News Archive

Hartford Athletic has signed forward Walmer Martinez, pending league and federation approval.  

Martinez was invited to Hartford’s Invitational Combine where he performed well enough to earn an invitation to preseason training. He graduated from Division II Cal State-Monterey Bay in 2019. In his senior season, he scored 13 goals, second most in California Collegiate Athletic Association. Despite only playing two seasons with the Otters, he finished his career second all-time in assists (16), and fifth all-time in goals scored (17). Martinez has played for USL League Two sides Santa Cruz Breakers FC and Des Moines Menace. 

“It is always a pleasure to offer a player a pro contract. Walmer has earned the right to be here,” said Hartford Athletic Head Coach Harry Watling. “He is an excellent finisher and versatile player, able to play across the whole front line. His energy and passion match mine as the Head Coach." 

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

Forward: Sebastian Elney, Bradford Jamieson IV, Walmer Martinez, Preston Tabort Etaka, 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 forward Walmer Martinez, pending league and federation approval.  

Martinez was invited to Hartford’s Invitational Combine where he performed well enough to earn an invitation to preseason training. He graduated from Division II Cal State-Monterey Bay in 2019. In his senior season, he scored 13 goals, second most in California Collegiate Athletic Association. Despite only playing two seasons with the Otters, he finished his career second all-time in assists (16), and fifth all-time in goals scored (17). Martinez has played for USL League Two sides Santa Cruz Breakers FC and Des Moines Menace. 

“It is always a pleasure to offer a player a pro contract. Walmer has earned the right to be here,” said Hartford Athletic Head Coach Harry Watling. “He is an excellent finisher and versatile player, able to play across the whole front line. His energy and passion match mine as the Head Coach.” 

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

Forward: Sebastian Elney, Bradford Jamieson IV, Walmer Martinez, Preston Tabort Etaka, 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 announced today that Dillon Stadium will open to fans at fifty percent capacity when the 2021 home schedule kicks off on May 15th.  

"Last season, in partnership with City and State leaders, we demonstrated that fans could safely attend Hartford Athletic matches. We are thrilled to once again host our fans at Dillon Stadium in 2021,” said Hartford Athletic Chairman Bruce Mandell. “Thank you to all local and state government officials who approved an increase in attendance and continue to put trust in us to keep our fans safe. Coach Watling, our players, and our entire organization cannot wait to open the doors for our regular season home opener on May 15th.”  

Hartford Athletic is working with the City of Hartford and the State of Connecticut to ensure safe attendance at home matches, as was executed in 2020. A full list of protocols for the 2021 season will be approved in the coming weeks. 

Single game tickets are now on sale starting at $14. Hartford Athletic will host 16 USL Championship regular season matches at Dillon Stadium in 2021 with additional exhibition and friendly matches to be announced at a later date. Matches on August 4th, August 28th, September 30th, and October 22nd will all be $2 beer, $1 hot dog nights. Fans interested in purchasing single game tickets should visit https://www.hartfordathletic.com/single.  

Hartford Athletic has also added a friendly match to its schedule on May 4th against New England Revolution II. The game will be included in the Season Ticket Member package. Single game tickets for this match are on sale now. 

Hartford Athletic announced today that Dillon Stadium will open to fans at fifty percent capacity when the 2021 home schedule kicks off on May 15th.  

“Last season, in partnership with City and State leaders, we demonstrated that fans could safely attend Hartford Athletic matches. We are thrilled to once again host our fans at Dillon Stadium in 2021,” said Hartford Athletic Chairman Bruce Mandell. “Thank you to all local and state government officials who approved an increase in attendance and continue to put trust in us to keep our fans safe. Coach Watling, our players, and our entire organization cannot wait to open the doors for our regular season home opener on May 15th.”  

Hartford Athletic is working with the City of Hartford and the State of Connecticut to ensure safe attendance at home matches, as was executed in 2020. A full list of protocols for the 2021 season will be approved in the coming weeks. 

Single game tickets are now on sale starting at $14. Hartford Athletic will host 16 USL Championship regular season matches at Dillon Stadium in 2021 with additional exhibition and friendly matches to be announced at a later date. Matches on August 4th, August 28th, September 30th, and October 22nd will all be $2 beer, $1 hot dog nights. Fans interested in purchasing single game tickets should visit https://www.hartfordathletic.com/single.  

Hartford Athletic has also added a friendly match to its schedule on May 4th against New England Revolution II. The game will be included in the Season Ticket Member package. Single game tickets for this match are on sale now. 

Background

Nii Armah Ashitey arrives to Hartford Athletic looking to compete for a spot in the team’s midfield. The native from Ghana made his professional debut when he was only 15 years old in 2016. He played in the Ghanaian 2nd division for Still Believe FC before making the jump to the Ghana Premier League in 2018. During his time in the league he played for Crystal Palace FC before joining Dreams FC in 2019. During that same year he was loaned to Berekum Chelsea to play the Viareggio U20 Cup in Italy. In the Cup he played against teams from Brazil and Italy, he was named Man of the Match in games against Atletico Paranaense and Spieza, two teams that compete in very competitive leagues (Brasileirao and Serie A). 

What to Watch For

• Ability to play different positions in the midfield at a very high level
• Reads the game well and has good positioning that allows him to win the second ball
• Good physical stamina that allows him to utilize his high speed and power during the entirety of the game

Highlights

Background

Nii Armah Ashitey arrives to Hartford Athletic looking to compete for a spot in the team’s midfield. The native from Ghana made his professional debut when he was only 15 years old in 2016. He played in the Ghanaian 2nd division for Still Believe FC before making the jump to the Ghana Premier League in 2018. During his time in the league he played for Crystal Palace FC before joining Dreams FC in 2019. During that same year he was loaned to Berekum Chelsea to play the Viareggio U20 Cup in Italy. In the Cup he played against teams from Brazil and Italy, he was named Man of the Match in games against Atletico Paranaense and Spieza, two teams that compete in very competitive leagues (Brasileirao and Serie A). 

What to Watch For

• Ability to play different positions in the midfield at a very high level
• Reads the game well and has good positioning that allows him to win the second ball
• Good physical stamina that allows him to utilize his high speed and power during the entirety of the game

Highlights

Nii's Take

“I’m really excited to arrive at Hartford, live in the area and become part of the community. I’m really looking forward to getting started with the plan the team has for me which will help me develop into a better player. Our squad is off to a great start, we're going to do some really good things this year.”

Coach's Corner

"Nii will provide us an engine in the middle of the pitch. Basing his game off of his hero, N'golo Kanté, it's easy to see where his influences on his game come from. His blindside tackling will be key to our high pressing style." – Harry Watling

Nii’s Take

“I’m really excited to arrive at Hartford, live in the area and become part of the community. I’m really looking forward to getting started with the plan the team has for me which will help me develop into a better player. Our squad is off to a great start, we’re going to do some really good things this year.”

Coach’s Corner

“Nii will provide us an engine in the middle of the pitch. Basing his game off of his hero, N’golo Kanté, it’s easy to see where his influences on his game come from. His blindside tackling will be key to our high pressing style.” – Harry Watling

Today, the United Soccer League unveiled the most expansive linear television schedule in its history, which features two Hartford Athletic matches on the ESPN family of networks. Hartford Athletic's home match against Louisville City FC on September 7th will air on ESPN2 at 7 PM ET. The September 30th match against Charlotte Independence, also at Dillon Stadium, will be aired on ESPN Deportes at 8 PM. 

This will be the second time Hartford Athletic will play on ESPN2 in its short history. Last season, Hartford Athletic defeated Loudoun United FC 3-1 in its 2020 home opener on ESPN2. It was Hartford's second win of the season and the first of three victories against the northern Virginia side in 2020. 

In total, 19 USL Championship games will be broadcast on ESPN linear television this season. The Championship season will culminate on Sunday, November 28 as the 2021 USL Championship, set to be broadcast on ESPN or ESPN2. The contest between the Eastern and Western Conference Title-winners will also air on ESPN Deportes, with kickoff scheduled at 8:30 p.m. ET.

All Hartford Athletic matches in 2021, with the exception of the match against Louisville City FC, will air on WCTX MyTV9, as well as digitally on ESPN+. 

2021 USL on ESPN TV Schedule

• April 30 – Phoenix Rising FC vs. San Diego Loyal SC, 10 p.m. ET, ESPN2
• May 6 – Rio Grande Valley FC vs. San Diego Loyal SC, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN Deportes
• May 15 – Tampa Bay Rowdies vs. Phoenix Rising FC, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN2
• May 16 – Greenville Triumph SC vs. Union Omaha, 4 p.m. ET, ESPN2
• June 3 – Austin Bold FC vs. El Paso Locomotive FC, 9 p.m. ET, ESPN Deportes
• June 15 – Indy Eleven vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN Deportes
• June 23 – Miami FC vs. Birmingham Legion FC, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN Deportes
• July 3 – San Diego Loyal SC vs. Sacramento Republic FC, 2 p.m. ET, ESPN2
• July 10 – Oakland Roots SC vs. Las Vegas Lights FC, 10 p.m. ET, ESPN2
• July 17 – Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC vs. San Antonio FC, 2 p.m. ET, ESPN2
• July 21 – San Antonio FC vs. New Mexico United, 9:30 p.m. ET, ESPN2
• August 10 – Memphis 901 FC vs. Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN Deportes
• September 7 – Hartford Athletic vs. Louisville City FC, 7 p.m. ET, ESPN2
• September 8 – Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC vs. Real Monarchs SLC, 9 p.m. ET, ESPN Deportes
• September 30 – Hartford Athletic vs. Charlotte Independence, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN Deportes
• October 3 – Louisville City FC vs. New Mexico United, 3 p.m. ET, ESPN2
• October 7 – Tampa Bay Rowdies vs. Charleston Battery, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN Deportes
• October 24 – El Paso Locomotive FC vs. OKC Energy FC, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN Deportes
• November 28 – USL Championship Final, 8:30 p.m. ET, ESPN or ESPN2 / ESPN Deportes

Today, the United Soccer League unveiled the most expansive linear television schedule in its history, which features two Hartford Athletic matches on the ESPN family of networks. Hartford Athletic’s home match against Louisville City FC on September 7th will air on ESPN2 at 7 PM ET. The September 30th match against Charlotte Independence, also at Dillon Stadium, will be aired on ESPN Deportes at 8 PM. 

This will be the second time Hartford Athletic will play on ESPN2 in its short history. Last season, Hartford Athletic defeated Loudoun United FC 3-1 in its 2020 home opener on ESPN2. It was Hartford’s second win of the season and the first of three victories against the northern Virginia side in 2020. 

In total, 19 USL Championship games will be broadcast on ESPN linear television this season. The Championship season will culminate on Sunday, November 28 as the 2021 USL Championship, set to be broadcast on ESPN or ESPN2. The contest between the Eastern and Western Conference Title-winners will also air on ESPN Deportes, with kickoff scheduled at 8:30 p.m. ET.

All Hartford Athletic matches in 2021, with the exception of the match against Louisville City FC, will air on WCTX MyTV9, as well as digitally on ESPN+. 

2021 USL on ESPN TV Schedule

• April 30 – Phoenix Rising FC vs. San Diego Loyal SC, 10 p.m. ET, ESPN2
• May 6 – Rio Grande Valley FC vs. San Diego Loyal SC, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN Deportes
• May 15 – Tampa Bay Rowdies vs. Phoenix Rising FC, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN2
• May 16 – Greenville Triumph SC vs. Union Omaha, 4 p.m. ET, ESPN2
• June 3 – Austin Bold FC vs. El Paso Locomotive FC, 9 p.m. ET, ESPN Deportes
• June 15 – Indy Eleven vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN Deportes
• June 23 – Miami FC vs. Birmingham Legion FC, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN Deportes
• July 3 – San Diego Loyal SC vs. Sacramento Republic FC, 2 p.m. ET, ESPN2
• July 10 – Oakland Roots SC vs. Las Vegas Lights FC, 10 p.m. ET, ESPN2
• July 17 – Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC vs. San Antonio FC, 2 p.m. ET, ESPN2
• July 21 – San Antonio FC vs. New Mexico United, 9:30 p.m. ET, ESPN2
• August 10 – Memphis 901 FC vs. Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN Deportes
• September 7 – Hartford Athletic vs. Louisville City FC, 7 p.m. ET, ESPN2
• September 8 – Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC vs. Real Monarchs SLC, 9 p.m. ET, ESPN Deportes
• September 30 – Hartford Athletic vs. Charlotte Independence, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN Deportes
• October 3 – Louisville City FC vs. New Mexico United, 3 p.m. ET, ESPN2
• October 7 – Tampa Bay Rowdies vs. Charleston Battery, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN Deportes
• October 24 – El Paso Locomotive FC vs. OKC Energy FC, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN Deportes
• November 28 – USL Championship Final, 8:30 p.m. ET, ESPN or ESPN2 / ESPN Deportes

Hartford Athletic has announced the 2021 Regular Season schedule which includes 16 home matches at Dillon Stadium. Hartford Athletic opens the season on the road against New York Red Bulls II on April 30th. The season's first home game will be on May 15th against Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC.

Athletic will play in the USL Championship’s Atlantic Division this season. 2020 Group F rivals New York Red Bulls II, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, and Loudoun United FC will play in the Atlantic along with defending Eastern Conference Champion Tampa Bay Rowdies, Miami FC, Charleston Battery, and Charlotte Independence. Hartford will play each of these teams four times, twice at home and twice away. 

The USL Championship will introduce inter-conference play for the first time in 2021. Hartford Athletic will play 3 matches against teams from the Championship’s Western Conference, hosting Real Monarchs SLC at Dillon Stadium on May 29th and traveling to Colorado Switchbacks FC on August 7th and New Mexico United on October 6th. Athletic will also host two-time USL Cup Champions Louisville City FC on September 7th, the only opponent from the Eastern Conference’s Central Division on its regular season schedule. Click here to view the full 2021 schedule.

All home and away matches that do not appear on ESPN linear networks will be aired locally in conjunction with Hartford Athletic's broadcast partner WTNH and streamed on WTNH.com. 

Hartford Athletic is working closely with city and state officials on final protocols that will allow fans to safely attend matches this season. Season Ticket Members and Flex Plan Holders will have first priority for this potential limited opportunity. Fans interested in purchasing single game tickets can join Hartford Athletic’s priority wait list to reserve their place in line. For fans interested in purchasing 2021 ticket packages or joining the single game ticket wait list, please visit https://www.hartfordathletic.com/tickets. 

For inquiries on tickets, please contact Hartford Athletic at 860-216-0816 or email tickets@https://www.hartfordathletic.com.

Hartford Athletic has announced the 2021 Regular Season schedule which includes 16 home matches at Dillon Stadium. Hartford Athletic opens the season on the road against New York Red Bulls II on April 30th. The season’s first home game will be on May 15th against Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC.

Athletic will play in the USL Championship’s Atlantic Division this season. 2020 Group F rivals New York Red Bulls II, Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, and Loudoun United FC will play in the Atlantic along with defending Eastern Conference Champion Tampa Bay Rowdies, Miami FC, Charleston Battery, and Charlotte Independence. Hartford will play each of these teams four times, twice at home and twice away. 

The USL Championship will introduce inter-conference play for the first time in 2021. Hartford Athletic will play 3 matches against teams from the Championship’s Western Conference, hosting Real Monarchs SLC at Dillon Stadium on May 29th and traveling to Colorado Switchbacks FC on August 7th and New Mexico United on October 6th. Athletic will also host two-time USL Cup Champions Louisville City FC on September 7th, the only opponent from the Eastern Conference’s Central Division on its regular season schedule. Click here to view the full 2021 schedule.

All home and away matches that do not appear on ESPN linear networks will be aired locally in conjunction with Hartford Athletic’s broadcast partner WTNH and streamed on WTNH.com. 

Hartford Athletic is working closely with city and state officials on final protocols that will allow fans to safely attend matches this season. Season Ticket Members and Flex Plan Holders will have first priority for this potential limited opportunity. Fans interested in purchasing single game tickets can join Hartford Athletic’s priority wait list to reserve their place in line. For fans interested in purchasing 2021 ticket packages or joining the single game ticket wait list, please visit https://www.hartfordathletic.com/tickets. 

For inquiries on tickets, please contact Hartford Athletic at 860-216-0816 or email tickets@https://www.hartfordathletic.com.

Background

Janjigian arrives in Hartford looking to carve out a role in the team’s defensive line. The California native plays primarily as a left back since his time at UC Irvine. Janjigian has USL PDL experience, playing for the OC Predator Blues and FC Golden State Force. In 2017 he signed with Reno 1868 FC. Played for the San Jose Earthquakes in a friendly cup game and a friendly against Bundesliga’s Eintracht Frankfurt. During his time at Reno he played 62 games, 17 of them coming in the 2020 season. Janjigian’s consistency and experience will certainly help him become a leader of Hartford’s backline.

What to Watch For

• Comfortable on the ball, knows how to pick out passes from runners all over the field.
• Very solid player when the ball is in the air. Great at winning the ball with headers and intercepting crosses. 
• Great positional play and knows how to cover space when team is out of position. Great at recovery efforts. 

Highlights

Background

Janjigian arrives in Hartford looking to carve out a role in the team’s defensive line. The California native plays primarily as a left back since his time at UC Irvine. Janjigian has USL PDL experience, playing for the OC Predator Blues and FC Golden State Force. In 2017 he signed with Reno 1868 FC. Played for the San Jose Earthquakes in a friendly cup game and a friendly against Bundesliga’s Eintracht Frankfurt. During his time at Reno he played 62 games, 17 of them coming in the 2020 season. Janjigian’s consistency and experience will certainly help him become a leader of Hartford’s backline.

What to Watch For

• Comfortable on the ball, knows how to pick out passes from runners all over the field.
• Very solid player when the ball is in the air. Great at winning the ball with headers and intercepting crosses. 
• Great positional play and knows how to cover space when team is out of position. Great at recovery efforts. 

Highlights

Janjigian's Take

“I’m really excited to be part of Hartford Athletic this season. The energy at training has been so high and I'm itching to get the season started. It's no secret the club had a great season last year and I'm going to do everything I can to take us to the next level.”

Coach's Corner

"As a left footed, left sided center back, Thomas gives us a real balance and a calmness at the back. He has a great understanding and reading of the game, he sees the game a lot quicker than others. He brings quality technical ability to play forwards and set up attacks. Thomas is a fantastic defender and a leader and we're lucky to have him." – Coach Watling

Janjigian’s Take

“I’m really excited to be part of Hartford Athletic this season. The energy at training has been so high and I’m itching to get the season started. It’s no secret the club had a great season last year and I’m going to do everything I can to take us to the next level.”

Coach’s Corner

“As a left footed, left sided center back, Thomas gives us a real balance and a calmness at the back. He has a great understanding and reading of the game, he sees the game a lot quicker than others. He brings quality technical ability to play forwards and set up attacks. Thomas is a fantastic defender and a leader and we’re lucky to have him.” – Coach Watling

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.”