The Daily Dirt: Sebastian Giovinco is MLS Newcomer of the Year

In news that shouldn't shock anyone, Toronto FC forward Sebastian Giovinco has been named MLS Newcomer of the Year. Giovinco moved to Toronto from Juventus in January, and he took the league by storm with 22 goals and 16 assists in 33 regular season games. After leading Toronto to its first playoff appearance, the 28-year-old is a finalist for the Landon Donovan MLS Most Valuable Player Award, which will be announced December 2.

Rafa Benitez has 'full support' of Real Madrid [SBN]

Coming off a 4-0 drubbing at the hands of El Clasico rival Barcelona and with superstar Cristiano Ronaldo unhappy, Real Madrid is in a tough spot. That being the case, first-year manager Rafa Benitez is already rumored to be on the chopping block. But, team president Florentino Perez says that isn't the case.

USWNT drawn with Mexico, Costa Rica, Puerto Rico for Olympic qualifying [SSFC]

In addition to being the best team on the planet, the USWNT has the advantage of hosting the qualifying tournament. The road to Rio begins in February.

USMNT to play World Cup qualifier vs. Guatemala in Columbus, OH [SSFC]

The U.S. will meet Guatemala in Columbus on March 29.

Tony Meola to be named coach of NASL's Jacksonville Armada [SI]

The dream of the '90s is alive in Jacksonville.

What's happening in The A?

The injury bug continues to bite the Hawks, and Tiago Splitter and Kent Bazemore will miss Atlanta's Tuesday night game against the Boston Celtics.

Jewel Runner Killer Mike and Democratic presidential hopeful Bernie Sanders shared what had to be the most interesting meal of the year at Busy Bee Cafe on Monday.