Thrive
Undefeated! Rowdies fever builds with St. Pete watch parties
“It has been fun to watch unfold day in and day out.”
Excitement is building as the Tampa Bay Rowdies continue their season as the only undefeated team in the USL, North America’s largest professional soccer league.
Their record is especially notable given that their starting lineup and coaching staff is stacked with new additions. Head coach Dominic Casciato was hired in the middle of the 2025 season, so this is the first full year he’ll be with the team.
“I think what is most impressive about this team is how they’ve been able to bring it together so quickly with almost an entire roster full of first-year Rowdies,” said Jeff Attinella, the club’s Director of Content and Development.
“The coach has done a tremendous job of bringing in players who are hungry, bought into his system, and are just good, decent humans.”
Grand Central Brewhouse, 2340 Central Ave., is one of the official sponsors of the Rowdies, and large-screens all home and away games. General Manager Matt O’Connell has noticed the energy emanating from fans:
“It’s definitely been a bit of a roller coaster! Two seasons ago we were in the playoffs. Last year we had a serious downturn but we are so back, baby!
“We are seeing a good amount of fans wearing their green and gold on Saturdays again – it’s an overall positive start and excitement is high!”
The Rowdies head out on the road to defend their record for the next three games, with matches in Providence, Miami and Albuquerque.
Grand Central Brewhouse will livestream Saturday’s 7:30 p.m. game against Rhode Island FC, as will Colony Grill, 670 Central Ave., another official watch party affiliate.
Watch parties are also on tap for May 16, as the Rowdies go up against Miami FC. Expect food and drink deals, and a few special appearances. A contest with New Mexico United is on the books for May 20.
The team returns to Al Lang Stadium May 23 to play Arizona’s Phoenix Rising FC.
The fan culture developing across the city mirrors the culture that’s growing in the relatively young team, said Attinella.
“It has been a winning formula so far, and even though there will be some bumps, the culture getting created and built week in and week out is going to be the standard for this club for a long time,” he declared.
“It has been fun to watch unfold day in and day out.”
List of official Tampa Bay Rowdies watch parties
