Rowdies’ star hoping to be 2nd-time lucky

Charlie Dennis eyeing another opportunity to play in MLS

Charlie Dennis, Tampa Rowdies.
Tampa Bay Rowdies' midfielder Charlie Dennis is looking for another try at the big time after injuries short-circuited his first try. (Sencer Closs/Toronto Observer) 

TAMPA, Fla. – Tampa Bay Rowdies’ midfielder Charlie Dennis, has a second chance at playing in Major League Soccer and he is not about to let the opportunity slip away.  

It was a special moment in his career when he earned a contract with Nashville SC of the MLS in 2018 but the thrill was short lived. He had knee surgery before the season began and returned to his former club, South Georgia Tormenta FC in the second division of the USL Championship.

Tampa Bay Rowdies’ midfielder Charlie Dennis sends a ball across the pitch during training drills at the Rowdies Practice Facility (Spencer Closs/Toronto Observer)

“When I got my first opportunity with Nashville, I got injured so I got sent back and I’ve been persistent enough to make it back to the championship,” Dennis said in an interview. “I am 27 now so I am in my prime and it is about making the most of every opportunity really.”

Coming off the knee surgery, Dennis has played 7913 minutes of soccer since 2019 proving he is more than capable of being available when his squad needs him. 

“If I need to push it one day I’ll push it, but if I need to rest, rest is just as important as the hard work,” Dennis explained. “It’s about trying to find that balance.”

After his college days of playing for the Palm Beach Atlantic Sailfish here in Florida, Dennis is  excited to be returning to the Sunshine State for his first season with the Rowdies.

“I don’t think there is a better club in the Championship to be at,” Dennis said. “My wife is from West Palm Beach and the family was at the home opener. It felt good to have people in the crowd that mean something.”

Known for his powerful left foot and playmaking, Dennis’ addition to the Rowdies is a perfect match.

“I’ve been loving it. It’s great to be back here [in Florida] and I’m just going to work as hard as I can.”

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Posted: Mar 21 2023 3:47 pm
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