UNIONDALE N.Y. – (Friday, January 28, 2022) – The Long Island Rough Riders are pleased to announce the re-signing of Tom Bowen for his second consecutive year as men’s head coach for the 2022 USL season.

Bowen was an integral part of the 2021 teams’ successful 9-1-4 season, recording only 7 goals against. The Rough Riders went on to claim first place in the Metropolitan division but fell short in the first round of playoffs. The Rough Riders consistently placed in the top 10 of the USL 2 national rankings and top 5 for goals allowed.

“We are excited to have Tom back for another year,” said Assistant GM Tanner Sands. “He not only brings a wealth of coaching knowledge, experience and leadership, but also has proved successful. We have the utmost confidence that under his direction the team will continue to flourish on and off the field.”

A native of Aberdovey, Wales in the United Kingdom, Bowen progressed in the U.S. coaching scene, serving as Assistant Coach for the Adelphi University men’s team from 2019 – 2021. Furthering his career, Bowen recently accepted an offer as Assistant Coach for the Iona men’s team in the coming 2022 season.

“I’m looking forward to once again working with some of the best college players in the country and helping as many as possible to move on to the pro game when their time arrives,” said Bowen. “Last season we were able assemble a team that was not only stacked with incredible soccer players, but one that was also full of incredible human beings.”

In June 2021, Bowen was elected USL 2 Coach of The Month by the USL League 2 Technical Committee after a triumphant start to the season, leading the team to five wins out of eight games and only three goals against.

He hopes to have the same success this season with another diverse and extraordinary group of players.

“The atmosphere that we were able to cultivate within the team in such a short period of time despite bringing in players from all over the country and from different backgrounds was the most enjoyable part of the overall experience for me,” said Bowen. “I’m looking forward to trying to do the same again this season. For me, it’s all about humility.”

The fight for first kicks off on May 22, 7:00 pm at Mitchel Field Athletic Stadium as the Men’s Rough Riders take on Morris Elite for their home opener.

“Winning that division championship last season was an incredible achievement by that group, but it’s always a more difficult task to defend a title,” said Bowen. “We’re ready to give it our best shot.”