Florida Film Festival Highlights Orlando’s Place in Film and Storytelling
April 3, 2026
Orlando Pirates Visit the Citrus Club During Membership Appreciation Night
Each week, the Citrus Club hosts a Membership Appreciation Night for its members. The evening includes chef-selected food, house wine, and draft beer, all provided by the club. It creates a consistent space for members to connect with one another and build relationships inside the community.
Last night’s gathering brought players from the Orlando Pirates, the city’s newest professional indoor football team.
Quarterback Paxton DeLaurent and wide receiver Thomas Owens spent time meeting guests and having conversations throughout the event. Team owners Giovanny Olarte and Nayrouz Olarte were also in attendance, along with the Orlando Sirens, the team’s newly introduced dance group.
For many in the room, it was the first opportunity to meet some of the people behind Orlando’s newest sports franchise. Citrus Club General Manager James Gelfand said the energy carried throughout the evening. “The atmosphere was electric, with an incredible level of energy and excitement throughout the evening. Our members were thrilled by the experience and are delighted to have yet another world-class sporting team right on their doorstep at the Kia Center.”
Members also used the evening to make new connections. Neil Cuffy, CEO and founder of Shepherd Sterling, who recently relocated to Orlando, said the event reflected the city’s energy. “I had a fantastic time at the Citrus Club’s member appreciation night, connecting with inspiring entrepreneurs and professionals from across Orlando,” Cuffy told Orlando Life. “The atmosphere was perfect for relaxed yet meaningful conversations. Meeting members of the Orlando Pirates was an added highlight. The energy and culture of the city was truly on display.”
Both DeLaurent and Owens from the Pirates shared that their previous visits to Orlando had been mostly limited to theme parks. Now, they are looking forward to spending time in the community and experiencing the culture of the area.
The Orlando Pirates recently announced their move to Central Florida and will begin play at the Kia Center on Sunday, April 5th. The team competes in the Indoor Football League (IFL), a national league that continues to expand into new markets.
