ORLANDO, Fla. (July 8, 2022) — In an effort to enhance the guest experience and create a world-class environment for all fans, Exploria Stadium, the home of Major League Soccer’s (MLS) Orlando City SC and the Orlando Pride of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), has partnered with KultureCity to earn Sensory Inclusive certification for the 25,500-seat venue.
“We are thrilled to partner with KultureCity and are committed to providing a best-in-class service and inclusive environment for all of our fans, especially those in need of sensory accommodations,” said Jessica Morgan, the Club’s director of guest experience. “Our hope is that all guests can confidently attend events and games at Exploria Stadium knowing we have resources and staff in place to support them.”
“Our communities are what shapes our lives and to know that Exploria Stadium is willing to go the extra mile to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included in their community is amazing. We’re honored to partner with Exploria Stadium, Orlando City and Orlando Pride to provide a truly inclusive experience for all fans and guests!” said Uma Srivastava, executive director of KultureCity.
Starting with the Pride’s July 8 match against the Houston Dash, Mission Inclusion night, sensory bags will be available at Exploria Stadium’s Guest Services booth, each of the First Aid locations and in the West Club. For those that may feel overwhelmed by the environment, the sensory bags will be available for every major event or match day hosted at the venue, and will include items such as noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools and verbal cue cards. Weighted lap pads will be available upon request, as well.
In addition, any guest needing a quiet space to escape the stadium environment can find rooms at the First Aid locations across from sections 1 and 21.
Prior to attending an event, guests can download the free KultureCity App to view the sensory features that are available and where they can be accessed. Also on the App is the “Social Story”, which will provide a preview of what to expect while enjoying an event at Exploria Stadium.
Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD and other similar conditions, who account for one in six individuals. One of the major barriers for these individuals is sensitivity to overstimulation and noise, which is a common part of the environment at professional soccer matches. With its new certification, Exploria Stadium is now better equipped to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible when attending events at the venue.
As part of the certification process, all full-time staff from the Club and venue were trained on how to recognize and address guests with sensory needs, including how to assist in a sensory-overload situation.
