TAMPA, FL (March 2, 2024) – The Tampa Bay soccer community gathered on Saturday at MacDinton’s Irish Pub to celebrate a momentous occasion: the announcement of the Tampa Bay Soccer Hall of Fame. Surrounded by fans, community leaders, and soccer enthusiasts, former Tampa Bay Rowdies legends unveiled this exciting initiative during halftime of the Brentford match.
More than a dozen former Rowdies, including Farrukh Quraishi, Perry Van Der Beck, Ed Austin, Mark Lindsay, Dave Power, Jim DiNobile, and Mike Connell, were present to mark the occasion. These players shared their excitement about the Hall of Fame and their enduring connection to the community they now call home.
“The Rowdies have always been about more than just soccer; they’ve been about bringing people together and building community,” said Farrukh Quraishi, Founding Board Member, Tampa Bay Soccer Hall of Fame. “This new venture is a way to honor those who have contributed to the sport’s rich history in Tampa Bay and to inspire future generations of players and fans.”
The Tampa Bay Soccer Hall of Fame will celebrate the individuals, teams, and organizations that have shaped the region’s soccer legacy. From legendary players and coaches to influential contributors, the Hall of Fame will serve as a lasting tribute to the sport’s impact on Tampa Bay.
“The Hall of Fame will not only preserve history but also spotlight Tampa Bay as a hub for soccer excellence,” said said Perry Van Der Beck, Founding Board Member, Tampa Bay Soccer Hall of Fame. “It’s a way to give back to the community that has supported us for so many years.”
Hosted by Visit Tampa Bay, the announcement event at MacDinton’s Irish Pub brought together soccer fans of all ages. Attendees enjoyed the electrifying atmosphere of the Brentford match while sharing memories and stories of Tampa Bay’s soccer history.
The Hall of Fame is expected to launch officially later this year, with plans for events, exhibits, and community engagement initiatives designed to promote the sport and honor its legacy.
About the Tampa Bay Soccer Hall of Fame
The Tampa Bay Soccer Hall of Fame celebrates the region’s rich soccer legacy by honoring players, organizations, and supporters who have contributed to the game’s growth. Guided by its mission to preserve and celebrate this history, the Hall of Fame values integrity, collaboration, excellence, respect, inclusion, and passion. Inspired by players who came to Tampa Bay to play and stayed to build lives and businesses, the Hall of Fame highlights soccer’s unifying power and lasting impact on the community. For more information, visit https://tampabaysoccerhalloffame.org.
