Category: Orlando City Soccer Club

Orlando City SC to host Columbus Crew SC in the U.S. Open Cup Round of 16

Orlando City SC will face Columbus Crew SC on June 30 at the Orlando Citrus Bowl in the Round of 16 of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. The match-up was determined by a live draw by U.S. Soccer held in Chicago earlier today. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET.

The match against the Crew SC will be included in the 2015 season ticket package.

Individual tickets will go on sale on Friday, June 19. Please visit www.orlandocitysc.com or call 855-ORL-CITY.

The Lions advanced to the Round of 16 by defeating former USL foes Charleston Battery 8-7 after ten rounds of penalty kicks, following a 4-4 tie in regulation at Blackbaud Stadium. City holds a 9-4-0 all-time record in the U.S. Open Cup, dating back to the 2011 campaign.

The Lions have never faced the Crew SC in U.S. Open Cup play, but both clubs have rapidly formed an intense rivalry following two matches in Major League Soccer (MLS) play. In their first matchup, Orlando City played with 10 men for the majority of the match, and suffered a 3-0 loss at MAPFRE Stadium. In May, it was Columbus who played a man down at the Orlando Citrus Bowl, battling the Lions to a 2-2 draw in a very heated and tense contest.

In 2013, Orlando City defeated the Colorado Rapids and 2012 champions Sporting Kansas City en route to a quarter-final appearance against five time Open Cup Champions Chicago Fire – the Club’s furthest run in the tournament.

To purchase group or individual tickets, or to join the 2016 Season Ticket waitlist visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com or call 855-ORL-CITY.

Also, follow the latest Orlando City news and updates via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

One of the leading teams in Major League Soccer (MLS), and the only MLS team in Florida, Orlando City Soccer Club has developed a rich history and passionate following in its short existence since starting in the USL in 2011.  The Lions’ first team set the U.S. record for best start of any professional soccer club in its first 100 USL matches (66-12-22). During that time, the Lions won three regular season titles and two postseason championships.

In MLS, the team draws an average of over 35,770 fans per home game – including 62,500 for its home opener – a record for an expansion team in its first six stand-alone home games. In addition, the team is currently near the top of the league in social media followers. Orlando City has not only captured the passion of soccer fans in the City Beautiful, it continues to build its brand overseas as its matches are broadcast in 100 countries and in 30 languages.

Outside of the first squad, OCS C also has a youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U-23 team that participates in the PDL. Lastly, the Orlando City Foundation is active in the community year round, promoting health and wellness in children throughout the region, and raising funds for and volunteering time for various local organizations.

For more information, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com, www.OrlandoCityYouth.org, and www.OrlandoCitySC.com/Foundation.com.

Orlando City SC Launches Commemorative Gameday Posters Starting Sunday

Uniquely designed, each poster is available for a donation; Proceeds directly benefit Orlando City Foundation

Beginning with the Lions’ match against the LA Galaxy on Sunday night, Orlando City SC will unveil the Club’s new commemorative gameday posters. Kick-off is scheduled for 5 p.m. against the five-time Major League Soccer (MLS) Cup Champions.

Uniquely designed for each fixture, the posters will be available at the Orlando Citrus Bowl on match-day, as well as the Orlando City front office (618 East South Street, Orlando 32801) for a donation to the Orlando City Foundation. On gameday, the posters will be available at the Orlando City Foundation table in the fan zone on the east side of the stadium, and at the 50/50 seller kiosks. All proceeds will go directly to the Orlando City Foundation.

The inaugural poster was designed by renowned local graphic artist Matt Stone and depicts a Lionaut, merging emblems from Orlando City and LA Galaxy into a single image. The posters features an illustration that is reminiscent of both Orlando City and the Galaxy, while staying true to the colors of each team.

“We’re extremely excited about this new program. It’s a great way for our fans to be able to show their support for the Foundation and to take home something that is sure to become a collector’s item,” said Orlando City Foundation President and Director of Community Relations Kay Rawlins. 

The Orlando City Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization committed to improving the lives of children in our Central Florida community.

To purchase group or individual tickets to Sunday’s match or any future Orlando City game, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com or call 855-ORL-CITY.  Also, follow the latest Orlando City news and updates via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

One of the leading teams in Major League Soccer (MLS), and the only MLS team in Florida, Orlando City Soccer Club has developed a rich history and passionate following in its short existence since starting in the USL in 2011.  The Lions’ first team set the U.S. record for best start of any professional soccer club in its first 100 USL matches (66-12-22). During that time, the Lions won three regular season titles and two postseason championships.

In MLS, the team draws an average of over 36,900 fans per home game – including 62,500 for its home opener – a record for an expansion team in its first five home games. In addition, the team is currently near the top of the league in social media followers. Orlando City has not only captured the passion of soccer fans in the City Beautiful, it continues to build its brand overseas as its matches are broadcast in 100 countries and in 30 languages.

Outside of the first squad, OCSC also has a youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U-23 team that participates in the PDL. Lastly, the Orlando City Foundation is active in the community year round, promoting health and wellness in children throughout the region, and raising funds for and volunteering time for various local organizations.

Orlando City SC to square off against Brazilian Série A team Ponte Preta in Orlando

International friendly announced for May 2nd at the Orlando Citrus Bowl

Orlando City SC announced an international friendly for Saturday, May 2nd against Brazilian Série A side Ponte Preta. The match will be played at the Orlando Citrus Bowl with kickoff set for 7:30 p.m. This match is included in the Orlando City SC Season Ticket package. Individual tickets will be available on www.ticketmaster.com starting on Thursday at 10 a.m.

“An international friendly against the oldest Brazilian team brings world class entertainment for our fans and yet additional economic benefits for the region,” said Orlando City President and Founder, Phil Rawlins. “More Brazilians travel to Orlando than from any other country of origin, and we are excited to offer this exhibition to not only our fans, but tourists visiting the region. This once more proves our commitment to further strengthen Orlando’s image as the ‘Soccer Capital of the South’ both nationally and around the world.”

The 2013 Copa Sul-americana runner up, Ponte Preta sees the opportunity of facing Orlando City as an important step in developing its brand on the international stage.

“We want explore new horizons, increase our fan base within and outside Brazil, as well as generate new international business opportunities for Ponte (Preta),” said Gustavo Valio, Ponte’s Chief Finance Officer and president of the club’s Commission of Internationalization.

The oldest professional soccer team in continuous operation in Brazil, Ponte Preta will be the third Brazilian team to square off against the Lions in Orlando in the last three years. Orlando City also played powerhouses Fluminense FC twice, and São Paulo FC.

After helping bring the Mexican National Team back to Orlando after more than 20 years for a match against rival Costa Rica on June 27 and hand delivering Orlando’s official bid to host the Copa America Centenario USA 2016, the Lions once more defy expectations by attracting top international talent to the City Beautiful.

In addition, the Lions faced other international sides including two matches against Italian Serie A legends AS Roma, and English sides Bolton FC and Stoke City FC.

To purchase season, group or individual tickets for the Lions’ MLS matches, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com or call 855-ORL-CITY.  Also, follow the latest Orlando City news and updates via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

About Orlando City SC:

The only Major League Soccer (MLS) team in Florida, the Lions’ first team set the U.S. record for best start of any professional soccer club in its first 100 league matches (66-12-22). Orlando City has won three USL PRO regular season titles and two postseason championships. Outside of the first squad, OCSC also has a youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U-23 team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com and www.OrlandoCityYouth.org.

Orlando City SC U-12 Pro Academy Team Win IberCup USA over Atletico Madrid

Lions receive incredible development in largest youth tournament in the world

Orlando City SC (OCYS) youth tournament success continued on the world stage this past weekend, as the boy’s U-12 Pro Academy team claimed first place over Atletico Madrid at the world-renowned IberCup USA in Bradenton and Sarasota.

With over 350 teams from 50 nations, the IberCup is the largest and most international youth tournament in the world, boasting top teams such as Atletico Madrid, Manchester City, Benfica and Ajax.

The U-12s defeated Atletico Madrid’s U-12 Pro Academy side 1-0 after previously losing 2-0 to the Spanish club in their opening game of the tournament. The Lions advanced through a difficult playoff bracket, defeating teams from southern California and Texas, to make it to the championship match where they produced an inspiring performance against Madrid.

The OCYS U-10 boy’s team also advanced to the final, losing 2-1 to the Dallas Texans after competing against Manchester City’s top U-10 team in the group stages.

“To have the opportunity to have this level of competition only two hours away was fantastic for our kids,” said Orlando City Pro Academy head coach Craig Melton. “For us to play against different styles of play, combinations and tactics, was really good development for our players to get only two hours away from our hometown, rather than having to travel internationally.”

To purchase season, group or individual tickets, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com or call 855-ORL-CITY.  Also, follow the latest Orlando City news and updates via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

The only Major League Soccer (MLS) team in Florida, the Lions’ first team set the U.S. record for best start of any professional soccer club in its first 100 league matches (66-12-22). Orlando City has won three USL PRO regular season titles and two postseason championships. Outside of the first squad, OCSC also has a youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U-23 team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com and www.OrlandoCityYouth.org.

Orlando City SC Transportation Options and Parking for March 8

Free SunRail Service and Free Continuous LYNX LYMMO Line Service to Citrus Bowl Highlight Convenient Options for Fans

Orlando City SC today announced a series of options for fans traveling to the Club’s inaugural Major League Soccer (MLS) match against New York City FC at the Orlando Citrus Bowl on March 8. With an expected crowd of 62,000 fans as part of Operation #FillTheBowl – everyone is encouraged to arrive early!

Fan Fest – featuring entertainment, live music, food, a beer garden, a kids’ zone and other festivities – will start at 2 p.m. along Rio Grande Avenue on the east side of the Orlando Citrus Bowl. Gates will open at 3 p.m. Kickoff is set for 5 p.m. ET.

LYNX LYMMO – Increased Downtown Service:

• Estimated to run on 5 minute increments, there will be continuous service on both the Grapefruit and Orange LYMMO lines circulating throughout downtown starting at 2 p.m. with opportunity to transfer to Citrus Bowl connection services. This will provide fans with a convenient opportunity to get to the stadium from a variety of locations across downtown Orlando (including the Church Street SunRail stop). A complete transportation map can be found here.

LYNX ‘Citrus Bowl Connection’ Service Between Downtown & Citrus Bowl:

• In addition, LYNX and Orlando Venues will provide free continuous bus service between downtown and the Orlando Citrus Bowl. More than 40 buses will be continuously running in a loop post-game to ensure fans a smooth exit from the stadium to various downtown locations.

SunRail:

• Free SunRail service for fans will be provided before and after the game on Sunday, March 8. This convenient opportunity allows fans to arrive in Downtown from surrounding communities and to take LYNX LYMMO lines to the stadium, alleviating the need for parking. For more information, click here.

Parking: 

• Citrus Bowl: Fans can pre-purchase Citrus Bowl parking via TicketMaster here. Space will be limited and sold on a first-come, first-serve basis. Season Ticket Members should contact their account representatives for parking information.

• Downtown Garages: Fans can park in any Downtown garage and take the free LYNX LYMMO service to and from the stadium. Fans are encouraged to pre-pay for parking by visiting orlandoeventparking.com.

Prepaid Tolls Post-Game:

• To help ease fans’ exit from the Citrus Bowl following the match, Orlando City has partnered with the Central Florida Expressway Authority to prepay tolls for vehicles leaving Citrus Bowl parking lots post-match (7-8 p.m.) and entering State Road 408 at the Orange Blossom Trail ramp.

“We have all worked so hard for this historic match on March 8, and we want to ensure all our fans have a wonderful experience from the moment they leave their home,” said Orlando City Founder and President Phil Rawlins. “We are thrilled to work with our friends at LYNX and SunRail to provide our fans with a wide variety of convenient mass transportation options.”

Orlando City will host several additional events leading up to March 8 as part of Operation #FillTheBowl, including Soccer Under the Stars on Friday, March 6 and a Record Breaking Pub Crawl on Saturday, March 7.

Less than 1,000 season tickets remain! To purchase season tickets, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com or call 855-ORL-CITY.  Also, follow the latest Orlando City news and updates via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

Walt Disney World Resort becomes founding sponsor of Orlando City SC

Walt Disney World Resort and Orlando City SC have announced a multi-year agreement making Walt Disney World Resort a founding sponsor of the Club. The announcement comes at an exciting time, as Orlando City Soccer Club’s 2015 Major League Soccer (MLS) debut is this Sunday.

Under the agreement, Walt Disney World Resort becomes the official theme park and resort destination of Orlando City SC; Disney Cruise Line becomes the official cruise line of the Club; and Disney Vacation Club becomes the official vacation club of the team. Also, Disney will have a significant presence at Orlando City home matches at the Citrus Bowl in 2015 as well as at its future multi-purpose downtown stadium starting in 2016.

Additionally, the new agreement will help bolster Orlando’s and Walt Disney World Resort’s profile in key travel markets, such as Brazil and other Latin American countries where soccer is a national pastime. Building on the growing sports business at Walt Disney World Resort, the Orlando City Soccer Club will collaborate with ESPN Wide World of Sports at Walt Disney World Resort on a range of soccer events at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

The sports complex is the premier site for amateur sports in the nation and has a rich history of hosting a variety of youth and professional soccer events.

“This collaboration further strengthens the existing bond between the two Orlandos – the one known around the world as Disney theme parks and the metropolitan, vibrant growing downtown represented by Purple Pride,” said Club President and Founder Phil Rawlins. “Over 60 million tourists visited Orlando last year – with many coming from Brazil. There’s a natural synergy here to showcase all the wonder that is the City Beautiful. We also look forward to jointly hosting additional high-profile soccer events at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Disney through this relationship to the benefit of our fans, our community and the region.”

 

“Orlando City Soccer Club is writing an exciting new chapter in our region’s history,” said George A. Kalogridis, president of Walt Disney World Resort. “We are proud to be part of the community-wide team effort to help the Lions become Central Florida’s next great success story.”

The 2015 Major League Soccer season kicks off at the Orlando Citrus Bowl as the Lions host New York City FC in front of a capacity crowd of more than 60,000 on March 8, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. ET.

To purchase season, group or individual tickets, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com or call 855-ORL-CITY.  Also, follow the latest Orlando City news and updates via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

Over 2,000 Standing Room Only Tickets Released for Orlando City Soccer Club’s Opening Day

Orlando City announce more tickets available to historic MLS opener

Fret not City fans – Orlando City Soccer Club announced that over 2,000 standing room only tickets on the Orlando Citrus Bowl’s North Plaza have been released for the historic home opener against fellow league newcomers New York City FC.

The standing room only tickets will be released via www.ticketmaster.com and sold on a first-come, first-serve basis. The inaugural match will take place on March 8, 2015. Kickoff is set for 5:00 p.m. ET on ESPN2.

All seats except for a limited number held for season ticket sales have been sold for the March 8 match. Fans interested in purchasing season tickets can visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com or call 855-ORL-CITY.

“Based on the over-whelming demand from our fans to attend this match, we are thrilled to be able and extend a special standing room only ticket for what will be a historic event for our Club,” said Club President and Founder Phil Rawlins. “We know there are thousands of fans who greatly desire to watch the Lions take the field on March 8, and we look forward to seeing them all there!”

Orlando City will host several events leading up to its inaugural match on March 8. As noted earlier, due to the sellout of seats, admission to these events no longer includes a ticket to the historic first game. More information is available at www.OrlandoCitySC.com/FillTheBowl.

To purchase season, group or individual tickets, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com or call 855-ORL-CITY.  Also, follow the latest Orlando City news and updates via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

The Lions’ first team set the U.S. record for best start of any professional soccer club in its first 100 league matches (66-12-22). Orlando City has won three USL PRO regular season titles and two postseason championships. Outside of the first squad, OCSC also has a youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U-23 team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com and www.OrlandoCityYouth.org.

Don’t Miss Your Chance to Meet the Entire Orlando City SC Team

Tickets Available for the Lions’ Season Kickoff Luncheon on February 17, includes Admission to Season Opener March 8

With just over three weeks separating Orlando City Soccer Club from the season-opening match, the Lions invite all fans to kick back and get to know their team on Tuesday, February 17, at a special luncheon at the Hilton Orlando Altamonte Springs.

President and Founder Phil Rawlins, Head Coach Adrian Heath and the entire squad will attend to meet with fans, reflect on the team’s history and celebrate the year ahead.

“The moment we’ve all been working toward is here, and we invite all our fans to take advantage of this unique opportunity to meet our players and celebrate the historic season ahead,” said Rawlins.

Hosted by the Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association, the luncheon will take place on Tuesday, February 17 at the Hilton Orlando Altamonte Springs from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Seats can be purchased at CFHLA.org/OCSC. Admission to the Tailgate includes a ticket to the inaugural match on March 8.

Real Radio 104.1 personality Jack Bradshaw will emcee the event filled with food, music and tailgate games. Fans are encouraged to take photos with players and purchase team merchandise.

Orlando City SC will host several events leading up to March 8 as part of Operation #FillTheBowl. Admission to many of these events includes a ticket to the historic first game. More information is available at www.OrlandoCitySC.com/FillTheBowl.

To purchase season, group or individual tickets, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com or call 855-ORL-CITY.

Also, follow the latest Orlando City SC news and updates via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

Marquee Home Matches Highlight Orlando City SC 2015 MLS Schedule

Orlando City Soccer Club Lions’ 2015 inaugural schedule includes 16 nationally televised matches

Orlando City Soccer Club released the 34-game regular season schedule today for its historic 2015 Major League Soccer (MLS) season, featuring home matches against five-time MLS Cup Champions LA Galaxy, 2014 Eastern Conference Champions New England Revolution, and 2013 MLS Cup Champions Sporting Kansas City. Click here to view the 2015 schedule.

Season tickets for the Orlando City SC inaugural MLS campaign are available for as low as $18.50 per game until January 16, 2015, and can be purchased by visiting www.OrlandoCitySC.com or by calling 855-ORL-CITY.

Ticket packages include 20 matches – 17 MLS home games and three additional fixtures (friendlies, Open Cup matches, etc.) – with members also receiving priority renewal status for the brand new soccer stadium in 2016.

Orlando City SC will begin its opening season at home on March 8, 2015, against fellow expansion club New York City FC (NYCFC), featuring the first-ever MLS matches for the league’s newest stars – Kaká and David Villa. Less than one week later, City will kick-start its away schedule – visiting BBVA Compass Stadium to challenge the Houston Dynamo on Friday, March 13.

Additionally, the Lions’ regular season schedule is highlighted by 16 matches that will be broadcast live on FOX, ESPN and Univision as part of MLS’ recent television deal. The nationally televised games include noteworthy contests against NYCFC, the Houston Dynamo, Portland Timbers, Toronto FC, DC United, LA Galaxy, San Jose, New York Red Bulls, Seattle Sounders and Sporting Kansas City.

The matches that are not scheduled to broadcast nationally will air on local television network WOFL FOX 35/WRBW MY65 through a recently announced multi-year agreement.

“We’re thrilled that the schedule has been released and we can’t wait to get started,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “The nation’s eyes will be upon us in our first season, and we couldn’t be happier with how the schedule has turned out.”

The majority of City’s fixtures will occur during the weekend, with the Lions only scheduled for three midweek matches. Two of those contests will take place on the road against DC United and Toronto FC.

The last day of the 2015 regular season will see MLS unveil a new, exciting scheduling format – dubbed “Decision Day” – which will be one final flurry of action to settle the standings and determine who is in, and who is out, of the MLS Cup Playoffs.

For more information on Orlando City SC or to purchase 2015 MLS Season Tickets, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com or call 855-ORL-CITY.  Also, follow the latest Orlando City news and updates via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Recently ranked 14^th among all professional teams in North America, Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is Major League Soccer’s newest expansion team set to debut in 2015. The Lions’ first team set the U.S. record for best start of any professional soccer club in its first 100 league matches (66-12-22). Orlando City has won three USL PRO regular season titles and two postseason championships. Outside of the first squad, OCSC also has a youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U-23 team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com and www.OrlandoCityYouth.org.

Orlando City SC Looks to Build Business through the City Alliance Network

Connecting Businesses and Customers through their Passion for Soccer

Orlando City SC (OCSC) today announced the launch of City Alliance, a network of local Season Ticket Members developed to introduce customers and businesses through their common support of Orlando City.

Membership in City Alliance is complimentary for Club, Midfield and Sideline Season Ticket Members, as well as Orlando City’s corporate partners.  Benefits include networking opportunities and events, discounts to host events at OCSC’s City Pub, recognition on the City Alliance webpage and directory listing, and many more.

“City Alliance is yet another way in which Orlando City is helping drive the economy in Central Florida,” said Club President and Founder Phil Rawlins.  “A significant number of local businesses already recognize the opportunities afforded by networking and entertaining at our matches.  The City Alliance program provides yet another avenue for business growth by connecting potential customers and encouraging Lions fans to develop professional relationships.”

There are two levels of membership in City Alliance – Gold, which requires a minimum of four (4) Midfield or Sideline Season Ticket Seats, and Purple, which requires a minimum of two (2) Club Seats:

• Gold membership provides access to networking events, online directory listing, a newsletter subscription, eligibility for a spotlight feature online and in the newsletter, and a preferred rental fee for City Pub in the Orlando City offices.
• Purple members also get the opportunity to host an event at their place of business, prominent recognition on the City Alliance webpage, and complimentary rental of City Pub.

All Season Ticket Members that have already made qualifying purchases are automatically enrolled in the City Alliance program. More information on how to activate their memberships will be provided at a later date.

For more information on City Alliance, please visit www.orlandocitysc.com/tickets/cityalliance/ or call 855-ORL-CITY.

For more information on Orlando City SC or 2015 MLS Season Tickets, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com or call 855-ORL-CITY. Also, follow the latest Orlando City news and updates via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

Orlando City SC Countdown to Groundbreaking: MLS President, Purple Sand and a Special Gift for Fans!

As the City Beautiful prepares for the highly anticipated groundbreaking of the new Downtown home of the Orlando City SC, details continue to emerge about the unique once-in-a-lifetime celebration scheduled for Thursday evening, October 16. Fans will begin to gather at Church Street Station at 5:30 p.m.

Mark Abbott, president of Major League Soccer, will attend the festivities on Thursday, participating alongside fans and dignitaries.

The Club also announced today that, in true Orlando City fashion, the ceremonial dig will take place in purple sand – over 24 tons of purple sand to be exact.  The violet-hued sand will be delivered to the site Thursday morning and placed into a specially constructed box where the first dig will take place.

The groundbreaking celebration is open to all, and fans who attend will receive a unique gift to remember this day: a clear miniature Orlando City commemorative paint can which they can take use to scoop up and take home some of the purple sand from the event.  Fans can pre-register for the souvenir by clicking here.

Below is a full schedule of events for Thursday evening:

 

5:30 p.m. – Fans gather at Church Street Station

6:15 p.m. – March begins from Church Street to groundbreaking site

~6:45 p.m. – Formal groundbreaking event begins

~7:20 p.m. – Ceremonial dig

Additional details of the groundbreaking will be announced over the coming days.  Be sure to get the latest updates by followingOrlando City via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

For more information on Orlando City SC or to purchase 2015 MLS Season Tickets, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com or call 855-ORL-CITY.

About the Downtown Stadium:

Through a public/private partnership, a new Major League Soccer stadium is being constructed in Downtown Orlando – it will be the future home of Orlando City Soccer Club and host to other major national events throughout the year.  Scheduled to open for the 2016 MLS season, the stadium will have an initial capacity of approximately 20,000, will be LEED-certified, and will reflect the character and culture of the community, especially the surrounding Parramore neighborhood, to provide an unparalleled and truly unique fan experience.

The stadium will break ground on October 16, 2014, and is being designed and constructed by Populous, Barton Malow, and ICON Venue Group, who are widely renowned for previous works on venues such as Wembley Stadium, Yankee Stadium and multiple other MLS stadium projects.  One completed, it will be operated by the City of Orlando and owned by the Central Florida community. Community funding partnerships include the City of Orlando, Orlando City Soccer Club and Orange, Seminole and Osceola counties.

The soccer stadium is part of the Blueprint Initiative that ensures the local community benefits from the construction with 24 percent of the contracts going to minority or women-owned business enterprises. For more information, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com.

About Orlando City SC:

Recently ranked 14^th among all professional teams in North America, Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is Major League Soccer’s newest expansion team. The club will begin play in MLS in 2015, becoming the league’s 21^st club. The Lions’ first team set the U.S. record for best start of any professional soccer club in its first USL PRO league 100 matches (66-12-22). Orlando City has won three USL PRO regular season titles and two postseason championships. Outside of the first squad, OCSC also has a youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U-23 team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com and www.OrlandoCityYouth.org.