Hartford – Hartford Athletic announced the signing of Klisman Sousa (New Bedford, MA) and Ryan Williams (Birkenhead, England) for the Club’s inaugural USL Championship season in 2019, pending league and federation approval.



Sousa was identified at Hartford Athletic’s open tryout where he emerged as one of five players who were invited for an extended trial with the first team. “We’ve been incredibly impressed with what we’ve seen from Klisman over the past few weeks,” said Harford Athletic Head Coach Jimmy Nielsen. “He’s come in ready to compete from the very beginning and has quickly made it clear that he belongs on our Club.”

Sousa completed his senior season at Providence College in the fall of 2018. Sousa, a 23-year-old defender, was named to the All-Big East Second Team in his senior season. Originally from New Bedford, MA, he was named an Eastern Mass All-Star 3 years in a row.



Ryan Williams adds depth and experience to a talented midfield. “Ryan has played all over the world in many different systems and that kind of experience is invaluable,” said Nielsen. “He is an intelligent player who fits well with our roster.” Williams joins Hartford Athletic after a short stint with Tranmere Rovers of English League Two. Williams, who came through the youth ranks with League Two club Chester City, made a name for himself with League Two Club Morcambe where he played 61 matches over the course of two and a half seasons, adding 5 goals. Williams’s career has also taken him to Brazil and Canada, where he played for Serie B Club Paysandu and the USL Championship’s Ottawa Fury FC respectively.



Hartford Athletic traveled to Melbourne, Florida on Wednesday to continue preseason training. The Club will participate in three preseason matches against Miami FC, Orlando City B, and Eastern Florida State College. Hartford Athletic’s Inaugural Season kicks off March 9th with the Club’s Home Opener on May 4th. For tickets and more information go to HartfordAthletic.com/tickets.