Juan Ponce de Leon is recognized in Puerto Rico and Florida as a conquistador, governor and a historical figure who went on a search for the Fountain of Youth. Nearly five centuries after his death, Ponce de Leon will be the main figure spearheading the brand new Ponce de Leon Cup. The cup is being organized by the supporters groups of Miami FC, Tampa Bay Rowdies, the Puerto Rico Islanders, and the Orlando Soccer Supporters Club, which aims to support a soccer franchise in USL-1 rumored to enter the league in either 2010 or 2011.
Ponce de Leon's name was chosen as the link between Florida and Puerto Rico, as this figure had a major role in the history of both states, and there are statues of Ponce de Leon in Central Florida and San Juan.