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All year long, we will be bringing you interesting facts about members of the FC Tampa Bay team.

In our first installment, we introduce you to newcomer Keith Savage, a midfielder who hails from locally here in Gulf Breeze.

Savage began his soccer career at the University of West Florida (UWF), where he was named a NSCAA All-American in 2006.  During his four seasons, he scored 33 goals, which is the fourth-highest in UWF school history.

Savage was drafted in the 2008 MLS SuperDraft by Chivas USA (43rd overall) as their only pick in the draft and later signed with the Timbers in USL-1. Savage also played for the Central Florida Kraze in USL PDL from 2006-2007, making 22 appearances and scoring 12 goals. While with the Timbers, Savage appeared in 40 matches, scoring three goals and recording three assists. During the 2009 season, he was one of only two players to appear in all 30 regular season matches. Savage was also a part of the squad which set a USL-1 record with a 24-game unbeaten streak during the 2009 regular season and which won the 2009 USL-1 Commissioner’s Cup.


What do you associate with FC Tampa Bay?
The history; knowing that my father played in the NASL

What is your typical pre-match meal?
Normally some kind of big sandwich and a nice sweet tea. The meals normally change, but the sweet tea is a must

What has been your most memorable soccer moment thus far?
Starting in the Super Classico; Chivas vs. LA Galaxy in the sold out Home Depot Center

Growing up, what soccer team did you support?
Manchester United

What is your favorite thing about playing soccer?
The camaraderie within the team and the drive to win

Who is your all-time favorite soccer player?
Zinedine Zidane

Who is your favorite athlete outside of soccer?
Drew Brees because of his faith and leadership as an athlete on and off the field

List your top three favorite movies:
Ace Ventura Pet Detective, Silence of the Lambs, Die Hard With a Vengeance

What are you listening to on your iPod right now?
Christian, rock, classics and even a little country

Is there one song that always pumps you up before a game?
“Audience of One” because it reminds me that I’m blessed to play the game and who and why I play it for

What is your favorite TV show?
Biggest Loser; I actually don’t like the entire show, just love the end when it shows their weight loss

What is your favorite food?
Hawaiian food

Is there one destination that you’ve never been to but have always wanted to visit?
Turks and Caicos Islands

Which sporting event is your favorite to watch?
Golf because I have a ton of respect for their ability to stay mentally focused for four days. The pressure on the closing holes of major tournaments is so huge; I’m not sure I’d even be able to swing the club. Plus, it’s a great way to relax on Sunday

What is your weirdest “quirk?”
I put Ketchup on everything.

What are you most afraid of?
Planes! I guess I’m in the wrong business….

What do you like to do in your free time?
I love to hang out with friends and my beautiful wife as often as possible. I especially love to have BBQ’s or relax at the beach.

Who’s your hero?
My dad has always been my hero. I look up to him as a great father and husband. He was a great professional for many years.

If you had to pick three words to describe you what would they be?
Competitive, dedicated and generous