Orlando City Academy (UPSL Florida Central) Star Alex Freeman Making Waves in MLS
Orlando City SC defender Alex Freeman’s rise from the grassroots of American soccer to the bright lights of the MLS is a testament to the power of perseverance and fully embracing opportunities when they come. Before making his mark with Orlando City SC in the MLS, Freeman showcased his talent in the UPSL Florida Central Premier Division with Orlando City’s Academy.
In 2021, Freeman gained valuable experience in the UPSL Premier Division, while developing his skills in MLS NEXT competition at the same time. In February 2022, Freeman’s journey took a major step when he signed a four-year homegrown contract with Orlando City, following a strong preseason with the first team. At just 17 years old, he became the club’s 12th homegrown player. Over the next year, he gained professional minutes with Orlando City B before making his MLS debut on April 29, 2023, stepping onto the field as a late-game substitute in a 2–0 win over LA Galaxy. The moment marked the beginning of what would quickly become an upward trajectory in Freeman’s career.
By mid-2024, Freeman was beginning to influence matches in more direct ways. On July 6, he recorded his first goal contribution, an assist in a dominant 5–0 victory over D.C. United. After a few more substitute appearances that season, this season he earned his first MLS start on March 1st, 2025, and marked the occasion with his first career goal. His performance earned him a spot on the MLS team of the week bench—a clear indicator of his growing impact.
On March 22, he contributed both an assist and a goal in a 4–1 win and earned his first starting spot on the MLS team of the week roster. So far, as a regular starter, Freeman has already tallied three goals and one assist in just ten games, helping Orlando City remain firmly in contention near the top of the MLS Eastern Conference.
Reflecting on his journey, Freeman credits the foundation laid during his youth and UPSL days: “My parents and my coaches helped me the most (on the pathway to the pros). Growing up my parents sacrificed a lot to get me to where I am today. My coaches at Orlando City also really helped me with different philosophies and play styles that helped me become the versatile player that I am today.” That versatility now takes the form of an MLS defender, that both scores and assists.
Looking ahead, Freeman remains focused and hungry for more. “My biggest goal this season is to help any way I can to win MLS Cup with Orlando City,” he said. “As a team we are very passionate about an MLS Cup, and we will do anything to achieve that. The most important thing now is to just stay consistent and be able to get more chemistry together and be able to be the best team by the end of the season.” Time will tell if Alex Freeman and Orlando City can bring home their first MLS Cup.
About United Premier Soccer League
The UPSL was formed in 2011 and occupies the unofficial fourth tier of US Soccer. Across its Premier, Division 1, Women and Academy divisions there are more than 600 teams competing nationwide. The UPSL is the largest Pro Development League in North America and is a National Affiliate member of the U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF). Each UPSL team is individually owned and operated. UPSL teams are eligible to participate in the U.S. Open Cup Qualifying Rounds through the league’s affiliation with USSF. More information about UPSL can be found at www.staging.upsl.com or by following the league on Facebook (facebook.com/upslsoccer), Instagram (@upslsoccer) and Twitter (@upslsoccer). Contact UPSL: info@upslsoccer.com / Media: chris.korte@staging.upsl.com.