As Orlando City continues its transition into Major League Soccer, we take a moment to recognize three players this week whose contributions led the Lions to five USL PRO titles and the best record of any U.S. professional soccer team in its first 100 league matches.
“Gallardooo… Gallardooo… Gallardooo!” San Gallardo’s tale with Orlando City is the most lengthy of any player to wear the Purple and White.
The definition of a true professional, Miguel Gallardo’s seven seasons with the organization marks the longest tenure for any squad member.
One of only eight players to transition with the franchise from Austin, TX., Gallardo’s gloves are soaked with Lion history.
“Miggy has been with us since day one,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath. “We never knew how far we were going to come when we started this journey, but for him spend seven seasons with us speaks volumes. He’s been our number one during that entire time, and he’s been incredible for us both on and off the field.”
From finger-tip saves to pinpoint distribution, Gallardo was a mainstay in goal for the Lions. The team’s number one goalkeeper and captain for three seasons, Gallardo was the backbone in City’s rock solid defense for all five trophies.
The start of every OCSC attack and the final roadblock to the back of the net, the dual threat goalkeeper compiled 51 wins and 27 clean-sheets in his City career, earning honors such as USL PRO Goalkeeper of the Year, First team All-League, and multiple Team of the Week nominations. Gallardo’s goals against average also never rose about 1.00 in a single season, resulting in an astonishing career average of 0.733.
An official team ambassador, Gallardo entrenched himself in the local area – spreading the OCSC gospel in the Hispanic community. The goalkeeper selected the Children’s Home Society of Florida as his charity of choice, becoming a Champion for Children in 2013. In January, Gallardo presented a $4,346 check to the Children’s Home Society of Florida, helping to break the cycle of child abuse in families in Central Florida and throughout the state.
“Miguel’s been the face of the Hispanic community for us, and he’s been a great ambassador,” continued Heath. “He’s carried that side of the Club for us, in terms of going out into the community.”
Although Gallardo’s playing journey with Orlando City has come to a close, his legacy will always remain.
Gracias, Gallardo! #ForeverALion
