Orlando Pride FC Overview
Orlando Pride FC is a professional women’s soccer team based in Orlando, Florida. The team competes in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and began play in the 2016 season. Owned by Zygi, Leonard, and Mark Wilf, the Pride shares ownership with Orlando City SC of Major League Soccer. The team plays its home matches at Inter&Co Stadium, a 25,500-capacity venue located in downtown Orlando. The club’s identity is marked by its purple and light blue colors and a strong connection to the city of Orlando. In 2024, Orlando Pride achieved its first major success by winning both the NWSL Shield and the NWSL Championship, marking a historic milestone for the team and the city.
Founding and Organizational Origins
Orlando Pride FC was founded on October 20, 2015, as an expansion team in the National Women’s Soccer League. The team was established under the ownership group of Orlando City SC, with Phil Rawlins serving as president and Mark Wilf as chairman. The name “Orlando Pride” was chosen to reflect both the emotion tied to the city and a nod to the lion pride, connecting the team to the Orlando City SC Lions family. The logo features the Linton E. Allen Memorial Fountain at Lake Eola Park, symbolizing the team’s deep roots in Orlando. The founding aimed to expand professional women’s soccer in the region and provide a competitive platform within the NWSL.
Growth Into National Women’s Soccer League Competition
Orlando Pride entered the NWSL as the league’s tenth team in 2016. The team initially played home games at Camping World Stadium before moving to the newly opened Inter&Co Stadium in 2017. Early player acquisitions included notable names such as Alex Morgan and Marta, which helped build a competitive roster. The team focused on developing a strong technical and tactical foundation, supported by experienced coaching staff and strategic trades. Over the years, the Pride expanded its operations, improved infrastructure, and cultivated a growing fan base, establishing itself as a competitive presence in the league.
Orlando Pride FC Competitive Journey
Since its inception, Orlando Pride has progressed steadily in the NWSL, evolving from an expansion team to league champions. The team has experienced periods of rebuilding and growth, culminating in their breakthrough success in 2024.
Early Seasons and Development (2016–2018)
Orlando Pride’s inaugural season in 2016 ended with a 6–1–13 record, placing ninth in the league. The team set an attendance record during their first home game, drawing 23,403 fans. In 2017, the Pride made significant roster additions, including Marta and Ali Krieger, which contributed to their first playoff appearance, finishing third in the regular season. Despite a semi-final loss, the season marked a turning point. The 2018 season saw further roster changes and defensive reinforcements, but inconsistency and player availability issues led to a seventh-place finish and missing the playoffs. Head coach Tom Sermanni departed after three seasons with a 25–29–14 record.
Transitions and Competitive Struggles (2019–2022)
The team underwent a rebuilding phase starting in 2019 under new head coach Marc Skinner. The 2019 season was challenging, with the team finishing last and conceding a league record 53 goals. Efforts to strengthen the defense included acquiring key players like Emily Sonnett and Ali Riley. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the 2020 season, with the Pride withdrawing from the Challenge Cup due to health concerns. The team showed signs of improvement in 2021 with new management hires and a seven-game unbeaten streak to start the season. Ownership transitioned to Zygi and Mark Wilf in 2021. Coaching changes continued with Becky Burleigh and later Amanda Cromwell taking the helm. Despite roster turnover and challenges, the team steadily improved, though off-field issues led to administrative leave and eventual termination of Cromwell and an assistant coach in 2022. Seb Hines was appointed interim and then permanent head coach, leading the team to increased competitiveness.
Breakthrough in National Women’s Soccer League (2023–Present)
The 2023 season marked a period of steady improvement for Orlando Pride. New player acquisitions and defensive consistency helped the team contend for playoff positions, finishing seventh with strong home performances and defensive records. In 2024, the Pride achieved historic success by winning the NWSL Shield with an unbeaten streak and subsequently securing their first NWSL Championship. This championship marked the first major professional sports title for an Orlando team, highlighting the club’s growth and competitive maturity.
Philosophy and Competitive Strengths
Orlando Pride FC emphasizes a balanced approach combining strong defensive organization with dynamic offensive play. The team has demonstrated resilience and adaptability, excelling in home matches and leveraging a cohesive squad built through strategic player acquisitions and development. Their identity is rooted in community connection and competitive ambition.
Key Milestones and Major Moments
Key milestones include setting an NWSL attendance record in 2016, the first playoff qualification in 2017, and the historic 2024 season where the Pride won both the NWSL Shield and Championship. The move to Inter&Co Stadium in 2017 provided a dedicated home venue, enhancing fan engagement. Coaching transitions and roster overhauls have shaped the team’s evolution, culminating in their recent championship success.
Orlando Pride FC Achievements and Results
Orlando Pride FC’s verified accomplishments include winning the 2024 NWSL Shield and the 2024 NWSL Championship, marking significant achievements in the club’s history and establishing them as a top contender in women’s professional soccer.
National Women’s Soccer League Achievements
Since joining the NWSL in 2016, Orlando Pride has grown from an expansion team to league champions. Their first major victory came in 2024 when they secured the NWSL Shield for the best regular-season record and went on to win the NWSL Championship. These accomplishments represent the club’s competitive breakthrough and highlight their development into a premier team within the league.