“To work with Harry and Hans is a great opportunity for a Canadian college coach like myself, but it is also very intimidating,” Paulus admitted. “Harry and Hans have so much experience, and they have coached at the highest level. But, at the same time, it’s a smooth transition to make. I watched this team a lot last year and I am familiar with the style.”

The USSF confirmed that all six U.S.-based (yes, Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, but let’s not get into that here) NASL teams will be entered in the Open Cup as official Div.-2 representatives. It’s easy to follow the logic from there. If the teams are scheduled to play later this year as official Div.-2 entrants, then NASL must be regarded as Div.-2.

But the wording of Toronto FC’s press release is important. “Agreed to terms” was used instead of “signed.” There is a difference.