ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (January 29, 2015) — The Tampa Bay Rowdies today announced the return of midfielder Keith Savage for the 2015 season. Per club and league policy, contract details were not disclosed.

“We’re excited to add an experienced NASL midfielder like Keith Savage,” said Rowdies head coach Thomas Rongen. “Keith will provide a balance in the midfield, as he can play both the attacking and defensive roles. With just under 100 league matches with the Rowdies, Keith has a strong connection to this club and is an asset to have in the locker room.”

A native of the Florida Panhandle and University of West Florida graduate, Savage played the last four seasons with the Rowdies.

In four seasons in green and gold, Savage has made 96 appearances (87 starts) and scored 12 goals. His Rowdies debut came on April 10, 2011 at home in a 1-0 win over the Montreal Impact.

Savage, 29, began his professional career in 2009 and made six appearances for Chivas USA, the team that drafted him 43rd overall in the 2008 Major League Soccer SuperDraft.

Primarily a central midfielder, but capable of playing on the outside of midfield, Savage played for the Portland Timbers in USL-1 and the USSF Division II Pro League in 2009 and 2010, respectively. For the Timbers, Savage played 40 matches and scored three goals.

In his time with the Rowdies, Savage has developed into one of the NASL’s most reliable midfielders and a set piece specialist. Last season, Savage notched three assists for the Rowdies, two of which came directly from free kicks.

With the addition of Savage, the Rowdies roster for 2015 stands at 15:
Goalkeepers: Matt Pickens
Defenders: Darnell King, Tamika Mkandawire, Gale Agbossoumonde, Brad Rusin, Stefan Antonijevic, Blake Wagner
Midfielders: Juan Guerra, Martin Nunez, Keith Savage, Georgi Hristov
Forwards: Brian Shriver, Corey Hertzog, Darwin Espinal, Robert Hernandez

The Rowdies will open the 2015 season against the San Antonio Scorpions, the 2014 Soccer Bowl Champions, in San Antonio on April 4.  The home opener follows on April 11 against Minnesota United FC, the team with the best overall 2014 record and the defending Spring champion.

Fans will enjoy all the action at the newly-renovated Al Lang Stadium, complete with larger pitch, new seating, improved concessions and more. 2015 season tickets are available now. Call (727) 222-2000 today!