Rowdies Add Depth to Defense with Signing of Rich Balchan
Published on March 17, 2015 under North American Soccer League (NASL)
Tampa Bay Rowdies News Release
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (March 17, 2015) - The Tampa Bay Rowdies added another veteran anchor to their defense Tuesday with the signing of defender Rich Balchan. Per club and league policy, contract details were not disclosed.
Balchan, 26, began his professional career with Major League Soccer's Columbus Crew and most recently spent two seasons with Real Salt Lake. The Crew initially selected Balchan with the 12th overall pick in the 2011 MLS SuperDraft.
Balchan joined the club on trial early in February, impressing the coaching staff with his technical ability. Balchan has a long-standing relationship with Rowdies Head Coach Thomas Rongen, having played five games for the United States Under-20 Men's National Team while Rongen was coach in 2008.
"Rich is a player I've had my eye on for a long time," Rongen said. "He was in my national team pool when I was the Under-20 coach and I saw a lot of potential in him. Rich is an important addition to our team because he's spent the last couple of years playing and learning at a very high level in MLS."
Balchan has appeared in three preseason matches for the Rowdies, lining up against Malmo FF, CD Fatima and FC Montreal. He will wear the No. 25 jersey.
Best deployed as a right back but versatile, Balchan is capable of slotting in to either fullback spot.
"This is an exciting opportunity for me," Balchan said. "I like the way they're changing the team and it's a very professional organization. I've been here for a little over two weeks now and everything has been first class. You can tell the chemistry between the players is building and that is very important. Coach Rongen coached me in the U-20s. He's someone I trust and he's a fantastic coach."
The Rowdies open their home slate April 11 against Minnesota United FC in downtown St. Pete. Fans will enjoy all the action at the newly renovated Al Lang Stadium, complete with larger pitch, new seating, improved concessions and more. 2015 season tickets are available now and start at just $160 for all 15 home games.
Single-game tickets are now available starting at $21 per match! Call (727) 222-2000 to purchase today.
Rowdies Individual Game Tickets For 2015 Season on Sale Now
Single-game tickets for the Tampa Bay Rowdies 2015 season are on sale now. Now partnered with Ticketmaster, tickets can be purchased by phone at 727-222-2000, online by clicking here, or in person at any Ticketmaster retail outlet including International Plaza, Tyrone Square Mall and area Walmart stores.
Tickets start at $21 for general admission ($10 for students and military with id).
The Spring Season opens at home on April 11 against Minnesota United FC, holder of the best overall record for the 2014 season.
Fans can ensure they catch all the action by becoming a Rowdies Season Ticket Member. Season Ticket Members receive a discount off of single-game prices along with special amenities and events throughout the year. To purchase season tickets, call (727) 222-2000.
North American Soccer League Stories from March 17, 2015
- Strikers Secure Three Brazilian Players - Fort Lauderdale Strikers
- Silverbacks Sign Standout Preseason Trialist Christian - Atlanta Silverbacks
- Speedy Smith Signs with Eddies - FC Edmonton
- Local Business Leader Named Strikers CEO - Fort Lauderdale Strikers
- Rowdies Add Depth to Defense with Signing of Rich Balchan - Tampa Bay Rowdies
- New York Cosmos Drop Preseason Friendly in El Salvador - New York Cosmos
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