Orlando SeaWolves make former Orlando City midfielder Lewis Neal their first signing

The Orlando SeaWolves, Central Florida’s new Major Arena Soccer Team, announced the signing of former Orlando City midfielder Lewis Neal (pictured above left) at a press conference today at the Broken Cauldron Taproom and Brewery. Neal becomes the first player introduced by the SeaWolves as they prepare for their inaugural season that starts this December.

Neal is a familiar face to local soccer fans having played for Orlando City in both USL and MLS. He scored the team’s first ever goal on 19 February 2011 in a friendly against Philadelphia Union. In all, Neal played 42 games for Orlando City, 21 in USL and 21 in MLS, as well as 49 appearances with Orlando City B.

Neal first joined Major League Soccer on 13 March 2012 after leaving Orlando City to join DC United and made 53 appearances for the men from Washington.

Prior to arriving in the United States, Neal played several seasons in his native England as he enjoyed spells at Stoke City, Preston North End, Notts County, Carlisle and Shrewsbury Town.

“This is the first of many exciting announcements as we begin to build our roster,” said SeaWolves General Manager Chris Kokalis (pictured above right). “Lewis Neal was selected in the MLS Expansion draft by Orlando City and scored their first ever goal. Now he has the chance to help establish the SeaWolves among the ranks of the thriving Central Florida soccer community, Additionally, his experience and leadership will be invaluable in the locker room even though he is new to the arena game.”

The SeaWolves also announced a partnership with Professional Soccer Academy (PSA), a local soccer academy Neal heads up with fellow former Orlando City teammate Luke Boden, who the SeaWolves also intend to sign following the conclusion of Boden’s outdoor season with the USL’s Tampa Bay Rowdies. PSA is located in New Smyrma Beach and provides professional soccer training to students in Central Florida.

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