Each change in season brings about a new energy around the Tampa Bay area. The optimism for cooler weather is back. Dark and toasty seasonal beers are back. The Lightning are in full-force. We were able to follow the Rowdies as they competed in the USL playoffs. The perseverance, determination, and hard work put on by these guys are second to none. Their loss to the New York Red Bulls II in extra time was tough to overcome, but their success of the season will carry over and build momentum for the coming year. After all, this was their debut season in the United Soccer League…Not too shabby of a premiere, am I right?

Rowdies Recap: A Year Well Spent

Big Storm partnered with the Rowdies in March of this year. This allowed us to enjoy the wave of success that they built this season. In celebration of our newfound partnership, and a way to pay homage to their loyal fans, it was only fitting that we added a piece of the Rowdies to our taproom. We created a beer to honor their hard work and triumph—Kick In The Grass, a crisp pilsner with an easy and refreshing finish. This beer is available at our Pasco and Pinellas taprooms, and also at Al Lang Stadium during the Rowdies season.

Getting Involved – #GoldTogether

The most satisfying part of being involved with local organizations and sports teams is the opportunity for community involvement and dedication to helping those around us. We wanted to make the most of this opportunity in September this year. Big Storm teamed up with the Rowdies and the #GoldTogether campaign that raises money for Childhood Cancer Awareness. So during the whole month of September, we gave $1 of every Kick In The Grass pint sold back to the John Hopkins Research Center for Pediatric Cancer to support cancer research and raise awareness. As a result, we raised $1,100 –that’s over 1,000 pints sold! Thanks to all who came out to support the Rowdies and Big Storm in raising money for such a great cause. Because of you loyal fans and supporters, this is all possible.

Al Lang Stadium

Honorable Mentions

As we previously mentioned, the Rowdies presence in the USL is not to be taken lightly. This was a record-breaking season for our team. They secured an impressive 13 home wins at Al Lang—therefore surpassing the 9 home wins captured in 2015. So Congratulations to the Tampa Bay Rowdies on a thrilling, successful, and incredibly impressive season. Also, to midfielder Marcel Schäfer for being named to the All-League First Team, which is a great honor. We are (really, really) looking forward to March 2018 for another great season. Cheers, guys! You deserve it!

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