ORLANDO, Fla. (Aug. 3, 2026) — Orlando City SC, Orlando Pride and Columbia Southern University (CSU) are proud to announce the launch of the Goals for Goals initiative, a season-long partnership that connects performance on the pitch with educational opportunity in the community.
Through the program, Columbia Southern University will contribute to a scholarship fund for every Orlando City goal scored during the 2026 MLS regular season and every Orlando Pride goal scored during the 2026 NWSL regular season. At the conclusion of the season, the Orlando Soccer Foundation will award two scholarships toward a degree program at CSU, helping recipients pursue their educational and professional goals.
The Goals for Goals initiative reflects a shared commitment by Orlando City and Orlando Pride, along with CSU, to invest in the future of Central Florida residents by expanding access to higher education and supporting lifelong learning.
"At both Orlando City and Orlando Pride, we believe our impact extends far beyond the field," said Kelly Hyne, SVP of Brand Alliances for Orlando City SC. "Through Goals for Goals, every goal scored this season will help create meaningful educational opportunities and empower individuals to achieve their own goals through higher education."
Columbia Southern University is a fully online, accredited institution based in Alabama. The university also has an office and dedicated staff in the Orlando area.
“The spirit of the Goals for Goals scholarship is to champion applicants who are devoted to making a positive impact in their community, as well as those whose personal and professional goals align with higher education,” said Dale Leatherwood, chief marketing officer for Columbia Southern University (and Orlando resident). “We are proud to partner with Orlando City SC and Orlando Pride to help fulfill this mission.”
The scholarship is open from Aug. 1 to Sept. 30. Details regarding scholarship eligibility, the application process, and the scholarship application are available on the Orlando City SC website. Two scholarship recipients will be recognized following the conclusion of the campaign.
