Orlando City SC today announced the return of former Lions stalwart Rob Valentino, naming him assistant coach of the Club's USL franchise, set to begin play in 2016. The former City captain will join the technical staff along with Anthony Pulis, who was recently named head coach of the team.
"We're extremely thrilled to welcome Rob Valentino back home," said Orlando City Founder and President Phil Rawlins. "Rob has always been a part of the Orlando City family and played a key role in our push to becoming the 'Soccer Capital of the South.' We know he'll be a great addition alongside Anthony Pulis, and we look forward to working with him again."
Valentino joined Orlando City in 2011 in the team's inaugural season in the City Beautiful, scoring nine goals in 77 appearances as a center-back. Valentino's résumé includes three Regular Season USL championships and two postseason titles with the Lions – becoming a Club legend during his playing career with Orlando City.
The center-back was originally drafted 13th overall by the New England Revolution in the 2008 Major League Soccer (MLS) SuperDraft. Orlando City's next match will take place against the Seattle Sounders on Sunday, August 16, at CenturyLink Field.
Kick-off is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. ET. The Lions return home on August 29 to host the Chicago Fire. Kick-off is 7:30 p.m. ET.
To purchase group or individual tickets, or to purchase 2016 Season Tickets and take advantage of preferred pricing before August 14, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com or call 855-ORL-CITY.
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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 32,973 fans per home game – including 62,500 for its home opener – a record for an expansion team in its first 13 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, 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.
For more information, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com, www.OrlandoCityYouth.org andwww.OrlandoCitySC.com/Foundation.com.
Article provided and written by Orlando City Soccer Club.