Tampa Bay Rowdies Acquire PC

Photo credit: Rosa Calvacanti

The Tampa Bay Rowdies have acquired one of the most exciting young players in the NASL, obtaining midfielder Victor Pagliari Giro from the Fort Lauderdale Strikers via transfer pending USSF approval.  The midfielder’s contract runs through the end of the NASL season with an option for the 2017 season. Per club and league policy, further details were not disclosed.

Giro, 22, and known exclusively as “PC,” had been with the Strikers since the start of the 2015 season. He originally joined the Strikers on loan from Brazilian powerhouse Corinthians, but quickly earned himself a new contract from Fort Lauderdale.

"PC is a fantastic addition to our squad," Rowdies coach Stuart Campbell said. "He's a young, exciting player with loads of skill and energy. He's quick, he's got great touch on the ball, and he's a hard worker. PC has a great pedigree, he knows the NASL well, and I'm excited to get him here to Tampa Bay to make our team even stronger."

A multi-talented and versatile player, PC has suited up just about everywhere for Fort Lauderdale in his 46 total games for the Strikers. Naturally left-footed, PC has played up and down the left side of the field as a defender, midfielder, and winger, in addition to an occasional role as a central attacking midfielder.

"I am very happy to wear Tampa Bay's jersey," PC said. "I hope I can help the team reach the playoffs. I am anxious to play and give my best to my new club and this new challenge in my life."

In his time in Broward County, PC scored eight goals and tallied four assists.

PC played 13 NASL games this season for Fort Lauderdale, mostly as a left back, even serving as Fort Lauderdale’s captain on a few occasions. He scored a 120th minute game-winner for the Strikers in their landmark defeat of Orlando City SC in the fifth round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on June 29.