15 episodes and 101 days. That’s how long it’s been since we were in the same room recording together. Much in the world has changed. Much in the world still needs to change. But as the song goes, “Reunited, and it feels so good!” Filly and the Scarf invade Culver City to record Episode 102 TOGETHER for the first time in a long time, and we couldn’t be happier. If you haven’t heard our interview with Adama Diomande on Episode 99, Episode 100 featuring Stix discussing the Black Lives Matter movement, or Steven Beitashour joining Filly and the Scarf on Episode 101, please go check those out! Episode 102 takes a bit of a break from the healthy interview circuit we’ve traveled over the last few episodes to focus on all the LAFC news and notes in the world over the last few weeks, and there is a lot to cover!Yes, the COVID Cup, also known as the MLS Is Back Tournament, is the main topic of discussion. Houston, Portland, and, of course, Carson join LAFC in Group F, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. While there’s still a lot of info to be determined, like “Will Carlos Vela play?”, we break down as much info as we have leading into the group stage. Don’t worry, as we get more info about when we play our group stage matches and who will fill out our roster, we’ll be back with another episode to cover it!The Black and Gold also welcome a new member into the fold, Andy Najar. The 2010 MLS Rookie of the Year adds depth, youth, and experience to an already excellent back line. He’ll be eligible for the COVID Cup, too!It’s not just MLS that’s back; eMLS is coming back, too! RemiMartinn, eMLS’s 5th ranked FIFA player, is set to take on the winner of the win-and-you’re-in “Last Chance Qualifier” in the first round of the final tournament of the eMLS season. Couple this with the Sports Illustrated article on Remi, and it’s shaping up to be quite the month for Martin and LAFC Gaming!Also on this episode, LAFC may add an Emmy to its trophy case, Dio continues to flex his gaming skills, the NWSL might actually be coming near L.A., not quite TO L.A., and free COVID testing wraps up at the Banc June 30th. Finally, PLEASE join LAFC and sign the petition to make Juneteenth a national holiday! Let’s continue to try to be the change we want to see in the world, one step at a time. Stay tuned for Episode 103 dropping next week, featuring yet another VERY special guest with an intro very different from anything we have done on the previous 102. As always, thank you for your support, and for taking a little time out of these crazy days we have all experienced together to give Defenders of the Banc a listen!