Republican candidate Carolina Amesty grabbed another endorsement in her bid for House District 45, earning the backing of longtime Major League Soccer (MLS) defender Aurélien Collin.

Amesty campaign announced the assist from the former defender for the Orlando City Soccer Club on Wednesday. Collin, a native of France, began his professional soccer career in the U.S. in 2011 and played for Sporting Kansas City, New York Red Bulls, and Orlando City, along with the Philadelphia Union before announcing his retirement in March of 2022. During his career, Collin was a three-time MLS All-Star (2012, 2013, 2014), and earned MLS Best XI honors in 2012 and 2013. He was also named 2013 MLS Cup MVP.

“Carolina Amesty is the No. 1 candidate for the Florida House District 45,” said Collin. “She is an experienced leader and prioritizes the importance of education. It is an honor to offer my support toward her campaign and stand behind her as a dear friend.”

Amesty earned degrees in undergraduate studies in Political Science and graduate studies in International Relations. She is currently the vice president at Central Christian University and serves as a board member for Chaplains of Florida, American Chaplains, and Central Christian Academy. Amesty is also a local business owner.

“Aurélien is a great leader and a friend,” said Carolina. “He has seen my commitment to education and dedication to serving our community. His endorsement and encouragement are very important to me, and I look forward to continuing my campaign with his support.”

Collin’s support marks a “hat-trick” for Amesty’s campaign, which has scored endorsements from other prominent figures recently, including Bertica Cabrera Morris and State Representative Joe Harding, who sponsored the Parental Rights in Education legislation.

Amesty entered the crowded Republican primary in mid-March, amassing $45,000 in donations while kick starting her campaign with $200,000 of her own money.

Other Republicans eyeing the seat include former congressional candidates, Vennia Francois and Mike Zhao, businessman Bruno Portigliatti, and retired law enforcement officer Janet Frevola. The only Democrat that has filed to run is Allie Lee Braswell Jr., former president of the Central Florida Urban League.

HD 45 encompasses southwestern Orange County, including Disney, Windermere, and Winter Garden.