Last week I wrote a story about the first home game of the newly re-dubbed Tampa Bay Rowdies, who took to the field with the old school logo and uniforms. It was quite an experience. I was full of hope and felt an old team spirit rekindled.
Knowing so many people like me, who grew up in Tampa Bay, have special memories of the Rowdies in their heyday, I thought I'd put an APB out on Facebook for memories of Tampa's great soccer team of yesteryear.
The question on Facebook, posed in the wee hours last week:
Hey, all you nocturnal beasties. Anyone have special memories of Rowdies games they'd like to share?
Kelly Becker Everyone running out onto the field! Wearing green and yellow. So much spirit at those games, I have such great memories of going to them with my dad and brother.
April 18 at 3:29am
Amy Jean Smith i have the ULTIMATE Rowdies game memory !!! This tale begins many many years ago. I was just a little girl. It was Fathers Day. ( Ed Smith) My Mom, Pops, & little Sis thought we'd celebrate by going to a Rowdies game...back when the Rowdies were a kick in the grass! (i remember the song) Anyway...the halftime break arrives. It was a contest — sold out stadium and only SIX Dad's names were called.... Ed Smith! Wait , no way, such a common name. Sure enough, it was my Dad. Dad's were instructed to grab a kid (just one) and head down to the field. My Dad chose me — I was SO nervous. Down on the field, i'm the only girl! Teamed up against 5 other Dads were there sons. We were tied together (3-legged race style) and had to perform many one field shenanigans as a team resulting in only one winner. Prize pack of a cruise, Busch Gardens tix, etc.... the winner was chosen by the first team to make it down the field and score a goal (with a beach ball of course) WE WON!!! BEST ROWDIES GAME EVER!! I can remember that day like it was yesterday. Wow some 25? years ago ♥
April 18 at 3:34am
