Position: Defender
Birthday: April 17, 2002
Hometown: Atlantic Beach, FL
Height: 6’3”
College: University of South Florida
On Loan From: FC Cincinnati
Schaefer joined the Rowdies on loan from FC Cincinnati early in the 2026 presason. Although new to the Rowdies, Schaefer is no stranger to Tampa Bay. He played four years of college soccer at the University of South Florida, netting five goals across 53 appearances for the Bulls.
In 2024, FC Cincinnati selected Schaefer as the 27th overall pick in the MLS SuperDraft and eventually signed him to a professional contract with the club’s MLS Next Pro side, FC Cincinnati 2. Schaefer led the club in minutes played during his rookie season in 2024 and has earned 50 appearances and registered five goals across all competitions over his two seasons with Cincinnati 2. Schaefer also gained experience in the USL Championship while on loan to Indy Eleven for the final two months of the 2025 regular season. Prior to his move to Tampa Bay, Schaefer inked a contract with Cincinatti’s MLS squad.
