Freedom Kicks for 1 May 2014: D.C. United on the rise

While my fellow editors have witty connections that unite their posts, all I have to give you is my Freedom Kicks. Let's get into it. And as always, this is your open thread for all things soccer today.

DC United say mentality is behind improvement: "It's a group that wants to prove something" | MLSsoccer.com: Friend of the site Pablo Maurer talks to Ben Olsen, Sean Franklin, and Bobby Boswell about the team's improvement.

D.C. United finally clicking (VIDEO) | Comcast SportsNet Washington: CSN Washington gets in on the improvement bandwagon in anticipation of games actually being broadcast on their networkk.

Pepco Is Being Sold. Here Are Five Ways It Could Affect D.C. - Housing Complex: It shouldn't affect the D.C. United land swap at all since it isn't closing until next year.

Ream voted Bolton's official supporters association's Player of the Year: Remember Tim Ream?

U.S. Soccer to Broadcast ‘Game of the Round’ for 2014 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup - U.S. Soccer: The Game of the Round for round 2 is on May 14 and it is the Richmond Kickers versus RVA FC, who are the reigning NPSL national champions.

Should Kyle Beckerman Start Over Jermaine Jones for USMNT? by Herb Scribner - SoccerNewsday.com: Here is your homework question for the day: I think yes, Beckerman should start over Jones. What say you?

And finally, since it wouldn't be one of my Freedom Kicks without USL PRO news:

Here's that graphic for #USLPRO in St. Louis announcement to be held at noon tomorrow... #MLS pic.twitter.com/DTTxgDlaDz

— Jeff Crandall (@jefecrandall) April 30, 2014