January 31, 2023 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – Hartford Athletic News Release
Hartford Athletic have signed defender Matt Sheldon ahead of the 2023 season, pending league and federation approval.
“I’m thrilled to come to Hartford,” said Sheldon. “Playing at Trinity Health Stadium last year, I know that Hartford has built up a loyal group of supporters and a passionate soccer community. This is a great roster of players who I cannot wait to compete with. Coach Ramos has a clear vision for this group and I’m excited to be a part of it.”
Sheldon comes to Hartford after a season with Charleston Battery. The 30 year old made 27 starts and played 2,325 minutes during the 2022 campaign. A defender who frequently looks to distribute from outside areas, Sheldon led Charleston in crosses with 65 and recorded two assists. One of his helpers came against Hartford Athletic on July 16th, when he pin-pointed a pass across the box to an open Augustine Williams.
“Matt is an important addition to our back line,” said Head Coach Tab Ramos. “His defensive qualities, ability on the ball and desire to make the effort to attack make him a great fit for our system of play.”
Over six USL Championship seasons with four different teams, Sheldon has made 123 total appearances and logged over 8,000 minutes. Prior to joining Charleston in 2022, he spent three seasons from 2019 to 2021 with FC Tulsa. He played a major role in their defense, swiping 48 interceptions, making 40 tackles, and winning 182 duels across 65 starts.
“Matt provides us with an experienced right sided wide player,” said Technical Director Ray Reid. “His ability to attack and play in the final third is something we need to have for the way we want to play. We are excited for what he adds to the club.”
Outside of the United States, Sheldon has made stints with German club SG Kinzenbach New Zealand club Waterside Karori AFC. A native of Portland, Oregon, Sheldon stayed out west to play collegiately at UC Davis from 2011 to 2014. He made 81 appearances over four years, scored 15 goals, and recorded seven assists.
Hartford Athletic have signed the following players for the 2023 season:
Forwards: Elvis Amoh, Jeciel Cedeño, Kyle Edwards, Antoine Hoppenot, Joel Quist, Prince Saydee
Midfielders: Danny Barrera, Jonathan Filipe, Kembo Kibato, Andre Lewis, Conor McGlynn,
Defenders: Ash Apollon, Triston Hodge, Robin Lapert, Niall Logue, Luke Merrill, Kaveh Rad, Matt Sheldon, Tulu
Goalkeepers: Joe Rice, Richard…