Orlando City SC

Orlando City Soccer Club, commonly known as Orlando City SC, is a professional football club based in Orlando, Florida, USA. The club was established on October 25, 2010, and competes in Major League Soccer (MLS), the highest level of professional football in the United States.

The club's journey to the MLS was a result of a successful campaign led by Phil Rawlins, a British businessman and football enthusiast. Rawlins initially owned a minor league team, the Austin Aztex, which he relocated to Orlando in 2010 with the intention of elevating the team to the MLS. After a series of negotiations and the promise of a new soccer-specific stadium, Orlando City SC was officially announced as the 21st franchise in the MLS in November 2013.

Orlando City SC played its inaugural MLS season in 2015, with the team's first match being held at the Citrus Bowl, a historic stadium in downtown Orlando. The team moved to its current home, the Exploria Stadium, in 2017. The stadium, which is located in the heart of downtown Orlando, is one of the few soccer-specific stadiums in the MLS and has a seating capacity of 25,500.

The team's colors are purple and gold, with the lion being the club's mascot and a prominent feature of the club's crest. The club's supporters are known for their passionate and vibrant support, with the main supporter group being the Iron Lion Firm.

Orlando City SC has had a number of notable players over the years, including Brazilian superstar Kaka, who was the team's first designated player and captain. Despite the team's relatively short history, it has developed a fierce rivalry with Atlanta United FC, with matches between the two teams being referred to as the "Southern Derby."

The club also has a successful women's team, the Orlando Pride, which competes in the National Women's Soccer League. The Pride was established in 2015 and has been home to several high-profile players, including Brazilian legend Marta and US national team stars Alex Morgan and Ashlyn Harris.

In addition to its on-field activities, Orlando City SC is heavily involved in the local community through the Orlando City Foundation. The foundation focuses on promoting physical fitness, healthy eating, and STEM education among the youth in Central Florida.

Despite facing challenges in its early years in the MLS, Orlando City SC has established itself as a competitive team in the league and continues to strive for its first MLS Cup. The club's commitment to its community, its passionate fan base, and its dedication to the growth of football in the United States make it a unique and important part of the American football landscape.