This past Saturday in Orlando’s 2-1 win over the Charleston Battery, there was a person on the bench who didn’t get to see the pitch for playing time. Even though he didn’t, 17-year-old Jason Bayon was experiencing something that most in his position don’t have an opportunity to do.

In partnership with Orlando City Soccer Club and Orlando City Soccer Foundation, the Austen Everett Foundation debuted for the first time in the public light on Saturday with the invitation of Jason to the match. The journey to that day wasn’t something that happened overnight.

Founded two years ago, the Foundation was started with the idea of connecting college and pro athletes with children fighting cancer or other life-threatening illnesses. Everett, who founded the foundation after fighting non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, is the fiancé of Orlando City Forward Matt Luzunaris.

“When I first signed here, Austen and I met with (Orlando City Director of Community Relations) Kay (Rawlins) and (Owner) Phil (Rawlins) to partner with the club,” said Luzunaris. “After that we met with Orlando Health and Arnold Palmer Hospital, sharing our goal and vision of what we want the foundation to become. They were all excited about the idea.”

After all the meetings and conversations, the Foundation finally got to its first chance to make a debut last Saturday with Orlando City’s match against the Battery the perfect opportunity to do so.

Jason, who was cleared by the hospital to go to the game beforehand, was with the team throughout warm-ups and pregame. He sat on the bench during the game, witnessing the Lions 2-1 win.

“I know Jason had a great time," Luzunaris said. “He brought a total of 19 people to the game with him. Aunts, uncles, mom, dad, they were all there. It was great to see him have a good time.”

Luzunaris said Saturday was just the beginning for the Austen Everett Foundation.

“It’s something we want to grow on its own. The Orlando City organization is the best partner to be with and I think we’ve had a strong start. In the future our goal is to be nationwide. But in the next couple of years, to branch out to other sports. At the end of the day, it has to be natural.”

Upcoming Events:

-Come out and join Orlando City players for an exclusive ladies night at the Blue Martini on June 19 at 6 p.m. Learn the basics about the beautiful game from your favorite players while having a great time with friends. A ticket to the event includes an introductory drink, appetizer, a special edition tank top and more! Tickets can be purchased by calling 407-478-3979.