ORLANDO, Fla. (Nov. 6, 2024) — Today, Orlando City SC and the Orlando Pride announced the addition of Verizon as the Official and Exclusive Wireless Telecommunications Partner for both of Central Florida’s professional soccer clubs. The multi-year partnership has already begun activating, with Verizon set to be the presenting partner of Orlando City’s upcoming Game Three playoff match against Charlotte FC on Saturday Nov. 9 at Inter&Co Stadium.
"We are extremely excited to add Verizon to the Orlando City and Orlando Pride family. Throughout this process, their intention and goals to give back to the sport of soccer, our club and our local community has been evident – from the growth of the women's game to reaching our next generation of players at the youth level," said Club SVP of Brand Alliances Kelly Hyne. "We're thankful for the support we've seen already and are excited for our fans to have immediate engagement opportunities through this partnership, ahead of both clubs' postseason play this weekend."
"As the Official and Exclusive Wireless Telecommunications Partner of Orlando City and Orlando Pride, Verizon is thrilled to strengthen our ties with the vibrant and growing soccer community in Central Florida," said Verizon Atlantic South Market President, Leigh Anne Lanier. "We're excited to be a part of this community, connecting fans and players to the moments that matter."
With both City and Pride readying for two must-win playoff matches, Verizon will be teaming up with both clubs to host player appearances this week, allowing fans the opportunity to meet players, get autographs and win items such as playoff tickets or club merchandise.
On Wednesday, Nov. 6, Pride players Grace Chanda and Simone Charley will be appearing from 5-6 p.m. at the Sanford Verizon Store (1615 Rinehart Rd, Suite 107, Sanford, FL, 32771). The following day, Thursday, Nov. 7, City players Jeorgio Kocevski and Jack Lynn will appear at the Kissimmee Verizon Store (1340 W Osceola Pkwy, Suite 101, Kissimmee, FL, 34741) from 5-6:30 p.m. ET.
Verizon’s support will extend beyond the professional level, with the company also set to help grow the game through the Club’s youth structure including the Orlando City Soccer Schools as well as youth camps and clinics.
No. 1 seeded Orlando Pride will kick off an exciting weekend of playoff soccer on Friday night, hosting No. 8 Chicago Red Stars at Inter&Co Stadium in an 8 p.m. match, with the winner advancing to the NWSL semifinal round. The following night, Nov. 9, No. 4 Orlando City will welcome No. 5 Charlotte FC to downtown Orlando for the deciding game three, determining which club will advance to the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Fans attending the match, presented by Verizon, will also receive an All Teeth rally towel, courtesy of the new Club partner.
OVG Global Partnerships was the sales agency of record for Orlando City and Orlando Pride who used their expertise to broker the deal.