ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (August 29, 2019) – The kid from Toronto is quiet and reserved in day-to-day life. In interviews, you have to ask him to speak up so the microphone can catch his words.

But when he’s on the field, the kid from Toronto is loud and expressive.

Malik Johnson stole the show Saturday night in a 5-0 win over Memphis 901 FC in the latest excellent performance of his first season with the Tampa Bay Rowdies. He’s transitioned to a new role, playing as a wingback, and has three goals and five assists in 14 matches.

The bigger transition, though, was signing with the Rowdies in the first place.

Johnson grew up in Toronto and joined the Toronto FC Academy as a teenager. Eventually, he signed a professional contract and joined Toronto FC II for four seasons in the USL Championship. When his contract ended last year, Johnson had options. He could have remained with TFC II as they dropped to USL League One or he could have explored opportunities in the brand-new Canadian Premier League.

Johnson knew he needed a change though. He didn’t plan on spending his whole life in his hometown. At some point, he was going to have to leave.

When the Rowdies called, things fell into place. It turns out calling a Canadian in winter and offering them the chance to move to Florida is pretty appealing.

“I was really excited for the chance to sign here,” Johnson said. “I knew I needed a change and what’s not to love about the Rowdies? It’s a club with history that plays a style I enjoy. I spoke with the coaches and we decided it was the right fit. St. Pete is a great place, Tampa is great and I’m just enjoying my time.”

Johnson arrived in Tampa Bay eager to make a good impression with his new teammates. Unfortunately, less than a week after camp opened, Johnson suffered a torn rotator cuff that required surgery. He was sidelined for nearly four months before returning to action May 25 in a win over the Swope Park Rangers.