Pittsburgh Riverhounds

Riverhounds complete transfer deal sending Mike DeShields to Hartford

by
John Krysinsky
June 19, 2024

Riverhounds SC has completed a transfer deal to send defender Mike DeShields to Hartford Athletic, pending USL and U.S. Soccer approval. Financial terms of the deal will not be disclosed.

DeShields, 26, was in his second season with the Hounds after signing as a free agent before the 2023 season. The center back appeared in 14 matches during 2023 and was an integral part of the club’s run to the quarterfinals of the U.S. Open Cup, starting the team’s shutout wins over two MLS teams, the New England Revolution and Columbus Crew.

This season, DeShields has been limited to just two appearances, and he missed time after suffering a hamstring injury in the Hounds’ season opener March 9 at New Mexico.The deal comes a day after the Hounds acquired forward Enoch Mushagalusa on loan from Hartford for the remainder of 2024. Both players will be eligible for their new teams in their next match; for the Hounds, that will be tonight at 7:30 p.m. when the team hosts Louisville City FC at Highmark Stadium.

Related TopicsHartford Athletic Riverhounds SC

John Krysinsky

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).