The Pittsburgh Riverhounds sign four more players for the upcoming season, pending USSF approval. USL veteran’s Shintaro Harada, Louis Rolko, and Pittsburgh’s own Travis MacKenzie join the 2010 First Team; the other player signing for the Hounds is rookie, Sterling Flunder.

Coach Evans discusses the recent signings, “Bringing in veterans players to the squad will help with the competitive nature of the team, as they understand the need to perform day in and day out. These players have proven their worth in our League and will add to the maturation of the younger guys.”

Shintaro has played the past few seasons with Crystal Palace Baltimore and is a tireless engine in the center of the park. His primary position is defensive midfield which will solidify the defense and allow for the Hounds to transition into the attack with numbers.

Rolko came to the Riverhounds invitational combine in February and impressed the coaching staff with his ability to perform in various positions on the field which landed him a place on the squad. Rolko played two years for the Charleston Battery and has the desire to get back in the game. We look for good things from Louie.

Travis returns to the Riverhounds after two seasons of playing with the professional indoor team in Milwaukee. “We are extremely pleased that Travis has rejoined the team after playing with Milwaukee the last two winters. His family has a long history in Pittsburgh’s soccer and Travis will add to that legacy again this season,” remarks Coach Evans. 

Flunder competed at the USL Combine at the beginning of the New Year where he gained the interest of first year Head Coach Evans. “He is an explosive outside defender with good pace, technical skills, and the ability to shut-down the opposition’s offensive threats.”