Hey everybody, it’s Jason. As you may have noticed yesterday, we didn’t publish anything after the news that the Vox Media Union had walked off the job in their push for a new contract with Vox Media. After talking it over with my fellow site manager Ben Bromley, we decided to stand in solidarity with the union.
We're closed for the day in solidarity. https://t.co/cEdOi1PJ3t
— Black and Red United (@blackandredU) June 6, 2019
I’ll be brief, but there are two important things to tell you about this. First of all, we are not members of the Vox Media Union. No one working for an SB Nation team site is. The option to join the union does not exist at this point. Secondly, we’re back today after consulting members of the union and being informed that they do not consider themselves on strike, nor do they believe that there is a formal picket line to cross. We’re taking them at their word, and speaking for B&RU management, we hope they get the deal they’re fighting for.
Alright, onto the soccer:
RFK Stadium Will Now Have Turf Fields Nearby | Washington City Paper
If you’ve been past RFK Stadium recently, you’ve noticed a lot of changes in the area around it. Tomorrow, there will be an official ribbon-cutting ceremony, with Wayne Rooney and D.C. United’s academy as part of the festivities.
Berhalter sets USMNT roster for Gold Cup, says omitting Josh Sargent was toughest call | Washington Post
Mmmmm. Alright Gregg.
Anyway the Gold Cup is mostly about Paul Arriola, who made the roster.
As Women’s World Cup opens, talent is blooming and frustration is bubbling | Washington Post
From Paris, Steve Goff sets the scene for the 2019 World Cup, which starts today, and which we will be covering extensively. As soon as I get this posted, I’m going to get started on our preview of France vs. South Korea.
Women’s World Cup: France’s coach tries to temper expectations for host team | LA Times
Speaking of France, it sounds like they’re already trying to deflect pressure despite being one of the obvious favorites.
Five USWNT players, five views on the team’s role in political conversation | The Athletic
Some thoughtful answers here, and not just from the veterans in the USWNT squad.
Soccer star Rose Lavelle’s D.C. Dream Day: Ted’s Bulletin, shopping in Georgetown and a Chipotle run | Washington Post
Rose Lavelle’s enthusiasm for Chipotle is real.
Nigeria’s Ordega swapped NWSL quality for China quantity, and she’s fine with that | ESPN FC
Former Washington Spirit forward Francisca Ordega explains why she chose to head to China.
Why The Washington Spirit Are The Hottest Team In NWSL | All for XI
A look at some of the underlying numbers behind the Spirit’s excellent start to 2019.
28 Questions with the Spirit: Paige Nielsen | NBC Sports Washington
Paige Nielsen is one of the players posting some of those good numbers. Here’s the Spirit center back answering a bunch of questions while also working out, which is probably harder than it looks.
Where to watch the Women’s World Cup | Washington Post
If you’re looking to watch the World Cup somewhere other than your own couch, here’s a solid list.
That’s all I’ve got for you at the moment. Enjoy your Friday!