"Orlando City has set up a first-rate operation and we're excited to face them as part of our preparation for the 2011 season," said Union CEO & Operating Partner Nick Sakiewicz. "We're also thrilled to announce our plan to train in Orlando for the next four years. The community of training in a familiar environment is very attractive to our club, as it will allow our players and technical staff to focus all of their energies on preparing for each upcoming season."
Based in Orlando, Florida, Orlando City joined the American Division of the USL PRO on October 25, 2010. Led by Head Coach Adrian Heath, the team will take to the pitch for the first time in franchise history when they FC New York on Saturday, April 9.
"I have the utmost respect for the Union organization," said Orlando City President Phil Rawlins. "Even though they are a young franchise, they have proven that they run a first class operation in everything they do. We are delighted they have chosen us as a preseason opponent and we look forward to the challenge.
Tickets for the game will be priced between $10 and $15. Tickets will be available for purchase through TicketMaster.com and the Amway Center Box Office, as well as the Florida Citrus Bowl Box Office on game day. The on-sale date for tickets will be announced soon.
Philadelphia Union's first game of Major League Soccer's 16th season will take place on March 19 against the Houston Dynamo at Robertson Stadium. PPL Park will re-open its gates on March 26 when the Union host the expansion Vancouver Whitecaps. A limited number of individual and group tickets (15 or more people) for PPL Park's opening match still remain and can be purchased by calling (800) 298-4200 or visiting www.philadelphiaunion.com.
(Copyright 2010 Philadelphia Union. Reprinted by permission)
