This week, Orlando City announced a three-year extension on Goalkeeper Joe Bendik’s contract, keeping him with the team through the 2019 season. Bendik has been a huge asset for Orlando in his year with the team, and shows no sign of slowing down in year two. For Head Coach Jason Kreis, the decision to extend Bendik’s contract was easy.
“Absolutely,” Kreis said plainly. “The easiest.”
Bendik played every minute for Orlando City last season, earning the second-highest save total in MLS. He kept Orlando City in more than one match last season, and played a massive role in Orlando City’s 1-0 victory over New York City FC in the team’s home opener. Bendik’s contract was up at the end of this season, but he wanted to make sure he could stay with this squad.
“Orlando is a place that I loved as soon as I got here and only enjoyed it more and more as time has gone on,” Bendik said. “We had a talk and basically a commitment to the club as long as those three years and hopefully many years after that. For me, it’s a place that I completely believe in and the support and everything, the way that everything has gone here, it’s on an upward slope.”
Bendik said he loves everything about Orlando, including the fishing, the golfing, and the beach. He loves the relaxing lifestyle. Not to mention the support on and off the pitch from the community.
“He wanted some security, he wanted some length added onto his contract because he loves Orlando and he wants to be part of this for many years to come,” Kris said. “So, it was an easy decision for all of us.”
