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.
“Valentino gonna knock you out!” For the past four years, that chant frequently reverberated throughout Orlando City’s home stadium, honoring the team’s powerful leader.
Since arriving to the City Beautiful in 2011, Rob Valentino has embodied the true spirit of Lion Nation, standing at the core of City’s defense and organization. As team captain, his presence on the field and in the locker-room was instrumental in the Lions’ USL PRO success.
“Rob has been the captain on and off the field for a long time, although he only actually took the armband this year. Not only has he been a top drawer player, but the most important thing is, he’s a better guy,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath. “That was really tough for me to let him go the other day, but I know that he’ll bounce back and get loads of other opportunities. His leadership qualities are there for all to see. He’s a great teammate and human being, and I’m sure our paths will cross again very shortly. Opportunities always arise for quality people, and Rob won’t have any shortage of people wanting to employ him."
Valentino’s individual and collective accolades speak for themselves.
The skipper has hoisted five USL PRO trophies and one Defender of the Year award in four seasons with City. Combine that with countless Team of the Week nominations, along with his nine goals in 77 appearances – a team high for defenders during that span – and you have a decorated résumé that most players would hope to accomplish in an entire career.
However, Valentino’s OCSC legacy carries more weight than his immense contribution on the playing field, as he was also an impactful ambassador for the Lions.
Aside from being an advocate of spreading the OC message and brand in the community, Valentino also took on a player cause to help impact issues outside of the game of soccer. A fervent supporter of anti-bullying, Valentino partnered with To be Kind, Inc. in 2013 to prevent bullying.
Valentino used his status as a professional athlete to voice his own stories about being bullied while growing up, leaving a unique impression upon hundreds of students at schools throughout Central Florida.
Although his time with City has now come to an end, Valentino will always be considered a true Lion and his contributions will never be forgotten by the City faithful.
Thanks for everything, Skipper! #ForeverALion
