Orlando City Signs 15-Year Old Austin Richards

Published on August 5, 2011 under United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Orlando City SC News Release


ORLANDO - Orlando City is proud to announce the very special signing of 15-year old Austin Richards of Osceola High School. Through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Austin will live out his wish of spending a day in the life of a pro soccer player at Saturday's match against Charleston.

"This feels awesome," said Richards. "I never thought this would happen. I have always dreamed about becoming a professional soccer player. It feels great to wear this jersey."

Austin is a survivor of Ewing's sarcoma, and has been in remission for a year. The 15-year Osceola High School sophomore is a member of the Osceola Kowboys soccer team and an avid fan of the beautiful game. His wish was to find out what it is like to be a pro soccer player. On Saturday, he'll spend the day with Orlando City to get an unforgettable experience.

Austin's day as an Orlando City Lion will begin with the pre-game warm-up session. He will participate in warm-ups with the rest of the City squad as they prepare for the match against Charleston Battery. Austin will then join in the pre-match ceremonial ball presentation for La Familia Pawn and Jewelry, Saturday's game sponsor. He will finish out the night by enjoying the match, sitting on the bench next to Head Coach Adrian Heath. Austin's family will enjoy the match in seats directly behind the Orlando City bench.

Orlando City would like to thank the Make-A-Wish Foundation and La Familia for introducing the club to Austin and his situation. The Lions would also like to thank the USL for allowing this special exemption so we could make Austin's wish come true.

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