During the Revolution’s preseason trip to Orlando, Coach Nicol found time to speak with local media via conference call on Thursday afternoon. He stated that the team is ready to put their skills to the competitive test against opponents after only playing intra-squad scrimmages thus far.

Also a participant in the conference call was captain Shalrie Joseph, who believes the level of excitement among the players is high this preseason as new talent coming in and intensity in scrimmage play fuel the competitive atmosphere.

In his first of many blog posts this season on Boston.com, rookie defender A.J. Soares invites readers into his new life in the Northeast and professes his love of coffee.

Nominees for the National Soccer Hall of Fame have been recently announced, and included on the player ballot for 2011 is New England Revolution’s VP of player personnel Mike Burns.

The Revolution coaching staff is confident that 22-year old Argentine defender Franco Coria will smoothly transition to MLS. Nicol spoke with MLSsoccer.com’s Kyle McCarthy about the most recent signing, saying that he possesses the necessary professional experience, work ethic and skills to thrive in the league.

Goal.com’s weekly list describes five European signings that could positively impact the league and the players’ respective teams. Among the players mentioned is newly acquired Revolution defender Didier Domi from France.

Daily Soccer Fix’s Steve Davis writes his initial reactions to preseason moves and makes predictions of how those players will fare with their new clubs in the 2011 season. 

While it appears that recently signed designated players have been choosing between New York or Los Angeles, MLS Talk argues that the other 16 cities are also desirable destinations for big name international stars.

In the second part of its MLS attendance series, Footiebusiness analyzes the importance of families going out and supporting their teams.