The United Soccer League (USL) freshly commenced its 2021 Academy League season, with the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC joining the East-Central Division.
Just two games into the Academy League’s inaugural season, the Riverhounds already spent ample time on the road. Traveling alongside the Riverhounds pro team, the academy team played the undercard game at Indianapolis prior to the Indy Eleven-Hounds matchup June 15. The team finished with a 4-1 loss, but had little time to dwell upon it. Still on the road, the Hounds traveled to Dayton, Ohio the next day where the teams battled in heated contention with the Dayton Dutch Lions. The academy rounded out its second league appearance with a 2-2 draw.
Joining the Riverhounds in the East-Central Division are Cleveland Force SC, Dayton Dutch Lions, Flint City Bucks, Grand Rapids FC, Indy Eleven, Kings Hammer FC and Louisville City FC. All clubs field one elite team composed of the top athletes in their respective programs from the U15-U19 age groups.
The new USL Academy focuses on identifying and supporting leading prospects. These young athletes gain exposure to high-level, professional competition thanks to the direct ties to their USL senior teams.
The Hounds are preparing to suit up again Wednesday, July 14 against Louisville City FC in their first appearance on home turf at Highmark Stadium. For additional USL Academy League information, visit here.
