“I can’t wait to get back to work with the team. I think we can build up on the good things we did and push for more next year,” said Tejada about his return. “This group has a hunger for success and I am excited to compete together and contribute even more next season.”
Tejada was a late acquisition in 2023, joining the team in June right before the team’s match against Las Vegas Lights FC. Despite the truncated season, Tejada was able to put up 1,400 minutes across 20 appearances for the Switchbacks. The forward earned five goals and four assists, and held an overall passing accuracy rate of 76.6%.
Acquired by Indy Eleven in July of 2022 via transfer from the Tampa Bay Rowdies, Tejada earned two goals and two assists in his 28 appearances for Indy. Signed by Tampa Bay Rowdies in 2019 as a preseason trialist, Tejada had a big impact his rookie season, earning 10 goals in 2019 for the Florida side. In his three seasons with the team he earned 13 goals and three assists across 68 appearances, and helped Tampa in five postseason matches as well.
The Panamian native had his professional start in 2018 with then USL PDL (now USL League Two) side Lakeland Tropics, where he earned 12 goals in 24 appearances. Collegiately, Tejada played for the Eckerd Tritons in Florida, where he started in every match throughout his four years of college.
Tejada also has some international experience, playing for Panama’s U-17, U-20, and U-23 teams as well as making an appearance with the national team in 2020 for friendlies in Europe, ultimately making his senior debut against the USMNT.
“Mid way through last season, Juan’s arrival gave the team a huge boost,” said Technical Director & Assistant Coach, James Chambers. “He really embodies the people we want within our organization. Juan is a humble person with resilient mentality. These traits can only help us all continue to get better and sets a terrific example.”
Name: Juan Tejada
Position: Forward
Height: 5′ 7″
Date of Birth: January 14th, 1997
Age: 26
Hometown: Panama City, Panama
