Since its inception in 2015, the Orlando Pride has carved out a unique place in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL). The franchise has brought a unique sense of flair and competitive spirit to women’s soccer, making a significant impact on the league and contributing to the sport's growth in the United States.
The Pride calls the Inter&Co Stadium home - a state-of-the-art sporting facility located in the heart of downtown Orlando. The stadium, which holds over 25,000 fans, often echoes with the raucous cheers of Pride's enthusiastic supporters, The Crown, which forms an integral part of the team's identity.
In recent years, the Pride has seen a few ups and downs. Despite narrowly missing out on the playoffs in their inaugural season, they stormed back in 2017 to clinch a spot. Regrettably, the team couldn't make it past the semifinals. But with a roster packed with international talent, fans have high expectations for the Pride's future playoff potential.
As with any sport, rivalries are the lifeblood of the competition. Orlando Pride's most notable rivalry is with the Portland Thorns FC, known as the 'Cascadia-Florida' rivalry. This rivalry intensified after some hard-fought battles on the pitch and a few controversial moments that added to the narrative.
One interesting aspect of the Pride is their commitment to promoting equality and social justice, both on and off the field. In 2020, they launched their 'Black Lives Matter' jersey, a powerful statement of solidarity that garnered worldwide acclaim. Also, their annual 'Pride in Our City' campaign shows their commitment to supporting the local LGBTQ+ community.
The Orlando Pride is more than just a soccer team; it's a symbol of unity, equality, and, as their name suggests, pride. With a dedicated fan base, fierce rivalries, and a relentless drive for success, the future of the Pride in the NWSL looks as vibrant as ever.
