United Notebook

With the announcement of new ownership in July of this year, D.C. United made a pledge to become a more global brand. As the year wound down, that commitment was evident.

D.C. United had reached new heights on and off the field. The team boasted the best home record in the league, and a return to the playoffs for the first time in five years. Off the field, D.C. United touched the lives of thousands of children through their community outreach efforts and through various camp programs.

But D.C. United's reach went far beyond their community and home fan base. The club saw growth in worldwide interest of the team. Fans emerged from 47 of the 50 states and 15 different countries to purchase gear from the Team Store, including an order that was shipped to the North Pole. North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming were the only states who did not receive shipments from D.C. United this year. Dwayne De Rosario jerseys were a hot item in Canada, but team merchandise was also shipped to a handful of European countries, China, Japan, and Australia.

With 2013 upon us, and a new season on the horizon, United reaches even further. Join us. Rise together.

Despite his teammates not naming him the "Best at FIFA" in this year's superlatives, Bill Hamid is one of D.C. United's FIFA enthusiasts. Recently he sat down with ESPN to talk about his playing style and how being a professional soccer player has helped him become better at the video game.

"You know at certain points when to cross when you see runners going. You know when to bring the keeper out when there’s a breakaway. Being a pro soccer player, you figure those things out easier," explained Hamid. Read the full article on ESPN now.

With the holidays upon us, D.C. United players share their travel and celebration plans with fans via Twitter.

Chris Pontius heads back home.

Dwayne De Rosario is looking for the best place to celebrate the New Year. Any suggestions?

Dejan Jakovic spends time with family.

Marcelo Saragosa finds time to enjoy a poolside vacation.

As part of a recent gotsoccer.com contest, Academy brothers Mike and Jack Daunt submitted videos of their tennis ball juggling skills. The brothers have been selected as finalists, and you can vote for them online.

Mike Daunt is part of the D.C. United Academy U-13 squad, while older brother Jack plays for the U-15s. The Academy is on a winter break and will return to action in January. Read all Academy and youth news.