Orlando City SC Communictions
ORLANDO – May 4, 2015 – Orlando City SC announced today that longtime president of USL Tim Holt has agreed to join the Lions as Vice President of Development effective May 18. In this role, Holt will oversee various initiatives designed to further expand the brand of Orlando City both in the state of Florida and beyond.
"An executive of Tim's caliber will instantly contribute to our further development as a club, a sports property and a global brand," said Orlando City President and Founder Phil Rawlins. "I have worked with Tim for years and his work ethic and dedication has led to the incredible success seen at USL. We look forward to his contributions to the future of our Club."
Holt joined USL in 1999, and served as its President from 2009-2015. In the previous decade, Holt served USL in the various capacities of Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, and Director of Pro League Operations.
Under the period of his leadership, USL blossomed into the largest system of elite soccer leagues in North America with over 100 franchises and several hundred youth team members. Holt was a key figure in developing the affiliation partnership between USL and Major League Soccer that has become a critical platform for professional player development in the United States and Canada.
Holt has been repeatedly recognized as one of the leading executives in domestic soccer including having been named one of Soccer America's 'Rising Stars' in 2006 recognizing the top American soccer executives under the age of 35, as well as being recognized by SI.com in 2013 as one of "The 50 Most Powerful People in U.S. Soccer."
To purchase group or individual tickets, visit www.OrlandoCitySC.com or call 855-ORL-CITY. Also, follow the latest Orlando City news and updates via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
About Orlando City Soccer Club:
One of the leading teams in Major League Soccer (MLS), and the only MLS team in Florida, Orlando City Soccer Club has developed a rich history and passionate following in its short existence since starting in the USL in 2011. The Lions’ first team set the U.S. record for best start of any professional soccer club in its first 100 games (66-12-22). During that time, the Lions won three regular season titles and two postseason championships
In MLS, the team draws an average of 39,300 fans per home game – including 62,500 for its home opener – a record for an expansion team in its first four home games. In addition, the team is currently near the top of the league in social media followers. Orlando City has not only captured the passion of soccer fans in the City Beautiful, it continues to build its brand overseas as its matches are broadcast in 100 countries and in 30 languages.
Outside of the first squad, OCSC operates the largest youth soccer club in Central Florida, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS). Lastly, the Orlando City Foundation is active in the community year round, promoting health, wellness and education opportunities for children throughout the region.
For more information, visitwww.OrlandoCitySC.com, www.OrlandoCityYouth.org and www.OrlandoCitySC.com/Foundation.com.