David Beckham and Miami Beckham United co-Owner Jorge Mas are "'really close' to finalizing the team name, colors, and shield," according to Michelle Kaufman of the MIAMI HERALD. Mas said, "We are just going through final vetting and trademark issues, and all those announcements are imminent." Among the names "being considered are Futbol Club Internacional de Miami (Inter Miami) and Futbol Club Atletico Miami (Atletico Miami), both of which would make sense with the city's international flair and Hispanic influence." The ownership group also "registered variations of the name Miami Freedom, but it is more likely one of the traditional soccer names will be chosen." Mas said that he is "in the process of hiring" a GM, and has "narrowed it down to a few finalists -- both with extensive MLS experience at 'very successful' clubs." He hopes to have the GM in place "by the end of July." Kaufman notes Mas has "been meeting with city commissioners during the past few weeks" regarding the proposed stadium at the site of Melreese Golf Course. He said that he is "'very optimistic' about the project and encouraged by the reception of commissioners so far." Mas added that he will "reveal details and drawings of the plans to the public on July 11 or 12." Beckham is "expected to be in town for that presentation." Kaufman notes ownership has been "quietly rolling out promotional 'This is Miami' video snippets on social media that offer a glimpse of how the team will be marketed." Each video "features upbeat music, bright colors and a diverse collection of South Florida soccer fans with the underlying message that this team will belong to the community" (MIAMI HERALD, 6/28).
