ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- The Tampa Bay Rowdies have announced who will take over as head coach.

Rowdies announce former player Neill Collins as head coach

Collins, 34, played professionally for 18 years

Takes over for Stuart Campbell, who agreed to step away as Rowdies coach after 3 seasons

The team didn't have to look far, tapping one its former defenders.

After a professional playing career that spanned 18 years and 10 clubs, Neill Collins has been named head coach of the Tampa Bay Rowdies, the club announced Friday.

Collins, 34, holds a UEFA A Coaching License and will coach his first Rowdies match Saturday night against the Pittsburgh Riverhounds at Al Lang Stadium.

Collins has made 598 professional appearances in a staggering career. He wore the captain’s armband Wednesday night in what was his 67th appearance for the Rowdies since joining in 2016.

Rowdies Chairman & CEO Bill Edwards and head coach Stuart Campbell said Thursday that they mutually decided to part ways, with Campbell stepping down immediately.

Campbell was in his third year as the Rowdies head coach.

The team is off to a 4-5 start this season.

"I am excited to announce Neill Collins as the new head coach of the Tampa Bay Rowdies" said Edwards. "I’ve witnessed Neill’s intensity firsthand, and I know everyone in the locker room has immense respect for his ability and work ethic. He’s got the skills, the drive and the attitude to move the club to the top of the table."

As he moves to lead the coaching staff, Collins in no longer expected to play for the Rowdies.