January 11, 2024 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – Hartford Athletic News Release
HARTFORD, Conn. – Hartford Athletic have signed goalkeeper Brooks Thompson ahead of the 2024 season, pending league and federation approval.
“I’m thrilled to join Hartford and make the jump up to the Championship as the next step in my career,” said Thompson. “Coach Burke has a reputation for developing a competitive environment that is going to challenge us to be at our best every day. With the right attitude and the instruction of our talented and experienced coaching staff, I am excited about our club’s potential this season.”
Thompson comes to Hartford with experience in USL League One, USL Championship, and MLS Next Pro. Most recently, he helped North Carolina FC win the 2023 USL League One Final. Joining the club on loan from Philadelphia Union II in July, Thompson made 17 starts and 54 saves, recorded four clean sheets, and posted a 1.27 GAA (fourth best in League One). The 21 year old stepped up in a huge spot in the Final against Charlotte Independence, making a diving save in the penalty shootout to clinch the victory for NCFC.
“Brooks is a valuable addition to our goalkeeping unit,” said Head Coach and General Manager Brendan Burke. “He’s shown promise in his young career so far, and we think he has the potential to be a starter in this league. He is the perfect young goalkeeper to push Renan in training every day, and he’ll help us become a top defensive unit.”
The Jefferson, Indiana native signed his first professional contract at 18 years old with Sporting Kansas City in 2021, becoming the youngest signing in the club’s history. He made 12 appearances between Swope Park and Sporting Kansas City II in the USL Championship, making 41 saves and posting a 1.83 GAA.
In 2022, Thompson signed with Philadelphia Union II. He made 14 appearances and racked up 57 saves before being loaned to North Carolina last July.
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