Soccer in Washington DC - DC United

Thought about putting this in the soccer discussion thread but that is dominated by European fans, and I though this deserved its own thread.

DC United is an original member of Major League Soccer and is in danger of getting run out of DC.  Fans of DC United have organized a "Keep United In DC" rally for Saturday May 9 in DC.  Not sure how many people on this forum are near DC, or even fans of Major League Soccer, but I thought it important I spread the word.  Please pass this along if you are so inclined.

Thanks for your time and sorry for the spam.

DC United rally info

Why are they running them out of DC? Is it just to move them to Prince George? Wouldn't that keep them in the DC area, at least?

Why do soccer teams use the word "United." I don't understand that. Can someone explain?

Rane


Why do soccer teams use the word "United." I don't understand that. Can someone explain?

I think it began a long time ago when 2 groups united to form one team.

NickG


Why are they running them out of DC? Is it just to move them to Prince George? Wouldn't that keep them in the DC area, at least?

Well, there was hope that a spot in DC near the new National's stadium would work but that fell through for a variety of reasons.  Then there was hope that a spot in PG county would work but after county exec's had originally agreed to look at the possibility they did an about face and won't even consider it.  Currently DC United play at RFK stadium but are loosing a bunch of $$ every year because they don't control the revenue.  It seems that because of all the issues they are having a move outside of the DC area is looming.

Hmm. How far outside? With the surge in US Soccer right now, it might be worthwhile to build a smaller stadium specifically for MLS.

NickG


Hmm. How far outside? With the surge in US Soccer right now, it might be worthwhile to build a smaller stadium specifically for MLS.

That was the plan, to build a 22,000 - 25,000 seat stadium near Poplar Point in DC or near a Metro stop in PG County.  But the powers that be don't like the idea.  I understand the hesitation in this economy but it's a difficult pill to swallow when promises had been made then rescinded.  True politics at work.

That's all it is. Politics. Seattle Sounders have attendance rivaling The Boston Red Sox, so it can't be denied that Soccer's on its way up. Sounds to me like there's someone waiting for the right kickbacks before a new stadium gets put into motion.