January 25, 2023 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – Tampa Bay Rowdies News Release
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla – On Wednesday, the Tampa Bay Rowdies announced that goalkeeper Phil Breno will return for a second season with the club after agreeing to a contract for the upcoming USL Championship campaign. The deal is pending league and federation approval.
“We’re delighted to bring Phil back,” said Rowdies Head Coach Neill Collins. “We’ve got a lot of returning players like Jordan Doherty and Forrest Lasso that have been here before. Adding that consistency is important. Phil is a part of that because he became a really important part of the team on and off the field. His performances last year speak for themselves. We’re excited to have him back because he’s a good teammate and has everything we want in terms of positive attitude.”
Breno joined the Rowdies in July of last year on loan from Forward Madison FC. The 27-year-old keeper took over starting duties for Tampa Bay following a season-ending injury to CJ Cochran in September. Breno did not miss a beat in assuming the starting role, recording three clean sheets in 8 starts and producing an unforgettable penalty save in stoppage time of the Eastern Conference Semifinal victory over Memphis 901 FC.
“I’m super grateful for this opportunity,” said Breno. “I can’t say it enough to not only the coaching staff but all the Rowdies fans. I was welcomed with such open arms last year. It gave me that confidence in myself to perform and to be carefree out on the field. Thank you to all the Rowdies fans for last year. Thank you to all the coaching staff for just giving me that opportunity and also the opportunity I’ve been presented this year. I’m really excited to get out there, work with the guys and put something great together for all the fans.”
Breno made his professional debut with fellow USL Championship side, the Charleston Battery in 2019. After two seasons in Charleston, Breno moved to Madison in USL League One, where he appeared in 41 matches for the Flamingos before his loan to the Rowdies.
The Rowdies are set to kick off their 34-match 2023 USL Championship campaign at home on Saturday, March 11 versus Indy Eleven. View the full schedule here. Single-game tickets will go on sale to the public in February. Fans can secure season ticket packages by visiting rowdiessoccer.com/seasontickets/ or calling 727-222-2000.
Current 2023 Rowdies Roster
Goalkeepers: Raiko Arozarena, Phil Breno, Connor…