They may not be at Al Lang Stadium, but Tampa Bay’s hometown men’s soccer team happily announced that it is staying in the region to close out its 2024 regular season. The Tampa Bay Rowdies announced that they will host their remaining two home games at Bradenton’s IMG Academy Academy, following damage to their home stadium from the recent hurricanes.
IMG Academy is one of the nation’s elite high school athletic programs, and it has the high-end facilities to match its high regard in the industry, making it the perfect spot to finish the 2024 campaign. The Rowdies said they will begin reaching out to season ticket holders who will have the option of attending these games in Bradenton, or choosing from a number of alternative options, including full refunds or donating the price of tickets to hurricane relief funds. The club will also be reaching out to individuals who purchased single game tickets to discuss their options.
“The impact of both Hurricanes Helene and Milton to our region has been devastating, and while we cannot continue at Al Lang Stadium, we feel fortunate to be able to finish the season in the Tampa Bay area,” said Tampa Bay Rowdies President Ryan Helfrick. “IMG Academy has a tremendous track record for hosting professional sports organizations and events, and we’re grateful for their ability to host us on such short notice. As we move through the challenges following the hurricane, our thoughts are with everyone across the region who have been impacted.”
The Rowdies will host Hartford Athletic on Wednesday, October 23, and Indy Eleven in their regular season finale on Saturday, October 26. Both matches will kick off at 7:30 pm and will be available to stream on ESPN+.
These end-of-season matches come at a key time for St. Pete’s hometown team, as the Rowdies sit in 6th place in the Eastern Conference standings. In fact, they could secure a sixth-straight playoff appearance as soon as this weekend as they travel to face North Carolina FC on Saturday, making these final matches of crucial importance for postseason seeding.
Fans are invited to the club’s official Watch Party at Colony Grill at 670 Central Ave in Downtown St. Pete where locals can come out to support the Green & Gold and enjoy 25 percent off pizzas for anyone wearing Rowdies Gear.
Be sure to follow the Rowdies on facebook, on instagram, and on X for more team news.
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