CFVRMA Supports Orlando City Soccer MLS Bid

Central Florida Vacation Rental Manager’s Association Supports Orlando City Soccer Club’s MLS Bid

ORLANDO, FLA.– Central Florida Vacation Rental Manager’s Association (CFVRMA), the largest group of vacation rental manager’s in the state of Florida, have endorsed Orlando City Soccer Club’s (OCSC) bid to become a Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise.

Following the news that a site has been chosen for the new downtown multipurpose soccer stadium, CFVRMA has decided to throw its support behind the bid for MLS in Central Florida. Wednesday, Mayor Buddy Dyer announced the $8.2 million site for the stadium as being the two blocks bordered by Central Boulevard, Church Street, Terry and Parramore Avenues. If the bid is successful, Orlando could be awarded a franchise by this December and play in MLS in 2015.

“ The vacation rental industry in Central Florida has largely flown under the radar for approximately two decades,” said CFVRMA Vice President Nigel Worrall. “In that time, the industry has grown to create over 33,000 local jobs and to bring an economic impact of over $1.7 Billion to the local economy, largely in Osceola and Polk counties.”

“We believe the time is right for Orlando to have another major league sporting team and we’d like to play a part in helping that bid,” Worrall continued. “Approximately $12 million dollars a year is created by the vacation home industry in tourist development taxes in Osceola County alone. Orange County, by comparison, collects just a small fraction of that from vacation rentals. We’d like to change that and help bring more dollars to the county. We believe we can contribute a similar amount to that collected in Osceola County if given the opportunity and that would undoubtedly help Orange County with future projects and planning.”
“We are proud to have the support of the CFVRMA,” said Orlando City President Phil Rawlins. “Tourism is important to our organization as we strive to bring a MLS franchise to Orlando by 2015.”
About Central Florida Vacation Manager’s Association: The Central Florida Vacation Rental Managers Association was founded in 1998 to unite Central Florida vacation home management companies as a professional body, and to work together to promote the vacation rental industry, support compliance and serve and protect the interests of property owners and guests. Vacation rental managers are held to a code of ethics and membership must be approved by a majority of the board of directors. Members attend monthly meetings, which include educational training, networking opportunities and updates relevant to the vacation rental industry.

Orlando City Faces LA Blues Today!

Orlando City Faces Top-Place LA Blues Today at 7:30 p.m.

Lions look for win over Blues after early season loss on Friday at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl

Orlando City continues their home stand this Friday, April 19^th, against the LA Blues at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl with kick off set for 7:30 p.m. The two met last week in California, with the Lions upended 1-0 by the upstart Blues on their second road match in three days to begin the regular season.

“We haven’t strung a full 90 together that we’ve all been proud of, but we’re improving,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “I feel that we’re getting into some sort of rhythm and we’re looking forward to the game on Friday.”

The Lions (2-1-0, 6 points) most recently topped Rochester 3-1 at their home opener on Sunday night. Inclement weather caused the game to be delayed nearly two hours, with Dom Dwyer, Long Tan and Jamie Watson scoring for Orlando after the long delay for the win.

LA (3-1-0, 9 points) stands at the top of the table through the early 2013 USL PRO Season. Orlando fell to the Blues last week 1-0 at Cal State Fullerton Titan Stadium in Fullerton, Calif. A goal in the 80th minute from former Orlando Striker George Davis IV put LA on top, giving them their first-ever victory over the Lions in franchise history.

Orlando is 2-1-1 all-time against LA, with Heath stating this year’s Blues squad is much improved over last season’s team.

“I told the guys before we played LA the first time that the Blues are going to be a lot better than last year,” Heath added. “The coach and GM are serious football people over there and we expect them to be strong.”

Gates open at 6:30 p.m. Friday, with pregame festivities including a concert by local band The Crazy Carls. Friday night’s game will be live streamed on USLNation.com. For more information on Friday’s match, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

Orlando City Wins Rain-Delayed Home Opener 3-1

Forwards Long Tan, Dom Dwyer, Jamie Watson score in home-opener victory Sunday night

Orlando City began their home schedule in winning style Sunday night, topping the visiting Rochester Rhinos 2-0 at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. The Lions (2-1-0) and Rhinos (0-2-0) had to withstand a combined two hours of stoppage due to severe weather in the area as Orlando took home their second win of the young 2013 USL PRO season.

“I was confident that if we scored the first goal we’d be ok,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “I love playing in the rain because the pace of the game picks up, so besides the wind I thought the conditions were fine.”

A steady rain came down on the field at the start of the game, making for a fast-paced match between the two clubs. In the 13^th minute, Orlando got their first scoring chance of the game as Sporting KC and Orlando City Forward Dom Dwyer found 2012 USL PRO MVP Kevin Molino behind the Rochester backline.

Molino’s effort went off the right post after Rhino Goalkeeper Kristian Nicht was lured out of his box due to the danger, with the pressure from Orlando continuing through the beginning of the first half.

But as the rain continued and thunderclouds began to roll in, the match was postponed due to severe weather in the area in the 21^st minute. The break lasted a total of 56 minutes, with the match resuming at 7:24 p.m. only to be postponed again minutes later. The game finally got underway at 8:30 p.m., totalling close to a two-hour delay.

When play finally resumed, Orlando continued their strong pace of passing and possession. Midfielder Jamie Watson nearly capitalized on a chance in the 37^th minute, finding an open lane just outside the 18-yard mark with his attempt just missing the far post. The attacking continued, with it paying off for the Lions in stoppage time of the first 45. After Kevin Molino followed up an attempt from Dwyer, Tan found the rebound – blasting his attempt past Nicht for the 1-0 lead.

The Lions didn’t let up in the beginning of the second half, jumping on the Rochester backline to score the second goal of the game. Winger Bryan Burke placed a well-played cross to a charging Dom Dwyer in the 47^th minute, who easily slotted home his second goal of the season to give Orlando the 2-0 advantage.

Watson continued the scoring for Orlando in the 62^nd minute, cleaning up a loose ball in the Rhinos’ box for the 3-0 advantage. Rochester scored in the 90^th minute of play as Forward Blake Brettschneider lofted his shot up and over Orlando Goalkeeper Jon Kempin. The score was too little, too late, however, with the Lions taking home the victory 3-1.

Orlando continues home play this Friday, April 19^th, against the LA Blues. Orlando has already played the California-based squad this season, falling 1-0 on the road in Fullerton, Calif. Blues’ Forward George Davis scored the lone goal in the 80^th minute for LA, propelling them to the home win. The Lions are 2-1-1 all time against the Blues in four meetings between the two clubs.

For more information on the Friday’s match, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is a premier professional soccer sports franchise in the United States and is a member of the USL PRO. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.

Orlando Travels To Face Los Angeles Blues Wednesday

Orlando Travels To Face Los Angeles Blues Wednesday

Lions look for second straight win to begin 2013 USL PRO season in LA Wednesday night

Orlando, Fla.— Fresh off a comeback win Sunday night in Tempe, Ariz., to kick off the 2013 USL PRO regular season, Orlando City SC travels further west to square off against the Los Angeles Blues Wednesday night at Cal State Fullerton Stadium in Fullerton, Calif. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. EST. The Lions defeated Phoenix FC to begin the regular season, scoring three unanswered to top the Wolves 3-1.

The LA Blues have played two games in the young USL PRO season, topping Phoenix FC 2-0 on March 23^rd to kick off the season before falling to VSI Tampa Bay FC 0-1 on April 2^nd. George Davis IV, a former Orlando City forward, has one of the two goals scored for the Blues in 2013, with the other coming from Midfielder Christopher Cortez.

The Blues are coached by Dr. Jesus Rico-Sanz, a former Real Madrid youth player as well as former Vanlose IF coach and player in Denmark’s Second Division. He joined the Blues this past offseason, looking to turn the team around from a 9-3-12 season in 2012.

After starting the game down a goal to the expansion Phoenix side Sunday night, Orlando quickly regained composure- scoring three unanswered goals in the 35^th, 67^th and 87^th minutes. Sporting Kansas City loanee and Forward Dom Dwyer tied the match in the 35^th minute, with a wonderfully placed ball by Jamie Watson finding the striker in stride, heading it in to level the score line at 1-1.

The second half provided more scoring opportunities and chances for the Lions, including goals from Long Tan and Kevin Molino in the 67^th and 87^th minutes, respectively.

Wednesday night’s game will be live streamed on USLNation.com beginning at 8 p.m. For more information on Wednesday’s away game in Los Angeles and the upcoming home opener this Sunday, April 14, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl against the Rochester Rhinos, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

Match Recap: Orlando Scores Three Unanswered, Wins 2013 USL PRO Opener in Arizona

Orlando Scores Three Unanswered, Wins 2013 USL PRO Opener in Arizona

Goals by Dwyer, Tan and Molino propel Lions comeback victory in regular season opener

Tempe, Ariz.— Orlando City SC kicked off the 2013 USL PRO season opener in comeback fashion, defeating expansion side Phoenix FC 3-1 at the Sun Devil Soccer Stadium in Tempe, Ariz. Sunday night. After being down 1-0 in the opening part of the match, the Lions scored three unanswered to take the victory and three points to begin the 2013 regular season.

The match in Tempe began with scoring chances for the Lions, including a free kick resulting from a controversial challenge by Phoenix Goalkeeper Andrew Weber. The former Seattle Sounder took down a charging Dom Dwyer outside the 18-yard box, giving the keeper an early yellow card. The Lions couldn’t connect on the ensuing corner, but kept control early on against the expansion side.

Phoenix responded with attacks of their own, capitalizing in the 16^th minute. Speedy Midfielder Diego Faria caught the Lions sleeping just past the 15 minute mark, beating Goalkeeper and Sporting Kansas City loanee Jon Kempin after intercepting a pass from the Orlando backline to give his expansion club an early 1-0 lead.

After the early goal, Orlando settled down in the later part of the first half– nearly capitalizing on multiple chances before finally breaking through in the 35^thminute. Forward Jamie Watson found a clear lane on the right side of the pitch outside the 18-yard mark, with his pass curling in and finding a charging Dom Dwyer in stride. The Sporting loanee headed the ball past Weber, tying the match at 1-1.

The Lions came out in the second half with increased energy and fight, controlling possession for the majority of the second half. Head Coach Adrian Heath made a crucial change in the 63^rd minute, subbing in former DC United Striker Long Tan to push the attack – which is exactly what the Chinese forward did.

After a well-played through ball by 2012 USL PRO MVP Kevin Molino, Tan took care of the rest – chipping his attempt up and over Weber to give the Lions the 2-1 advantage.

Orlando wasn’t done scoring, converting their third straight after Molino found space on the righthand side, blasting his shot home to give Orlando the comfortable 3-1 lead in the closing part of the match.

Orlando now heads further west to meet the L.A. Blues for a Wednesday night matchup at Cal State Fullerton Titan Stadium. The match was originally scheduled for 7 p.m. but has moved back one hour to 8 p.m. EST kick off time. The Blues are 1-1-0 through two games in the young USL PRO season, topping Phoenix 2-0 in the league opener on March 23 before falling to VSI Tampa Bay FC 0-1 on April 2. The match will be live streamed on USLNation.

For more information on Wednesday’s away game in Los Angeles and the upcoming home opener this Sunday, April 14, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl against the Rochester Rhinos, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando Signs Former Goalkeeper Kelley, Gallardo Out 4-6 Weeks

Orlando Signs Former Goalkeeper Kelley, Gallardo Out 4-6 Weeks

Team adds familiar face as team captain out with injury

ORLANDO—Orlando City SC announced Wednesday that the team has signed former backup Goalkeeper Sean Kelley, pending USSF approval. The move comes as starting Goalkeeper and Team Captain Miguel Gallardo sustained a knee injury in training and will be out 4-6 weeks. The team begins the 2013 USL PRO season away against expansion franchise Phoenix FC on Sunday, April 7 with kickoff set for 10:30 p.m. EST.

“We hope Miguel has a speedy recovery,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “But we are lucky to have Sean with us. He’s been with us and knows the team. It’s a great opportunity for him and it’s good to have him back.“

Kelley is familiar to Heath’s system, signing with the team in 2010 in Austin, Texas, and moving with the franchise to Orlando in 2011. The backup famously came in for Gallardo in the 2011 USL PRO Championship game, making key saves in the penalty shootout against the Harrisburg City Islanders to help secure the league championship. The Kentucky native appeared in four matches for the Lions in 2012, recording an 0.571 Goals Against Average (GAA) and two shutouts.

Kelley, along with new Sporting Kansas City loanee Jon Kempin, will have to fill in for the injured Gallardo for the beginning of the 2013 USL PRO season. Gallardo appeared in 21 games for the Lions in 2012, leading the league is GAA (.780) while recording eight clean sheets. The 2011 USL PRO Goalkeeper of the Year holds the record for clean sheets in a season with 11 in 2011.

Acquisition: Orlando City SC (USL PRO) Signs Goalkeeper Sean Kelley

Birthday: 04/15/1988

Height: 6’5”

College: George Mason

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

MATCH PREVIEW: Lions Kick Off Regular Season On The Road Sunday

Lions Kick Off Regular Season On The Road Sunday

Orlando Starts 2013 USL PRO Season Against Expansion Club Phoenix FC in Arizona Sunday night

Orlando, Fla.— Orlando City kicks off the 2013 USL PRO on the road Sunday, April 7, in Phoenix against expansion club Phoenix FC at Sun Devil Soccer Stadium in Tempe, Ariz. Kickoff for the game is set for 10:30 p.m. EST as the Lions look to capture their third straight USL PRO regular season title.

“We’ve had a great preseason and I think we’ve gotten progressively better, ” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath after Orlando’s win in St. Petersburg over the Tampa Bay Rowdies Saturday night. “We’re looking forward to having another bit season.”

The Lions begin the regular season with a head of steam after concluding the 2013 preseason, which wrapped up Saturday night as Orlando captured the I-4 Derby presented by United World Soccer against 2012 NASL Champion Tampa Bay Rowdies in St. Petersburg. Orlando scored late to secure the 3-2 win over the Rowdies and 6-4 aggregate overall. Kevin Molino, Adama Mbengue and Dom Dwyer all score for the Lions in the win in front of hundreds of City supporters who made the trip down I-4.

Sunday’s opponent, Phoenix FC, is one of two expansion franchises for the 2013 USL PRO season. Phoenix was announced as USL franchise on July 2 of 2012 and is led by Head Coach David Robertson. Robertson played in over 220 first team games for Scotland’s Aberdeen, helping his squad win the Scottish League Cup in 1989 and the Scottish Cup in 1990.

His club defeated fellow expansion side and cross-state VSI Tampa Saturday night 1-0, with Phoenix’s Netinho scoring the only goal of the game, and the first in the club’s history in the Wolves’ first win. Overall the club is 1-1-0 (W-L-T), falling to the LA Blues in the USL PRO opener back on March 23.

For more leading up to Sunday’s game, please visit OrlandoCitySoccer.com.

Training Times:

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Off 10-11:15** 10-11:15 ** 10-11:15** 10-11:15**

*Practices are held at the Seminole Soccer Complex in Sanford, Fla, and are open to media. Times are subject to change. Please contact Chris Jones (cjones@orlandocitysoccer.com) on confirmed times before attending training.

**times a.m.

MATCH RECAP: Orlando Captures Inaugural I-4 Derby Title Over Tampa Bay Rowdies

Orlando Captures Inaugural I-4 Derby Title Over Tampa Bay Rowdies

Team 1 2 Final (Aggregate)

Orlando City 2 1 3 (6)

Tampa Bay Rowdies 1 1 2 (4)

Scoring Summary:

ORL- Kevin Molino (Adama Mbengue) 5^th

ORL-Adama Mbengue (unassisted) 32^nd

TB- Takuya Yamade (penalty) 41^st

TB- Amani Walker (unassisted) 52^nd

ORL-Dom Dwyer (unassisted) 90th

Lineups:

Orlando City- GK: Jon Kempin, D Bryan Burke, Yann Songo’o, Rob Valentino, Luke Boden, M James O’Connor, Christian Duke, Kevin Molino, Adama Mbengue F Jamie Watson (Dennis Chin 73’), Dom Dwyer

Tampa Bay– GK Andrew Fontein, D Frankie Sanfilippo, Takuya Yamada, Daniel Scott Raphael Cox, M Evans Frimpong, Luke Mullholland, Stuart Campbell, Devin Del Do, F Georgi Hristov, Amani Walker

Match Facts:

Time of Match: 7:30 p.m.

Weather: Clear

Orlando Captures Inaugural I-4 Derby Title Over Tampa Bay Rowdies

Lions win 6-4 on aggregate, capturing inaugural I-4 Derby Championship in St. Petersburg

Orlando, Fla.— Orlando City SC took down the Tampa Bay Rowdies 3-2 Saturday night at Al Lang Field in St. Petersburg, Fla., capturing the inaugural I-4 Derby presented by United World Soccer on aggregate 6-4. More than 150 Orlando City supporters travelled to see the Lions hoist the I-4 trophy, which wraps up the 2013 preseason for the Lions.

“It was an unbelievable atmosphere,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “I’m pleased for our players as they worked really hard tonight, and I’m really pleased for the supporters as they’ve been unbelievable. This one is for them.“

The Lions didn’t take very long to get on the scoreboard, with a well placed through ball by Midfielder Adama Mbengue to a charging Kevin Molino giving Orlando the early advantage. The 2012 USL PRO MVP found the pass in stride right outside the 18-yard box from Mbengue, rounding Rowdies Goalkeeper Andrew Fontein in the 5^th minute to put the Lions up 1-0.

Orlando kept pushing on the attack, with it paying off in the 32^nd minute. Forward and Sporting loanee Dom Dwyer blasted a shot that was deflected by Tampa’s Fontein, only for Mbengue to put in the follow up – giving Orlando the two goal advantage.

Tampa responded just before halftime, with a penalty kick conversion by Defender Tayuka Yamada in the 41^st cutting down the Lions’ lead to one. Defender Rob Valentino entangled with a Tampa striker inside the Orlando18-yard box, with the referee pointing to the penalty spot immediately after both fell from the collision. Yamada slid it by Goalkeeper Jon Kempin, who made his first start for Orlando since being loaned from affiliate Sporting Kansas City, to give the Rowdies some hope before half.

Tampa kicked off the second half with another score, this time from Forward Amani Walker. The striker received a well-placed chip from a Rowdies midfielder, placing it past Kempin to tie the match at 2-2 in the 50^th minute.

After the Rowdies quick two scores, Orlando’s defense tightened in the later part of the second half, not allowing Tampa to gain solid footing on the offensive side of the ball. A late goal by Dwyer secured the win and championship for Orlando, slotting the ball from 18 yards out in the 90^th minute to give Orlando the 3-2 advantage and 6-4 on aggregate.

Orlando now turns their attention to the 2013 USL PRO regular season, with the Lions traveling to Sun Devil Stadium on the campus of Arizona State University to face expansion side Phoenix FC on Sunday, April 7. The match will be streamed on UNation. For more information leading up to the regular season opener in Phoenix, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

Photo Credit: Matt May/Tampa Bay Rowdies, Austin Hittel/Orlando City SC

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Release: Soccer Foundation Aims To Build Soccer Fields In Downtown Orlando

Orlando City Soccer Foundation Aims To Build Soccer Fields In Downtown Orlando

OCSF kicking off 2013 with special initiatives that include Parramore area and player outreach

ORLANDO, Fla. – The Orlando City Soccer Foundation (OCSF) kicks off 2013 with exciting initiatives to give back to the Orlando community through outreach programs and services targeted at children and families, including building two soccer fields in the Parramore area. The soccer fields, which would be lit, outdoor turf pitches, are meant to provide a safe place to play while promoting healthy lifestyles.

“Reaching out to our local community using the powerful platform of sport is imperative,” said Foundation Chair Kay Rawlins. “Our main focus is promoting a healthy lifestyle for children, such as eating healthy and engaging in exercise. The project is important because it will provide a safe place to play for kids in the community while also teaching them about a healthy lifestyle.”

Through an ongoing process with the US Soccer Foundation, OCSF has targeted Parramore, which is located near downtown Orlando. Providing a soccer facility in the neighborhood will offer children a free and safe place to play, and would be the only soccer facility located in the neighborhood. OCSF hopes to announce that funding has been secured by the end of 2013, with construction starting immediately afterwards.

Placing the two soccer-field facility in Parramore serves as a catalyst to other great benefits for the neighborhood. The Foundation will hire coaches and other necessary staff members to help facilitate soccer activities and maintain the fields. These coaches will provide free guidance and tips for children on the field as well as important life skills that they can use off it.

The Foundation plans on fulfilling other civic duties to the community, such as going to local schools and youth groups to advocate staying active and eating healthy. Many players have already partnered with existing non-profits and civic organizations including ROCK, Easter Seals Disability Services and New Image Youth Center (NIYC). Additionally, team members will provide free soccer clinics for children as part of an ongoing relationship with the NIYC.

“This year will be full of promise,” Rawlins added. “We want to start our initiatives in the heart of Parramore, which will hopefully start a trickle effect throughout Orlando. Preparing the children for the future is something that the whole city of Orlando should be involved in.”

OCSF is a 501 ©3 non-profit organization, and is dedicated to fulfilling the charitable objectives of Orlando City SC by providing outreach programs, services and initiatives for individuals and organizations in need. For more information, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

MATCH PREVIEW: Lions Face Rowdies In Second Leg of I-4 Derby Saturday

Lions Face Rowdies In Second Leg Of I-4 Derby Saturday

Orlando looks for inaugural derby title in St. Petersburg at Al Lang Stadium

ORLANDO, Fla.—Orlando City squares off against the Tampa Bay Rowdies in the second leg of the I-4 Derby presented by United World Soccer on Saturday, March 30, at Al Lang Field in St. Petersburg, Fla. The Lions won the first match in the derby series between the two on March 9 at the Florida Citrus Bowl, rallying to down the visiting Rowdies 3-2. Kickoff for the game is set for 7:30 p.m.

“We know we missed a good amount of chances in the first game against Tampa,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “It’s going to be a competitive game down at a tight field down there (in St. Petersburg). I expect a great game.“

Orlando has met Tampa Bay twice in franchise history, with both meetings coming within the last month. The Lions first met the Rowdies in the conclusion of the 2013 Disney Pro Soccer Classic, beating the 2012 NASL champions 2-0 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. The two then clashed in the first leg of the I-4 Derby just two weeks later, with Orlando rallying to clinch the victory 3-2 over the visiting squad. If Orlando wins or draws in St. Petersburg on Saturday, the Lions will take home the title of champions in the first of what both sides hope to be an annual series.

The 2013 Orlando City roster has seen change since the last time they squared off against the Rowdies. As per the agreement between Orlando and their Major League Soccer affiliate Sporting Kansas City, four players have arrived on loan and are now competing for starting spots. Those players include Dom Dwyer, Jon Kempin, Christian Duke and Yann Songo’o. All four have seen playing time in two collegiate friendlies since their arrival, making Saturday’s match even more crucial for each player as the 2013 USL PRO season starts at the beginning of April.

“Basically everybody is trying to get themselves into pole position before the start of the season,” Heath added.

The Lions play their last collegiate friendly of the 2013 preseason Monday, March 25, against the University of Tampa at the Seminole Soccer Complex in Sanford, Fla. Orlando has remained undefeated in the collegiate series in 2013, topping college teams from Stetson, Rollins, FIU and FGCU. Admission is free and kickoff is set for 7 p.m. For more information about the collegiate friendly against Tampa and Saturday’s game at the Tampa Bay Rowdies, visit OrlandoCitySoccer.com.

Training Times:

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Off Off 10-1130** 10-1130** 10-1130**

**times a.m.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando Receives Four Players On Loan From MLS’ Sporting KC

Orlando Receives Four Players On Loan From MLS’ Sporting KC

Players include 2012 SuperDraft first rounder, two homegrown Kansas City products

ORLANDO, Fla.—Orlando City SC, in cooperation with Major League Soccer’s (MLS) Sporting Kansas City, announced Thursday that four players from Sporting will join the Lions on permanent loan for the 2013 USL PRO season. The players, who will compete for starting roles immediately, include Forward Dom Dwyer, Midfielder Christian Duke, Defender Yann Songo’o and Goalkeeper Joe Kempin. They will be available for play in Orlando’s upcoming collegiate friendlies and the second leg of the I-4 Derby presented by United World Soccer against the NASL’s Tampa Bay Rowdies on March 30.

“We are bringing players in who all want to be on the first team,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “We think that they are going to come in and immediately compete. It’s game on for everybody.“

The four Kansas City products will be on loan for the 2013 season, but can be recalled at any time for Sporting KC responsibilities throughout the year. The players coming to Orlando results from a partnership completed in January of 2013, with the Lions becoming the official USL PRO affiliate of Sporting KC for the 2013 and 2014 seasons.

2012 MLS SuperDraft first round selection and Sporting’s No. 16 pick Dom Dwyer enhances the Orlando City frontline for the 2013 season. The striker played in nine Reserve League matches last year, scoring two goals for Kansas City. Dwyer’s first competitive minutes were in the club’s 3-2 win over the Lions in the 2012 version of the U.S. Open Cup. The Chuckfield, England, native spent time collegiately at the University of South Florida (USF), leading the Bulls with 16 goals and two assists in 21 games played.

Sporting KC Academy product and Midfielder Christian Duke adds to the already competitive midfield group that Orlando City currently fields. The Overland Park, KS, native has been a part of the Sporting KC Academy since June of 2007, attending Shawnee Mission South High School at the same time. Duke then attended the University of San Diego Toreros, becoming a consistent starter for the team. As a senior in 2012, the midfielder started all 23 matches for San Diego, earning All-West Coast Conference Second Team honors while leading the team to the quarterfinals of the NCAA Tournament.

Another Kansas City home grown product joins the Lions in 2013, with Goalkeeper Jon Kempin to fill the backup slot to Miguel Gallardo. Kempin was Sporting’s first-ever home grown Player signing back in 2010, making his professional debut the same season as backup to starter Eric Kronberg. Kempin, similar to Dwyer, played in the 3-2 U.S. Open Cup match win over Orlando City last season. The goalkeeper is an active member of the Under-20 and Under-23 National Team pools, being named to the 20-player roster for U20 training camp in Puebla, Mexico in January 2013.

The final addition to the 2013 squad includes Defender Yann Songo’o. Son of Cameroon National Team Goalkeeper Jacques Songo’o and brother to Portland Timbers Midfielder Frank Songo’o, Yann was signed to the Sporting side this past December. Songo’o represented Cameroon at the 2011 African Youth Championship in South Africa, helping his country reach the final and qualify for the 2011 FIFA U-20 World Cup.

Orlando continues preseason play against Florida Gulf Coast this Saturday, March 16, at the Seminole Soccer Complex in Sanford, Fla. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. Admission is free to the complex for the friendly. For more information on everything Orlando City, visit Orlandocitysoccer.com.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

City Re-Signs League MVP Kevin Molino

City Re-Signs League MVP Kevin Molino

Molino joins squad one month before home opener on April 14 at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl

Orlando, Fla.–Orlando City announced Wednesday the re-signing of 2012 USL PRO MVP Kevin Molino, pending USSF approval. The signing comes just over a month before Orlando’s regular-season home opener on April 14^th against the Rochester Rhinos, solidifying the squad as the Lions continue their 2013 preseason throughout the month of March.

“There’s no place better than home, so to speak,” said Molino. “This is the first place I played outside of Trinidad and I look forward to scoring more goals and hopefully winning MVP honors in 2013.”

Kevin Molino rejoins the Lions after an outstanding season on the field for Orlando. The Trinidad and Tobago international star claimed the 2012 USL PRO MVP honors after completing a year that saw Molino lead Orlando to a 50-goal season, an average of more than two per game. He finished the season with seven assists and three goals, but more importantly stretched opponent’s defenses to create more opportunities for the Lions frontline.

The midfielder began his career in Trinidad and Tobago, with the 22 year old representing his national team a total of 13 times in his young career. A key figure for Orlando since the team’s beginning in 2011, Molino has totaled more than 2,000 minutes in 44 games played for City over the span of two regular seasons. Molino tested the free agency waters over the 2013 preseason, spending time in Europe with PSV Eindhoven of the Netherlands and Zulte Waregem of Belgium along with scoring a goal for Trinidad and Tobago in the Caribbean Cup against the Dominican Republic on December 11.

The winger will immediately add to the already strong 2013 Orlando City side that Heath has called “his best team yet” in Orlando. On top of the Molino signing, the Lions have added Jean Alexandre, Bryan Burke, Freddie Braun, Brian Fekete and Jonathan Mendoza all within the last month, bringing the roster to a total of 18. Orlando is also expecting to bring on four Sporting Kansas City (MLS) players before the 2013 season start as per an agreement between the two clubs reached earlier in the year.

Acquisition: Orlando City (USLPRO) signs Kevin Molino

Orlando City Completes Comeback Against Tampa Bay

Down 1-0 at half, Lions scored three unanswered to take home the win

Despite being down a goal at halftime, Orlando City rallied back to beat the Tampa Bay Rowdies 3-2 in the first leg of the I-4 Derby sponsored by United World Soccer at the Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl Saturday night. The Lions scored in the 49^th, 58^th and 70^th minutes and withstood a late score by the Rowdies to complete the comeback victory.

“Our response in the second half was positive, we moved the ball quickly and opened them up,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “The game could’ve been out of sight with the amount of chances we had, but certainly glad of the 3-2 result after being down 1-nil at halftime.“

Orlando put the pressure on the Tampa Bay side early and often, creating chances for the Lions in the first half. Midfielder Jamie Watson was on the end of a few scoring chances in the first 10 minutes, having two shots on goal with one skipping inches left of the post for the Lions.

Tampa got on the board first, however, with a bad giveaway from the Orlando City backline leading to the score. Tampa Bay Forward Amani Walker took advantage of the poor passing by the City backline, slotting home the goal to give the Rowdies a 1-0 lead in the 17^th minute.

City continued to pressure throughout the rest of the first half, with the Lions holding a 12 -2 advantage in shots as the halftime whistle blew with the Rowdies still ahead by one.

Orlando got on the board immediately starting the second half, with Watson converting a corner kick to even the score line at 1-1. New signee Freddie Braun attempted the corner leading to the score, with the midfielder slotting home the goal.

The Lions offensive continued, with another goal coming in the 58^th minute for Orlando. After Forward Long Tan’s strike was deflected back in the middle of the pitch by Tampa Goalkeeper Andrew Fontein, Midfielder James O’Connor half-volleyed the deflection into the lower left-hand corner to give Orlando the 2-1 advantage. Forward Jean Alexandre also got on the scoreboard in the second half, with the striker chipping his breakaway opportunity up and over Fontein for the score and 3-1 lead.

Tampa Bay wasn’t done, with 2011 USL PRO Rookie of the Year Luke Mulholland converting on a free kick in the 75^th to put the Rowdies back in contention. The consistent Orlando attack was too much as the game wore on, with the match ending in a 3-2 victory for the Lions.

The Lions continue the 2013 preseason in a series of collegiate friendlies, starting with University of Stetson this Wednesday, March 13, at the Seminole Soccer Complex in Sanford, Fla. Orlando will also meet Florida Gulf Coast, Rollins College and the University of Tampa before the Lions square off against the Rowdies in the second leg of the I-4 Derby presented by United World Soccer in St. Petersburg, Fla., at Al Lang Stadium on March 30.

Orlando City Game Summary

Team 1 2 Final

Orlando City 0 3 3

Tampa Bay Rowdies 1 1 2

Scoring Summary:

(TB)-Amani Walker- 17^th

(ORL)-Jamie Watson- 49^th

(ORL)-James O’Connor-58^th

(ORL)-Jean Alexandre-70^th

(TB)-Luke Mulholland-75^th

Lineups:

Orlando City- Miguel Gallardo, Bryan Burke, Luke Boden, Oumar Diakhite, Rob Valentino, Adama Mbengue (Jonathan Mendoza-79^th), Freddie Braun, James O’Connor, Jamie Watson, Jean Alexandre, Long Tan

Tampa Bay- Andrew Fontein, Takuya Yamada, Dan Scott (Georgi Hristov-56^th), Jay Needham, Andres Arango (Jordan Gafa-79^th), Raphael Cox, Stuart Campbell, Shane Hill, Luke Mulholland, Amani Walker, Evans Frimpong

Match Facts:

Time of Match: 7:30 p.m.

Weather: Clear

Attendance: 6,877

For all game information and times of matches, visit OrlandoCitySoccer.com.

Match Preview: Orlando Faces Tampa In First-Ever ‘I-4 Derby’ at Florida Citrus Bowl

Orlando Faces Tampa In First-Ever ‘I-4 Derby’ at Florida Citrus Bowl

Home leg this Saturday, March 9, at Florida Citrus Bowl with kickoff set for 7:30

Orlando, Fla.- Orlando City SC faces cross-state and 2012 NASL Champion Tampa Bay Rowdies this Saturday, March 9, at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Fla. In the inaugural ‘I-4 Derby’, a home-and-away series between the two clubs, Orlando looks to gain further traction heading into the 2013 USL PRO regular season.

The last time the two clubs met, the Lions defeated the Rowdies 2-0 in the conclusion of the 2013 Disney Pro Soccer Classic last Saturday. Goals from Midfielder Jamie Watson and Forward Dennis Chin led the way for Orlando. Goalkeeper Miguel Gallardo and the City backline held their own against the Rowdies attack, keeping their first clean sheet in the PSC vs. cross-state Tampa.

The Lions have made roster moves since the last meeting against the Rowdies, adding Orlando City U23s Captain Jonathan Mendoza and University of Tampa standout Brian Fekete to the squad. Both had previously been on trial with Orlando before signing with the team. Defender Jerome Mechack was also signed by Major League Soccer’s (MLS) Sporting Kansas City after spending most of the 2013 preseason on trial.

Tampa Bay comes into the game led by Head Coach Ricky Hill, who heads into his second season with the club. Hill led Tampa Bay to a record of 12-9-7 in the 2012 regular season before making a run in the NASL playoffs, topping Minnesota Stars FC 3-2 on penalty kicks. Lion fans will remember Rowdies standout and Midfielder Luke Mulholland, who won USL PRO Rookie of the Year after notching nine goals and five assists for rival Wilmington Hammerheads in 2011.

The I-4 Derby was announced this past November after continuous fan suggestion of creating a strong rivalry between the two franchises. The Lions and Rowdies, both recent champions in the USL PRO and NASL, are both top-flight clubs that show the rapid growth of the beautiful game in the sunshine state.

Tickets for the first match in Orlando can be purchased now by calling (855) ORL-CITY, while tickets for the second match in Tampa Bay will go on sale at a later date and will be able to be purchased through www.rowdiessoccer.com. Tickets for the Orlando match will not be included as a part of the OCSC season ticket package, but discounts will be available for season ticket holders.

The two sides will meet again on March 30 for the second leg of the derby in St. Petersburg, Fla. The match kicks off at 7:30 p.m. at Al Lang Stadium. The Lions will also continue their preseason against local college teams, including Stetson, Florida Gulf Coast and Rollins College. For the full preseason schedule, visit OrlandoCitySoccer.com.
Training Schedule:

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

10-11:15** 10-11:15** 10-11:15** 10-11:15** 10-11:15**

**times a.m.

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Sporting KC Signs Orlando Defender Mechack Jerome

Sporting KC Signs Orlando Defender Mechack Jerome

First transaction between partners Sporting KC and Orlando City has Lions defender going to major leagues

ORLANDO, Fla.—Orlando City SC, in conjunction with affiliate and Major League Soccer’s (MLS) Sporting Kansas City (SKC), announced Thursday that Defender Mechack Jerome has been signed to the major league side for the 2013 season pending receipt of International Transfer Certificate. Spending much of the 2013 preseason on trial with Kansas City, Jerome impressed the Sporting coaching staff enough to garner a call-up from the 2012 USL PRO regular season champion Orlando team to the majors.

“We’re delighted for him,” said Orlando City Head Coach Adrian Heath. “We have seen his gradual development and are pleased that he has moved on to one of the best clubs in MLS. It’s certainly gratifying for us.”

Jerome was a key part of the Orlando City backline that allowed the fewest goals in the league in 2012. The Haitian international appeared in 20 games last season, scoring one goal while logging three assists. He established himself as a regular in the starting XI, logging 1,423 minutes over the 2012 season. In total, he has made 34 appearances for the Lions in two seasons with the club.

“I’ve always wanted to play in MLS and I am very happy to have signed,” Jerome said. “It’s a group of great guys and a good team. I feel comfortable here already. It was a great experience playing for Orlando City and I am thankful for the opportunity that they gave me by allowing me to come play for Sporting Kansas City.”

The fullback started three out of the four matches for Sporting in the recently completed Disney Pro Soccer Classic, earning praise from SKC Head Coach Peter Vermes in his time with the club.

“He’s a gamer,” Vermes said in a conference call back on February 14. “He is tough in the position. He understands it defensively. He’s very controlled with the ball. He gets the game. He really does. He hasn’t had a lot of time with us, but he’s done well and I like him so far.”

After beginning his career in Haiti with Baltimore de St. Marc, Jerome joined Mirandela of the Portuguese Second Division for the ’09-10 season. He was then acquired by Heath and the Austin Aztex in 2010, moving with the club to Orlando later that year.

The Liancourt, Haiti, native joins Lawerence Olum as former Orlando players who have made the Sporting side after going on trial. Olum appeared 21 times for the Lions in the 2011 season, scoring the opening goal of the 2011 USL PRO Championship match.

About Orlando City Soccer Club: