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As more COVID-19 cases occur in soccer leagues around the world, it remains to be seen how they’ll effect leagues looking to return to action. Players continue to raise their voices against racism and in support of protests against police brutality. While MLS is almost back with the MLS is Back Tournament, they won’t be the first league to return in the US. That honor goes to NWSL.
Seattle/Tacoma
Among the 448 breweries involved in the Black is Beautiful beer project, some WA breweries have hopped aboard thus far. Likely more will follow. Washington breweries join in the Black is Beautiful beer project – Washington Beer Blog
Harry Shipp’s thoughts, shared on social media, regarding the protests and outrage at a system built on white supremacy that inevitably leads to police brutality are well worth your time. Harry Shipp: "Full of White privilege, here are my thoughts about the past few weeks" | Seattle Sounders FC
Nick Leman, Director of High Performance for OL Reign, discusses how the team is preparing for the NWSL Challenge Cup. Club Adapting to Altitude and Workloads in “Unique” Preseason — OL REIGN: WE ARE THE BOLD
MLS/USL
Sapong said he’s not surprised Katai was released by the LA Galaxy after Katai’s wife made racist social media posts. CJ Sapong blasts former Chicago Fire teammate Aleksandar Katai for racist behavior - Hot Time In Old Town
The initiative is aimed to help teams offset considerable losses amid the shutdown caused by the coronavirus. MLS to allow advertising patches on game-day shorts - The Washington Post
With a confirmed case, we’ll be finding out soon how the league and D.C. United will respond regarding the MLS is Back Tournament. D.C. United Confirm Positive Case of COVID-19 | D.C. United
Four writers from the Athletic really take a swing at predicting what’s going to happen in the Twilight Zone. Predicting the unpredictable: MLS is Back will be a test of priorities, depth – The Athletic
Former college teammates reunite to give athletes a platform. Raising Their Voyce: Zack Steffen, Legion FC’s Crognale Team on New Initiative
NWSL/WoSo/Women’s Sports
Surely someone out there could get Canada to play up to their level. Canada should attract excellent candidates to replace Kenneth Heiner-Møller - All For XI
The Chicago Red Stars defender discusses her reaction to the last few weeks and what the soccer community can do to create change. Interview: Sarah Gorden on speaking out, breaking stereotypes — Just Women's Sports
Megan Rapinoe’s going to have, well, the opposite of company as Christen Press opts out of the tournament as well. Sources: Utah Royals forward Christen Press will not participate in NWSL Challenge Cup; Kelley O’Hara returns - The Salt Lake Tribune
The Brazilian Football Confedertaion said it cannot offer FIFA the financial assurances to host the tournament due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Brazil Withdraws Bid to Host 2023 Women's World Cup
Who can Canada Soccer hire to quickly familiarize herself with the team… during a global pandemic, when the next international window is a total unknown? What now for Canada? A familiar face might be the most obvious coaching candidate – Equalizer Soccer ($)
The largest new parts of the offer from the WNBA is an increase from 60% of player salaries paid up to the full 100%, a move on par with the agreed deal is between the NWSL and its players. A source familiar with negotiations told The Next that the NWSL’s effort helped lay the groundwork for the WNBPA’s ask. WNBA, WNBPA Move Close To An Agreement To Resume Season - The Next: 24/7/365 women's basketball coverage
Multiple outlets have reported that MLS will be the first professional contact sports league back in the United States. It’s not. The NWSL is. NWSL, not MLS, first pro contact sports league to return in US - Insider
USA
The Federation never tried to understand Megan Rapinoe’s protest, so it has a long way to go before anyone takes it seriously on social issues. USSF repealing their anthem policy is only the beginning of the real work - All For XI
This might be the only thing anyone in power in Florida has done right in recent memory. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signs bill allowing college athletes to be paid for name, image and likeness - CBSSports.com
World
Tottenham’s Dele Alli will miss their game against Manchester United after being suspended for one game for a social media post about coronavirus. Dele Alli: Tottenham midfielder banned for one match over coronavirus post - BBC Sport
Club owners also approved the selling of Club Queretaro and Morelia’s relocation to Mazatlan. Liga MX announce starting date for Apertura 2020 season and approve new Liguilla format - FMF State Of Mind
The suspension of promotion and relegation, clubs relocating, and buying spots in the top flight are all issues for Mexico’s Liga MX. "MLSificiation" in Mexico? Liga MX wrestles with problems old and new | US Soccer Players
Teammates and friends honored a youth soccer player killed by police in Mexico with an emotional tribute that celebrated his love for the game. Teammates honor youth player killed in Mexico with emotional tribute
Sports in New Zealand have returned, and with them have fans in stadiums. Fans savor return of stadium sport in virus-free New Zealand
Some times good things come out of bad circumstances. How The Pandemic May Have Accelerated Barrie's Path To Pro Soccer - Northern Tribune
Everton are trying to break into the American market by establishing affiliate academies. Everton using affiliate scheme as part of their plans to conquer the US – The Athletic
Kai Havertz is likely to be one of the most sought after players in any coming transfer window, but how did he get to this precipice? The race for Kai Havertz, one of the most coveted players of his generation – The Athletic
There’s a school in England where young men can get an education and a career in soccer. The academy in Yorkshire teaching 60 young Americans all aspects of football – The Athletic
The team formerly known as Monarcas Morelia has a coach! Francisco Palencia becomes first coach for Mazatlan FC - FMF State Of Mind
Protect Marcus Rashford at all costs. Marcus Rashford is the best of us - The Busby Babe
That’s probably not good. Norwich player tests positive for COVID-19 after Tottenham friendly - Cartilage Free Captain
The former club of Sounders legend Christian Tiffert has filed for bankruptcy. 1. FC Kaiserslautern files for bankruptcy | Football | SWR Sport | SWR
Cesc is right about how seriously racism should be punished. Cesc Fàbregas on racism: 'Close stadiums, hand out bans, let them go to jail' | Football | The Guardian