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Riverhounds To Become Affiliate for MLS’ Columbus Crew

Since the Pittsburgh Riverhounds partnership with the Houston Dynamo dissolved after one season in 2014, there was only one other MLS affiliation that made sense.

And soon after the Dayton Dutch Lions dropped into the Premier Development League from the USL, the Columbus Crew were without a USL partner.

This is an affiliation that makes a lot of sense for both sides, especially in light of the fact that Pittsburgh and Columbus are close geographically.

Here’s the full release from the Crew… 

The teams will be having a 1 p.m. news conference via a conference call, that will be streamed live on http://www.columbuscrewsc.com/

The Riverhounds appear to be very pleased with this partnership:

“Our coaching staff is thrilled to be affiliated with one of the best organizations in MLS,” said Riverhounds Head Coach Mark Steffens.

“Crew SC Sporting Director and Head Coach Gregg Berhalter’s style and philosophy are similar to ours, so I believe our partnership will be very fruitful on a number of fronts. This is a great opportunity for our entire club to learn from Columbus both on and off the field, help to develop young loanees into well-rounded professionals and men of integrity and to strengthen our roster for another USL playoff push in 2016.”

John Krysinsky has covered soccer and other sports for many years for various publications and media outlets. He is also author of 'Miracle on the Mon' -- a book about the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, which chronicles the club, particularly the early years of Highmark Stadium with the narrative leading up to and centered around a remarkable match that helped provide a spark for the franchise. John has covered sports for Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, DK Pittsburgh Sports, Pittsburgh Sports Report, has served as color commentator on Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC broadcasts, and worked with OPTA Stats and broadcast teams for US Open Cup and International Champions Cup matches held in the US. Krysinsky also served as the Head Men’s Soccer Coach at his alma mater, Point Park University, where he led the Pioneers to the first-ever winning seasons and playoff berths (1996-98); head coach of North Catholic boys (2007-08), associate head coach of Shady Side Academy boys (2009-2014).

Glory on the Grass

Riverhounds MF Kenardo Forbes

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