Jonathan Steele, also known as Jonny, just joined the Rowdies through a trade with the Vancouver Whitecaps FC this past week. While with the Whitecaps, the Larne, Northern Ireland native has played in 12 USSF D-2 matches and three NCC games for a total of 844 minutes of action. Prior to Vancouver, Steele spent two seasons with the Puerto Rico Islanders where he was named the 2008 USL-1 Most Valuable Player and was a key part of the team when they won the 2008 Commissioner’s Cup.

Steele joins the Rowdies just before the team takes on the Rochester Rhinos for the first time this season. After his first practice with his new team on Wednesday night, Steele sat down and answered a few questions about his new team and to help fans get to know him a little more.

Now that you’ve finished your first practice with the Rowdies, what are your early impressions of the team and the Tampa Bay area?
The Tampa Bay area is beautiful.  The area where we’re living looks very nice.  The team is sharp, it’s full of guys that want to work hard and win.

When you played against the Rowdies earlier in the season, what did you notice about their playing style and what do you feel their biggest strengths are?
The team played a very direct style in that game.  They used Wheeler as a big target man very well.  If they had taken their chances, they would’ve given us a big hassle up there.

What team did you support growing up in Northern Ireland?
I grew up supporting Aston Villa, but my brothers were big Manchester United fans, so I followed them a bit too.

Who was your favorite player growing up?
Roy Keane because he was a hard working man that just got stuck in and did his job.

Any gameday superstitions or traditions?
I just have to say a prayer and say thank you for my blessings and ability.

What was the most surprising part of the 2010 FIFA World Cup and who did you pick to win?
England doing terrible was pretty surprising.  I was happy that France struggled because of what happened against Ireland.  I always said that Spain would win it.

What has been the most memorable moment of your career so far?
Representing my country at the U-20 level.

What did you listen to on your flight from Vancouver to Tampa Bay?
I mainly listened to Drake.

What’s your favorite food?
Rice and chicken

What is your favorite movie?
Snatch

What is your favorite place to visit?
Las Vegas