The Tampa Bay Rowdies ensured the return of another valuable 2022 contributor for the upcoming USL Championship season on Tuesday with the announcement that midfielder Dayonn Harris has signed a new contract with the club.
Harris originally joined the Rowdies ahead of the 2021 season after making his professional debut in the USL Championship with Real Monarchs in 2020. Following up on an impressive first season in Tampa Bay, the Canadian wingback made his mark in 2022 as part of the Rowdies’ league-leading attack with five goals and three assists.
“Dayonn has real quality,” said Rowdies Head Coach Neill Collins. “He’s on the cusp, and now the challenge is if he can become a starter. Everyone knows Dayonn is that impact player. A number of times I’ve been asked why he doesn’t start because everyone sees the impact he has off the bench. This was only his third full season as a professional and I really believe next year is going to be a huge year for him. We’re just so pleased to have him back again.”
The 25-year-old midfielder earned USL Championship Team of the Week honors in Week 19 of the 2022 campaign for his outstanding showing as a halftime substitute, assisting on two goals to break open a scoreless deadlock and pave the way for a 4-1 win over Loudoun United FC.
“I am very excited to be returning to the Rowdies next season,” said Harris. “I look forward to not only growing as a player but as a team to become the best in the league. I am confident that we are committed more now than ever to finishing what we’ve started, and that is to bring a championship to our passionate, devoted, and faithful fans of Tampa Bay. I personally can’t wait to reunite with the guys, lock in, and get started.”
Tampa Bay also announced the re-signing of wingback Sebastian Dalgaard on Tuesday, bringing the club’s total number of players under contract to 12.
The schedule for the 2023 USL Championship season is expected to be unveiled in the new year. In the meantime, fans can secure season tickets by visiting rowdiessoccer.com/seasontickets. Fans may also contact the ticket office by emailing tickets@rowdiessoccer.com or calling 727-222-2000 during regular business hours. Holiday Packs, which include two tickets for the Rowdies 2023 home opener are also available for purchase at rowdiessoccer.com/holiday-pack.
Current 2023 Rowdies Roster:
Goalkeepers: Raiko Arozarena
Defenders: Aaron Guillen, Conner Antley
Midfielders: Jake Areman, Sebastian Dalgaard, Yann Ekra, Leo Fernandes, Dayonn Harris, Lewis Hilton, Nicky Law
Forwards: Jordan Adebayo-Smith, Sebastian Guenzatti
