After a disappointing regular season campaign under interim head coach Seb Hines, the Pride will now look to build under Hines as he saw the interim tag removed and will take charge with a point to prove heading into his first full season at the helm.

The 2023 season is rapidly approaching with the NWSL kicking off this Saturday, March 25! The 11^th year of league action will feature 12 teams with the 2023 NWSL Challenge Cup featuring mid-season. In a team-by-team preview, we’ll break down each squad’s big moves, massive matches, and more of what to know as we get ready for the regular season opener. Orlando Pride 2022 Season : 10 ^th | 5-10-7 – 22 points Big Additions : * Adriana – Acquired via Corinthians in Brazil’s top flight, scored 12 goals in 34 games including nine times in 2022

• Emily Madril – 2023 NWSL Draft No. 3 overall pick

• Messiah Bright – 2023 NWSL Draft No. 21 overall pick Key Games : * March 26: Portland Thorns FC (A) – Regular Season Opener

• April 2: Angel City FC (H) – Regular Season Home Opener

• April 19: North Carolina Courage (H) – Challenge Cup Opener What to Know : After a disappointing regular season campaign under interim head coach Seb Hines, the Pride will now look to build under Hines as he saw the interim tag removed and will take charge with a point to prove heading into his first full season at the helm. Orlando kicked off its offseason by signing a number of players to contract extension or fresh contracts in some cases, with the likes of Jordyn Listro, Erika Tymrak, and Ally Watt all re-upping ahead of 2023. However, without doubt the player that fans have been eagerly awaiting a return of is Brazilian standout Marta, whose ACL injury prevented her from having a 2022 season. As she approaches her seventh season with the Pride, she won’t be alone in representing her country at the club level with the addition of forward Adriana, who joined via transfer from Brazilian side Corinthians in the offseason and will look to help bolster the attack. The Pride did lose six of the 14 players that featured in at least 15 games last season, but a young crop of draftees including defender Emily Madril–who was the third pick out of this year’s crop of talent—and forwards Messiah Bright and Summer Yates will have the opportunity to make an immediate impact. Adding to its youth is midfielder Viviana Villacorta, who was the ninth selection in the 2021 draft and only adds to the side’s potential as its focus will be mixing its veteran experience with fresh faces. There will be a new regime for Orlando as it aims to improve on its 2022 position and climb up the table, but it’s not out of reach for the club to return to the postseason if all goes to plan.