Hartford Athletic has signed goalkeeper Sebastian Pliszka to a USL Academy Contract, pending league and federation approval. The contract allows Pliszka to keep his college eligibility and still train and play for Hartford Athletic in USL sanctioned matches.
This is Pliszka’s second academy contract in as many seasons with Hartford Athletic, as he was the second academy signing in club history in 2021 following Giovanni Calderón. The goalkeeper was first seen by the technical staff when he trained with the club for a month in August of 2020 and made a positive impression. He was invited back to training sessions in May 2021 before signing his first academy contract.
“I’m happy to be back with my hometown club,” said the 17-year-old. “Training with the first team last year was such a valuable experience for me, and coming back for a second season is another step towards reaching my career goals. Coach Watling and Coach Davis have a great plan for my development and I’m very excited to work with them again.”
Pliszka is a former New England Revolution Academy player who currently plays at The Loomis Chaffee School in Windsor, CT.
“Sebastian is a goalkeeper I’m extremely excited to have as part of our club,” said Hartford Athletic Head Coach Harry Watling. “He is a young, dynamic, and robust player who made great strides working with us last season. I look forward to continuing his development and seeing him push Austin Pack and Jimmy Slayton to be the best possible versions of themselves.”
“Sebastian returning for a second season shows his faith in our academy and our ability to develop young talent,” said Hartford Athletic Academy Director Robin Schuppert. “He has loads of potential and we’re excited to see him take the next step in his career.”
Hartford Athletic will kick off the 2022 season on the road against Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC on March 19th. The Boys in Green will open the doors to Dillon Stadium on April 2nd at 7 PM against Atlanta United 2 for the Home Opener. Fans interested in purchasing tickets can visit hartfordathletic.com/tickets.
