TAMPA – The Tampa Bay Rowdies (FC Tampa Bay) continue to fill out their inaugural roster after it was announced they had signed Japanese international utility player Takuya Yamada.
Yamada becomes the fifth international player to join the team. North American Soccer League rules permit each team to have up to seven foreign footballers to be on their rosters.
“We are ecstatic to secure Takuya Yamada for our inaugural team,” said Andrew Nestor, team owner and president. “Takuya is an icon in the game and he will bring depth, leadership and passion to our team.”
The 35-year old began his playing career in 1997 with Tokyo Verdy which plays in Division 2 of Japan's J. League and had 28 goals through the 2005 season serving as team captain for three years. A native of Tokyo, Yamada joined Cerezo Osaka for 2006 before spending the next two seasons with Yokohama FC. Last year he made 43 appearances for Sagan Tosu.
Yamada’s career spans 425 appearances with 43 goals including cup play and will make his American and NASL debut when the Rowdies begin play in April.
“I am happy that I am playing in the United States and with FC Tampa Bay who truly loves the sport and respects its athletes,” said Yamada.
Yamada has four caps with the Japanese National Team, including the 2004 Asian Cup in Beijing, where Japan defeated China 3-1. Yamada is known for his leadership and physical, hard-nosed style of play.
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