
Hartford Athletic announced today that they have signed veteran USL Championship defender Adrian Diz Pe, pending league and federation approval.
“I’m thrilled to join Hartford Athletic and can’t wait to play in front of the incredible fans at Trinity Health Stadium,” said Diz Pe. “The energy and support from this community is incredible, and I’m eager to bring my passion and experience to the pitch to help our team maximize its potential in 2025.”
Diz Pe comes to Hartford after two excellent years anchoring Indy Eleven’s back line. Over 58 appearances, the towering 6’3” defender led the team in aerial duels won (181), tackles won (95), and interceptions (83) in both seasons, and scored four goals. With 160 league appearances and over 10,000 minutes played to his name, Diz Pe is regarded as one of the most reliable center backs in the Championship.
“Adrian is a proven leader and one of the most dependable defenders in the USL Championship,” said Hartford Athletic Head Coach and General Manager Brendan Burke. “His ability to dominate in aerial battles, read the game, and organize the back line will strengthen our defensive unit. We’re excited to have him on board and look forward to seeing the impact he will make.”
The 30-year-old made his league debut with Portland Timbers 2 in 2018, spending two seasons with the MLS affiliate before stints with Colorado Springs, Rio Grande Valley, and Tulsa. He had the best season of his career with the Oklahoma-based side in 2022, finishing in the league’s top 10 in possessions won in the defensive third (144), clearances (129), aerial duels won (83), and tackles (71).
A native of Havana, Cuba, Diz Pe began his professional career with hometown club Ciudad de la Habana in 2012. He quickly moved up the ranks and into the Cuban Men’s National Team early in his career before defecting to the United States, earning 13 senior caps for Los Leones del Caribe between 2012 and 2015. He appeared in the squad’s title run in the 2012 Caribbean Cup, the 2014 FIFA World Cup Qualifying cycle, and the 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup.
More player signings will be announced in the coming weeks. Looking to lock up the best seats at Trinity Health Stadium to watch the Green and Blue in 2025? The best prices of the season are available now! Visit hartfordathletic.com/seasontickets to secure your seat today.