Three men stand at center court in a packed Orlando Magic arena. On the left, Nick Anderson, in a gray plaid suit, applauds. In the center, Brian Steinhoff holds up a blue Magic number 23 jersey with one hand raised in the ASL sign for applause. On the right, Joel Ortiz smiles and signs applause with both hands raised. Behind them are Magic Diversity and Magic Together banners.
March 30, 2024
Some moments remind you why the work matters. One of those came at center court in front of a packed Orlando Magic crowd.
Before Deaf Florida was founded, Brian Steinhoff spent three years working with the Orlando Magic to make American Sign Language visible at KIA Center. It started with one idea: Deaf fans should feel at home at a Magic game, and hearing fans should get the chance to see ASL as the rich, living language it is. That idea grew into ASL Night, an annual tradition that brings Deaf and hearing fans together in the stands.
To honor that work, the Magic planned a surprise. During the game against the Memphis Grizzlies on March 30, 2024, Brian was called to center court, where Magic legend Nick Anderson presented him with a custom Orlando Magic jersey. Thousands of fans looked on and joined in with ASL applause, hands raised and waving.
Joel Ortiz was there too. The ASL performer was the night’s featured performer and filled the arena with the energy and expression of American Sign Language. Joel has been a key part of what makes ASL Night special, and sharing the moment with him made it even more meaningful.
“To the entire Orlando Magic team, thank you for the wonderful surprise and recognition of our collaboration over the past three years,” Brian said. “Raising awareness about American Sign Language is a crucial step toward creating a more inclusive and accessible society, where all individuals, regardless of their hearing ability, can fully participate and thrive.”
From One Partnership to a Statewide Movement
The Magic partnership showed what was possible when a professional sports team commits to accessibility and to the Deaf community. Its success helped inspire Deaf Florida, which launched in March 2026 to bring that same experience to fans across the state.
Since then, Deaf Florida has built partnerships with professional teams throughout Florida and hosted ASL Nights with the Orlando Solar Bears, Inter Miami CF, the Miami Heat, Orlando City SC, and more. Every event is built on the same belief: access isn’t a favor; it’s how community works.
“To the signing community, together, we break down barriers and ensure that every voice is heard,” Brian said. “Thank you for being a vital part of this journey.”
The Tradition Continues
ASL Night with the Orlando Magic returns this season. Visit our Upcoming Events page for the date and ticket link, and join us in the stands.
