Surrounded by cheers and excitement, Valencia College students gathered at the Orlando City Game Night, not just to support their team, but to engage in valuable discussions about careers in sports.

On Wednesday, October 2, the Orlando City Game Night provided more than just thrilling soccer action, it was an opportunity for students from Valencia College to learn about the sports industry and connect with fellow enthusiasts. The event was designed to not only entertain, but also inspire aspiring professionals in the field.

The atmosphere of the event was vibrant and lively, with attendees radiating happiness as they prepared for an exciting game. Orlando City triumphed with a 2-1 victory against Philadelphia Union, creating an electrifying atmosphere throughout the stadium. The Orlando fan section was particularly animated, keeping the energy high with cheers and chants. Students enjoyed food and drinks while watching the game, and had opportunities to socialize and meet new people.

Luis Muriel was a standout performer during the match. According to The Mane Land website, he “made an ineffective offense disappear and then come back into view as the offense we had seen from Orlando City since the beginning of the summer.” Muriel assisted on both goals, showcasing his exceptional skills.

According to ESPN, Orlando City currently stands in fourth place in the MLS Eastern Conference standings for 2024, with 52 points, just behind FC Cincinnati with 56 points. In first place is Inter Miami CF, leading with 71 points.

More than 60 Valencia students attended game night. Luis Tineo Zavarse, a Specialist in the Student Development Program, welcomed the students at the entrance. Students were then treated to a panel discussion with Orlando City staff, followed by a stadium tour. After the tour, attendees enjoyed food before settling in to watch the game.

During the event, the panel offered insights into navigating careers in sports. The panelists shared crucial advice for students interested in the field.   They also shared their daily roles within the team, showcasing the significance of behind-the-scenes work and offered a glimpse into the workings of a professional sports team.

Carla Nieves, a computer science major from the Osceola campus, was among those in attendance. She expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating, “I came to this event looking forward to having fun, meeting a lot of new friends, and fulfilling one of my honors co-curricular activities. I’m also a huge soccer fan.”

Sabrina Fuentes, a 20-year-old film student from the East Campus, shared similar sentiments. “I am a big soccer fan. I wanted to know, like, the stadium and the team, and have fun with friends.”

The event also fostered community engagement and exploration. “I came here because I would be at home doing nothing, so I was just like, okay, it’s a great opportunity to get out of the house and explore Orlando more,” said Farash Van Kempen, 17-year-old psychology student.

Having a little fun was the goal of Carlos Campos, a 23-year-old Software Development student.  He remarked on the event’s value adding, “I think I came for this event to connect more with what this team means to Orlando and to have a fun experience.”

Alejandro Hernández, a 21-year-old civil engineering student added, “I loved soccer since I was a little kid, and having this opportunity to share with fellow students at Valencia has helped me to know new people and have fun.”

The stadium tour was a highlight for many students, who were guided around the venue to learn about food and merchandise locations, trophies won by Orlando City, and players’ uniforms. Eventually, students were escorted to their designated seating area, ready to enjoy the match.

The Orlando City game provided an engaging experience filled with fun, learning, and networking opportunities. As students cheered for their team, they also took significant steps toward building their futures in the sports industry. This event not only celebrated soccer, but also encouraged personal and professional growth within the vibrant Orlando community.