Former Orlando City head coach Adrian Heath released a statement today, reflecting on his tenure with the Orlando City Soccer Club after being let go from the club earlier this month. Heath had been with the Lions since their days in Austin, Texas and thanked both the front office and the fans. The statement is below:
It’s been a little while since I have had the opportunity to speak to you all, but the time has come for me to express my thanks to everyone who joined me on the incredible rollercoaster of success that has been OCS.
We’ve been on an incredible five year journey, so many special days and nights, winning finals and championship games which I could not have achieved or enjoyed as much as I did without the support of so many dedicated and talented people, none more so than from you, the fans.
You are the best most passionate supporters in the MLS, so enthusiastically led by the Iron Lion Firm and the Ruckus; our bond will never be broken.
I had a long and successful career as a player and coach back home in the UK with Stoke City, Everton, Manchester City, Aston Villa and Burnley, but your passion and dedication to OCS surpasses everything I have known.
I was so proud when we realised our dream of competing in the MLS, which many doubted we would achieve, and will never forget our opening game and the pride I felt in leading the team out in front of 60,000 of you.
All of this could not have been achieved without the players, my coaching colleagues and the great teamwork and support given by all the staff at OCS. I’d like to mention one guy in particular from the front office, Alex Wolf; he’s been with us right from the start in Austin, his friendship and dedication to the cause has been unwavering.
I’d like to believe I have always been accommodating and accessible to the local press and media who I would like to thank warmly for their cooperation and understanding through the best (and worst!) times of my tenure as head coach.
The City of Orlando has become my home and its people have made my family so very welcome. I offer each and every one of you my heartfelt thanks for everything you have done for us in the last five years.
I hope my time at OCS will be remembered fondly by you and that I leave you with memories to cherish, mixed with a little laughter along the way!
Finally, I would like to offer all the players and Jason and his staff my best wishes for the future and hope with time and patience that they can deliver the success which the fans truly deserve.
God bless you all, go City!
Your friend,
Inchy