ORLANDO – October 27, 2014 – Orlando City Soccer Club announced today the signing of Defender Luke Boden and Midfielder Harrison Heath to multi-year deals, as the Club continues to comprise a competitive roster for its inaugural 2015 Major League Soccer (MLS) season. Per Club and league policy, additional terms of the deal were not announced.
“We’re delighted that Harrison and Luke have decided to remain with the Club heading into MLS,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath. “Moving forward, both players will be great additions to the squad.”
Throughout the past four years, Boden has remained at the core of the Orlando City defense in USL PRO, compiling 7,456 minutes in the purple and white kits. The Sheffield, England native made 82 appearances for the Lions, scoring four goals and notching 15 assists.
Prior to signing with Orlando City in 2011, Boden began his professional career with English League Championship side Sheffield Wednesday. After making 15 appearances with his hometown Club, the Englishman ventured on loan stints with Chesterfield, Rushden and Diamonds and Northampton Town.
Heath – the son of City Head Coach Adrian Heath – signed his first professional contract with the Lions in the latter portion of the 2014 USL PRO campaign, after spending the previous two seasons in the Norwich City FC Academy.
At only 18 years old, the defensive midfielder was a member of the starting 11 in several key USL PRO matches for Orlando City, making seven appearances.
Negotiations with City’s remaining USL PRO player Adama Mbengue are still underway.
Transaction: Orlando City signs Luke Boden and Harrison Heath
Luke Boden (Bo-den)
Position: Defender
Height: 6’2”
Weight: 184
Date of Birth: 11/26/1988
Birthplace: Sheffield, England
Citizenship: United States of America
Twitter: @Bodz1988
Harrison Heath (Hee-th)
Position: Midfielder
Height: 5’11”
Weight: 160
Date of Birth: 3/6/1996
Birthplace: Stoke-on-Trent, England
Citizenship: United States of America