Orlando joins NWSL as expansion club

S club Orlando City SC has announced it will form a women's team to play in the National Women's Soccer League. The Orlando Pride are now the tenth club in NWSL and the second expansion team, after the Houston Dash.

"The time is right, the time is now," said Phillip Rawlins, president of Orlando City SC. "The strength of the women's game is not just because of the strength of the national game, it's also because of the strength of the leagues that we have now around the world."

"This is a thrilling time for our organization, our partners, and for fans in the 'Soccer Capital of the South.' With the successful launch of the MLS team, as well as the 2016 launch of the NWSL and USL teams, this region continues to reap the economic benefit of world class professional soccer."

The Pride will be coached by none other than former USWNT head coach Tom Sermanni, who was unceremoniously shown the door by US Soccer in 2014 amidst rumors that some players had revolted against his policy of calling in newer and younger players. This is a crucial get for Orlando, as Sermanni has years of experience in building teams from scratch based on his work in Australia. No doubt his name will attract a certain caliber of player as well, perhaps luring some top internationals from overseas.

"I'm extremely excited and honored and very proud to be part of the Pride," said Sermanni. "I look forward to working at this extremely successful, dynamic club, in this wonderful city."