ORLANDO, Fla. (July 28, 2016) – Orlando Pride midfielder Leah Fortune has retired from professional soccer, the Club announced today. Fortune departs the Pride after accepting a corporate position with The Dannon Company.
“Leah is a consummate professional who turned up every day to training with great enthusiasm, focus and was prepared to do whatever was asked to help the team,” said Pride Head Coach Tom Sermanni. “I'd like to thank her for her commitment to the squad and the manner in which she represented the Club both on and off the field. We all wish her every success in her new endeavors.”
“It was an honor and privilege to play for the Orlando Pride for our inaugural season. Thank you to Flavio, Phil and Kay Rawlins, Tom Sermanni, my teammates and to the rest of the top-class organization,” Fortune said. “I enjoyed my time with the Club and friendships made with both my teammates and the Orlando community. Though I have taken a position in the corporate world, I will be supporting and cheering on the Pride to many championships in the future.”
Fortune, 25, was signed via discovery on May 3, 2016, earning a spot after joining the Club as a trialist. A native of Chicago, Fortune appeared in the Pride’s most recent three matches, earning her National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) debut on July 10 in the Pride’s 2-1 comeback victory over the Boston Breakers.
Entering in the 79th minute, Fortune made an immediate impact to spur the rally, nearly scoring the go-ahead go on a free kick before setting up Kristen Edmonds for the game-winner in the 93+ minute.
Born in São Paulo, Brazil, Fortune is a dual citizen and a former member of the Brazil Women’s National Team.
