Christie Gets Loud

Whangarei-raised New Zealand international midfielder Jeremy Christie, 27, has signed a two-year deal with Florida team the Tampa Bay Rowdies in the second tier North American Soccer League. Christie has won 20 caps for New Zealand, and played in five of the country’s qualifiers for the 2010 World Cup. “Jeremy Christie has the experience and skill to be a true leader on the field and in our locker room. He has played well at the highest level for his country since the age of 16,” Rowdies team owner and president Andrew Nestor said. “Jeremy is the kind of player whose skill and professionalism will exemplify our club.” “I’m excited to be a part of the Rowdies in their inaugural season,” Christie said. “I look forward to moving to Florida and working with the remarkable Rowdies coaching staff and organization.” Christie debuted for the All Whites against Australia in 2005.