Tampa Bay, then played in the indoor National Professional Soccer League, winning a title with the St. Louis Ambush in 1994-95. He joined the Montreal Impact in the forerunner to the USL Championship, the American Professional Soccer League.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.socceramerica.com/publications/article/84665/datebook-usl-championship-will-kick-off-2020-seas.html
Datebook: USL Championship will kick off 2020 season on March 6
Soccer America
... in the NPSL and NISA, will play its first home game in the USL on March 13 when it hosts the Tampa Bay Rowdies at Riccardo Silva Stadium.
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https://www.blackandredunited.com/2020/1/7/21055007/dc-united-ted-ku-dipietro-loudoun-united-new-england-revolution
Academy player Ku-DiPietro signs contract with Loudoun
D.C.’s USL team will bring back 7 faces for 2020.
Doue appeared in 23 games (starting 20) and played 1,757 minutes, though suffered injuries during the year. Doue’s minutes were sixth-most for Loudoun players, though with Collin Verfurth and Connor Presley signing with the New England Revolution II today, Kyle Murphy signing with the Tampa Bay Rowdies and Antonio Bustamante exploring pro offers elsewhere, Doue would appear to be primed for an elevated on-field leadership role in 2020.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.coventrytelegraph.net/sport/football/football-news/joe-cole-signs-coventry-city-11297053
'Great memories' - Why Coventry City will always be special to former England star
Coventry City nostalgia | It's four years ago today since former Chelsea and England star Joe Cole joined Coventry City on a permanent deal
The former England international made 22 appearances for City before joining North American Soccer League side Tampa Bay Rowdies in the following summer.
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https://infosurhoy.com/news/real-madrid-find-buyer-for-gareth-bale-with-david-beckhams-inter-miami-linked/
Real Madrid ‘find buyer’ for Gareth Bale, with David Beckham’s Inter Miami linked
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.frontrowsoccer.com/2020/01/06/staying-home-bardic-turns-down-offers-wants-to-remain-with-the-cosmos/
STAYING HOME: Bardic turns down offers, wants to remain with the Cosmos
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.tampabay.com/arts-entertainment/2020/01/07/wwes-titus-oneil-is-the-gasparilla-knight-parade-grand-marshal/
WWE’s Titus O’Neil is the Gasparilla Knight Parade grand marshal
Fan favorite Jerry Springer will also attend the Ybor City tradition in February.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://patch.com/florida/southtampa/wwe-star-titus-o-neil-named-knight-parade-grand-marshal
WWE star Titus O'Neil named Knight Parade Grand Marshal
Fan favorite Jerry Springer returns to the Feb. 8 parade as a special guest
(Follow link for full article.)
https://thatssotampa.com/catrinas-tacos-tequila-bar-announces-2020-opening-in-west-tampa/
Catrina’s Tacos & Tequila Bar announces 2020 opening in West Tampa
(Follow link for full article.)
https://patch.com/florida/southtampa/michelle-faedo-opening-new-location-downtown-tampa-january-8th
Michelle Faedo opening new location in Downtown Tampa January 8th
The new location will be located inside the Hillsborough County Building on Kennedy Boulevard.
Faedo's Famous Traditional Cuban Sandwich (Carlos Hernandez | CarlosEats.com)
Michelle Faedo's second location is set to open in Downtown Tampa on Wednesday, January 8th at the Hillsborough County Building.
"I feel blessed, humbled, and very thankful," said owner Michelle Faedo about her new restaurant location opening.
Faedo is an award-winner who has been recognized in the past for her popular Cuban Sandwich at the National Cuban Sandwich Festival held annually in Ybor City. Faedo is originally from Tampa and many of the dishes on the menu pay homage to Tampa's history.
Her signature garlic butter topping on La Segunda Bread has won the hearts and stomachs of many in Tampa.
As Miami and Tampa fought over who originally created the Cuban Sandwich, Faedo whipped out hundreds of sandwiches on a daily basis all over Tampa on her gourmet food truck, Faedo's on the Go, that eventually led to her restaurant at the ENCORE! building. That location will stay open as she expands further into Downtown.
City of Tampa Mayor Jane Castor is expected to be at the location at around 1PM on opening date.
More info: http://carloseats.com/2020/01/07/news-michelle-faedos-2nd-location-opening-january-8th-in-downtown-tampa/
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https://news.yahoo.com/tampa-host-variety-food-drink-121239067.html
Tampa to host a variety of food and drink deals this week
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.tampabay.com/news/st-petersburg/2020/01/07/janet-echelmans-pier-sculpture-will-be-taken-down-and-reinstalled/
Janet Echelman’s Pier sculpture will be taken down and reinstalled
The internationally famous artist says adjustments must be made to the billowing net sculpture
A look down at Bending Arc as cranes begin to raise the net-like structure over the new St. Pete Pier on Friday, Jan. 3, 2020 in St. Petersburg. The $1.5 million sculpture from artist Janet Echelman, is scheduled to be complete in February with the Pier scheduled to open this spring. Echelman's sculpture will measure about the length of a football field, and will be suspended from 65-foot pylons. The structure will move with the wind and be illuminated at night. [DIRK SHADD | Tampa Bay Times]
ST. PETERSBURG — There was great excitement a few days ago as world-renowned artist Janet Echelman’s aerial net sculpture rose above the city’s new Pier District.
Mayor Rick Kriseman, a major champion...
(Follow link for full article.)
https://infosurhoy.com/sports/david-beckham-makes-anthony-pulis-tonys-son-part-of-the-coaching-staff-at-inter-miami/
David Beckham ‘makes Anthony Pulis, Tony’s son, part of the coaching staff at Inter Miami’
David Beckham is ready to appoint Tony Pulis’ son, Anthony, as assistant coach at Inter Miami according to the Telegraph.
Beckham’s new side play their first MLS match against Los Angeles on March 1.
And Pulis, who began his coaching career at Orlando City B before joining Saint Louis as head coach in 2017, will be among the backroom team.
The former midfielder played for a number of English clubs including Portsmouth, Stoke and Plymouth before moving to the States in 2012.
Pulis will be assistant to former Uruguay international Diego Alonso who has been appointed the manager of Beckham’s MLS side.
Beckham was trying to hire Patrick Vieira and Carlo Ancelotti but they turned him down.
Pulis has been in charge at Sant Louis for two years in American soccer’s second tier and is now earning a promotion.
He established an excellent reputation in the States with Saint Louis and has been rewarded after agreeing a compensation fee on Friday.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/sport/football/5140295/3-40pm-transfer-news-live-dembele-likes-liverpool-kit-post-man-city-and-barcelona-want-70m-traore-from-wolves/
GET YOUR GOSS 11pm Transfer news LIVE: Man City to replace Silva with Isco, Real Madrid’s Modric to DC United, Neymar to Barcelona
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.frontrowsoccer.com/2020/01/07/signing-with-the-big-club-nyrbiis-standouts-stroud-lema-agreement-to-contracts-with-red-bulls/
SIGNING WITH THE BIG CLUB: NYRBII’s standouts Stroud, Lema agree to contracts with Red Bulls
(Follow link for full article.)
https://valleycentral.com/sports/vipers-toros/utrgvs-kyle-edwards-signs-with-rio-grande-valley-fc-toros
UTRGV's Kyle Edwards signs with Rio Grande Valley FC Toros
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.thesunchronicle.com/sports/local_sports/attleboro-s-woodruff-signs-with-revolution-ii-usl-squad/article_505862ac-52e2-576f-a026-ba7b7d232c8a.html
Attleboro's Woodruff signs with Revolution II USL squad
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.baynews9.com/fl/tampa/entertainment/2020/01/08/ott-krewe-of-sant-yago-announces-grand-marshal-for-2020-parade
On the Town: Krewe of Sant' Yago Announces Grand Marshal for 2020 Knight Parade
YBOR CITY, Fla. — WWE Superstar Titus O’Neil will be the grand Marshal for the for the Krewe of Sant’ Yago Knight Parade in Ybor City this year.
“It's my first time being involved in a Knight Parade in any capacity and I’ve been living here in Tampa since ’04, so for me to be able to experience it as the Grand Marshal is very cool,” O’Neil said.
In case you're new to the area or you've never been to a Krewe of Sant' Yago Knight Parade, there's a little background:
The Krewe of the Knights of Sant' Yago, who host the parade, were founded in 1972
The Krewe's mission year-round is to preserve Tampa's Hispanic heritage
The Parade first marched in Ybor City in 1974 as a celebration of heritage and civic pride
This year's parade will march on February 8 at 7 p.m. in Ybor City
To learn more, watch the video above and visit https://krewesantyago.org.
Monday, January 6, 2020
Rowdies first 3 games of 2020 announced
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/ekyq8t/rowdies_first_3_games_of_2020_announced/
Rowdies first 3 games of 2020 announced
Who's going to Miami? It's a Friday...but it's a Friday the 13th!
WE ALL GOIN TO MIAMI
(though seriously, we all need to go to Miami)
I'm totally going. It's the Friday before I go on Spring Break and I won't have any students, just have to have grades finished and entered & that won't be a problem.
MOB ON TOUUUURRR
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.uslchampionship.com/news_article/show/1075640
USL Championship Announces 2020 Home Openers
10TH SEASON TO KICK OFF MARCH 6 WITH 16 GAMES SLATED FOR OPENING WEEKEND
TAMPA, Fla. – The United Soccer League today announced the home openers for all 35 clubs in the USL Championship, with the league’s 10th anniversary season set to kick off on Friday, March 6.
The 2020 campaign opens with a Friday doubleheader that will feature three teams that reached the postseason in the Western Conference last season, with Orange County SC set to host El Paso Locomotive FC in the opening game at Championship Stadium in California before Tacoma Defiance takes on Reno 1868 FC at Cheney Stadium.
The first Saturday of the season contains plenty to watch for, too, with perennial playoff contenders North Carolina FC hosting Louisville City FC and the New York Red Bulls II hosting the Tampa Bay Rowdies. In the Western Conference, Real Monarchs SLC will open its title defense on the road against San Antonio FC, while two sides that reached the postseason in their inaugural seasons will kick off their second campaigns when Austin Bold FC hosts New Mexico United.
The weekend’s marquee matchup arrives late on Saturday night when expansion side San Diego Loyal SC, led by Landon Donovan, hosts Las Vegas Lights FC and Head Coach Eric Wynalda as the former U.S. Men’s National Team legends square off on the sidelines for the first time.
Other notable home openers include the first game at home for defending champion Real Monarchs SLC, which welcomes 2019 Regular Season Title-Winner Phoenix Rising FC to Zions Bank Stadium on Saturday, March 14, while Miami FC and the Tampa Bay Rowdies will meet for the first time in the USL Championship on Friday, March 13 at Riccardo Silva Stadium.
Louisville City FC will be the visitor for two early 2019 Eastern Conference playoff rematches as it visits Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC on Saturday, March 21 at Highmark Stadium and then takes on Indy Eleven on April 4 at Lucas Oil Stadium. The two-time champion will then open its new 11,700-seat Lynn Family Stadium on Saturday, April 11 as it plays host to Birmingham Legion FC, kicking off a new era for the club as it aims to reach the USL Championship Final for an unprecedented fourth consecutive season.
2020 USL CHAMPIONSHIP HOME OPENERS
March 6
Orange County SC vs. El Paso Locomotive FC
Tacoma Defiance vs. Reno 1868 FC
March 7
Austin Bold FC vs. New Mexico United
Memphis 901 FC vs. Indy Eleven
New York Red Bulls II vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies
North Carolina FC vs. Louisville City FC
OKC Energy FC vs. Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC
Philadelphia Union II vs. Loudoun United FC
Phoenix Rising FC vs. Portland Timbers 2
Sacramento Republic FC vs. FC Tulsa
Saint Louis FC vs. Miami FC
San Antonio FC vs. Real Monarchs SLC
San Diego Loyal SC vs. Las Vegas Lights FC
March 8
ATL UTD 2 vs. Charleston Battery
Rio Grande Valley FC vs. LA Galaxy II
Sporting Kansas City II vs. Charlotte Independence
March 13
LA Galaxy II vs. Austin Bold FC
Miami FC vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies
March 14
Charlotte Independence vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC
Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC vs. San Antonio FC
El Paso Locomotive FC vs. Portland Timbers 2
FC Tulsa vs. New Mexico United
Las Vegas Lights FC vs. Sacramento Republic FC
Real Monarchs SLC vs. Phoenix Rising FC
Reno 1868 FC vs. OKC Energy FC
March 15
Birmingham Legion FC vs. Charleston Battery
March 21
Hartford Athletic vs. Charleston Battery
New Mexico United vs. El Paso Locomotive FC
Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC vs. Louisville City FC
Tampa Bay Rowdies vs. North Carolina FC
March 22
Portland Timbers 2 vs. Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC
March 28
Charleston Battery vs. Philadelphia Union II
April 4
Indy Eleven vs. Louisville City FC
April 11
Louisville City FC vs. Birmingham Legion FC
May 6
Loudoun United FC vs. Charlotte Independence
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.ktrs.com/saint-louis-fc-names-steve-trittschuh-new-coach/
ST. LOUIS, Mo. – Saint Louis FC announced the appointment of Steve Trittschuh as the club’s new head coach for the 2020 USL Championship season.
Trittschuh was born in Granite City, Illinois and attended Southern Illinois University Edwardsville where he was inducted into the SIUE Athletic Hall of Fame in 2011. He began his professional career for the St. Louis Steamers in 1987 and would represent the United States in the 1988 Seoul Summer Olympics before signing with the Tampa Bay Rowdies. Trittschuh played for the U.S. Men’s National Team in the 1990 FIFA World Cup and then signed with Czechoslovakia club Sparta Prague where he made 13 appearances and scored one goal in a season culminating with a league championship. He would also become the first American to play in the European Cup, the predecessor to the UEFA Champions League. Stints with the Tampa Bay Rowdies, St. Louis Ambush, and Montreal Impact would follow before Trittschuh signed with the Colorado Rapids in 1996. He would make 98 appearances and score 11 goals for the club before finishing his playing career at the Tampa Bay Mutiny in 2001. In total, Trittschuh made 317 club appearances and scored 39 goals while also making 37 international appearances with two goals scored before starting a coaching career as an assistant with the Colorado Rapids in 2002.
“Steve’s experience as a player and coach in the USL Championship, MLS and the U.S. National Team is difficult to find,” added Barry. “He brings intensity, discipline and a commitment to success in everything he does. We are excited to see what he can do with our rebuilt roster in 2020.”
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.bundesliga.com/en/bundesliga/news/eintracht-frankfurt-hertha-berlin-live-line-ups-stats-klinsmann-trapp-silva-9130
BUNDESLIGA
Eintracht Frankfurt vs. Hertha Berlin: probable line-ups, match stats and LIVE blog!
Jurgen Klinsmann could hand a debut to new signing Santiago Ascacibar when Hertha Berlin face Bundesliga rivals Eintracht Frankfurt in the Florida Cup curtain-raiser at Tampa Bay Rowdies' Al Lang Stadium on Thursday (1am CET/12am GMT/7pm ET - 1day).
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/10683903/bale-beckham-real-madrid-miami/
OH MI, GARETH Real Madrid ‘find Gareth Bale transfer buyer’ with David Beckham’s Inter Miami leading race
(Follow link for full article.)
https://whoradio.iheart.com/content/2020-01-01-city-of-des-moines-bullish-on-plan-for-soccer-stadium/
City of Des Moines bullish on plan for soccer stadium
(Follow link for full article.)
https://theathletic.com/1513712/2020/01/06/why-there-arent-more-players-making-the-jump-from-usl-to-mls/
Why there aren’t more players making the jump from USL to MLS
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.wncw.org/post/professional-soccer-coming-charlotte
Professional Soccer Coming to Charlotte
(Follow link for full article.)
https://ussoccerplayers.com/2020/01/inter-miami-surprises-by-hiring-diego-alonso.html
INTER MIAMI SURPRISES BY HIRING DIEGO ALONSO
(Follow link for full article.)
https://news.stlpublicradio.org/post/mls-project-didn-t-get-missouri-s-approval-tax-credits-2019-what-about-2020#stream/0
MLS Project Didn’t Get Missouri’s Approval For Tax Credits In 2019, But What About 2020?
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.thecharlottepost.com/news/2020/01/06/qcfc/charlotte-soccer-gala-celebrates-sport-s-homegrown-reach/
Charlotte Soccer Gala celebrates sport's homegrown reach
Charlotte MLS exec Tom Glick is keynoter
(Follow link for full article.)
https://patch.com/florida/stpete/installation-echelman-sculpture-st-pete-pier-underway
Installation Of Echelman Sculpture At St. Pete Pier Underway
Additionally, Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grill is now accepting applications for employment at its St. Pete Pier restaurant.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.frontrowsoccer.com/2020/01/05/remembering-the-nasl-defunct-leagues-draft-certainly-had-its-moments/
REMEMBERING THE NASL: Defunct league’s draft certainly had its moments
Former MetroStars and Red Bulls GM and president Alexi Lalas (right), pictured by former head coach Mo Johnston, was drafted by the same NPSL team in consecutive seasons and did not sign with them both times.
This week FrontRowSoccer.com kicks off a special series before Thursday’s MLS SuperDraft. The first part is about a remembrance of a league that helped laid the groundwork for today’s MLS — the North American Soccer League.
The last North American Soccer League draft took place more than three decades ago, which is more than generation in the past.
Due to the process of Americanization of the league, in which teams originally were required to have at least one U.S. player — native or naturalized — in the lineup at all times, it certainly made for some, ahem, interesting drafts.
Here are some of the more tasty morsels of one of the more colorful periods in American soccer history.
The first man
Defender Alain Maca, son of Joe Maca, who played for the U.S. in its 1-0 upset of England in the 1950 World Cup, was the NASL’s first draft choice ever — on Feb. 9, 1972 — by the Miami Gatos, the forerunners of the Fort Lauderdale Strikers. His NASL career was an undistinguished one, scoring one goal in 41 games over three seasons. Maca, a Brockport State graduate, also played two seasons in the American Soccer League. The Gatos, incidentally, took Maca over Kyle Rote and Shep Messing.
“It was flattering being drafted first,” Maca said years later. “It was a nice feeling at the time. I didn’t get rich from it. But I guess being No. 1 was my reward.”
In 1979, Maca had some advice for players: “If you seriously consider being a soccer player, forget college. You lose four years. When you’re 21 or 22, you should be ready to play. It took some players nearly five years to develop. Others never did.”
The first woman
The Chicago Sting selected Marilyn Lange, Playboy’s 1975 Playmate of the Year, in the fourth and final round of the 1976 draft. Lange, who played soccer in her native Hawaii, never played a minute for the Sting.
“I wouldn’t want to play against the guys the Sting play,” she said. “They’re too rough.”
Lost in the publicity for Lange was the fact the Tampa Bay Rowdies also selected a woman — B.J. Woodward of North Carolina in the fourth round.
The shadow
On Jan. 14, 1976, the Rochester Lancers (NASL) drafted Jim Pollihan, Dale Rothe, Terry Lippman and Steve Cacciatore in that order. A week later, the Los Angeles Skyhawks picked these players in the same order in the American Soccer League draft: Pollihan, Rothe, Lippman and Cacciatore. Hmmm, coincidence or a plot by then Skyhawks coach Ron Newman?
“That’s a compliment to the Lancers,” he said. “I always draft good ones . . . Let’s face it. They have a better chance to play here.”
The Lancers signed Pollihan, who enjoyed a long career in pro soccer (he wound up as the general manager of the Harrisburg Heat) and Lippman, while the fate of Rothe and Cacciatore was not known.
The trade
How much is a draft pick worth? Well, to the 1974 NASL champion Los Angeles Aztecs, it was worth seven players. That’s right, the Aztecs dealt away seven players from their championship team to the expansion San Antonio Thunder for the team’s first pick — second overall — in the 1975 draft and two future first-round draft choices. Aztecs coach Alex Perolli moved to the Thunder after that championship season.
Was it worth it?
UCLA forward Sergio Velasquez, the pick, had a rather disappointing career, scoring two goals and setting up four others over 21 games in three seasons with the Aztecs and Seattle Sounders. The Thunder finished at 6-16, and Perolli was eventually fired. Five players wound up on the Thunder roster. For the record, the seven players for which he was traded: goalkeeper Blas Sanchez, midfielders Luis Marotte and Pedro Martinez and forwards Peter Filotis and Yeprem Nersepian.
Cloak and dagger
The hottest player at the 1980 draft could have been forward Darryl Gee of Oakland Mills High School in Baltimore, who scored 52 goals in 31 games over his final two high school seasons. The University of Tampa brought Gee into town (ironically, the site of the draft) for a visit and hid him from the press. The New York Cosmos were so sure that no one would know about Gee and were ready to draft him early. But the Minnesota Kicks threw the Cosmos a curve and drafted Gee.
Before Project 40
Almost a generation before Project 40, NASL clubs were allowed to draft high school players, although only a handful of them ever made an impact. A total of 21 high school players were selected among the first 95 picks. In fact, the youngest player taken in the 1980 draft was David James, a defender from Richardson High School in suburban Dallas. He was 16 years and four months old on draft day in December 1979.
Some things never change
With all that wheeling and dealing of draft picks for the MLS SuperDraft, well, the league is following a tradition leftover from NASL days. For the 1980 draft, 13 of the 24 first-round picks were either dealt or sold before the draft. Fort Lauderdale originally owned the 18th selection in the first round. The team dealt it to the Aztecs, who traded it to the Tulsa Roughnecks, who sent it to the California Surf, which dealt it to the Tampa Bay Rowdies.
Double coverage
OK, OK, it’s not the NASL, but rather the National Professional Soccer League. Yet, this item was too good to ignore. Former U.S. international and MLS defender and ex-MetroStars/Red Bulls president and general manager Alexi Lalas was drafted by the same NPSL team in consecutive seasons. The Detroit Rockers selected the Birmingham, Michigan, native in the 1992 amateur territorial draft. He didn’t sign, so the Rockers again drafted Lalas in the territorial round of the 1993 draft. He didn’t sign that time, either.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.foxsports.com.my/football/transfer-buzz/134783/reports-manchester-united-arsenal-among-clubs-interested-in-signing-mls-wonderkid/
Reports: Manchester United, Arsenal among clubs interested in signing MLS wonderkid
Reports from various sources have claimed that Premier League giants Manchester United and Arsenal are interested in signing Major League Soccer (MLS) club Atlanta United’s Ezequiel Barco.
According to Golazo, a source from the USA has claimed that Serie A sides Inter Milan and AS Roma, and Portuguese Primeira Liga club Sporting CP are also keeping tabs on the player.
Check out the tweet shared right below:
(Follow link for full article.)
https://theathletic.com/1513621/2020/01/06/sources-fc-cincinnati-to-sign-japan-international-yuya-kubo-as-a-designated-player/
Sources: FC Cincinnati to sign Japan international Yuya Kubo as a designated player
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/ekyq8t/rowdies_first_3_games_of_2020_announced/
Rowdies first 3 games of 2020 announced
Who's going to Miami? It's a Friday...but it's a Friday the 13th!
WE ALL GOIN TO MIAMI
(though seriously, we all need to go to Miami)
I'm totally going. It's the Friday before I go on Spring Break and I won't have any students, just have to have grades finished and entered & that won't be a problem.
MOB ON TOUUUURRR
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.uslchampionship.com/news_article/show/1075640
USL Championship Announces 2020 Home Openers
10TH SEASON TO KICK OFF MARCH 6 WITH 16 GAMES SLATED FOR OPENING WEEKEND
TAMPA, Fla. – The United Soccer League today announced the home openers for all 35 clubs in the USL Championship, with the league’s 10th anniversary season set to kick off on Friday, March 6.
The 2020 campaign opens with a Friday doubleheader that will feature three teams that reached the postseason in the Western Conference last season, with Orange County SC set to host El Paso Locomotive FC in the opening game at Championship Stadium in California before Tacoma Defiance takes on Reno 1868 FC at Cheney Stadium.
The first Saturday of the season contains plenty to watch for, too, with perennial playoff contenders North Carolina FC hosting Louisville City FC and the New York Red Bulls II hosting the Tampa Bay Rowdies. In the Western Conference, Real Monarchs SLC will open its title defense on the road against San Antonio FC, while two sides that reached the postseason in their inaugural seasons will kick off their second campaigns when Austin Bold FC hosts New Mexico United.
The weekend’s marquee matchup arrives late on Saturday night when expansion side San Diego Loyal SC, led by Landon Donovan, hosts Las Vegas Lights FC and Head Coach Eric Wynalda as the former U.S. Men’s National Team legends square off on the sidelines for the first time.
Other notable home openers include the first game at home for defending champion Real Monarchs SLC, which welcomes 2019 Regular Season Title-Winner Phoenix Rising FC to Zions Bank Stadium on Saturday, March 14, while Miami FC and the Tampa Bay Rowdies will meet for the first time in the USL Championship on Friday, March 13 at Riccardo Silva Stadium.
Louisville City FC will be the visitor for two early 2019 Eastern Conference playoff rematches as it visits Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC on Saturday, March 21 at Highmark Stadium and then takes on Indy Eleven on April 4 at Lucas Oil Stadium. The two-time champion will then open its new 11,700-seat Lynn Family Stadium on Saturday, April 11 as it plays host to Birmingham Legion FC, kicking off a new era for the club as it aims to reach the USL Championship Final for an unprecedented fourth consecutive season.
2020 USL CHAMPIONSHIP HOME OPENERS
March 6
Orange County SC vs. El Paso Locomotive FC
Tacoma Defiance vs. Reno 1868 FC
March 7
Austin Bold FC vs. New Mexico United
Memphis 901 FC vs. Indy Eleven
New York Red Bulls II vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies
North Carolina FC vs. Louisville City FC
OKC Energy FC vs. Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC
Philadelphia Union II vs. Loudoun United FC
Phoenix Rising FC vs. Portland Timbers 2
Sacramento Republic FC vs. FC Tulsa
Saint Louis FC vs. Miami FC
San Antonio FC vs. Real Monarchs SLC
San Diego Loyal SC vs. Las Vegas Lights FC
March 8
ATL UTD 2 vs. Charleston Battery
Rio Grande Valley FC vs. LA Galaxy II
Sporting Kansas City II vs. Charlotte Independence
March 13
LA Galaxy II vs. Austin Bold FC
Miami FC vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies
March 14
Charlotte Independence vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC
Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC vs. San Antonio FC
El Paso Locomotive FC vs. Portland Timbers 2
FC Tulsa vs. New Mexico United
Las Vegas Lights FC vs. Sacramento Republic FC
Real Monarchs SLC vs. Phoenix Rising FC
Reno 1868 FC vs. OKC Energy FC
March 15
Birmingham Legion FC vs. Charleston Battery
March 21
Hartford Athletic vs. Charleston Battery
New Mexico United vs. El Paso Locomotive FC
Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC vs. Louisville City FC
Tampa Bay Rowdies vs. North Carolina FC
March 22
Portland Timbers 2 vs. Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC
March 28
Charleston Battery vs. Philadelphia Union II
April 4
Indy Eleven vs. Louisville City FC
April 11
Louisville City FC vs. Birmingham Legion FC
May 6
Loudoun United FC vs. Charlotte Independence
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.ktrs.com/saint-louis-fc-names-steve-trittschuh-new-coach/
ST. LOUIS, Mo. – Saint Louis FC announced the appointment of Steve Trittschuh as the club’s new head coach for the 2020 USL Championship season.
Trittschuh was born in Granite City, Illinois and attended Southern Illinois University Edwardsville where he was inducted into the SIUE Athletic Hall of Fame in 2011. He began his professional career for the St. Louis Steamers in 1987 and would represent the United States in the 1988 Seoul Summer Olympics before signing with the Tampa Bay Rowdies. Trittschuh played for the U.S. Men’s National Team in the 1990 FIFA World Cup and then signed with Czechoslovakia club Sparta Prague where he made 13 appearances and scored one goal in a season culminating with a league championship. He would also become the first American to play in the European Cup, the predecessor to the UEFA Champions League. Stints with the Tampa Bay Rowdies, St. Louis Ambush, and Montreal Impact would follow before Trittschuh signed with the Colorado Rapids in 1996. He would make 98 appearances and score 11 goals for the club before finishing his playing career at the Tampa Bay Mutiny in 2001. In total, Trittschuh made 317 club appearances and scored 39 goals while also making 37 international appearances with two goals scored before starting a coaching career as an assistant with the Colorado Rapids in 2002.
“Steve’s experience as a player and coach in the USL Championship, MLS and the U.S. National Team is difficult to find,” added Barry. “He brings intensity, discipline and a commitment to success in everything he does. We are excited to see what he can do with our rebuilt roster in 2020.”
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.bundesliga.com/en/bundesliga/news/eintracht-frankfurt-hertha-berlin-live-line-ups-stats-klinsmann-trapp-silva-9130
BUNDESLIGA
Eintracht Frankfurt vs. Hertha Berlin: probable line-ups, match stats and LIVE blog!
Jurgen Klinsmann could hand a debut to new signing Santiago Ascacibar when Hertha Berlin face Bundesliga rivals Eintracht Frankfurt in the Florida Cup curtain-raiser at Tampa Bay Rowdies' Al Lang Stadium on Thursday (1am CET/12am GMT/7pm ET - 1day).
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/10683903/bale-beckham-real-madrid-miami/
OH MI, GARETH Real Madrid ‘find Gareth Bale transfer buyer’ with David Beckham’s Inter Miami leading race
(Follow link for full article.)
https://whoradio.iheart.com/content/2020-01-01-city-of-des-moines-bullish-on-plan-for-soccer-stadium/
City of Des Moines bullish on plan for soccer stadium
(Follow link for full article.)
https://theathletic.com/1513712/2020/01/06/why-there-arent-more-players-making-the-jump-from-usl-to-mls/
Why there aren’t more players making the jump from USL to MLS
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.wncw.org/post/professional-soccer-coming-charlotte
Professional Soccer Coming to Charlotte
(Follow link for full article.)
https://ussoccerplayers.com/2020/01/inter-miami-surprises-by-hiring-diego-alonso.html
INTER MIAMI SURPRISES BY HIRING DIEGO ALONSO
(Follow link for full article.)
https://news.stlpublicradio.org/post/mls-project-didn-t-get-missouri-s-approval-tax-credits-2019-what-about-2020#stream/0
MLS Project Didn’t Get Missouri’s Approval For Tax Credits In 2019, But What About 2020?
(Follow link for full article.)
http://www.thecharlottepost.com/news/2020/01/06/qcfc/charlotte-soccer-gala-celebrates-sport-s-homegrown-reach/
Charlotte Soccer Gala celebrates sport's homegrown reach
Charlotte MLS exec Tom Glick is keynoter
(Follow link for full article.)
https://patch.com/florida/stpete/installation-echelman-sculpture-st-pete-pier-underway
Installation Of Echelman Sculpture At St. Pete Pier Underway
Additionally, Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grill is now accepting applications for employment at its St. Pete Pier restaurant.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.frontrowsoccer.com/2020/01/05/remembering-the-nasl-defunct-leagues-draft-certainly-had-its-moments/
REMEMBERING THE NASL: Defunct league’s draft certainly had its moments
Former MetroStars and Red Bulls GM and president Alexi Lalas (right), pictured by former head coach Mo Johnston, was drafted by the same NPSL team in consecutive seasons and did not sign with them both times.
This week FrontRowSoccer.com kicks off a special series before Thursday’s MLS SuperDraft. The first part is about a remembrance of a league that helped laid the groundwork for today’s MLS — the North American Soccer League.
The last North American Soccer League draft took place more than three decades ago, which is more than generation in the past.
Due to the process of Americanization of the league, in which teams originally were required to have at least one U.S. player — native or naturalized — in the lineup at all times, it certainly made for some, ahem, interesting drafts.
Here are some of the more tasty morsels of one of the more colorful periods in American soccer history.
The first man
Defender Alain Maca, son of Joe Maca, who played for the U.S. in its 1-0 upset of England in the 1950 World Cup, was the NASL’s first draft choice ever — on Feb. 9, 1972 — by the Miami Gatos, the forerunners of the Fort Lauderdale Strikers. His NASL career was an undistinguished one, scoring one goal in 41 games over three seasons. Maca, a Brockport State graduate, also played two seasons in the American Soccer League. The Gatos, incidentally, took Maca over Kyle Rote and Shep Messing.
“It was flattering being drafted first,” Maca said years later. “It was a nice feeling at the time. I didn’t get rich from it. But I guess being No. 1 was my reward.”
In 1979, Maca had some advice for players: “If you seriously consider being a soccer player, forget college. You lose four years. When you’re 21 or 22, you should be ready to play. It took some players nearly five years to develop. Others never did.”
The first woman
The Chicago Sting selected Marilyn Lange, Playboy’s 1975 Playmate of the Year, in the fourth and final round of the 1976 draft. Lange, who played soccer in her native Hawaii, never played a minute for the Sting.
“I wouldn’t want to play against the guys the Sting play,” she said. “They’re too rough.”
Lost in the publicity for Lange was the fact the Tampa Bay Rowdies also selected a woman — B.J. Woodward of North Carolina in the fourth round.
The shadow
On Jan. 14, 1976, the Rochester Lancers (NASL) drafted Jim Pollihan, Dale Rothe, Terry Lippman and Steve Cacciatore in that order. A week later, the Los Angeles Skyhawks picked these players in the same order in the American Soccer League draft: Pollihan, Rothe, Lippman and Cacciatore. Hmmm, coincidence or a plot by then Skyhawks coach Ron Newman?
“That’s a compliment to the Lancers,” he said. “I always draft good ones . . . Let’s face it. They have a better chance to play here.”
The Lancers signed Pollihan, who enjoyed a long career in pro soccer (he wound up as the general manager of the Harrisburg Heat) and Lippman, while the fate of Rothe and Cacciatore was not known.
The trade
How much is a draft pick worth? Well, to the 1974 NASL champion Los Angeles Aztecs, it was worth seven players. That’s right, the Aztecs dealt away seven players from their championship team to the expansion San Antonio Thunder for the team’s first pick — second overall — in the 1975 draft and two future first-round draft choices. Aztecs coach Alex Perolli moved to the Thunder after that championship season.
Was it worth it?
UCLA forward Sergio Velasquez, the pick, had a rather disappointing career, scoring two goals and setting up four others over 21 games in three seasons with the Aztecs and Seattle Sounders. The Thunder finished at 6-16, and Perolli was eventually fired. Five players wound up on the Thunder roster. For the record, the seven players for which he was traded: goalkeeper Blas Sanchez, midfielders Luis Marotte and Pedro Martinez and forwards Peter Filotis and Yeprem Nersepian.
Cloak and dagger
The hottest player at the 1980 draft could have been forward Darryl Gee of Oakland Mills High School in Baltimore, who scored 52 goals in 31 games over his final two high school seasons. The University of Tampa brought Gee into town (ironically, the site of the draft) for a visit and hid him from the press. The New York Cosmos were so sure that no one would know about Gee and were ready to draft him early. But the Minnesota Kicks threw the Cosmos a curve and drafted Gee.
Before Project 40
Almost a generation before Project 40, NASL clubs were allowed to draft high school players, although only a handful of them ever made an impact. A total of 21 high school players were selected among the first 95 picks. In fact, the youngest player taken in the 1980 draft was David James, a defender from Richardson High School in suburban Dallas. He was 16 years and four months old on draft day in December 1979.
Some things never change
With all that wheeling and dealing of draft picks for the MLS SuperDraft, well, the league is following a tradition leftover from NASL days. For the 1980 draft, 13 of the 24 first-round picks were either dealt or sold before the draft. Fort Lauderdale originally owned the 18th selection in the first round. The team dealt it to the Aztecs, who traded it to the Tulsa Roughnecks, who sent it to the California Surf, which dealt it to the Tampa Bay Rowdies.
Double coverage
OK, OK, it’s not the NASL, but rather the National Professional Soccer League. Yet, this item was too good to ignore. Former U.S. international and MLS defender and ex-MetroStars/Red Bulls president and general manager Alexi Lalas was drafted by the same NPSL team in consecutive seasons. The Detroit Rockers selected the Birmingham, Michigan, native in the 1992 amateur territorial draft. He didn’t sign, so the Rockers again drafted Lalas in the territorial round of the 1993 draft. He didn’t sign that time, either.
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https://www.foxsports.com.my/football/transfer-buzz/134783/reports-manchester-united-arsenal-among-clubs-interested-in-signing-mls-wonderkid/
Reports: Manchester United, Arsenal among clubs interested in signing MLS wonderkid
Reports from various sources have claimed that Premier League giants Manchester United and Arsenal are interested in signing Major League Soccer (MLS) club Atlanta United’s Ezequiel Barco.
According to Golazo, a source from the USA has claimed that Serie A sides Inter Milan and AS Roma, and Portuguese Primeira Liga club Sporting CP are also keeping tabs on the player.
Check out the tweet shared right below:
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https://theathletic.com/1513621/2020/01/06/sources-fc-cincinnati-to-sign-japan-international-yuya-kubo-as-a-designated-player/
Sources: FC Cincinnati to sign Japan international Yuya Kubo as a designated player
Sunday, January 5, 2020
[BBC Sport] Neill Collins: Roy Keane, Joe Cole & managing in Florida
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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/ejyw5z/bbc_sport_neill_collins_roy_keane_joe_cole/
[BBC Sport] Neill Collins: Roy Keane, Joe Cole & managing in Florida
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https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/amp/football/50966917
Neill Collins: Roy Keane, Joe Cole & managing in Florida
Now 36, he is in charge of the Tampa Bay Rowdies in the second tier of North American football, a role he assumed in the blink of an eye with a glowing endorsement from Joe Cole.
'It was quite strange to leave Joe Cole out'
Since he was a boy, Collins had visited Florida with his parents, first to their holiday home, then as he grew older and started a family, a second house of his own. He would watch the Rowdies, formed 11 years ago, on his trips over, and jumped at the chance to sign for the club in the USL Championship.
Before long, he was captain, Cole was his team-mate and confidant. Then the manager got sacked and within a week, he was offered the job in May 2018.
"Joe Cole put my name forward to be manager," Collins says. "It was quite strange to go from playing beside Joe to then coaching him and leaving him out at times but there's a great respect for each other and we're still very good friends.
"He's won Premier League titles, played in Champions League finals, won 50-odd caps for England, but he was so humble. He did a great job of looking after the lads and trying to act as a leader without shoving it in anyone's face."
Image copyright GETTY IMAGES Joe Cole played under Collins at Tampa Bay Rowdies before taking an academy coaching role at Chelsea
Image caption Joe Cole played under Collins at Tampa Bay Rowdies before taking an academy coaching role at Chelsea
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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/ej2wlb/rowdies_hire_kevin_foley_as_assistant_coach/
Rowdies Hire Kevin Foley as Assistant Coach (formerly Wolves academy); Martin Paterson and Cheyne Roberts departures
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https://www.rowdiessoccer.com/news_article/show/1074891
ROWDIES HIRE KEVIN FOLEY AS ASSISTANT COACH
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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/eicx7h/looks_like_the_rowdies_u23_are_making_a_return_to/
Looks like the Rowdies U23 are making a return to USL League Two
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https://twitter.com/unusedsubspod/status/1211680357306847233?s=21
The ⭐ Unused ⭐ Substitutes ⚽ Show 🎙️
@UnusedSubsPod
Another
@USLLeagueTwo
Rowdies U23 sighting...
11:08 AM · Dec 30, 2019·Twitter for Android
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https://www.revolutionsoccer.net/schedule
2020 SCHEDULE
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/man-citys-david-silva-secures-21217081
Man City’s David Silva secures ‘verbal agreement’ with David Beckham’s Inter Miami
David Silva is leaving Manchester City when his contract expires in the summer and David Beckham's Inter Miami outfit are in talks to bring him to the MLS
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https://internetshots.com/2020/01/04/david-beckham-set-to-nominate-tony-pulis-son-as-assistant-supervisor-at-inter-miami/
David Beckham set to nominate Tony Pulis’ son as assistant supervisor at Inter Miami
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https://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/paper-talk-man-utd-maddison-move/175835
Sunday's Paper Talk: The latest football transfer news and gossip including Maddison, Rodriguez and Eriksen
Pedro may have to give up on a return to Barcelona from Chelsea as the winger looks set to move to David Beckham's Inter Miami.
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https://www.frontrowsoccer.com/2020/01/05/remembering-the-nasl-defunct-leagues-draft-certainly-had-its-moments/
REMEMBERING THE NASL: Defunct league’s draft certainly had its moments
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https://fox2now.com/2020/01/04/us-mens-soccer-team-cancels-plan-to-train-in-qatar/
US men’s soccer team cancels plan to train in Qatar
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https://www.hometownstations.com/sports/nationalsports/update-on-the-latest-sports/article_fb14b23a-2967-58bb-9886-dab87613a32c.html
Update on the latest sports
SOCCER-US CANCELS QATAR CAMP
US men's soccer team cancels plan to train in Qatar
CHICAGO (AP) — The U.S. men’s soccer team has canceled its plan to train in Doha, Qatar, from Jan. 5-25 “due to the developing situation in the region.”
The U.S. Soccer Federation announced the decision Friday, a day after a U.S. military air strike killed a top Iranian military commander.
The Americans will move training to a site in the United States that has not yet been determined. They will be use a roster of players mostly from Major League Soccer ahead of an exhibition against Costa Rica on Feb. 1 in Carson, California.
The USSF said it hopes to train in the future at Qatar, host of the 2022 World Cup.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.times-news.com/sports/local_sports/saturday-s-sports-roundup/article_2beb0fdc-f302-5f78-92f8-64767bf5963e.html
Saturday's Sports Roundup
U.S. men’s team won’t train in Qatar
CHICAGO (AP) — The U.S. men’s soccer team has canceled its plan to train in Doha, Qatar, from Jan. 5-25 “due to the developing situation in the region.”
The U.S. Soccer Federation announced the decision Friday, a day after a U.S. military air strike killed a top Iranian military commander.
The Americans will move training to a site in the United States that has not yet been determined. They will be use a roster of players mostly from Major League Soccer ahead of an exhibition against Costa Rica on Feb. 1 at Carson, California.
The USSF said it hopes to train in the future at Qatar, host of the 2022 World Cup.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/jan/03/usmnt-soccer-camp-qatar-canceled-iran
USA men's soccer team cancel Qatar camp amid Middle East tensions
USSF cancel January camp due to ‘developing situation’ in area
USMNT are set to prepare for Feburary friendly with Costa Rica
Federation says it hopes to return to Qatar to train in the future
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https://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/article/SOCCER-Former-SIUE-All-America-Trittschuh-is-14949448.php
SOCCER: Former SIUE All-America Trittschuh is STLFC’s new coach
“I wish (MLS) had gotten started a little earlier,” Trittschuh said. “I would have had more years.”
Not that the years prior were dull.
Beginning in 1987, Trittschuh played for:
The St. Louis Steamers, Busch Soccer Club Seniors, Tampa Bay Rowdies, Sparta Prague in Czechoslovakia, the Rowdies again, SVV Dordrecht in Holland, Tampa Bay again, the Fort Lauderdale Strikers, St. Louis Ambush, the Montreal Impact, the Tampa Bay Terror and finally the Colorado Rapids and Tampa Bay of MLS.
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https://www.foxsports.com.my/football/major-league-soccer/134111/reports-david-beckham-set-to-appoint-son-of-former-premier-league-manager-as-inter-miami-head-coach/
Reports: David Beckham set to appoint son of former Premier League manager as Inter Miami assistant coach
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https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2020/01/04/these-are-international-leagues-mls-gms-are-mining-talent-winter
These are the international leagues MLS GMs are mining talent from this winter
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https://hoodline.com/2020/01/tampa-s-5-top-spots-for-low-priced-barbecue
Tampa's 5 top spots for low-priced barbecue
BJ's Alabama BBQ | Sarge's Smokehouse Bbq | Big John's Alabama Bar-B-Q | Ice Cream's Delicious Turkey Legs & BBQ | Georgia Boy Bbq
Need more barbecue in your life?
Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the best affordable barbecue sources in Tampa, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of where to venture when cravings strike.
1. BJ's Alabama BBQ
Topping the list is BJ's Alabama BBQ. Located at 3423 S. Dale Mabry Highway in Virginia Park, the spot to score barbecue and more is the highest-rated inexpensive barbecue spot in Tampa, boasting 4.5 stars out of 125 reviews on Yelp.
Curious to know more about the business? Owner April Moreno explains "my father's restaurant, Big John's Alabama BBQ, inspired me to continue the family tradition," per the bio section of the business's Yelp profile. This spot offers barbecue chicken and rib, pulled pork and smoked sausage. Try the two-meat platter with your choice of meats and sides like collard greens and potato salad plus white bread.
2. Sarge's Smokehouse Bbq
Next up is North Hyde Park's Sarge's Smokehouse Bbq, situated at 1500 W. Cass St. With 4.5 stars out of 50 reviews on Yelp, the food truck and smokehouse, which offers barbecue and more, has proven to be a local favorite for those looking for a budget-friendly option.
Brandie M, who reviewed Sarge's Smokehouse Bbq on Nov. 19, noted, "The barbecue here tends to lean towards the sweet versus the savory. It's all delicious! The baked beans are rather unique with chunks of meat, a variety of beans and pineapple. Trust me, it really works. I've tried the pork, chicken and brisket."
3. Big John's Alabama Bar-B-Q
Northeast's Big John's Alabama Bar-B-Q, located at 5707 N. 40th St., is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the cheap spot to score barbecue and more four stars out of 92 reviews.
Yelper Bob N. wrote, "There is no better place for barbecue in Tampa, and I have tried a lot. The open-pit grill, paired with Big John's signature sauce, is guaranteed to leave your hands finger-licking delicious."
Try the sweet potato pie and pound cake for dessert.
4. Ice Cream's Delicious Turkey Legs & BBQ
Ice Cream's Delicious Turkey Legs & BBQ, a food truck that offers barbecue and more in East Tampa, is another much-loved, affordable go-to, with 4.5 stars out of 14 Yelp reviews. Head over to 5112 N. 22nd St. to see for yourself.
Yelper Brett N. wrote, "I finally tried the turkey legs. I love the ribs so much here that it was tough to stray from them. But I was in the mood for a turkey leg, so I went for it! This truck is one of the best kept secrets in Tampa Bay."
5. Georgia Boy Bbq
Over in Ybor City, check out Georgia Boy Bbq, which has earned four stars out of 17 reviews on Yelp. Dig in at the food truck, which offers barbecue and more, by heading over to 898 E. Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd.
Yelper Janet Z., who reviewed Georgia Boy Bbq on Nov. 11 wrote, "Best barbecue I have had a in a long time! Great smoky flavor, tart mustard sauce."
Try the ribs and chicken smothered with tangy barbecue sauce with baked beans and mac and cheese on the side.
This story was created automatically using local business data, then reviewed and augmented by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.
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https://www.businessobserverfl.com/article/tampa-bay-rays-montreal-future-ron-christaldi
Baseball franchise's cloudy future in region grows darker
As 2020 arrives, the Tampa Bay Rays' tenure in St. Petersburg is in peril. Several business community leaders hope to rally the team to stay in town — full time.
Eight years … 96 months … 417 weeks … 2,920 days … two presidential terms — any way you slice it, eight years seems like a long time.
But in the context of St. Petersburg’s relationship with the Tampa Bay Rays and how long it would take to secure a new stadium for the Major League Baseball team, eight years has begun to look like eight too few.
10 for 20
Issue: Tampa Bay Rays stadium post-Tropicana Field.
Executive: Ron Christaldi
Why he matters: Christaldi is a leader of Tampa Bay Rays 2020, a group of community and business leaders who want to keep Major League Baseball in the Tampa Bay region for generations to come.
The Rays’ Tropicana Field lease expires in 2027 — after which the team would be free to decamp to baseball-hungry Portland; Las Vegas; Raleigh, N.C.; or north of the border in Montreal. Montreal has already been courting the team as part of a radical plan that would see the Rays become a part-time Tampa Bay resident, playing the first half of the MLB season in Florida before heading north for the summer.
Rays majority owner Stu Sternberg has aggressively pushed the split-season plan as the only way to save Major League Baseball in the Tampa Bay region, calling for new, open-air stadiums to be built in both cities. He seeks to put the plan into action in time for the 2024 or 2025 season.
“I like Montreal — it’s a great city,” says Tampa attorney Ron Christaldi, a leading advocate for moving the Rays to Tampa. “But I don’t see a whole lot of connectivity between Montreal and Tampa. I haven't seen any fiscal analysis, so I don't know really whether it's plausible or not. But it doesn't seem to me to be the best choice.”
Christaldi, a partner at Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick LLP, is one of the leaders of Tampa Bay Rays 2020, a group of professionals who want to galvanize support for keeping the team in the Tampa Bay region, full time, for generations to come. The group backed a plan to build a domed stadium in Ybor City that would cost $892 million. But the deal collapsed in December 2018, days before the closure of the team’s three-year window granted by the St. Petersburg City Council and Mayor Rick Kriseman to search for a new home.
“I think 2020 is the year that the Rays’ future gets charted,” Christaldi says. “There’s been a long pause, but now everybody needs to roll up their sleeves, figuratively break bread again and say, ‘OK, we’ve got this.’”
“I like Montreal — it’s a great city. But I don’t see a whole lot of connectivity between Montreal and Tampa.” Ron Christaldi, a Tampa attorney and leader of Tampa Bay Rays 2020
However, Kriseman announced in early December that St. Petersburg would not allow the Rays to pursue the split-season plan prior to 2027. That provoked Sternberg: He says the team believes in the Montreal arrangement and will prepare to execute it in 2028. Rays officials have declined to comment publicly on the stadium situation, save for Sternberg's comments on the Montreal plan.
“Splitting the Rays season is a loss for this community,” Christaldi says. “It may make sense financially for the Rays. It may be ultimately what happens, but it's a loss for the community … to lose a professional sports team, even half time, is a loss.”
A rendering of the proposed $892 million Tampa Bay Rays stadium in Ybor City. Tampa leaders say the ballpark plan remains viable despite the Rays pulling the plug on a deal in December 2018. Courtesy photo.
Christaldi remains hopeful, though, and says the Ybor City stadium deal could be revived. Tampa has a new mayor in Jane Castor and new faces on city council that could bring fresh eyes and ideas — assuming Sternberg will agree to drop the Montreal plan. And Kriseman, though not budging on the Trop lease, has signaled a willingness to again let the team explore sites across the bay if that’s what it takes to keep baseball in the region.
The attorney also says stadium funding isn’t the deal killer that it was thought to be. By Christaldi’s calculations, the shortfall was somewhere around $80 million.
“Eighty million dollars is nothing to sneeze at,” he says. “But it’s not an insurmountable thing. It’s not a reason not to do a deal, particularly now, when we have a new governor who played baseball at Yale. He’s a baseball guy. I don’t know that the state would commit anything, but even if you got $1 million a year for 30 years, that’s $30 million toward your $80 million.”
Tampa Bay Rays 2020 lined up $16 million in annual corporate commitments that could be used to help finance the Ybor City stadium. But many other potential donors shied away, not wanting to throw dollars at a hypothetical project.
“There was a reticence until there was an expression by the government and the Rays that they were going to do it," Christaldi says. "No big brand wants to be a founder of something that goes on to fail or something that becomes a political pariah.”
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.einnews.com/pr_news/506312880/james-joyce-irish-pub-eatery-wins-numerous-prestigious-awards-including-coveted-tampa-bay-times-ultimate-bar-award
James Joyce Irish Pub & Eatery Wins Numerous Prestigious Awards, Including Coveted Tampa Bay Times Ultimate Bar Award
The pub is renowned on Trip Advisor and boasts some of the best burgers in America.
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https://patch.com/florida/stpete/take-virtual-tour-new-st-pete-pier
Take A Virtual Tour Of The New St. Pete Pier
The virtual tour gives residents a preview of various features of the St. Pete Pier.
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https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/st-petersburg-florida-launches-30-year-planning-project-online-survey-stpete2050/67-39b2291f-1789-4765-8921-d17565112f5d
Take the survey for St. Petersburg's new 30-year planning project
According to the city’s website, “StPete2050 is a city-wide conversation about where our city is going and what it can become over the next 30 years."
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https://patch.com/florida/stpete/sunken-gardens-celebrates-100-years-roadside-attraction
Sunken Gardens Celebrates 100 Years As Roadside Attraction
Special guests will include St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman and Ken Breslauer, author of "Florida Roadside Attractions History."
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https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2020/jan/03/diego-alonso-inter-miami-david-beckham
Who is Diego Alonso, David Beckham's new manager at Inter Miami?
For a project which is looking to the Americas rather than merely America, the well-traveled Uruguayan seems to be the perfect hire
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https://www.wane.com/sports/fort-wayne-fc-holds-mens-soccer-tryouts/
Fort Wayne FC holds men’s soccer tryouts
FORT WAYNE- The newly formed Fort Wayne FC is held their first-ever open tryouts for a spot on the 2020 roster.
Fort Wayne FC presents the highest competitive play of a men’s outdoor soccer team in Northeast Indiana. Fort Wayne FC will begin competitive play in May of 2020 in the Great Lakes Conference of the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL), a national outdoor soccer league at the fourth tier of the United States soccer pyramid.
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https://www.uslchampionship.com/news_article/show/1074945
TRANSACTIONS: San Antonio Adds Gorskie to Defense
FORMER SAFC STANDOUT FORBES JOINS AUSTIN; EL PASO BRINGS LOMIS ABOARD
New San Antonio FC signing Hunter Gorskie has competed for both the Tampa Bay Rowdies and Loudoun United FC in the Championship previously. | Photo courtesy Matt May / Tampa Bay Rowdies
SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio FC announced on Thursday it had signed defender Hunter Gorskie for the 2020 USL Championship season pending league and federation approval. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“We are excited to welcome Hunter Gorskie to the SAFC family,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “Hunter brings leadership on and off the field, championship experience, and a commitment to helping drive our culture. As a team, we seek great communicators and high tactical awareness, which Hunter demonstrates both.”
Gorskie joins SAFC after spending parts of the 2019 season with Loudoun United in the Championship, and Thisted FC in the Danish second division. Gorskie made 13 appearances with Thisted prior to joining Loudon for the tail end of the 2019 season where he made six appearances and won 20 duels.
The 28-year-old has made prior stops at the New York Cosmos, Polish club Miedz Legnica and the Championship’s Tampa Bay Rowdies. The defender spent two seasons with the Rowdies, with his most successful coming in 2018 where he served as a team captain and appeared in a team-high 34 matches, compiling 2,904 minutes played and scoring two goals.
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https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2020/01/02/mls-commissioner-don-garber-shares-message-club-supporters
MLS Commissioner Don Garber shares message with club supporters
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https://www.iol.co.za/sport/soccer/premier-league/even-old-traffords-young-are-starting-to-look-elsewhere-40081179
Even Old Trafford's young are starting to look elsewhere
Manchester United's Tahith Chong runs after the ball during their English FA Cup third round soccer match against Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Molineux Stadium in Wolverhampton, England on Saturday. Photo: Rui Vieira/AP
MANCHESTER – It used to be the case that players only left Manchester United when the club decided it was time for them to go.
David Beckham, Roy Keane, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Jaap Stam were among the United stars who were hurried through the exit once Sir Alex Ferguson decided enough was enough. Cristiano Ronaldo was a rare exception to the rule. Paul Pogba, too, when he went against Ferguson’s wishes to join Juventus in 2012.
Times have changed, however. Pogba still wants to leave — a scenario that seems increasingly likely next summer — but he is no longer alone. United do not have the pulling power of old. Just ask Erling Haaland.
Last summer, Romelu Lukaku effectively forced a move to Inter Milan after missing most of pre-season and then turning up to train with Anderlecht. And one look at the United team sheet at Molineux reminded you of more problems a little closer to home.
Star academy pupils, Tahith Chong and Angel Gomes, have picked up the club’s young player of the year award in two of the past three seasons. Yet both have so far rejected the offer of new contracts. They can leave for nothing in the summer and have been free to negotiate with foreign clubs since New Year’s Day amid interest from Juventus and Barcelona, respectively.
For a club of United’s stature — and one with such a proud tradition of promoting young talent — it has become an awkward situation. To be fair to United, neither Chong nor Gomes have made the same impact on the first team as Mason Greenwood and Brandon Williams, who both started this third-round tie.
Chong did, too, and his performance was typical of the Holland Under-21 winger — full of energy and running but lacking an end product. Gomes, 19, did not make it off the bench to add to his eight senior appearances. But the fact they are open to leaving Old Trafford is a sign of the times.
‘You’re not famous anymore,’ taunted the Wolves fans who have seen Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side fail to win on this ground in four attempts over the last nine-and-half months.
While that may not be strictly true, United no longer call all the shots.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://extra.ie/2020/01/05/sport/soccernews/beckhams-inter-miami-reach-verbal-agreement-with-premier-league-winner
Beckham’s Inter Miami reach ‘verbal agreement’ with Premier League winner
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/ejyw5z/bbc_sport_neill_collins_roy_keane_joe_cole/
[BBC Sport] Neill Collins: Roy Keane, Joe Cole & managing in Florida
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/amp/football/50966917
Neill Collins: Roy Keane, Joe Cole & managing in Florida
Now 36, he is in charge of the Tampa Bay Rowdies in the second tier of North American football, a role he assumed in the blink of an eye with a glowing endorsement from Joe Cole.
'It was quite strange to leave Joe Cole out'
Since he was a boy, Collins had visited Florida with his parents, first to their holiday home, then as he grew older and started a family, a second house of his own. He would watch the Rowdies, formed 11 years ago, on his trips over, and jumped at the chance to sign for the club in the USL Championship.
Before long, he was captain, Cole was his team-mate and confidant. Then the manager got sacked and within a week, he was offered the job in May 2018.
"Joe Cole put my name forward to be manager," Collins says. "It was quite strange to go from playing beside Joe to then coaching him and leaving him out at times but there's a great respect for each other and we're still very good friends.
"He's won Premier League titles, played in Champions League finals, won 50-odd caps for England, but he was so humble. He did a great job of looking after the lads and trying to act as a leader without shoving it in anyone's face."
Image copyright GETTY IMAGES Joe Cole played under Collins at Tampa Bay Rowdies before taking an academy coaching role at Chelsea
Image caption Joe Cole played under Collins at Tampa Bay Rowdies before taking an academy coaching role at Chelsea
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/ej2wlb/rowdies_hire_kevin_foley_as_assistant_coach/
Rowdies Hire Kevin Foley as Assistant Coach (formerly Wolves academy); Martin Paterson and Cheyne Roberts departures
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https://www.rowdiessoccer.com/news_article/show/1074891
ROWDIES HIRE KEVIN FOLEY AS ASSISTANT COACH
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https://www.reddit.com/r/TampaBayRowdies/comments/eicx7h/looks_like_the_rowdies_u23_are_making_a_return_to/
Looks like the Rowdies U23 are making a return to USL League Two
(Follow link for full article.)
https://twitter.com/unusedsubspod/status/1211680357306847233?s=21
The ⭐ Unused ⭐ Substitutes ⚽ Show 🎙️
@UnusedSubsPod
Another
@USLLeagueTwo
Rowdies U23 sighting...
11:08 AM · Dec 30, 2019·Twitter for Android
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.revolutionsoccer.net/schedule
2020 SCHEDULE
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/man-citys-david-silva-secures-21217081
Man City’s David Silva secures ‘verbal agreement’ with David Beckham’s Inter Miami
David Silva is leaving Manchester City when his contract expires in the summer and David Beckham's Inter Miami outfit are in talks to bring him to the MLS
(Follow link for full article.)
https://internetshots.com/2020/01/04/david-beckham-set-to-nominate-tony-pulis-son-as-assistant-supervisor-at-inter-miami/
David Beckham set to nominate Tony Pulis’ son as assistant supervisor at Inter Miami
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https://www.sportinglife.com/football/news/paper-talk-man-utd-maddison-move/175835
Sunday's Paper Talk: The latest football transfer news and gossip including Maddison, Rodriguez and Eriksen
Pedro may have to give up on a return to Barcelona from Chelsea as the winger looks set to move to David Beckham's Inter Miami.
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https://www.frontrowsoccer.com/2020/01/05/remembering-the-nasl-defunct-leagues-draft-certainly-had-its-moments/
REMEMBERING THE NASL: Defunct league’s draft certainly had its moments
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https://fox2now.com/2020/01/04/us-mens-soccer-team-cancels-plan-to-train-in-qatar/
US men’s soccer team cancels plan to train in Qatar
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https://www.hometownstations.com/sports/nationalsports/update-on-the-latest-sports/article_fb14b23a-2967-58bb-9886-dab87613a32c.html
Update on the latest sports
SOCCER-US CANCELS QATAR CAMP
US men's soccer team cancels plan to train in Qatar
CHICAGO (AP) — The U.S. men’s soccer team has canceled its plan to train in Doha, Qatar, from Jan. 5-25 “due to the developing situation in the region.”
The U.S. Soccer Federation announced the decision Friday, a day after a U.S. military air strike killed a top Iranian military commander.
The Americans will move training to a site in the United States that has not yet been determined. They will be use a roster of players mostly from Major League Soccer ahead of an exhibition against Costa Rica on Feb. 1 in Carson, California.
The USSF said it hopes to train in the future at Qatar, host of the 2022 World Cup.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.times-news.com/sports/local_sports/saturday-s-sports-roundup/article_2beb0fdc-f302-5f78-92f8-64767bf5963e.html
Saturday's Sports Roundup
U.S. men’s team won’t train in Qatar
CHICAGO (AP) — The U.S. men’s soccer team has canceled its plan to train in Doha, Qatar, from Jan. 5-25 “due to the developing situation in the region.”
The U.S. Soccer Federation announced the decision Friday, a day after a U.S. military air strike killed a top Iranian military commander.
The Americans will move training to a site in the United States that has not yet been determined. They will be use a roster of players mostly from Major League Soccer ahead of an exhibition against Costa Rica on Feb. 1 at Carson, California.
The USSF said it hopes to train in the future at Qatar, host of the 2022 World Cup.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/jan/03/usmnt-soccer-camp-qatar-canceled-iran
USA men's soccer team cancel Qatar camp amid Middle East tensions
USSF cancel January camp due to ‘developing situation’ in area
USMNT are set to prepare for Feburary friendly with Costa Rica
Federation says it hopes to return to Qatar to train in the future
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/article/SOCCER-Former-SIUE-All-America-Trittschuh-is-14949448.php
SOCCER: Former SIUE All-America Trittschuh is STLFC’s new coach
“I wish (MLS) had gotten started a little earlier,” Trittschuh said. “I would have had more years.”
Not that the years prior were dull.
Beginning in 1987, Trittschuh played for:
The St. Louis Steamers, Busch Soccer Club Seniors, Tampa Bay Rowdies, Sparta Prague in Czechoslovakia, the Rowdies again, SVV Dordrecht in Holland, Tampa Bay again, the Fort Lauderdale Strikers, St. Louis Ambush, the Montreal Impact, the Tampa Bay Terror and finally the Colorado Rapids and Tampa Bay of MLS.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.foxsports.com.my/football/major-league-soccer/134111/reports-david-beckham-set-to-appoint-son-of-former-premier-league-manager-as-inter-miami-head-coach/
Reports: David Beckham set to appoint son of former Premier League manager as Inter Miami assistant coach
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https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2020/01/04/these-are-international-leagues-mls-gms-are-mining-talent-winter
These are the international leagues MLS GMs are mining talent from this winter
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https://hoodline.com/2020/01/tampa-s-5-top-spots-for-low-priced-barbecue
Tampa's 5 top spots for low-priced barbecue
BJ's Alabama BBQ | Sarge's Smokehouse Bbq | Big John's Alabama Bar-B-Q | Ice Cream's Delicious Turkey Legs & BBQ | Georgia Boy Bbq
Need more barbecue in your life?
Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the best affordable barbecue sources in Tampa, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of where to venture when cravings strike.
1. BJ's Alabama BBQ
Topping the list is BJ's Alabama BBQ. Located at 3423 S. Dale Mabry Highway in Virginia Park, the spot to score barbecue and more is the highest-rated inexpensive barbecue spot in Tampa, boasting 4.5 stars out of 125 reviews on Yelp.
Curious to know more about the business? Owner April Moreno explains "my father's restaurant, Big John's Alabama BBQ, inspired me to continue the family tradition," per the bio section of the business's Yelp profile. This spot offers barbecue chicken and rib, pulled pork and smoked sausage. Try the two-meat platter with your choice of meats and sides like collard greens and potato salad plus white bread.
2. Sarge's Smokehouse Bbq
Next up is North Hyde Park's Sarge's Smokehouse Bbq, situated at 1500 W. Cass St. With 4.5 stars out of 50 reviews on Yelp, the food truck and smokehouse, which offers barbecue and more, has proven to be a local favorite for those looking for a budget-friendly option.
Brandie M, who reviewed Sarge's Smokehouse Bbq on Nov. 19, noted, "The barbecue here tends to lean towards the sweet versus the savory. It's all delicious! The baked beans are rather unique with chunks of meat, a variety of beans and pineapple. Trust me, it really works. I've tried the pork, chicken and brisket."
3. Big John's Alabama Bar-B-Q
Northeast's Big John's Alabama Bar-B-Q, located at 5707 N. 40th St., is another top choice, with Yelpers giving the cheap spot to score barbecue and more four stars out of 92 reviews.
Yelper Bob N. wrote, "There is no better place for barbecue in Tampa, and I have tried a lot. The open-pit grill, paired with Big John's signature sauce, is guaranteed to leave your hands finger-licking delicious."
Try the sweet potato pie and pound cake for dessert.
4. Ice Cream's Delicious Turkey Legs & BBQ
Ice Cream's Delicious Turkey Legs & BBQ, a food truck that offers barbecue and more in East Tampa, is another much-loved, affordable go-to, with 4.5 stars out of 14 Yelp reviews. Head over to 5112 N. 22nd St. to see for yourself.
Yelper Brett N. wrote, "I finally tried the turkey legs. I love the ribs so much here that it was tough to stray from them. But I was in the mood for a turkey leg, so I went for it! This truck is one of the best kept secrets in Tampa Bay."
5. Georgia Boy Bbq
Over in Ybor City, check out Georgia Boy Bbq, which has earned four stars out of 17 reviews on Yelp. Dig in at the food truck, which offers barbecue and more, by heading over to 898 E. Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd.
Yelper Janet Z., who reviewed Georgia Boy Bbq on Nov. 11 wrote, "Best barbecue I have had a in a long time! Great smoky flavor, tart mustard sauce."
Try the ribs and chicken smothered with tangy barbecue sauce with baked beans and mac and cheese on the side.
This story was created automatically using local business data, then reviewed and augmented by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.
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https://www.businessobserverfl.com/article/tampa-bay-rays-montreal-future-ron-christaldi
Baseball franchise's cloudy future in region grows darker
As 2020 arrives, the Tampa Bay Rays' tenure in St. Petersburg is in peril. Several business community leaders hope to rally the team to stay in town — full time.
Eight years … 96 months … 417 weeks … 2,920 days … two presidential terms — any way you slice it, eight years seems like a long time.
But in the context of St. Petersburg’s relationship with the Tampa Bay Rays and how long it would take to secure a new stadium for the Major League Baseball team, eight years has begun to look like eight too few.
10 for 20
Issue: Tampa Bay Rays stadium post-Tropicana Field.
Executive: Ron Christaldi
Why he matters: Christaldi is a leader of Tampa Bay Rays 2020, a group of community and business leaders who want to keep Major League Baseball in the Tampa Bay region for generations to come.
The Rays’ Tropicana Field lease expires in 2027 — after which the team would be free to decamp to baseball-hungry Portland; Las Vegas; Raleigh, N.C.; or north of the border in Montreal. Montreal has already been courting the team as part of a radical plan that would see the Rays become a part-time Tampa Bay resident, playing the first half of the MLB season in Florida before heading north for the summer.
Rays majority owner Stu Sternberg has aggressively pushed the split-season plan as the only way to save Major League Baseball in the Tampa Bay region, calling for new, open-air stadiums to be built in both cities. He seeks to put the plan into action in time for the 2024 or 2025 season.
“I like Montreal — it’s a great city,” says Tampa attorney Ron Christaldi, a leading advocate for moving the Rays to Tampa. “But I don’t see a whole lot of connectivity between Montreal and Tampa. I haven't seen any fiscal analysis, so I don't know really whether it's plausible or not. But it doesn't seem to me to be the best choice.”
Christaldi, a partner at Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick LLP, is one of the leaders of Tampa Bay Rays 2020, a group of professionals who want to galvanize support for keeping the team in the Tampa Bay region, full time, for generations to come. The group backed a plan to build a domed stadium in Ybor City that would cost $892 million. But the deal collapsed in December 2018, days before the closure of the team’s three-year window granted by the St. Petersburg City Council and Mayor Rick Kriseman to search for a new home.
“I think 2020 is the year that the Rays’ future gets charted,” Christaldi says. “There’s been a long pause, but now everybody needs to roll up their sleeves, figuratively break bread again and say, ‘OK, we’ve got this.’”
“I like Montreal — it’s a great city. But I don’t see a whole lot of connectivity between Montreal and Tampa.” Ron Christaldi, a Tampa attorney and leader of Tampa Bay Rays 2020
However, Kriseman announced in early December that St. Petersburg would not allow the Rays to pursue the split-season plan prior to 2027. That provoked Sternberg: He says the team believes in the Montreal arrangement and will prepare to execute it in 2028. Rays officials have declined to comment publicly on the stadium situation, save for Sternberg's comments on the Montreal plan.
“Splitting the Rays season is a loss for this community,” Christaldi says. “It may make sense financially for the Rays. It may be ultimately what happens, but it's a loss for the community … to lose a professional sports team, even half time, is a loss.”
A rendering of the proposed $892 million Tampa Bay Rays stadium in Ybor City. Tampa leaders say the ballpark plan remains viable despite the Rays pulling the plug on a deal in December 2018. Courtesy photo.
Christaldi remains hopeful, though, and says the Ybor City stadium deal could be revived. Tampa has a new mayor in Jane Castor and new faces on city council that could bring fresh eyes and ideas — assuming Sternberg will agree to drop the Montreal plan. And Kriseman, though not budging on the Trop lease, has signaled a willingness to again let the team explore sites across the bay if that’s what it takes to keep baseball in the region.
The attorney also says stadium funding isn’t the deal killer that it was thought to be. By Christaldi’s calculations, the shortfall was somewhere around $80 million.
“Eighty million dollars is nothing to sneeze at,” he says. “But it’s not an insurmountable thing. It’s not a reason not to do a deal, particularly now, when we have a new governor who played baseball at Yale. He’s a baseball guy. I don’t know that the state would commit anything, but even if you got $1 million a year for 30 years, that’s $30 million toward your $80 million.”
Tampa Bay Rays 2020 lined up $16 million in annual corporate commitments that could be used to help finance the Ybor City stadium. But many other potential donors shied away, not wanting to throw dollars at a hypothetical project.
“There was a reticence until there was an expression by the government and the Rays that they were going to do it," Christaldi says. "No big brand wants to be a founder of something that goes on to fail or something that becomes a political pariah.”
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.einnews.com/pr_news/506312880/james-joyce-irish-pub-eatery-wins-numerous-prestigious-awards-including-coveted-tampa-bay-times-ultimate-bar-award
James Joyce Irish Pub & Eatery Wins Numerous Prestigious Awards, Including Coveted Tampa Bay Times Ultimate Bar Award
The pub is renowned on Trip Advisor and boasts some of the best burgers in America.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://patch.com/florida/stpete/take-virtual-tour-new-st-pete-pier
Take A Virtual Tour Of The New St. Pete Pier
The virtual tour gives residents a preview of various features of the St. Pete Pier.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/st-petersburg-florida-launches-30-year-planning-project-online-survey-stpete2050/67-39b2291f-1789-4765-8921-d17565112f5d
Take the survey for St. Petersburg's new 30-year planning project
According to the city’s website, “StPete2050 is a city-wide conversation about where our city is going and what it can become over the next 30 years."
(Follow link for full article.)
https://patch.com/florida/stpete/sunken-gardens-celebrates-100-years-roadside-attraction
Sunken Gardens Celebrates 100 Years As Roadside Attraction
Special guests will include St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman and Ken Breslauer, author of "Florida Roadside Attractions History."
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https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2020/jan/03/diego-alonso-inter-miami-david-beckham
Who is Diego Alonso, David Beckham's new manager at Inter Miami?
For a project which is looking to the Americas rather than merely America, the well-traveled Uruguayan seems to be the perfect hire
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https://www.wane.com/sports/fort-wayne-fc-holds-mens-soccer-tryouts/
Fort Wayne FC holds men’s soccer tryouts
FORT WAYNE- The newly formed Fort Wayne FC is held their first-ever open tryouts for a spot on the 2020 roster.
Fort Wayne FC presents the highest competitive play of a men’s outdoor soccer team in Northeast Indiana. Fort Wayne FC will begin competitive play in May of 2020 in the Great Lakes Conference of the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL), a national outdoor soccer league at the fourth tier of the United States soccer pyramid.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.uslchampionship.com/news_article/show/1074945
TRANSACTIONS: San Antonio Adds Gorskie to Defense
FORMER SAFC STANDOUT FORBES JOINS AUSTIN; EL PASO BRINGS LOMIS ABOARD
New San Antonio FC signing Hunter Gorskie has competed for both the Tampa Bay Rowdies and Loudoun United FC in the Championship previously. | Photo courtesy Matt May / Tampa Bay Rowdies
SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio FC announced on Thursday it had signed defender Hunter Gorskie for the 2020 USL Championship season pending league and federation approval. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“We are excited to welcome Hunter Gorskie to the SAFC family,” said SAFC Head Coach Alen Marcina. “Hunter brings leadership on and off the field, championship experience, and a commitment to helping drive our culture. As a team, we seek great communicators and high tactical awareness, which Hunter demonstrates both.”
Gorskie joins SAFC after spending parts of the 2019 season with Loudoun United in the Championship, and Thisted FC in the Danish second division. Gorskie made 13 appearances with Thisted prior to joining Loudon for the tail end of the 2019 season where he made six appearances and won 20 duels.
The 28-year-old has made prior stops at the New York Cosmos, Polish club Miedz Legnica and the Championship’s Tampa Bay Rowdies. The defender spent two seasons with the Rowdies, with his most successful coming in 2018 where he served as a team captain and appeared in a team-high 34 matches, compiling 2,904 minutes played and scoring two goals.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2020/01/02/mls-commissioner-don-garber-shares-message-club-supporters
MLS Commissioner Don Garber shares message with club supporters
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https://www.iol.co.za/sport/soccer/premier-league/even-old-traffords-young-are-starting-to-look-elsewhere-40081179
Even Old Trafford's young are starting to look elsewhere
Manchester United's Tahith Chong runs after the ball during their English FA Cup third round soccer match against Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Molineux Stadium in Wolverhampton, England on Saturday. Photo: Rui Vieira/AP
MANCHESTER – It used to be the case that players only left Manchester United when the club decided it was time for them to go.
David Beckham, Roy Keane, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Jaap Stam were among the United stars who were hurried through the exit once Sir Alex Ferguson decided enough was enough. Cristiano Ronaldo was a rare exception to the rule. Paul Pogba, too, when he went against Ferguson’s wishes to join Juventus in 2012.
Times have changed, however. Pogba still wants to leave — a scenario that seems increasingly likely next summer — but he is no longer alone. United do not have the pulling power of old. Just ask Erling Haaland.
Last summer, Romelu Lukaku effectively forced a move to Inter Milan after missing most of pre-season and then turning up to train with Anderlecht. And one look at the United team sheet at Molineux reminded you of more problems a little closer to home.
Star academy pupils, Tahith Chong and Angel Gomes, have picked up the club’s young player of the year award in two of the past three seasons. Yet both have so far rejected the offer of new contracts. They can leave for nothing in the summer and have been free to negotiate with foreign clubs since New Year’s Day amid interest from Juventus and Barcelona, respectively.
For a club of United’s stature — and one with such a proud tradition of promoting young talent — it has become an awkward situation. To be fair to United, neither Chong nor Gomes have made the same impact on the first team as Mason Greenwood and Brandon Williams, who both started this third-round tie.
Chong did, too, and his performance was typical of the Holland Under-21 winger — full of energy and running but lacking an end product. Gomes, 19, did not make it off the bench to add to his eight senior appearances. But the fact they are open to leaving Old Trafford is a sign of the times.
‘You’re not famous anymore,’ taunted the Wolves fans who have seen Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side fail to win on this ground in four attempts over the last nine-and-half months.
While that may not be strictly true, United no longer call all the shots.
(Follow link for full article.)
https://extra.ie/2020/01/05/sport/soccernews/beckhams-inter-miami-reach-verbal-agreement-with-premier-league-winner
Beckham’s Inter Miami reach ‘verbal agreement’ with Premier League winner
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