Brian Rowe knew Orlando City might be his last chance.
In November, after seven years of fighting for a starting spot in MLS, Rowe was released by the Vancouver Whitecaps. As weeks passed without an offer, he realized his time in the league might be up.
When Rowe earned a trial with Orlando City, he felt energized. If this was his last chance to play in MLS, he was going to enjoy it. Whatever came next, Rowe decided, he would feel like he had always given his all.
Now, as the Lions’ starting goalkeeper, it’s sometimes hard for Rowe to believe that less than a year ago, he was at peace with the idea of walking away from soccer.