Crusaders Sign Brazilian Midfielder Duda Pavão

Orlando, FL – The Central Florida Crusaders have announced the signing of former Stetson forward, Duda Pavão. 

“Duda and I have known each other for years through a media side of soccer,” GM and Head Coach Tom Traxler said, “I've always known about her quality on the field, and she'll bring enthusiasm and creativity to our team.” 

After moving from Brazil at the age of 15, Pavão attended IMG Academy for high school, scoring 19 goals in her senior season. From there, she attended Stetson University from 2013-2016 where she played in over 50 matches for the Hatters, serving as captain in her senior season. 

A versatile player, she played in the midfield, as a forward, and even as a goalkeeper during her collegiate tenure, scoring double-digit goals as well. 

Following her college playing days, she joined Orlando City as a Broadcast Coordinator, eventually migrating over to the Orlando Pride to become their Social Media Manager and Content Creator. During that time, Pavão also played professionally in Brazil, signing with Esporte Clube Iranduba da Amazônia for half a season, scoring one goal in her time there. 

Most recently, she has worked as the Digital Host for the U-20 FIFA Women's World Cup in Costa Rica and currently coaches youth soccer in Orlando at FC Highland.

"I truly can't wait to represent a town that is home to me and have fun with my teammates on the pitch," Pavão said, "Our Head Coach, Tom Traxler, is getting a great team together and we can't wait to see everyone out there supporting!"

The National Indoor Soccer League was founded in January 2021 by a group of seasoned sports team/league owners with over 50 years of ownership experience. The league features both a Men's & Women's Division, competing in double header game days over a 20-game regular season that takes place between the months of December and April. Current teams include Central FL Crusaders (Orlando), Columbus Rapids (Georgia), Fayetteville Fury, Memphis Americans, Rome Gladiators (Georgia), and Tampa Bay Strikers. The NISL is committed to promoting and supporting our member teams, while providing an avenue for players, coaches, and front office staff to develop their skills and gain exposure for opportunities at higher levels, all while providing high-quality, affordable entertainment in the communities we serve.