ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (August 8, 2018) — The Tampa Bay Rowdies signed experienced USL defender Tarek Morad, the club announced Wednesday.

Morad brings nearly 100 appearances and 8,000 minutes of USL play to the Rowdies’ roster despite being just 25 years old. He spent the previous three seasons with Louisville City FC after making his professional debut with OKC Energy FC in 2014.

Morad made 32 appearances in all competitions for Louisville last season, helping guide the team to the best record in the Eastern Conference and the USL Cup. He scored twice in Louisville’s quarterfinals win over the Bethlehem Steel. He departed the club after winning the USL Cup Final as Louisville’s all-time appearances leader with 88.

“We’re always happy to improve our squad and when a player of Tarek’s ability is available, it’s a great addition,” said Head Coach Neill Collins said. “He’s a player that has played a lot of games in this league at a really high level and we’re excited to have him in our team.”

Morad was born in Los Angeles to Egyptian parents and finished his collegiate career at nearby UC-Irvine before signing with Oklahoma City. He will wear the No. 24 jersey and will be available for selection tonight against the Charleston Battery.