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Hartford Athletic announced today the launch of its Girls Academy program and will be hosting Open Tryouts and an Informational Session for the U13 group on Wednesday, June 2nd from 6pm-9:30pm at Dillon Stadium (detailed timing and registration info available below based on your age group). A U19 tryout will be announced at a later date. Hartford Athletic staff including Head Coach Harry Watling and Technical Director and First Team Assistant Coach Luiz Silva will be in attendance. College coaches will also be invited and film of the session will be made available to participants. Sessions will be limited to the first 50 registrants.

As a Club, Hartford Athletic is dedicated to building professional pathways that mirror the experience of the first team, including values, culture, technical and tactical approach, analytics, individual development, and care for the whole person. The Girls Academy program will join the Boys U14 Academy team as the Club continues to deepen its development structure.

Stay tuned for more information on the Girls Academy program and an additional major announcement on June 8th regarding women's soccer.

To register for Open Tryouts please follow the link below. Registration is free and all registrants will receive a Hartford Athletic t-shirt. For questions and more information please contact info@https://www.hartfordathletic.com.

• Girls U13 Academy Team Tryout:
  • Location: Dillon Stadium
  • Date: June 2nd
  • Time: 6pm-7:30pm
  • Age: 2010s and 2009s
• Girls U19 Academy Team Tryout:
  • Date: To Be Announced
  • Age: 2005s, 2004s,  and 2003s

Hartford Athletic announced today the launch of its Girls Academy program and will be hosting Open Tryouts and an Informational Session for the U13 group on Wednesday, June 2nd from 6pm-9:30pm at Dillon Stadium (detailed timing and registration info available below based on your age group). A U19 tryout will be announced at a later date. Hartford Athletic staff including Head Coach Harry Watling and Technical Director and First Team Assistant Coach Luiz Silva will be in attendance. College coaches will also be invited and film of the session will be made available to participants. Sessions will be limited to the first 50 registrants.

As a Club, Hartford Athletic is dedicated to building professional pathways that mirror the experience of the first team, including values, culture, technical and tactical approach, analytics, individual development, and care for the whole person. The Girls Academy program will join the Boys U14 Academy team as the Club continues to deepen its development structure.

Stay tuned for more information on the Girls Academy program and an additional major announcement on June 8th regarding women’s soccer.

To register for Open Tryouts please follow the link below. Registration is free and all registrants will receive a Hartford Athletic t-shirt. For questions and more information please contact info@https://www.hartfordathletic.com.

• Girls U13 Academy Team Tryout:
  • Location: Dillon Stadium
  • Date: June 2nd
  • Time: 6pm-7:30pm
  • Age: 2010s and 2009s
• Girls U19 Academy Team Tryout:
  • Date: To Be Announced
  • Age: 2005s, 2004s,  and 2003s

Hartford Athletic has signed Forward Jeciel Cedeño, pending league and federation approval.   

Cedeño made an impression on the coaching staff thanks to his preseason performance. He scored twice in a friendly against Newtown Pride FC and added a third preseason goal in a 3-0 win over the University of Hartford in the preseason finale. Prior to joining Hartford Athletic, Cedeño played in the New York Red Bulls Academy and appeared in two matches for NYRBII during the 2019 season. 

"Jeciel is another young, exciting addition to our roster,” said Hartford Athletic Head Coach Harry Watling. “After scoring three excellent goals in the preseason, Jeciel has impressed immensely with his skill and inventive play. It’s yet more magic in the top half of the pitch to add to our roster.” 

After an undefeated start to the season, Hartford Athletic returns home on Saturday, May 29th for a match against Real Monarchs. For fans interested in Season Tickets, 6-game Flex Plans, or Single Game tickets, please visit https://www.hartfordathletic.com/tickets.  

Hartford Athletic has signed Forward Jeciel Cedeño, pending league and federation approval.   

Cedeño made an impression on the coaching staff thanks to his preseason performance. He scored twice in a friendly against Newtown Pride FC and added a third preseason goal in a 3-0 win over the University of Hartford in the preseason finale. Prior to joining Hartford Athletic, Cedeño played in the New York Red Bulls Academy and appeared in two matches for NYRBII during the 2019 season. 

“Jeciel is another young, exciting addition to our roster,” said Hartford Athletic Head Coach Harry Watling. “After scoring three excellent goals in the preseason, Jeciel has impressed immensely with his skill and inventive play. It’s yet more magic in the top half of the pitch to add to our roster.” 

After an undefeated start to the season, Hartford Athletic returns home on Saturday, May 29th for a match against Real Monarchs. For fans interested in Season Tickets, 6-game Flex Plans, or Single Game tickets, please visit https://www.hartfordathletic.com/tickets.  

Starting on Saturday, May 29th, in accordance with the latest guidance from the CDC and State of Connecticut, fans who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 will not be required to wear a mask or face covering at Hartford Athletic matches at Dillon Stadium. Hartford Athletic employees and gameday staff will continue to wear masks on match days in accordance with USL protocols.

Starting on Saturday, May 29th, in accordance with the latest guidance from the CDC and State of Connecticut, fans who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 will not be required to wear a mask or face covering at Hartford Athletic matches at Dillon Stadium. Hartford Athletic employees and gameday staff will continue to wear masks on match days in accordance with USL protocols.

Welcome to a new season of 20 Questions! We have a slew of new players on this year's roster and that means new interviews every week! This week, we start with the hero from Saturday night's match, Luka Prpa. Luka headed in the tying goal in stoppage time to steal a point away from Pittsburgh. He shares his history in soccer, what makes him such a big Manchester United fan, and the first thing he'd do if he found a winning lottery ticket. 

1) When did you fall in love with the beautiful game?

LP: I don’t think there’s necessarily one moment that I fell in love with the game. I do come from a huge soccer family though; my Grandpa played as did my dad, my brother, and my cousins. From the minute I could walk, my dad would throw beach balls to me and I would head it back to him. I think the most memorable moment was playing at my grandpa’s house with my brother and our cousins in the summers while our parents were working. 

2) You grew up in Milwaukee; what was it like for you playing the game growing up and what did it mean to you to represent your ‘hometown club’ Marquette?

LP: I committed to Marquette around sophomore year of high school, and was also looking at schools like UCLA, Stanford, and University of Wisconsin. However, playing at Marquette was so special for me for one really big reason. Playing so close to home meant that, when I looked into the stands, I had my whole family there – I’m not sure I would have had that same feeling elsewhere. 

3) You play in midfield now. Did you always know that you wanted to play in midfield?

LP: When I was about 12 or 13, I was more of a forward. As I got older though, my coaches saw me as more of a creator, someone who could set up attacks from deep.

I think a part of that came from playing fullback when I played in youth national teams – I can’t say I was too happy about playing fullback then, but it definitely ended up helping! 

4) What was it like to celebrate in front of the Dillon crowd after scoring the game tying goal on Saturday night?

LP: It was amazing. At the time, I was happy for a second and then wanted to go on and get the next goal – but yeah, it was special because we haven’t played in front of fans in so long. Obviously, you’re always happy to score, but when it’s in front of your home fans, it’s hard to put in to words.

5) With 7 points from a possible 9 it’s been a flying start to the season. How has Coach Watling impacted the squad so far?

LP: He’s had a huge impact on the squad. You’ve heard him talk in his press conferences about how he wants us to express ourselves, and that’s exactly what we aim to do every match. We’ve also worked on being good both in and out of possession, so that we can win in different ways, and that’s a testament to him as a coach.

6) You have a cousin who also plays professionally. What is it like having a fellow professional in the family?

LP: I do yes! My cousin plays in the second division in Italy. It was really fun growing up with him because we’d have 2v2 games all summer at my Grandpa’s house where it would be him and his brother versus me and my brother. We’d use two trees as goals and play until the day was done.

7) Who are your inspirations?

LP: This was actually a question the coaching staff asked us in preseason – we ended up sending in pictures of who we play for and made a poster board, so we have a nice collage of all of our inspirations in the locker room. For me, my main inspiration is my family. The picture I put up was from my senior day at Marquette. I walked with out with my mom, dad, brother and grandpa. I think my grandpa might be the biggest part of that group; he has five grandkids, and whenever we’re close, he’s always there. I actually always know where he’s standing! He’ll be at the corner of the field on the side that we’re attacking, and he’ll be leaning on the fence. The funniest thing is, no matter the noise on the field and what everyone is saying, I only hear what he says!

8) Do you have a match day routine?

LP: Absolutely. I think it’s very important to have a routine so you can control as many things as possible on match day. When I wake up, I typically eat a bigger breakfast, so that I don’t end up snacking as much. When I start snacking, I end up eating too much, so I do my best to stay away from that. After breakfast, I’ll go for a walk in the late morning, stretch out after, then take a nap for about thirty minutes to an hour – anything more I get too tired. I’ll wake up from the nap, then take a shower, and get my pre-match meal – I’ll typically eat anything that has rice, pasta, chicken or vegetables. Then it’s off to the match!

9) Adidas or Nike boots?

LP: I’m a big Nike boots guy. When I was younger, I did love the cleats Adidas made around 2010. The black and yellow F50s that Diego Forlan wore at the 2010 World Cup are some of the best boots I’ve ever seen. 

10) If you could visit one stadium in the world, where would it be?

LP: It would have to be Old Trafford. While I’ve been there twice, I’ve never been to a Manchester United game! The first time was when I was 13. My dad was born in England and has family over there, so in the summer we did the Old Trafford stadium tour before the season started. When I was at Marquette, we did the stadium tour again, but missed the chance to see them play. I did get to watch them a few times in the US though: the first time was in 2005 when they played Bayern at Soldier Field in Chicago, the next time was when they played a Zlatan-led PSG in Chicago, and the last time was when they played Chicago Fire.

11) Which European club do you support?

LP: Oh, I’m definitely a Manchester United fan! When I was growing up, I had the red home, white away and blue third jerseys that they wore when Cristiano Ronaldo had that stellar season.

12) Who is your favorite player at United?

LP: I would say Bruno Fernandes is my current favorite, but I’ve always admired Juan Mata. He’s the only guy in that team with a Champions League winner’s medal, and him in his prime was absolutely amazing to watch. He still offers something so different to the team and, even though this may be his last season at United, hopefully he’ll be able to go home to Spain and enjoy the rest of his career if he doesn’t end up staying in Manchester.

13) City and Liverpool are two of United’s biggest rivals. Are there players you admire on either of those squads?

LP: I think, when he was there, I loved David Silva. Even though he’s moved back to Spain, when he was in the Premier League he made everything look so simple whenever he was on the pitch. He was also a lefty, which I loved! For a player on Liverpool, I would say Thiago is my favorite. Even though he doesn’t really fit the way Liverpool play, watching the way he controls the game and is composed whenever he’s on the ball is great to watch

14) You can only win one: Champions League or World Cup?

LP: Oh, World Cup 100 percent. We were actually talking about this in the locker room the other day, when Karim Benzema got called back to the French national team after they shunned him for the past 6 years. The guy already has 4 Champions League titles, but missed out on his country winning the World Cup in 2018. I feel like you can’t beat that feeling [of lifting the World Cup] because that’s who you belong to you know? When you lift the World Cup, there’s this added sense of pride and achievement because you did it for the people you’ve grown up playing with and for your country.

15) What is the best gift you’ve ever received?

LP: Wow… this is a tough one. I don’t know if this is the best gift I’ve ever gotten, but when my brother and I were younger, we got an Xbox 360 for Christmas, which was just a dream for a kid. I used to get the new Manchester United jersey before each season as a gift as well, although I haven’t gotten the last few. I think no matter how old you get, getting your favorite team’s jersey is something that can always bring a smile to your face.

16) You can pick one moment in sport history to be at live. Which one do you choose?

LP: I think if I had to name a couple, I would choose the 1999 Champions League Final when Manchester United won against Bayern Munich in the last few minutes, or watching Michael Jordan play. I also think any match of the 2010 World Cup would be amazing to be at – that entire tournament just radiated good vibes!

17) Your car breaks down and you have one call you can make. Which squad member do you call and why?

LP: I am for sure calling Jeff (Caldwell) – he’s very knowledgeable. Let’s say we were talking about a movie or TV show; he’ll know who wrote it, directed it, and the names of all of the characters. I think he’d also know how the ins and outs of how to change a car.

18) If you had to give a superlative of class clown to someone in the squad, who would it be?

LP: I think we also talked about this in the locker room the other day. I feel like there are two people who are the class clowns in the squad – Nii (Armah Ashitey) is the guy who is always cracking jokes and making people laugh while Conor (McGlynn) ends up cracking people up without even trying.

19) You walk out of training and find a winning lottery ticket worth $10 million. What’s the first thing you do with it?

LP: The first thing I’d do… I’d probably make sure its correct! I think at first, I’d be speechless and have to contemplate what it is I would do. In terms of the first few things I would do for myself, I would probably buy my parents a nice house, and fly my family to come to all the games. I’d like to donate a good amount as well, but I think the most extravagant thing I would do is buy a house somewhere in a nice vacation spot like Greece. I know on my mom’s side, she has five sisters and more extended family, everywhere from Serbia to Canada to California. They’ve always talked about doing a reunion in Greece, so if we had a house that was all paid for, it would definitely happen!

20) We’ll have our first game at 100 capacity on May 29th. What’s one thing you want to say to the fans before that game?

LP: Let’s get the stadium rocking. I think coach has said it before, but the fans really are our 12th man. In the last game when we scored that goal, that may not have happened without the fans. Of course, we’re always pushing to the last minute, but the fans can really win you games. If you think about Liverpool and their fans, they had a run where they didn’t lose at home for almost three straight seasons. Our fans are up there with the best of them, and with them, we can definitely live up to the name Fortress Hartford.

Welcome to a new season of 20 Questions! We have a slew of new players on this year’s roster and that means new interviews every week! This week, we start with the hero from Saturday night’s match, Luka Prpa. Luka headed in the tying goal in stoppage time to steal a point away from Pittsburgh. He shares his history in soccer, what makes him such a big Manchester United fan, and the first thing he’d do if he found a winning lottery ticket. 

1) When did you fall in love with the beautiful game?

LP: I don’t think there’s necessarily one moment that I fell in love with the game. I do come from a huge soccer family though; my Grandpa played as did my dad, my brother, and my cousins. From the minute I could walk, my dad would throw beach balls to me and I would head it back to him. I think the most memorable moment was playing at my grandpa’s house with my brother and our cousins in the summers while our parents were working. 

2) You grew up in Milwaukee; what was it like for you playing the game growing up and what did it mean to you to represent your ‘hometown club’ Marquette?

LP: I committed to Marquette around sophomore year of high school, and was also looking at schools like UCLA, Stanford, and University of Wisconsin. However, playing at Marquette was so special for me for one really big reason. Playing so close to home meant that, when I looked into the stands, I had my whole family there – I’m not sure I would have had that same feeling elsewhere. 

3) You play in midfield now. Did you always know that you wanted to play in midfield?

LP: When I was about 12 or 13, I was more of a forward. As I got older though, my coaches saw me as more of a creator, someone who could set up attacks from deep.

I think a part of that came from playing fullback when I played in youth national teams – I can’t say I was too happy about playing fullback then, but it definitely ended up helping! 

4) What was it like to celebrate in front of the Dillon crowd after scoring the game tying goal on Saturday night?

LP: It was amazing. At the time, I was happy for a second and then wanted to go on and get the next goal – but yeah, it was special because we haven’t played in front of fans in so long. Obviously, you’re always happy to score, but when it’s in front of your home fans, it’s hard to put in to words.

5) With 7 points from a possible 9 it’s been a flying start to the season. How has Coach Watling impacted the squad so far?

LP: He’s had a huge impact on the squad. You’ve heard him talk in his press conferences about how he wants us to express ourselves, and that’s exactly what we aim to do every match. We’ve also worked on being good both in and out of possession, so that we can win in different ways, and that’s a testament to him as a coach.

6) You have a cousin who also plays professionally. What is it like having a fellow professional in the family?

LP: I do yes! My cousin plays in the second division in Italy. It was really fun growing up with him because we’d have 2v2 games all summer at my Grandpa’s house where it would be him and his brother versus me and my brother. We’d use two trees as goals and play until the day was done.

7) Who are your inspirations?

LP: This was actually a question the coaching staff asked us in preseason – we ended up sending in pictures of who we play for and made a poster board, so we have a nice collage of all of our inspirations in the locker room. For me, my main inspiration is my family. The picture I put up was from my senior day at Marquette. I walked with out with my mom, dad, brother and grandpa. I think my grandpa might be the biggest part of that group; he has five grandkids, and whenever we’re close, he’s always there. I actually always know where he’s standing! He’ll be at the corner of the field on the side that we’re attacking, and he’ll be leaning on the fence. The funniest thing is, no matter the noise on the field and what everyone is saying, I only hear what he says!

8) Do you have a match day routine?

LP: Absolutely. I think it’s very important to have a routine so you can control as many things as possible on match day. When I wake up, I typically eat a bigger breakfast, so that I don’t end up snacking as much. When I start snacking, I end up eating too much, so I do my best to stay away from that. After breakfast, I’ll go for a walk in the late morning, stretch out after, then take a nap for about thirty minutes to an hour – anything more I get too tired. I’ll wake up from the nap, then take a shower, and get my pre-match meal – I’ll typically eat anything that has rice, pasta, chicken or vegetables. Then it’s off to the match!

9) Adidas or Nike boots?

LP: I’m a big Nike boots guy. When I was younger, I did love the cleats Adidas made around 2010. The black and yellow F50s that Diego Forlan wore at the 2010 World Cup are some of the best boots I’ve ever seen. 

10) If you could visit one stadium in the world, where would it be?

LP: It would have to be Old Trafford. While I’ve been there twice, I’ve never been to a Manchester United game! The first time was when I was 13. My dad was born in England and has family over there, so in the summer we did the Old Trafford stadium tour before the season started. When I was at Marquette, we did the stadium tour again, but missed the chance to see them play. I did get to watch them a few times in the US though: the first time was in 2005 when they played Bayern at Soldier Field in Chicago, the next time was when they played a Zlatan-led PSG in Chicago, and the last time was when they played Chicago Fire.

11) Which European club do you support?

LP: Oh, I’m definitely a Manchester United fan! When I was growing up, I had the red home, white away and blue third jerseys that they wore when Cristiano Ronaldo had that stellar season.

12) Who is your favorite player at United?

LP: I would say Bruno Fernandes is my current favorite, but I’ve always admired Juan Mata. He’s the only guy in that team with a Champions League winner’s medal, and him in his prime was absolutely amazing to watch. He still offers something so different to the team and, even though this may be his last season at United, hopefully he’ll be able to go home to Spain and enjoy the rest of his career if he doesn’t end up staying in Manchester.

13) City and Liverpool are two of United’s biggest rivals. Are there players you admire on either of those squads?

LP: I think, when he was there, I loved David Silva. Even though he’s moved back to Spain, when he was in the Premier League he made everything look so simple whenever he was on the pitch. He was also a lefty, which I loved! For a player on Liverpool, I would say Thiago is my favorite. Even though he doesn’t really fit the way Liverpool play, watching the way he controls the game and is composed whenever he’s on the ball is great to watch

14) You can only win one: Champions League or World Cup?

LP: Oh, World Cup 100 percent. We were actually talking about this in the locker room the other day, when Karim Benzema got called back to the French national team after they shunned him for the past 6 years. The guy already has 4 Champions League titles, but missed out on his country winning the World Cup in 2018. I feel like you can’t beat that feeling [of lifting the World Cup] because that’s who you belong to you know? When you lift the World Cup, there’s this added sense of pride and achievement because you did it for the people you’ve grown up playing with and for your country.

15) What is the best gift you’ve ever received?

LP: Wow… this is a tough one. I don’t know if this is the best gift I’ve ever gotten, but when my brother and I were younger, we got an Xbox 360 for Christmas, which was just a dream for a kid. I used to get the new Manchester United jersey before each season as a gift as well, although I haven’t gotten the last few. I think no matter how old you get, getting your favorite team’s jersey is something that can always bring a smile to your face.

16) You can pick one moment in sport history to be at live. Which one do you choose?

LP: I think if I had to name a couple, I would choose the 1999 Champions League Final when Manchester United won against Bayern Munich in the last few minutes, or watching Michael Jordan play. I also think any match of the 2010 World Cup would be amazing to be at – that entire tournament just radiated good vibes!

17) Your car breaks down and you have one call you can make. Which squad member do you call and why?

LP: I am for sure calling Jeff (Caldwell) – he’s very knowledgeable. Let’s say we were talking about a movie or TV show; he’ll know who wrote it, directed it, and the names of all of the characters. I think he’d also know how the ins and outs of how to change a car.

18) If you had to give a superlative of class clown to someone in the squad, who would it be?

LP: I think we also talked about this in the locker room the other day. I feel like there are two people who are the class clowns in the squad – Nii (Armah Ashitey) is the guy who is always cracking jokes and making people laugh while Conor (McGlynn) ends up cracking people up without even trying.

19) You walk out of training and find a winning lottery ticket worth $10 million. What’s the first thing you do with it?

LP: The first thing I’d do… I’d probably make sure its correct! I think at first, I’d be speechless and have to contemplate what it is I would do. In terms of the first few things I would do for myself, I would probably buy my parents a nice house, and fly my family to come to all the games. I’d like to donate a good amount as well, but I think the most extravagant thing I would do is buy a house somewhere in a nice vacation spot like Greece. I know on my mom’s side, she has five sisters and more extended family, everywhere from Serbia to Canada to California. They’ve always talked about doing a reunion in Greece, so if we had a house that was all paid for, it would definitely happen!

20) We’ll have our first game at 100 capacity on May 29th. What’s one thing you want to say to the fans before that game?

LP: Let’s get the stadium rocking. I think coach has said it before, but the fans really are our 12th man. In the last game when we scored that goal, that may not have happened without the fans. Of course, we’re always pushing to the last minute, but the fans can really win you games. If you think about Liverpool and their fans, they had a run where they didn’t lose at home for almost three straight seasons. Our fans are up there with the best of them, and with them, we can definitely live up to the name Fortress Hartford.

This story was originally published in New England Soccer Journal. Hartford Athletic supporters can use this special link for 25% off either a year-long digital or all-access subscription. Launched in March 2013, New England Soccer Journal covers youth soccer up to the professional ranks across the entire region. Click here for more info and to subscribe.

Earlier this week, Giovanni Calderon (North Haven, Conn.) made some small – but notable – history for professional soccer in New England.

The 19-year-old center back signed a USL Academy contract with Hartford Athletic, a route that allows him to maintain collegiate eligibility while training and competing with the local USL Championship side.

Calderon is a Class of 2021 commit for the United States Naval Academy, but feels this in-between step will make him “over-prepared” before joining the Patriot League program.

“The USL Academy contract is so important because now I see myself taking this path, it shows a route you can take,” Calderon said. “Youth players locally or who have tried out, they maybe didn’t know it’s something they can do at Hartford Athletic.”

USL Academy contracts represent a growing pathway across the country’s second division, with clubs like Pittsburgh Riverhounds, Phoenix Rising FC, San Antonio FC and Sacramento Republic FC employing them. Several are home to U.S. youth internationals, giving teenagers with high potential the opportunity to develop in a professional environment at an earlier age.

There’s novelty with Calderon’s deal, though – and he’ll have to work for professional minutes. The Connecticut-based side already counts first-team players Thomas Janjigian, Alex Lara and Walid Yacoubou as center-back options on the depth chart.

“Gio gives us another option at center back with a good calmness on the ball and a willingness to defend his goal,” head coach Harry Watling said in a release.

A budding part of Puerto Rico’s national team, Calderon has played locally for Beachside SC’s academy program. He’s also had stints at New York City FC and D.C. United’s academies, so he’s been around MLS youth environments.

Before signing with Hartford Athletic, Calderon spent the fall with Nomads SC, a youth club in the San Diego, Calif., area. The sum total is a wide range of experience as Calderon chases his professional dream, while still planning to play Division I college soccer next fall.

“I’m working every day to get into the starting lineup, just like every guy on the roster,” Calderon said. “I feel I’m well-situated to get there. The contract is the easy part, but maintaining this spot and consistency is the hard part. I’m doing everything I can to stay consistent and break into the XI and get minutes. That’s my intention.”

Calderon has been training with Hartford Athletic since late March, featuring in scrimmages against the University of Hartford, NYCFC’s first team and Revolution II. A connection got him on technical director Luis Silva’s radar screen, giving them another Puerto Rican international alongside former Assumption College midfielder/defender Nicolas Cardona.

He’s due to join Puerto Rico for Concacaf World Cup qualifiers in early June, too. El Huracan Azul are in Concacaf’s Group F for Round One and led by head coach Dave Sarachan, a longtime assistant under now-New England Revolution head coach/sporting director Bruce Arena during their LA Galaxy days.

“The biggest difference at this level is it’s definitely a faster game, but I feel I’ve adapted to it well,” Calderon said. “Coming back from international experience, that helped me leave an impression with the coaching staff and show I can compete.”

As historic as Calderon’s deal is, Hartford Athletic previously signed forward Alfonso Vasquez (Windham, Conn.) ahead of the 2020 campaign. The 18-year-old holds Connecticut’s all-time high school goalscoring record, impressing as a preseason trialist under then-head coach Rahdi Jaidi.

With Calderon and Vazquez charting their respective bits of history, there are emerging pathways for Connecticut natives chasing professional soccer. Hartford Athletic’s academy program is in its infancy, too, so perhaps other angles will arise.

“Going academy to the USL, it’s far different than I was expecting,” Calderon said, adding it’s a goal of his to play professionally in Connecticut. “I thought I’d be finishing the MLS NEXT season until Navy started, but then Hartford Athletic comes and I’m training with pros every day. It’s a great opportunity.”

This story was originally published in New England Soccer Journal. Hartford Athletic supporters can use this special link for 25% off either a year-long digital or all-access subscription. Launched in March 2013, New England Soccer Journal covers youth soccer up to the professional ranks across the entire region. Click here for more info and to subscribe.

Earlier this week, Giovanni Calderon (North Haven, Conn.) made some small – but notable – history for professional soccer in New England.

The 19-year-old center back signed a USL Academy contract with Hartford Athletic, a route that allows him to maintain collegiate eligibility while training and competing with the local USL Championship side.

Calderon is a Class of 2021 commit for the United States Naval Academy, but feels this in-between step will make him “over-prepared” before joining the Patriot League program.

“The USL Academy contract is so important because now I see myself taking this path, it shows a route you can take,” Calderon said. “Youth players locally or who have tried out, they maybe didn’t know it’s something they can do at Hartford Athletic.”

USL Academy contracts represent a growing pathway across the country’s second division, with clubs like Pittsburgh Riverhounds, Phoenix Rising FC, San Antonio FC and Sacramento Republic FC employing them. Several are home to U.S. youth internationals, giving teenagers with high potential the opportunity to develop in a professional environment at an earlier age.

There’s novelty with Calderon’s deal, though – and he’ll have to work for professional minutes. The Connecticut-based side already counts first-team players Thomas Janjigian, Alex Lara and Walid Yacoubou as center-back options on the depth chart.

“Gio gives us another option at center back with a good calmness on the ball and a willingness to defend his goal,” head coach Harry Watling said in a release.

A budding part of Puerto Rico’s national team, Calderon has played locally for Beachside SC’s academy program. He’s also had stints at New York City FC and D.C. United’s academies, so he’s been around MLS youth environments.

Before signing with Hartford Athletic, Calderon spent the fall with Nomads SC, a youth club in the San Diego, Calif., area. The sum total is a wide range of experience as Calderon chases his professional dream, while still planning to play Division I college soccer next fall.

“I’m working every day to get into the starting lineup, just like every guy on the roster,” Calderon said. “I feel I’m well-situated to get there. The contract is the easy part, but maintaining this spot and consistency is the hard part. I’m doing everything I can to stay consistent and break into the XI and get minutes. That’s my intention.”

Calderon has been training with Hartford Athletic since late March, featuring in scrimmages against the University of Hartford, NYCFC’s first team and Revolution II. A connection got him on technical director Luis Silva’s radar screen, giving them another Puerto Rican international alongside former Assumption College midfielder/defender Nicolas Cardona.

He’s due to join Puerto Rico for Concacaf World Cup qualifiers in early June, too. El Huracan Azul are in Concacaf’s Group F for Round One and led by head coach Dave Sarachan, a longtime assistant under now-New England Revolution head coach/sporting director Bruce Arena during their LA Galaxy days.

“The biggest difference at this level is it’s definitely a faster game, but I feel I’ve adapted to it well,” Calderon said. “Coming back from international experience, that helped me leave an impression with the coaching staff and show I can compete.”

As historic as Calderon’s deal is, Hartford Athletic previously signed forward Alfonso Vasquez (Windham, Conn.) ahead of the 2020 campaign. The 18-year-old holds Connecticut’s all-time high school goalscoring record, impressing as a preseason trialist under then-head coach Rahdi Jaidi.

With Calderon and Vazquez charting their respective bits of history, there are emerging pathways for Connecticut natives chasing professional soccer. Hartford Athletic’s academy program is in its infancy, too, so perhaps other angles will arise.

“Going academy to the USL, it’s far different than I was expecting,” Calderon said, adding it’s a goal of his to play professionally in Connecticut. “I thought I’d be finishing the MLS NEXT season until Navy started, but then Hartford Athletic comes and I’m training with pros every day. It’s a great opportunity.”

On the night that saw Dillon Stadium welcome back fans for the first time in over seven months, Luka Prpa made sure they went home with something to remember.

Prpa, who came on at halftime for Arthur Rogers, found the back of the net with a glancing header in the opening stages of second half stoppage time after Hartford Athletic won a foul at the edge of Pittsburgh’s penalty area. Danny Barrera’s set piece delivery found Prpa’s near post run, which ensured a point for Hartford Athletic in its home opener.  

The match opened up as a back-and-forth affair with both sides creating chances. Bradford Jamieson IV and Preston Tabort Etaka used their pace to make runs in behind the defense, but Pittsburgh was able to recover and put bodies in front of shots. The Riverhounds ended up grabbing the advantage courtesy of a Russell Cicerone goal in the 42nd minute when the Pittsburgh forward found himself through on goal and sent a shot past Jeff Caldwell that deflected off the post and in.

Pittsburgh took the lead into halftime, and the start of the second half saw the introduction of Prpa for Rogers. The match got cagey as the second half progressed, with no massive chances but both sides becoming more physical. Tensions boiled over in the 78th minute when a late tackle from Kenardo Forbes on Boudadi resulted in the Pittsburgh midfielder seeing a straight red card, reducing Pittsburgh to ten men with just over ten minutes to play.

Hartford went on the front foot after Forbes’ dismissal. The side was better at building possession in the middle and attacking thirds and were more willing to aggressively press to win the ball back. Right at the start of stoppage time, Hartford won a free kick at the edge of Pittsburgh’s penalty area. Barrera’s delivery found the head of Prpa, who grabbed Hartford the equalizer with minutes to spare.

Hartford had a chance to steal all three points just minutes later when a loose ball fell to Conor McGlynn at the edge of Pittsburgh’s penalty area, but the midfielder’s volley went straight into the arms of goalkeeper Danny Vitiello, keeping the score at 1-1 and sealing a point for both sides.

With the result, Hartford remain undefeated heading into their next match – at home against Real Monarchs on May 29th. It marks the first time the two sides will ever meet. For tickets, head to https://www.hartfordathletic.com/tickets.

FAST STATS:

Shots (On-Target): Hartford Athletic 9 (2) – 10 (3) Pittsburgh

Corners: Hartford Athletic 1-2 Pittsburgh

Fouls: Hartford Athletic 17-13 Pittsburgh

Offsides: Hartford Athletic 2-2 Pittsburgh

Possession: Hartford Athletic 56.5%-43.5% Pittsburgh

Passing Accuracy: Hartford Athletic 83.6%-79.7% Pittsburgh

Saves: Hartford Athletic 2-1 Pittsburgh

SCORING SUMMARY:

42' – Russell Cicerone (Thomas Williamson)

90+1' – Luka Prpa (Danny Barrera)

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY:

18' – Alex Lara (Yellow)

26' – Arthur Rogers (Yellow)

53' – Danny Vitiello (Yellow)

78' – Kenardo Forbes (Red)

90+1' – Conor McGlynn (Yellow)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP:

13 (GK) Jeff Caldwell; 2 (DF) Alex Lara (Younes Boudadi 61'), 15 (DF) Tulu, 20 (DF) Thomas Janjigian, 16 (DF) Gabriel Torres (Richie Schlentz 84'); 10 (MF) Danny Barrera, 28 (MF) Conor McGlynn, 6 (MF) Arthur Rogers (Luka Prpa 45'); 23 (FW) Preston Tabort Etaka (Walmer Martinez 74'), 29 (FW) Juan Carlos Obregón Jr. (Sebastian Elney 61'), 7 (FW) Bradford Jamieson IV 

PITTSBURGH RIVERHOUNDS SC STARTING LINEUP:

1 (GK) Danny Vitiello; 23 (DF) Preston Kilwien, 16 (DF) Shane Wiedt, 17 (DF) Mekeil Williams (Jelani Peters 76'), 5 (DF) Jordan Dover; 14 (MF) Todd Wharton (Louis Perez 90+3'), 12 (MF) Danny Griffin, 11 (MF) Kenardo Forbes; 10 (FW) Russell Cicerone (Joshua Gatt 76'), 8 (FW) Tommy Williamson (Albert Dikwa 64'), 7 (FW) Alex Dixon (Daniel Rovira 64')

On the night that saw Dillon Stadium welcome back fans for the first time in over seven months, Luka Prpa made sure they went home with something to remember.

Prpa, who came on at halftime for Arthur Rogers, found the back of the net with a glancing header in the opening stages of second half stoppage time after Hartford Athletic won a foul at the edge of Pittsburgh’s penalty area. Danny Barrera’s set piece delivery found Prpa’s near post run, which ensured a point for Hartford Athletic in its home opener.  

The match opened up as a back-and-forth affair with both sides creating chances. Bradford Jamieson IV and Preston Tabort Etaka used their pace to make runs in behind the defense, but Pittsburgh was able to recover and put bodies in front of shots. The Riverhounds ended up grabbing the advantage courtesy of a Russell Cicerone goal in the 42nd minute when the Pittsburgh forward found himself through on goal and sent a shot past Jeff Caldwell that deflected off the post and in.

Pittsburgh took the lead into halftime, and the start of the second half saw the introduction of Prpa for Rogers. The match got cagey as the second half progressed, with no massive chances but both sides becoming more physical. Tensions boiled over in the 78th minute when a late tackle from Kenardo Forbes on Boudadi resulted in the Pittsburgh midfielder seeing a straight red card, reducing Pittsburgh to ten men with just over ten minutes to play.

Hartford went on the front foot after Forbes’ dismissal. The side was better at building possession in the middle and attacking thirds and were more willing to aggressively press to win the ball back. Right at the start of stoppage time, Hartford won a free kick at the edge of Pittsburgh’s penalty area. Barrera’s delivery found the head of Prpa, who grabbed Hartford the equalizer with minutes to spare.

Hartford had a chance to steal all three points just minutes later when a loose ball fell to Conor McGlynn at the edge of Pittsburgh’s penalty area, but the midfielder’s volley went straight into the arms of goalkeeper Danny Vitiello, keeping the score at 1-1 and sealing a point for both sides.

With the result, Hartford remain undefeated heading into their next match – at home against Real Monarchs on May 29th. It marks the first time the two sides will ever meet. For tickets, head to https://www.hartfordathletic.com/tickets.

FAST STATS:

Shots (On-Target): Hartford Athletic 9 (2) – 10 (3) Pittsburgh

Corners: Hartford Athletic 1-2 Pittsburgh

Fouls: Hartford Athletic 17-13 Pittsburgh

Offsides: Hartford Athletic 2-2 Pittsburgh

Possession: Hartford Athletic 56.5%-43.5% Pittsburgh

Passing Accuracy: Hartford Athletic 83.6%-79.7% Pittsburgh

Saves: Hartford Athletic 2-1 Pittsburgh

SCORING SUMMARY:

42′ – Russell Cicerone (Thomas Williamson)

90+1′ – Luka Prpa (Danny Barrera)

DISCIPLINARY SUMMARY:

18′ – Alex Lara (Yellow)

26′ – Arthur Rogers (Yellow)

53′ – Danny Vitiello (Yellow)

78′ – Kenardo Forbes (Red)

90+1′ – Conor McGlynn (Yellow)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC STARTING LINEUP:

13 (GK) Jeff Caldwell; 2 (DF) Alex Lara (Younes Boudadi 61′), 15 (DF) Tulu, 20 (DF) Thomas Janjigian, 16 (DF) Gabriel Torres (Richie Schlentz 84′); 10 (MF) Danny Barrera, 28 (MF) Conor McGlynn, 6 (MF) Arthur Rogers (Luka Prpa 45′); 23 (FW) Preston Tabort Etaka (Walmer Martinez 74′), 29 (FW) Juan Carlos Obregón Jr. (Sebastian Elney 61′), 7 (FW) Bradford Jamieson IV 

PITTSBURGH RIVERHOUNDS SC STARTING LINEUP:

1 (GK) Danny Vitiello; 23 (DF) Preston Kilwien, 16 (DF) Shane Wiedt, 17 (DF) Mekeil Williams (Jelani Peters 76′), 5 (DF) Jordan Dover; 14 (MF) Todd Wharton (Louis Perez 90+3′), 12 (MF) Danny Griffin, 11 (MF) Kenardo Forbes; 10 (FW) Russell Cicerone (Joshua Gatt 76′), 8 (FW) Tommy Williamson (Albert Dikwa 64′), 7 (FW) Alex Dixon (Daniel Rovira 64′)

HARTFORD ATHLETIC (2-0-0) vs PITTSBURGH RIVERHOUNDS SC (0-1-0)

Date: Saturday, May 15th

Time: 7:00 PM ET

Location: Dillon Stadium, Hartford, CT

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

Tickets: https://bit.ly/3cXbaSW

Streaming: ESPN+ or https://www.hartfordathletic.com/watch

International Viewers: YouTube

LAST TIME OUT:

Hartford picked up 3 points in a 1-0 road win over Miami FC in the first USL Championship meeting between the two clubs. After a scoreless first 45 minutes, Preston Tabort Etaka came on as a substitute at the start of the second half and dominated the right wing. In the 59th minute, Conor McGlynn played a ball deep up the right side that Danny Barrera was able to chase down just before the ball went out of bounds. Barrera played a sneaky back heel pass to Tabort Etaka who cut inside and smashed the ball far post, into the upper corner for the only goal of the night!

PAY IT FORWARD:

It’s undeniable that Harry Watling has assembled the deepest and most talented group of Forwards that the club has had in its three seasons thus far. Center Forwards Juan Carlos Obregon Jr. and Sebastian Elney have proven goal scoring ability in the USL Championship, and Bradford Jamieson IV, Preston Tabort Etaka, and Walmer Martinez all bring pace, energy, and excitement to the wings. 

WEEKLY HONORS:

After earning two players to the USL Championship Team of the Week in Week 2, Preston Tabort Etaka brought Hartford Atheltic back into the honors circle this week. Preston was named to the Honorable Mention for the Championship’s Team of the Week and his goal against Miami FC was also a nominee for the USL Championship Goal of the Week.

CALDWELL'S THOUGHTS:

HARTFORD ATHLETIC (2-0-0) vs PITTSBURGH RIVERHOUNDS SC (0-1-0)

Date: Saturday, May 15th

Time: 7:00 PM ET

Location: Dillon Stadium, Hartford, CT

Local TV: WCTX MyTV9

Tickets: https://bit.ly/3cXbaSW

Streaming: ESPN+ or https://www.hartfordathletic.com/watch

International Viewers: YouTube

LAST TIME OUT:

Hartford picked up 3 points in a 1-0 road win over Miami FC in the first USL Championship meeting between the two clubs. After a scoreless first 45 minutes, Preston Tabort Etaka came on as a substitute at the start of the second half and dominated the right wing. In the 59th minute, Conor McGlynn played a ball deep up the right side that Danny Barrera was able to chase down just before the ball went out of bounds. Barrera played a sneaky back heel pass to Tabort Etaka who cut inside and smashed the ball far post, into the upper corner for the only goal of the night!

PAY IT FORWARD:

It’s undeniable that Harry Watling has assembled the deepest and most talented group of Forwards that the club has had in its three seasons thus far. Center Forwards Juan Carlos Obregon Jr. and Sebastian Elney have proven goal scoring ability in the USL Championship, and Bradford Jamieson IV, Preston Tabort Etaka, and Walmer Martinez all bring pace, energy, and excitement to the wings. 

WEEKLY HONORS:

After earning two players to the USL Championship Team of the Week in Week 2, Preston Tabort Etaka brought Hartford Atheltic back into the honors circle this week. Preston was named to the Honorable Mention for the Championship’s Team of the Week and his goal against Miami FC was also a nominee for the USL Championship Goal of the Week.

CALDWELL’S THOUGHTS:

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic, Preston Tabort Etaka , FW, #23: 

Preston made his debut for Hartford Athletic last Saturday and was a total game changer. He used his speed to totally own his matchup on the right wing and created chances and pressure time and time again after coming on at the start of the second half. Preston is a challenging matchup for any left back and he'll be an important piece going up against Pittsburgh who allowed 3 goals to Tampa Bay last weekend.

Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, Alex Dixon, FW, #7:

A very familiar face will take the pitch on Saturday wearing the opposing colors. Forward Alex Dixon is Hartford Athletic's all-time leading scorer, but signed with rival Pittsburgh in the offseason, reuniting him with Head Coach Bob Liley. The two won a USL Cup while playing for and coaching the Rochester Rhinos in 2015. Dixon is undoubtedly a favorite of the Athletic fan base and it's a safe bet that he'll be looking to put on a show for them on Saturday night.

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC come into this match on the heels of a 3-0 road loss to reigning Eastern Conference Champion Tampa Bay Rowdies. It is the only match the Hounds have played this season. Hartford and Pittsburgh are quite familiar with each other as the top two finishers in Group F in 2020 played each other 3 times. Both sides have seen quite a bit of roster turnover from last year including Forward Alex Dixon who signed with Pittsburgh in the offseason.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION 

Follow along on Twitter @hfdathletic and #HFDvPIT

PLAYERS TO WATCH:

Hartford Athletic, Preston Tabort Etaka , FW, #23: 

Preston made his debut for Hartford Athletic last Saturday and was a total game changer. He used his speed to totally own his matchup on the right wing and created chances and pressure time and time again after coming on at the start of the second half. Preston is a challenging matchup for any left back and he’ll be an important piece going up against Pittsburgh who allowed 3 goals to Tampa Bay last weekend.

Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, Alex Dixon, FW, #7:

A very familiar face will take the pitch on Saturday wearing the opposing colors. Forward Alex Dixon is Hartford Athletic’s all-time leading scorer, but signed with rival Pittsburgh in the offseason, reuniting him with Head Coach Bob Liley. The two won a USL Cup while playing for and coaching the Rochester Rhinos in 2015. Dixon is undoubtedly a favorite of the Athletic fan base and it’s a safe bet that he’ll be looking to put on a show for them on Saturday night.

ABOUT THE OPPONENT:

Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC come into this match on the heels of a 3-0 road loss to reigning Eastern Conference Champion Tampa Bay Rowdies. It is the only match the Hounds have played this season. Hartford and Pittsburgh are quite familiar with each other as the top two finishers in Group F in 2020 played each other 3 times. Both sides have seen quite a bit of roster turnover from last year including Forward Alex Dixon who signed with Pittsburgh in the offseason.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION 

Follow along on Twitter @hfdathletic and #HFDvPIT

Hartford Athletic announced its full theme night and promotional schedule for the 2021 season including four $2 Beer, $1 Hot Dog Nights, four Seltzer Saturdays presented by Truly, and two Twisted Tea Tuesdays. Hartford Athletic will also host new theme nights in 2021 including: Pride Night (June 26th),  #Changememakers Diversity and Inclusion Night (July 24th), Hispanic Cultural Celebration (September 30th), and STEM & Soccer Education Day (October 15th). 

Match For A Cause presented by Stanley Black & Decker will be back for a third annual event on September 25th with more information on the cause forthcoming. Hartford Athletic and Stanley Black & Decker raised over $25,000 in the first two seasons through the Match for A Cause. 

You can view the full promotional schedule above, and make sure to buy your tickets in advance before they sell out! For more information and to get involved contact us at tickets@https://www.hartfordathletic.com or call (860) 298-9233. 

Hartford Athletic announced its full theme night and promotional schedule for the 2021 season including four $2 Beer, $1 Hot Dog Nights, four Seltzer Saturdays presented by Truly, and two Twisted Tea Tuesdays. Hartford Athletic will also host new theme nights in 2021 including: Pride Night (June 26th),  #Changememakers Diversity and Inclusion Night (July 24th), Hispanic Cultural Celebration (September 30th), and STEM & Soccer Education Day (October 15th). 

Match For A Cause presented by Stanley Black & Decker will be back for a third annual event on September 25th with more information on the cause forthcoming. Hartford Athletic and Stanley Black & Decker raised over $25,000 in the first two seasons through the Match for A Cause. 

You can view the full promotional schedule above, and make sure to buy your tickets in advance before they sell out! For more information and to get involved contact us at tickets@https://www.hartfordathletic.com or call (860) 298-9233. 

Hartford Athletic has signed defender Giovanni Calderón to a USL Academy Contract, pending league and federation approval.  

Calderón, a native of North Haven, CT, is the first player to be offered a USL Academy Contract by Hartford Athletic. The contract allows Calderón to keep his college eligibility and still train and play for Hartford Athletic in USL sanctioned matches. The 19-year-old was brought in on trial in late March and made a strong impression on the Technical Staff. 

"We are very excited to have Giovanni as our first ever USL Academy Contract signing. He is another example of the quality young talent that is here in Connecticut,” said Technical Director Luiz Silva. “The USL Academy Contract is part of our pathway to the professional level. It is a great transition from the youth level to First Team exposure while keeping college eligibility. We will continue to monitor young, talented players in Connecticut and use the USL Academy Contract to maximize their ability to fulfill their potential.”  

Last week, Calderón was selected to participate in Puerto Rico National Team’s training camps leading up to their World Cup Qualifiers against the Bahamas and Guyana. Hartford Athletic midfielder Nicolás Cardona was also invited to the camp.  

“Gio is another exciting signing for the club. It is yet another statement of our club investing in the future and trying to develop talent,” said Head Coach Harry Watling. “The Puerto Rican Center Back is also on the radar of the national team, once again showing the scouting network at this club. Gio gives us another option at center back with a good calmness on the ball and a willingness to defend his goal.” 

Hartford Athletic hosts its home opener on Saturday May 15th at 7 PM at Dillon Stadium. For fans interested in Season Tickets, 6-game Flex Plans, or Single Game tickets, please visit https://www.hartfordathletic.com/tickets.  

Hartford Athletic has signed defender Giovanni Calderón to a USL Academy Contract, pending league and federation approval.  

Calderón, a native of North Haven, CT, is the first player to be offered a USL Academy Contract by Hartford Athletic. The contract allows Calderón to keep his college eligibility and still train and play for Hartford Athletic in USL sanctioned matches. The 19-year-old was brought in on trial in late March and made a strong impression on the Technical Staff. 

“We are very excited to have Giovanni as our first ever USL Academy Contract signing. He is another example of the quality young talent that is here in Connecticut,” said Technical Director Luiz Silva. “The USL Academy Contract is part of our pathway to the professional level. It is a great transition from the youth level to First Team exposure while keeping college eligibility. We will continue to monitor young, talented players in Connecticut and use the USL Academy Contract to maximize their ability to fulfill their potential.”  

Last week, Calderón was selected to participate in Puerto Rico National Team’s training camps leading up to their World Cup Qualifiers against the Bahamas and Guyana. Hartford Athletic midfielder Nicolás Cardona was also invited to the camp.  

“Gio is another exciting signing for the club. It is yet another statement of our club investing in the future and trying to develop talent,” said Head Coach Harry Watling. “The Puerto Rican Center Back is also on the radar of the national team, once again showing the scouting network at this club. Gio gives us another option at center back with a good calmness on the ball and a willingness to defend his goal.” 

Hartford Athletic hosts its home opener on Saturday May 15th at 7 PM at Dillon Stadium. For fans interested in Season Tickets, 6-game Flex Plans, or Single Game tickets, please visit https://www.hartfordathletic.com/tickets.