Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC), in conjunction with Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS), will host their first-ever youth tournament from March 28-31 in the inaugural Orlando City Easter Invitational at the Seminole Soccer Complex in Sanford, Fla.

“I’m really excited and looking forward to the Easter Invitational,” said tournament organizer and Orlando City Midfielder James O’Connor. “It will give teams an opportunity to perform against different styles and cultures in a high-class competition.”

Boys and girls teams ranging from U9-U17/18 will be invited to participate in the Orlando City tournament held in Sanford. A new seeding-like structure will be implemented on the first day of the tournament, giving each and every team a chance to immediately contend for top spot in their bracket.

OCSC is expecting well over 100 teams to participate from Florida and throughout the Southeast. On Friday and Saturday, teams will be challenging for a chance to qualify for Sunday’s semifinals and finals, with a medal ceremony wrapping up the weekend.

The tournament will be held at the Seminole Soccer Complex, which is the training facility for the professional team and the home field for OCYS games.  OCYS is a United States Soccer Federation Developmental Academy, which is also supported by a professional team. 

"It's our goal for our US Developmental coaches and professional staff to identify the top talent and also get the youth talent on our radar for the US and professional structure,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath.

OCSC is currently accepting applications through December 31, 2012, and teams wishing to participate can go to OrlandoCitySoccer.com to submit their application.  Accepted teams will receive their invitation to compete by January 20, 2013. 

About Orlando City Soccer Club:

Orlando City Soccer Club (OCSC) is the premier professional soccer sports franchise in the State of Florida. The Lion’s pro team has won two regular season titles and one postseason championship during their short time in Orlando. Outside of the pro squad, OCSC also has their own youth club, Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) and a U23s team that participates in the PDL. For more information on the pro and youth clubs, visit www.orlandocitysoccer.com and www.orlandocityyouth.org.