IRVINE, Calif. – Orange County SC announced on Friday it had re-signed club captain Michael Orozco to a new contract ahead of the 2022 USL Championship season, retaining the former United States international for his fourth campaign at the club as OCSC defends its 2021 Championship title. The transaction is pending league and federation approval.

Orozco, who turns 36 in February, is set to play in his 400th career professional match during the 2022 USL Championship season. This past campaign, he started every game for Orange County, recording 3,297 minutes of action across the regular season and playoffs.

“I’m proud to be back with Orange County to defend our title,” said Orozco. “New season, new goals. I’m excited to see more fans come to support. Together we will be stronger.”

As one of the central figures in OCSC’s strong backline, Orozco recorded 81 clearances and 52 interceptions as the side recorded 14 shutouts and conceded only 38 goals in 36 contests. Orozco also notched a pair of assists and scored his first goal in two seasons with a header in late September against Oakland Roots SC at Championship Soccer Stadium.

“We are very excited to have Michael, our captain back for more,” said Orange County SC President of Soccer Operations Oliver Wyss. “Michael is a true champion and his leadership on the field and his mentorship of our younger players is an invaluable asset for our club.”

Since returning home to Orange County in 2019, Orozco has made 69 appearances for the Black and Orange, all of them coming as a starter, while recording 6,266 minutes of action. In 2022, Orozco is expected to move into top position for most minutes, appearances and starts for the club all-time. Over the course of his tenure, Orozco has scored three goals and five assists.

“I am delighted to have our captain back with us for another season,” said OCSC Head Coach Richard Chaplow. “From the day Michael walked in, his performance level has been consistently high. It is coupled with the leadership qualities he possesses which makes him such a vital component for us.” 

2022 will mark Orozco’s 15th professional season in a career that has spanned the top leagues of Mexico and the United States. Orozco began his professional career with San Luis FC in Liga MX after playing youth soccer in Orange County. He also played for Puebla FC and Club Tijuana as well as MLS side Philadelphia Union during a season-long loan. Orozco also earned 29 caps for the U.S. Men’s National Team and made three appearances for the U.S. during the 2008 Summer Olympics.

With the defending USL champions, Orozco will continue his part in the development of 17-year-old defender Kobi Henry, who received his first senior team call up for the USMNT in December. Meanwhile in the community, the Orange County native will be found imparting his knowledge–both of soccer and life–to the next generation of OC’s champions through coaching his own kids’ teams on the same fields he played on while growing up.