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The 2021 schedule is starting to take shape! Hartford Athletic will host Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC in their home opening match at Dillon Stadium on Saturday, May 15th.

"I am so excited to get started. This season is going to be a real test for our whole squad, and every player will play a part in the journey. The work ethic, energy, and buy-in to our staff's plan has been excellent," said Hartford Athletic Head Coach Harry Watling. "We need to start off strong on the road, and we can't wait for our home opener against Pittsburgh in front of #FortressHartford!"

Last season, Hartford edged the Hounds for first place in Group F after a 1-0 victory at Highmark Stadium in Pittsburgh launched Hartford to the top of the table. The match will also mark the return of Hartford's all-time leading scorer, Alex Dixon. Dixon signed with Pittsburgh during the offseason.

Hartford Athletic will open the 2021 campaign on the road against New York Red Bulls II on Friday, April 30th. This will be the first regular season match for new Head Coach Harry Watling. "Opening up at Red Bulls II will be a great test for us and show where we are in our growth as such a new group. It is very exciting," Watling added. 

More details on the 2021 USL Championship season, including the national television schedule on ESPN, the complete regular season schedule, and the postseason structure, will be available in the coming weeks. With the potential for limited capacity attendance at home matches make sure to lock in your ticket package or sign up for wait lists below.

2021 USL Championship Home Openers 

Saturday, April 24
Louisville City FC vs. Atlanta United 2
OKC Energy FC vs. FC Tulsa

Friday, April 30
LA Galaxy II vs. Sacramento Republic FC
New York Red Bulls II vs. Hartford Athletic
Phoenix Rising FC vs. San Diego Loyal SC

Saturday, May 1
Birmingham Legion FC vs. Indy Eleven
FC Tulsa vs. Sporting Kansas City II
Rio Grande Valley FC vs. New Mexico United
San Antonio FC vs. Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC
Tampa Bay Rowdies vs. Charlotte Independence

Sunday, May 2

Miami FC vs. Loudoun United FC

Friday, May 7
Sporting Kansas City II vs. OKC Energy FC

Saturday, May 8
El Paso Locomotive FC vs. New Mexico United
Indy Eleven vs. FC Tulsa

Wednesday, May 12
Sacramento Republic FC vs. Las Vegas Lights FC

Thursday, May 13
Tacoma Defiance vs. San Diego Loyal SC

Friday, May 14
Charleston Battery vs. Charlotte Independence
Real Monarchs SLC vs. LA Galaxy II

Saturday, May 15
Hartford Athletic vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC (Home Opener at Dillon Stadium)
New Mexico United vs. Austin Bold FC

Tuesday, May 18
Loudoun United FC vs. New York Red Bulls II

Wednesday, May 19
Atlanta United 2 vs. FC Tulsa

Friday, May 21
Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC vs. New Mexico United

Saturday, May 22
Orange County SC vs. Sacramento Republic FC

Saturday, May 29
San Diego Loyal SC vs. Las Vegas Lights FC

Sunday, May 30
Austin Bold FC vs. Tacoma Defiance

Saturday, June 5
Charlotte Independence vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies
Las Vegas Lights FC vs. Tacoma Defiance

Sunday, June 6
Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC vs. Austin Bold FC

Wednesday, June 16
Memphis 901 FC vs. Atlanta United 2

Saturday, June 19
Oakland Roots SC vs. Sacramento Republic FC

The 2021 schedule is starting to take shape! Hartford Athletic will host Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC in their home opening match at Dillon Stadium on Saturday, May 15th.

“I am so excited to get started. This season is going to be a real test for our whole squad, and every player will play a part in the journey. The work ethic, energy, and buy-in to our staff’s plan has been excellent,” said Hartford Athletic Head Coach Harry Watling. “We need to start off strong on the road, and we can’t wait for our home opener against Pittsburgh in front of #FortressHartford!”

Last season, Hartford edged the Hounds for first place in Group F after a 1-0 victory at Highmark Stadium in Pittsburgh launched Hartford to the top of the table. The match will also mark the return of Hartford’s all-time leading scorer, Alex Dixon. Dixon signed with Pittsburgh during the offseason.

Hartford Athletic will open the 2021 campaign on the road against New York Red Bulls II on Friday, April 30th. This will be the first regular season match for new Head Coach Harry Watling. “Opening up at Red Bulls II will be a great test for us and show where we are in our growth as such a new group. It is very exciting,” Watling added. 

More details on the 2021 USL Championship season, including the national television schedule on ESPN, the complete regular season schedule, and the postseason structure, will be available in the coming weeks. With the potential for limited capacity attendance at home matches make sure to lock in your ticket package or sign up for wait lists below.

2021 USL Championship Home Openers 

Saturday, April 24
Louisville City FC vs. Atlanta United 2
OKC Energy FC vs. FC Tulsa

Friday, April 30
LA Galaxy II vs. Sacramento Republic FC
New York Red Bulls II vs. Hartford Athletic
Phoenix Rising FC vs. San Diego Loyal SC

Saturday, May 1
Birmingham Legion FC vs. Indy Eleven
FC Tulsa vs. Sporting Kansas City II
Rio Grande Valley FC vs. New Mexico United
San Antonio FC vs. Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC
Tampa Bay Rowdies vs. Charlotte Independence

Sunday, May 2

Miami FC vs. Loudoun United FC

Friday, May 7
Sporting Kansas City II vs. OKC Energy FC

Saturday, May 8
El Paso Locomotive FC vs. New Mexico United
Indy Eleven vs. FC Tulsa

Wednesday, May 12
Sacramento Republic FC vs. Las Vegas Lights FC

Thursday, May 13
Tacoma Defiance vs. San Diego Loyal SC

Friday, May 14
Charleston Battery vs. Charlotte Independence
Real Monarchs SLC vs. LA Galaxy II

Saturday, May 15
Hartford Athletic vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC (Home Opener at Dillon Stadium)
New Mexico United vs. Austin Bold FC

Tuesday, May 18
Loudoun United FC vs. New York Red Bulls II

Wednesday, May 19
Atlanta United 2 vs. FC Tulsa

Friday, May 21
Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC vs. New Mexico United

Saturday, May 22
Orange County SC vs. Sacramento Republic FC

Saturday, May 29
San Diego Loyal SC vs. Las Vegas Lights FC

Sunday, May 30
Austin Bold FC vs. Tacoma Defiance

Saturday, June 5
Charlotte Independence vs. Tampa Bay Rowdies
Las Vegas Lights FC vs. Tacoma Defiance

Sunday, June 6
Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC vs. Austin Bold FC

Wednesday, June 16
Memphis 901 FC vs. Atlanta United 2

Saturday, June 19
Oakland Roots SC vs. Sacramento Republic FC

Hartford Athletic has launched the #Changemaker of the Month, presented by Walgreens. As part of Hartford Athletic’s #Changemakers Women’s Leadership Series, #Changemaker of the Month will recognize women working to make Connecticut the best place to live, work, and play.

“The launch of our #Changemaker of the Month program is very special to Hartford Athletic and the Green & Blue Foundation,” said Allison Mannette, Director of Hartford Athletic’s Green & Blue Foundation. “So many women make a substantial impact every day, and we are excited to team up with Walgreens to highlight this work and inspire others in the process.”

Starting April 15th, fans can submit nominations for the #Changemaker of the Month. Nominees should have a proven history of making a positive impact in their community. To submit a nomination, please visit https://www.hartfordathletic.com/changemakers.

As part of the announcement of the Green & Blue Foundation, Hartford Athletic announced the #Changemakers platform which is focused on identifying inequities and implementing change in the community. With Women's Leadership as its first focus, Hartford Athletic will invite female leaders and those who support diversity and inclusion to promote open and honest discussion between diverse groups. Hartford Athletic will work with the United Nations to form a Global Goals World Cup team in Hartford, and in 2021, this team will focus on Global Goal #10, Reduced Inequalities.

Hartford Athletic will also host a Women’s Leadership Brunch with panels, guided discussion, and networking opportunities. The Club will also host its first ever “Girls Run the Game” match where girls from community and non-profit groups in Hartford will team up with Hartford Athletic staff to learn all aspects of hosting a professional USL match at Dillon Stadium.

Hartford Athletic has launched the #Changemaker of the Month, presented by Walgreens. As part of Hartford Athletic’s #Changemakers Women’s Leadership Series, #Changemaker of the Month will recognize women working to make Connecticut the best place to live, work, and play.

“The launch of our #Changemaker of the Month program is very special to Hartford Athletic and the Green & Blue Foundation,” said Allison Mannette, Director of Hartford Athletic’s Green & Blue Foundation. “So many women make a substantial impact every day, and we are excited to team up with Walgreens to highlight this work and inspire others in the process.”

Starting April 15th, fans can submit nominations for the #Changemaker of the Month. Nominees should have a proven history of making a positive impact in their community. To submit a nomination, please visit https://www.hartfordathletic.com/changemakers.

As part of the announcement of the Green & Blue Foundation, Hartford Athletic announced the #Changemakers platform which is focused on identifying inequities and implementing change in the community. With Women’s Leadership as its first focus, Hartford Athletic will invite female leaders and those who support diversity and inclusion to promote open and honest discussion between diverse groups. Hartford Athletic will work with the United Nations to form a Global Goals World Cup team in Hartford, and in 2021, this team will focus on Global Goal #10, Reduced Inequalities.

Hartford Athletic will also host a Women’s Leadership Brunch with panels, guided discussion, and networking opportunities. The Club will also host its first ever “Girls Run the Game” match where girls from community and non-profit groups in Hartford will team up with Hartford Athletic staff to learn all aspects of hosting a professional USL match at Dillon Stadium.

Hartford Athletic has officially announced a partnership with USL League Two side AC Connecticut. The partnership will focus on developing a pro pathway, player opportunities, training and friendlies and more.

"The power of this affiliation is on building a direct pathway to professional soccer in Connecticut through the USL platform, contributing to the development of young players and maximizing their chances to effectively transition to the professional level," said Luiz Silva, Hartford Athletic Assistant Coach and Director of Scouting and Performance Analysis. "This is a very exciting and important step for our club."

Hartford Athletic and AC Connecticut will work together to create a pathway to the pros. AC Connecticut players will have the opportunity to participate in training sessions with the Hartford Athletic first team and Hartford will also support AC Connecticut's recruitment processes. "The support of their recruitment process is a win-win situation where our networking and scouting processes can support their roster planning and we monitor closer potential targets for Hartford Athletic," Silva added.

"We're very excited and thankful to Hartford Athletic for this opportunity to collectively create a very unique pathway for all soccer players in Connecticut," said Robin Schuppert, General Manager of AC Connecticut. "Hartford Athletic and AC Connecticut are both determined to create a path to professional soccer, and this affiliation provides a wonderful opportunity for our players to realize this dream exists within our pathway. The proximity of our clubs allows us to share scouting and sporting resources, and certainly provides an opportunity for our USL Academy and League Two players to be monitored by Hartford's technical staff. Luiz Silva will become a familiar face to our USL Academy and League Two players in his role as the connection between our top players and Hartford's professional team."

“We’re incredibly excited to see Hartford Athletic and AC Connecticut form a strategic partnership to help grow the game in Connecticut, while providing a true pathway to pro soccer with stepping stones at all levels," said Liam O'Connell, Technical Director for the United Soccer League. "This collaboration will allow the clubs to collectively evaluate and move players through their development while competing in top youth leagues, USL Academy, USL League Two, and even the USL Championship. We hope this type of partnership is only the first of many and gets replicated across other communities, as it truly shows how USL clubs can work together for the greater good of the game in the US.”

Hartford Athletic has officially announced a partnership with USL League Two side AC Connecticut. The partnership will focus on developing a pro pathway, player opportunities, training and friendlies and more.

“The power of this affiliation is on building a direct pathway to professional soccer in Connecticut through the USL platform, contributing to the development of young players and maximizing their chances to effectively transition to the professional level,” said Luiz Silva, Hartford Athletic Assistant Coach and Director of Scouting and Performance Analysis. “This is a very exciting and important step for our club.”

Hartford Athletic and AC Connecticut will work together to create a pathway to the pros. AC Connecticut players will have the opportunity to participate in training sessions with the Hartford Athletic first team and Hartford will also support AC Connecticut’s recruitment processes. “The support of their recruitment process is a win-win situation where our networking and scouting processes can support their roster planning and we monitor closer potential targets for Hartford Athletic,” Silva added.

“We’re very excited and thankful to Hartford Athletic for this opportunity to collectively create a very unique pathway for all soccer players in Connecticut,” said Robin Schuppert, General Manager of AC Connecticut. “Hartford Athletic and AC Connecticut are both determined to create a path to professional soccer, and this affiliation provides a wonderful opportunity for our players to realize this dream exists within our pathway. The proximity of our clubs allows us to share scouting and sporting resources, and certainly provides an opportunity for our USL Academy and League Two players to be monitored by Hartford’s technical staff. Luiz Silva will become a familiar face to our USL Academy and League Two players in his role as the connection between our top players and Hartford’s professional team.”

“We’re incredibly excited to see Hartford Athletic and AC Connecticut form a strategic partnership to help grow the game in Connecticut, while providing a true pathway to pro soccer with stepping stones at all levels,” said Liam O’Connell, Technical Director for the United Soccer League. “This collaboration will allow the clubs to collectively evaluate and move players through their development while competing in top youth leagues, USL Academy, USL League Two, and even the USL Championship. We hope this type of partnership is only the first of many and gets replicated across other communities, as it truly shows how USL clubs can work together for the greater good of the game in the US.”

Background

Christian Gómez will join the team and compete for a role in the midfield. Gomez was a part of Mineros de Guayana’s academy team and made his professional debut in 2017 when he was only 18 years old. During his first season he had 12 appearances and helped Mineros win the Venezuela Cup. A year later, during 2018, Gomez left Venezuela and signed on loan with Atletico San Francisco in the Dominican Republic, where the team finished runner-up in the league. In 2019, he returned to Mineros and scored his first professional goal, playing 22 games during that season. His 2020 season in Venezuela was cut short because of the pandemic.

What to Watch For

• Great player on the ball that knows how to dribble and pick out good passes
• Knows how to be aggressive and physical when it comes to winning possession back
• Good field vision that allows him to see runners all across the field compliments his great passing ability

Highlights

Background

Christian Gómez will join the team and compete for a role in the midfield. Gomez was a part of Mineros de Guayana’s academy team and made his professional debut in 2017 when he was only 18 years old. During his first season he had 12 appearances and helped Mineros win the Venezuela Cup. A year later, during 2018, Gomez left Venezuela and signed on loan with Atletico San Francisco in the Dominican Republic, where the team finished runner-up in the league. In 2019, he returned to Mineros and scored his first professional goal, playing 22 games during that season. His 2020 season in Venezuela was cut short because of the pandemic.

What to Watch For

• Great player on the ball that knows how to dribble and pick out good passes
• Knows how to be aggressive and physical when it comes to winning possession back
• Good field vision that allows him to see runners all across the field compliments his great passing ability

Highlights

Coach's Corner

"Christian will be the conductor of the Hartford Midfield Orchestra. He will help us dictate the speed and direction of the game with his ability to change levels in tempo quickly. I can't wait to see him in a Hartford shirt and ready  to pull the strings in the midfield." – Coach Watling

Coach’s Corner

“Christian will be the conductor of the Hartford Midfield Orchestra. He will help us dictate the speed and direction of the game with his ability to change levels in tempo quickly. I can’t wait to see him in a Hartford shirt and ready  to pull the strings in the midfield.” – Coach Watling

Hartford Athletic has signed midfielder Christian Gómez, pending league and federation approval.  

The 21-year-old Gómez comes to Hartford from Venezuelan club Mineros de Guayana. After coming through their academy system, Gómez made his professional debut as an 18-year-old and played 12 matches en route to winning the Copa Venezuela. He went on loan to Dominican Republic side Atlético San Francisco in 2018 and helped them finish as the league runner-up. Gómez returned to Mineros and played 30 matches over the course of the next two seasons. 

“Christian will be the conductor of the Hartford midfield orchestra,” said Hartford Athletic Head Coach Harry Watling. “He will help us dictate the speed and direction of the game with his ability to change levels in tempo quickly. I can’t wait to see him in a Hartford shirt, ready to pull the strings in the midfield.” 

Hartford Athletic has now signed the following players for the 2021 season: 

Forward: Sebastian Elney, Bradford Jamieson IV, Tabort Etaka Preston, Alfonso Vazquez 

Midfielder: Nii Armah Ashitey, Danny Barrera, Christian Gómez, Conor McGlynn, Luka Prpa, Arthur Rogers, Gabriel Torres 

Defender: Younes Boudadi, Nicolás Cardona, Thomas Janjigian, Alex Lara 

Goalkeeper: Jeff Caldwell, Carlos Merancio 

More signings will be announced in the coming weeks. 

Hartford Athletic has signed midfielder Christian Gómez, pending league and federation approval.  

The 21-year-old Gómez comes to Hartford from Venezuelan club Mineros de Guayana. After coming through their academy system, Gómez made his professional debut as an 18-year-old and played 12 matches en route to winning the Copa Venezuela. He went on loan to Dominican Republic side Atlético San Francisco in 2018 and helped them finish as the league runner-up. Gómez returned to Mineros and played 30 matches over the course of the next two seasons. 

“Christian will be the conductor of the Hartford midfield orchestra,” said Hartford Athletic Head Coach Harry Watling. “He will help us dictate the speed and direction of the game with his ability to change levels in tempo quickly. I can’t wait to see him in a Hartford shirt, ready to pull the strings in the midfield.” 

Hartford Athletic has now signed the following players for the 2021 season: 

Forward: Sebastian Elney, Bradford Jamieson IV, Tabort Etaka Preston, Alfonso Vazquez 

Midfielder: Nii Armah Ashitey, Danny Barrera, Christian Gómez, Conor McGlynn, Luka Prpa, Arthur Rogers, Gabriel Torres 

Defender: Younes Boudadi, Nicolás Cardona, Thomas Janjigian, Alex Lara 

Goalkeeper: Jeff Caldwell, Carlos Merancio 

More signings will be announced in the coming weeks. 

At long last, preseason training for the 2021 season is underway! Hartford Athletic Head Coach Harry Watling has finalized a strong technical staff for the year that is poised to help bring Hartford back to the top of the table for a second consecutive year.

Luiz Silva, who spent last season as First Team Assistant to Head Coach Radhi Jaïdi, will again serve in this role in 2021. He will also continue to serve as the Head of Scouting and Performance Analysis for Hartford Athletic. Silva joined Hartford Athletic in September of 2019 aiming to build the structure and processes for 2020 season and beyond. He has been instrumental in leading opposition and scouting analysis as well as tracking the performance of our own players.

"Luiz has been superb for us from the moment I took the role," said Watling. "He has a keen eye for talent identification coupled with in-depth tactical knowledge of how to build this team. He epitomizes Hartford as a club. We are lucky to have him."

Enzo Pereira has been brought on board as Goalkeeper Coach for the 2021 season. Pereira, who attended Naugatuck High School, has vast coaching experience including 2 years at Post University. The Eagles were conference champions in both his years, making the NCAA Tournament both times as well. Pereira coached the Goalkeepers at CT Rush and Dynamo and also founded ELP Goalkeeping, a business that creates content specifically for Goalkeepers.

"Enzo is the newest member of the team and we're very excited to have him on staff," Watling said. "He has the knowledge and ability to make our GKs better. I'm excited to see his work!"

Kevin Hoffman returns as athletic trainer for a second consecutive season, as does Joe Lucas Santos, who took over as Strength and Conditioning Coach at the beginning of last year's restart. Santos supported former Strength and Conditioning Coach Lucas Kruel during the 2019 season.

At long last, preseason training for the 2021 season is underway! Hartford Athletic Head Coach Harry Watling has finalized a strong technical staff for the year that is poised to help bring Hartford back to the top of the table for a second consecutive year.

Luiz Silva, who spent last season as First Team Assistant to Head Coach Radhi Jaïdi, will again serve in this role in 2021. He will also continue to serve as the Head of Scouting and Performance Analysis for Hartford Athletic. Silva joined Hartford Athletic in September of 2019 aiming to build the structure and processes for 2020 season and beyond. He has been instrumental in leading opposition and scouting analysis as well as tracking the performance of our own players.

“Luiz has been superb for us from the moment I took the role,” said Watling. “He has a keen eye for talent identification coupled with in-depth tactical knowledge of how to build this team. He epitomizes Hartford as a club. We are lucky to have him.”

Enzo Pereira has been brought on board as Goalkeeper Coach for the 2021 season. Pereira, who attended Naugatuck High School, has vast coaching experience including 2 years at Post University. The Eagles were conference champions in both his years, making the NCAA Tournament both times as well. Pereira coached the Goalkeepers at CT Rush and Dynamo and also founded ELP Goalkeeping, a business that creates content specifically for Goalkeepers.

“Enzo is the newest member of the team and we’re very excited to have him on staff,” Watling said. “He has the knowledge and ability to make our GKs better. I’m excited to see his work!”

Kevin Hoffman returns as athletic trainer for a second consecutive season, as does Joe Lucas Santos, who took over as Strength and Conditioning Coach at the beginning of last year’s restart. Santos supported former Strength and Conditioning Coach Lucas Kruel during the 2019 season.

Welcome to this week’s edition of The Roundup, where we keep you updated on all things Hartford Athletic, as well as what's going on around the United Soccer League and the Soccer world. This past week, players from Open Tryouts and the Hartford Athletic scouting network took to the Dillon Stadium pitch for an Invitational Combine. Find out who earned an invitation to Preseason Training! Plus, you'll learn a thing or two about Hartford’s Eastern Conference divisional opponents in the USL season preview!

Invitational Combine

With Preseason Training starting up on Monday, Hartford Athletic held its Invitational Combine at Dillon Stadium this past week. Players from Open Tryouts and the Hartford Athletic scouting network competed at Dillon Stadium for four days for a chance to get one step closer to achieving their goals and becoming a professional soccer player. After four really competitive sessions, Hartford Athletic selected the following nine players to advance to Preseason:

Emmanuel Ofori Jr (WG/FW; East Hartford, CT; Age: 17; Height: 6’2”; Weight: 176lbs): A senior at East Hartford High School and an All-State selection in 2019. Emmanuel advanced from Open Tryouts.

Justin DiCarlo (GK; Canton, CT; Age: 16; Height: 6’1”; Weight: 175lbs): Former Oakwood player, currently with Hotchkiss School and BlackRock FC. Justin advanced from Open Tryouts.

Javel Dawkins (RB/RCB; Stratford, CT; Age: 22; Height: 6’1”; Weight: 175lbs): Former Georgian Court University, had stints with Hartford City and in Portuguese 3rd division. Javel advanced from Open Tryouts.

Shamir Holt (CDM, Hartford, CT; Age: 19; Height: 5’10”; Weight: 170lbs): A former Oakwood player who calls our capitol city home. Won a state championship at Farmington High School.

Ahmed Abd-Elazem (CM; Baltimore, MD; Age: 18; Height: 5’9”; Weight: 165lbs) Former Baltimore Armour Academy U19. 

Andrew Nino (ACM; Union Ville, NJ; Age: 22; Height: 5’10”; Weight: 160lbs): NJIT alumni, from NJ. 

Joshua Hernandez (ACM/FW; Hurleyville, NY; Age: 20; Height: 5’11”; Weight: 170lbs): former Cedar Stars and FC Westchester Academy, went to Colombia in 2018 and played in state levels there until 2020. Joshua advanced from Open Tryouts.

Richie Schlentz (LB; West Chester, PA; Age: 22; Height: 6’0”; Weight: 165lbs): Villanova University alumni. Former Philadelphia Union Academy

Walmer Martinez (WG/FW; Santa Cruz, CA; Age: 22; Height: 5’11”; Weight: 175lbs): CSU Monterrey Bay alumni. Potential to play with El Salvadorian youth international squads.

These players will compete over with the first team over the next few weeks, with the 2021 season set to start in roughly six weeks.

Around the USL

– USL drops Eastern and Western Conference previews 

Five Eastern Conference Preseason Talking Points (uslchampionship.com)

Five Western Conference Preseason Talking Points (uslchampionship.com)

Messi Screamer Not Enough as PSG Knock Out Barcelona:

A world-class Lionel Messi goal proved the be the only positive for FC Barcelona this past week. Barcelona and Messi were knocked out in the Champions League round of 16 at the hands of PSG. Kylian Mbappe put the Parisians up one-nil with a penalty as the French superstar continues his incredible form. 

Later in the first half, Lionel Messi scored one of the goals of the season. Messi collected the ball 20-30 yards outside of the 18-yard box and shifted it onto his left foot. Messi unleashed an unstoppable strike and the ball arrowed into the top corner. The game stayed at 1-1 and Barcelona was ultimately eliminated 5-2 on aggregate. 

Barcelona continues to struggle under new head coach Ronald Koeman this season and it is hard to see where they go from here. You have to wonder just how many more Messi goals we will see like this in his career for Barcelona. With his contract running down and age only increasing, we just have to enjoy it.

Welcome to this week’s edition of The Roundup, where we keep you updated on all things Hartford Athletic, as well as what’s going on around the United Soccer League and the Soccer world. This past week, players from Open Tryouts and the Hartford Athletic scouting network took to the Dillon Stadium pitch for an Invitational Combine. Find out who earned an invitation to Preseason Training! Plus, you’ll learn a thing or two about Hartford’s Eastern Conference divisional opponents in the USL season preview!

Invitational Combine

With Preseason Training starting up on Monday, Hartford Athletic held its Invitational Combine at Dillon Stadium this past week. Players from Open Tryouts and the Hartford Athletic scouting network competed at Dillon Stadium for four days for a chance to get one step closer to achieving their goals and becoming a professional soccer player. After four really competitive sessions, Hartford Athletic selected the following nine players to advance to Preseason:

Emmanuel Ofori Jr (WG/FW; East Hartford, CT; Age: 17; Height: 6’2”; Weight: 176lbs): A senior at East Hartford High School and an All-State selection in 2019. Emmanuel advanced from Open Tryouts.

Justin DiCarlo (GK; Canton, CT; Age: 16; Height: 6’1”; Weight: 175lbs): Former Oakwood player, currently with Hotchkiss School and BlackRock FC. Justin advanced from Open Tryouts.

Javel Dawkins (RB/RCB; Stratford, CT; Age: 22; Height: 6’1”; Weight: 175lbs): Former Georgian Court University, had stints with Hartford City and in Portuguese 3rd division. Javel advanced from Open Tryouts.

Shamir Holt (CDM, Hartford, CT; Age: 19; Height: 5’10”; Weight: 170lbs): A former Oakwood player who calls our capitol city home. Won a state championship at Farmington High School.

Ahmed Abd-Elazem (CM; Baltimore, MD; Age: 18; Height: 5’9”; Weight: 165lbs) Former Baltimore Armour Academy U19. 

Andrew Nino (ACM; Union Ville, NJ; Age: 22; Height: 5’10”; Weight: 160lbs): NJIT alumni, from NJ. 

Joshua Hernandez (ACM/FW; Hurleyville, NY; Age: 20; Height: 5’11”; Weight: 170lbs): former Cedar Stars and FC Westchester Academy, went to Colombia in 2018 and played in state levels there until 2020. Joshua advanced from Open Tryouts.

Richie Schlentz (LB; West Chester, PA; Age: 22; Height: 6’0”; Weight: 165lbs): Villanova University alumni. Former Philadelphia Union Academy

Walmer Martinez (WG/FW; Santa Cruz, CA; Age: 22; Height: 5’11”; Weight: 175lbs): CSU Monterrey Bay alumni. Potential to play with El Salvadorian youth international squads.

These players will compete over with the first team over the next few weeks, with the 2021 season set to start in roughly six weeks.

Around the USL

– USL drops Eastern and Western Conference previews 

Five Eastern Conference Preseason Talking Points (uslchampionship.com)

Five Western Conference Preseason Talking Points (uslchampionship.com)

Messi Screamer Not Enough as PSG Knock Out Barcelona:

A world-class Lionel Messi goal proved the be the only positive for FC Barcelona this past week. Barcelona and Messi were knocked out in the Champions League round of 16 at the hands of PSG. Kylian Mbappe put the Parisians up one-nil with a penalty as the French superstar continues his incredible form. 

Later in the first half, Lionel Messi scored one of the goals of the season. Messi collected the ball 20-30 yards outside of the 18-yard box and shifted it onto his left foot. Messi unleashed an unstoppable strike and the ball arrowed into the top corner. The game stayed at 1-1 and Barcelona was ultimately eliminated 5-2 on aggregate. 

Barcelona continues to struggle under new head coach Ronald Koeman this season and it is hard to see where they go from here. You have to wonder just how many more Messi goals we will see like this in his career for Barcelona. With his contract running down and age only increasing, we just have to enjoy it.

With preseason training set to start on Monday, Hartford Athletic has finalized a 2021 preseason schedule.

The club will kick off it's preseason slate with a Blue and Green Intrasquad scrimmage at Dillon Stadium on March 31st. Hartford will play three of its other preseason friendlies at home and will head on the road for matchups with MLS side NYCFC and USL Championship rival New York Red Bulls II. At this time, preseason friendlies at home will not be open to the general public.

Hartford will once again welcome Newtown Pride and FC Motown for preseason friendlies. Hartford hosted both teams during the 2020 preseason. Philadelphia Union II will also travel to Connecticut for a friendly match. Hartford played Union II four times in 2020 picking up three wins and a draw in those matches. Philadelphia Union II will not compete in the USL Championship in 2021.

Hartford Athletic Preseason Schedule:

March 31 – Blue and Green Scrimmage

April 3 – vs Newtown Pride

April 10 – @ NYCFC

April 16 – @ New York Red Bulls II

April 21 – vs Philadelphia Union II

April 24 – vs FC Motown

With preseason training set to start on Monday, Hartford Athletic has finalized a 2021 preseason schedule.

The club will kick off it’s preseason slate with a Blue and Green Intrasquad scrimmage at Dillon Stadium on March 31st. Hartford will play three of its other preseason friendlies at home and will head on the road for matchups with MLS side NYCFC and USL Championship rival New York Red Bulls II. At this time, preseason friendlies at home will not be open to the general public.

Hartford will once again welcome Newtown Pride and FC Motown for preseason friendlies. Hartford hosted both teams during the 2020 preseason. Philadelphia Union II will also travel to Connecticut for a friendly match. Hartford played Union II four times in 2020 picking up three wins and a draw in those matches. Philadelphia Union II will not compete in the USL Championship in 2021.

Hartford Athletic Preseason Schedule:

March 31 – Blue and Green Scrimmage

April 3 – vs Newtown Pride

April 10 – @ NYCFC

April 16 – @ New York Red Bulls II

April 21 – vs Philadelphia Union II

April 24 – vs FC Motown

Welcome to this week’s edition of The Roundup, where we keep you updated on all things Hartford Athletic, as well as what's going on around the United Soccer League and the Soccer world. This past week, there has been a ton of positive news circulating around the club. New player signings, new division opponents, and some international call-ups – plus an update on our friends across the pond at Leyton Orient! Let's get to it!

A Busy News Week

This past week, Athletic fans were treated to some exciting news on and off the field. On Tuesday, the club announced the signing of Bradford Jamieson IV. The forward arrives in Hartford with an impressive resume and a play style that will get fans off the edge of their seats. Jamieson IV has big shoes to fill after the departure of Alex Dixon. Dixon is currently Athletic’s all-time leading goal scorer (8) and was central and essential to Hartford’s attack in the past two seasons.

Welcome to this week’s edition of The Roundup, where we keep you updated on all things Hartford Athletic, as well as what’s going on around the United Soccer League and the Soccer world. This past week, there has been a ton of positive news circulating around the club. New player signings, new division opponents, and some international call-ups – plus an update on our friends across the pond at Leyton Orient! Let’s get to it!

A Busy News Week

This past week, Athletic fans were treated to some exciting news on and off the field. On Tuesday, the club announced the signing of Bradford Jamieson IV. The forward arrives in Hartford with an impressive resume and a play style that will get fans off the edge of their seats. Jamieson IV has big shoes to fill after the departure of Alex Dixon. Dixon is currently Athletic’s all-time leading goal scorer (8) and was central and essential to Hartford’s attack in the past two seasons.

Another new signing has been in the news for Athletic this week as well. Just after becoming Harry Watling’s newest addition to the backline, Nicolás Cardona received more positive news. This past week, he became the first active Hartford Athletic player to earn an international call-up, joining his home country of Puerto Rico in their quest to qualify for a World Cup! In some ways, Cardona’s professional journey has come full circle in Hartford. He started for Puerto Rico in a friendly match at Dillon Stadium between Hartford Athletic and the Puerto Rico National Team in 2019. Now, Cardona is a Hartford player and Puetro Rican international regular!

Another new signing has been in the news for Athletic this week as well. Just after becoming Harry Watling’s newest addition to the backline, Nicolás Cardona received more positive news. This past week, he became the first active Hartford Athletic player to earn an international call-up, joining his home country of Puerto Rico in their quest to qualify for a World Cup! In some ways, Cardona’s professional journey has come full circle in Hartford. He started for Puerto Rico in a friendly match at Dillon Stadium between Hartford Athletic and the Puerto Rico National Team in 2019. Now, Cardona is a Hartford player and Puetro Rican international regular!

The cherry on top of the news week was without question the USL’s announcement of the 2021 Atlantic Division. Athletic are joined by last year’s Group F opponents, Loudoun United, New York Red Bulls ll, and Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC. The other Atlantic division members are located below the Mason Dixon line in places much warmer than Hartford. Athletic will travel down the east coast to both the Carliona’s where they will play Charlotte Independence and Charleston Battery. Then the team will have to head further down south to the sunshine state where the group is rounded out by two quality sides, last season’s USL Eastern Conference champions Tampa Bay Rowdies and Miami FC. Both will fare as interesting matchups for Athletic!

The cherry on top of the news week was without question the USL’s announcement of the 2021 Atlantic Division. Athletic are joined by last year’s Group F opponents, Loudoun United, New York Red Bulls ll, and Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC. The other Atlantic division members are located below the Mason Dixon line in places much warmer than Hartford. Athletic will travel down the east coast to both the Carliona’s where they will play Charlotte Independence and Charleston Battery. Then the team will have to head further down south to the sunshine state where the group is rounded out by two quality sides, last season’s USL Eastern Conference champions Tampa Bay Rowdies and Miami FC. Both will fare as interesting matchups for Athletic!

Around the USL:

– USL celebrates Women's History Month

https://twitter.com/USLChampionship/status/1367505113028300801?s=20

Leyton Orient Gets First Win Under New Management

After recently parting ways with Manager Ross Embleton, Leyton Orient needed this victory. This past week, Orient got back on track with a 1-0 win over Grimsby Town. Under the leadership of new interim manager Jobi McAnuff, the former O’s player will be looking for more performances like this one to round out the season!

Bottom of the league Grimsby Town would have been looking to get a result in this one. The struggling O’s hadn’t won since the 16th of January and haven’t won away from home since November. In the 10th minute, standout defender Dan Happe found himself on the end of a deflected cross. The 6 foot 5 center back showed great skill to outstretch his left leg and put Orient in front! 

In the second half, Orient hit the bar, missed some chances and so did Grimsby Town. In the end, Orient held on to win 1-0. McAnuff gets his first win as interim manager and O’s fans can breathe a sigh of relief for the week.

Around the USL:

– USL celebrates Women’s History Month

https://twitter.com/USLChampionship/status/1367505113028300801?s=20

Leyton Orient Gets First Win Under New Management

After recently parting ways with Manager Ross Embleton, Leyton Orient needed this victory. This past week, Orient got back on track with a 1-0 win over Grimsby Town. Under the leadership of new interim manager Jobi McAnuff, the former O’s player will be looking for more performances like this one to round out the season!

Bottom of the league Grimsby Town would have been looking to get a result in this one. The struggling O’s hadn’t won since the 16th of January and haven’t won away from home since November. In the 10th minute, standout defender Dan Happe found himself on the end of a deflected cross. The 6 foot 5 center back showed great skill to outstretch his left leg and put Orient in front! 

In the second half, Orient hit the bar, missed some chances and so did Grimsby Town. In the end, Orient held on to win 1-0. McAnuff gets his first win as interim manager and O’s fans can breathe a sigh of relief for the week.