ORLANDO – May 12, 2015 – Orlando City SC continued its success at the youth level this past weekend, as the U-12 Boy's Pro Academy team claimed first place in the Florida Cup and the U-13 Boy's Pro Academy team won the Florida Premier League (FPL).
In addition, the Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) U-14 Purple team advanced to the finals of the Florida Cup, finishing in second place.
After beginning the FPL campaign in August 2014, the U-13s went undefeated this season – showcasing impressive performances against top teams in the State of Florida. As a result, the U-13s qualified for the National Premier League Finals in July.
Coached by Craig Melton, the U-12s finished atop the Florida Cup – the equivalent of Florida Youth Soccer Association's (FYSA) State Cup – becoming the number one team in the state for their age group. Earlier this season, the U-12s won the world-renowned Iber Cup held in Bradenton and Sarasota, defeating Athletico Madrid's U-12 side in the championship game.
"The results from this past weekend is another testament to our focus on youth development at Orlando City," said U-13 Pro Academy Coach Greg Brick. "Not only were our teams able to produce victories against top teams, but they were active in trying to play the Orlando City style of play, and we're very pleased with their performances this season."
The Pro Academy is an integral part of the Orlando City structure, yielding direct access to City's elite U.S. Soccer Development Academy (USSDA) program. Orlando City USSDA teams are fully funded – with the Club providing free registration, travel fees and uniforms.
