Orlando City is proud to announce that Wednesday’s international friendly against A.S. Roma raised $10,000 for the Orlando City Soccer Foundation after expenses were calculated. The match, which brought three-time Serie A Champion A.S. Roma to Winter Park, kicked off the beginning of the new year for Orlando City’s non-profit organization.

“It was great to see so many people out at the game and to know that the funds raised will get the Foundation off to a wonderful start in 2013,” said Director of Community Relations Kay Rawlins. “I would also like to thank A.S. Roma for their generous contribution – we will be able to help even more children play soccer and learn the importance of exercise and healthy eating.”

More than a thousand people total came to the friendly, with the match selling out within 24 hours of being announced. Those who couldn’t find a ticket watched from the outside of the venue, donating to volunteers that came around to collect funds for the Foundation.

A 501 (c)(3) non-profit, the Foundation promotes exercise and healthy eating to the children and families in the Central Florida area and has done recent work in the Parramore area at the New Image Youth Center. Originally founded as a summer camp, the Youth Center has grown into an important place for youth around the Parramore area- promoting healthy activities and a safe haven after school.