The Tampa Bay Rowdies announced this morning it'll be parting ways with Farrukh Quraishi, the team's president and general manager, and Thomas Rongen, the team's coach, in what we deem a not-so-subtle media release.
"The changes come after a terribly disappointing start to the Fall Season, with a record of two wins, one draw and five losses, the most recent loss to the then last-place ranked Indy Eleven," reads the release.
Bill Edwards, the team's owner and the man behind numerous popular St. Petersburg developments, also provided comments in the release:
“I wish both Farrukh and Thomas well, but it was clear the team was not performing at the level they should be and could be. My goal from day one has been to win the NASL Soccer Bowl Championship," he said. "That has not changed."
He touted his record as a "fixer" of things, given that he took over facilities like the Mahaffey Theater, Sundial and the Club at Treasure Island and has turned them into popular attractions.
"When I identify a problem, I move swiftly and decisively to correct it," he said. "And I stand by my decisions. With the Rowdies, I felt it was important to make these changes now, while we still have time to improve our record for the fall season and secure a spot in the playoffs."
He adds that the team has an excellent roster and has the potential to win a championship with the right leadership.
"I will work with them and the remaining coaching staff to ensure they have what they need to succeed," he continued. "Decisions like these are never easy, but I hope this move shows both the players and the fans that my commitment to creating a world-class professional soccer experience remains undaunted.”
At the moment, no replacements have been announced.
This article appears in Aug 20-26, 2015.