Hartford Athletic

Hartford Athletic is a professional football club based in Hartford, Connecticut, USA. The club was established in 2018 and competes in the USL Championship, the second tier of the American soccer pyramid. The club is known for its vibrant green and blue colors, representing the Connecticut River and the lush landscapes of the state.

Hartford Athletic was founded by local businessman Bruce Mandell, who had a vision of bringing professional soccer to the capital city of Connecticut. The club was officially announced as a USL Championship franchise in July 2018, and it played its inaugural season in 2019. The team's home matches are held at Dillon Stadium, a historic venue that has been renovated and modernized to accommodate the club.

In its short history, Hartford Athletic has quickly gained a passionate fan base. Known as the "19th Regiment", the club's supporters are renowned for their energetic and enthusiastic support during matches. The club also has a strong community focus, with initiatives aimed at promoting soccer and healthy lifestyles among the youth in the Hartford area.

On the field, Hartford Athletic has shown a commitment to developing a competitive and entertaining team. The club's inaugural head coach was Jimmy Nielsen, a former MLS goalkeeper. Under his leadership, the team showed promise in its first season, despite facing the challenges of being a new club. Nielsen was succeeded by Radhi Jaïdi, a former Tunisian international and Southampton U23 coach, who has continued to build on the club's foundations.

Hartford Athletic's mission is to provide a top-tier professional soccer experience for the people of Hartford and the surrounding region. The club is committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity and community engagement, with a focus on youth development and health and wellness initiatives.

In terms of achievements, Hartford Athletic reached the playoffs in their second season in 2020, marking a significant milestone in the club's history. This achievement demonstrated the club's potential and ambition to become a leading force in American soccer.

Hartford Athletic is more than just a football club; it is a symbol of community spirit and local pride. It represents the city's rich sporting heritage and its passion for soccer. Despite being one of the newer clubs in the USL Championship, Hartford Athletic has already made a significant impact on the field and in the community. The club's growth and progress in its short existence is a testament to the vision of its founders, the dedication of its players, and the unwavering support of its fans.