It?s time to Unite

Before the MLS team that would play in the Nation?s Capital had a name, Kevin Payne, Stephen Zack and Betty D?Anjolell sat in a lunch room discussing what the club?s future name should be.� Together, they had a vision that the club would pay homage to the grand traditions of our sport and that the team would galvanize a community that included DC, Maryland and Virginia, as well as the wide range of socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds of those that call this region home.� D.C. United said it all.�

Entering the club?s 16th�season, we now find ourselves ready to reclaim the tradition that has become a part of our organizational DNA. �As Head Coach Ben Olsen said at Wednesday?s kickoff luncheon, we?ll do so by looking forward, not back.� With that, Ben promised three things:� there will be up and downs in the season ahead, this is a young and talented team, though, and he promised the club would give everything they have in each and every game.� Finally, he ensured fans a team that we would all be proud to support.

Support we will in full voice.� Opening Night can?t come soon enough.� The players are ready.� The staff is ready.� The greatest fans in Major League Soccer are ready.

We?re all part of Olsen?s Army?and we march tomorrow night.

Vamos United!

As Kevin Payne, Dave Kasper, Ben Olsen and our technical staff have been working hard to put a top-quality product on the field for D.C. United this season and to continuing the rapid development of our youth Academy system, the rest of the front office has put in the long hours necessary to be sure all other elements of our business are tended to in advance of the 2011 MLS campaign ahead.�

Opening Night on Saturday, March 19 can?t come soon enough for players, staff and supporters alike.� Over the ten days leading up to the Columbus game, I?ll walk through the business flow of our offices, sharing insight and updates on strategic development of ideas for the core areas of our focus.� Under the leadership of Executive Vice President Stephen Zack, day-to-day business activities work in concert to create a seamless flow of information, activation and promotion, leading to sales.� A dedicated customer service staff and high-energy support crew follow-up to maximize these opportunities.

Doug Hicks is D.C. United?s Senior Vice President, Marketing Communications.� Follow him on twitter at @DCUDoug.�

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