November 30, 2023 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – Hartford Athletic News Release
Hartford Athletic have signed defender Thomas Vancaeyezeele ahead of the 2024 season, pending league and federation approval.
Vancaeyezeele comes to Hartford with five USL Championship seasons under his belt and over 120 appearances in the league. His most recent stint in the Championship was with the Tampa Bay Rowdies in 2022, contributing to their run to the Eastern Conference Final. The 29 year old entered the league with the Pittsburgh Riverhounds, putting together three excellent seasons from 2018 to 2020 and helping the Hounds to three straight postseason berths. Across 88 overall appearances, he led the team in interceptions all three years and minutes played in 2018 and 2020. A multi-skilled and versatile player, he played attacking midfield, holding midfield, center back and outside back. Vancaeyezeele received league-wide recognition as well, earning selections to the 2019 All-League Second Team and 2020 All-League First Team.
“Building from the back with a defense that not only knows how to defend but also knows how to start the attack is a huge point of emphasis for our Club going into 2024, and I am thrilled to welcome Thomas to be part of that group,” said CEO Nick Sakiewicz. “He’s an experienced, proven winner in multiple teams and one of the most consistent defenders in this league over the years. His versatility playing across the defense and in the midfield will bring a lot of optionality and we are excited to see him in Green and Blue.”
A native of Caen, France, Vancaeyezeele has made eight appearances for the French Guiana national team, including two in the 2023 CONCACAF Gold Cup. He began his soccer career with fourth-tier club Stade Malherbe Caen II of the French Championnat National 2 during its 2011-12 season, and later joined Hérodville of the Championnat National 3. Vancaeyezeele played collegiately at the College of Charleston, leading them to their first national championship victory and winning NCAA Division II Player of the Year in 2017.
Hartford’s 2024 roster is growing with more announcements to come! Watch the new squad at Trinity Health Stadium by locking up the best seats with season tickets. Secure the best seat options at the best prices at HartfordAthletic.com/seasontickets.
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