VSI Tampa Bay FC News Release -- www.vsi-fc.com
Friday, March 15, 2013
TAMPA, Fla. – Defender Josh Rife is bringing his leadership and work ethic to VSI Tampa Bay FC this 2013 inaugural season in the USL PRO. Named to the 2012 USL PRO All-League First Team, the experienced defensive powerhouse brings his knowledge of the game to VSI Tampa Bay FC both as a player and as a coach.
“It’s great to bring Josh into the team in our inaugural season," said Clay Roberts, VSI Tampa Bay FC’s Director of Soccer. "He is a proven leader, established veteran, and great person to have in any capacity of an organization. We wanted to solidify our defense with experience and leadership, and we are lucky enough to have found that in Josh. We are thrilled to have him join us."
Rife has experienced success at every stop he has made in his career. The University of Indiana grad saw his success begin after starting 46 matches for the Hoosiers, for whom he earned All-Big Ten First Team selections in 2000 and 2001 and NSCAA All-Region First Team selection in 2001. In his time at Indiana, Rife helped the team to two College Cups, the Big Ten Championship in 2001, and the 2000 Big Ten Regular Season Championship.
Rife’s professional career would span a decade between the Major Indoor Soccer League (MISL), and United Soccer Leagues. His time has been spent with the Philadelphia KiXX, Detroit Ignition, and Milwaukee Wave indoor teams, and the Charlotte Eagles of USL PRO.
“I’m honored to be joining VSI Tampa Bay in their inaugural season," Rife said. "There is a lot of excitement joining a new franchise with strong leadership and a great vision. When speaking with the management about the opportunity, it made since for me and my family. I’m looking forward to getting down to Tampa and starting a new chapter in my career.”
His career with the Charlotte Eagles saw him win a USL Second Division Championship in 2005, USL Second Division Defender of the Year award in 2006. He also made five appearances in the league championship game since 2004.
His indoor career would mirror his outdoor success. In 2005, the Philadelphia Kixx saw Rife named to the 2006 All-MISL Rookie Team. After a trade to the Detroit Ignition, Rife would go on to be named the Xtreme Soccer League Defensive Player of the Year. He led the XSL with 31 shot blocks as Detroit won the league championship.
Concluding a three-year stay with Detroit, Rife found a new home with the Milwaukee Wave. During the 2009-2010, he was named Second Team All-MISL and MISL Defensive Player of Month in January and March.
Rife led the MISL with 36 blocked shots and he played all 20 games scoring 11 goals and tallying 28 points. He would add two league titles while in Milwaukee.
“To sign a player of Rife’s experience and quality is great news for the club," Head Coach Matt Weston said. "Josh is a great communicator, an on field leader and will provide experience to our back line. Rife will bring so much both on and off the field to VSI Tampa Bay FC and we are excited he has decided to join us for our debut season in USL PRO.”