ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando City SC announced Friday that the team has signed Midfielder Freddie Braun in preparation of Saturdayʼs inaugural I-4 Derby presented by United World Soccer at Fifth Third Bank Field at the Florida Citrus Bowl. The addition of Braun to the roster continues to solidify the midfield for the Lions as they square off against the Rowdies Saturday night at 7:30 p.m.

“I’m really happy to be here,” said Braun. “I enjoy the way Adrian (Heath) coaches the game and I feel that I can fit in really well with the club.”

The Louisville Cardinal product has been on trial with the Lions for much of the preseason and impressed the coaching staff, including Heath. Braun has appeared in matches during the 2013 Disney Pro Soccer Classic for Orlando, competing at a top level for the club.

Braun, 24, began his professional career when he signed with Major League Soccer (MLS) side Portland Timbers in 2011, making his first appearance in a 1-0 loss against MLSʼ San Jose Earthquakes during U.S. Open Cup play.

The Rochester Hills, Michigan, native had stints with the Chicago Fireʼs Premier Development League (PDL) team, Chicago Fire Premier, before going on to play with the Portland Timbers U23s. He ended up scoring eight goals in 30 PDL appearances for the Timbers U23s.

During his time with Louisville, Braun was voted captain in his senior year while leading the team to a 13-3-4 record. He played in 81 games during his collegiate career, logging 11 goals and five assists.

The Orlando City midfield, which already includes Jonathan Mendoza, Ian Fuller, Anthony Pulis, Jean Alexandre, James O’Connor and Adama Mbengue, will be a position to watch throughout 2013. A hyper-competitive position for the Lions, Braun hopes to break through and bring his strong work ethic to the Orlando side.

“It’s our job to compete as athletes,” Braun added. “I plan on working hard each day and do my best.”

Tickets are still available for the home leg of the I-4 Derby presented by United World Soccer this Saturday. Fans can call 855-ORL-CITY or visit orlandocitysoccer.com to grab their seats today.