
FC Tucson Sign USL Championship Veteran Defender Dakota BarnathanÃâÃÂ
March 8, 2021 - United Soccer League One (USL1)
FC Tucson News Release
TUCSON, Ariz. - FC Tucson announced today that the club has signed former Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC defender Dakota Barnathan, pending league and federation approval.
"I've known Dakota for years from his time in USL League Two with Portland Timbers U23's," said FC Tucson Head Coach John Galas. "First and foremost he's a tremendous competitor who wants to win a championship here in Tucson. Secondly, he's a proven pro who has logged nearly 4000 minutes in the USL Championship. Beyond that, he is a leader and an amazing young man who I believe the fans will grow to love. Absolutely thrilled to welcome him to the club."
Barnathan brings four years of USL Championship experience to the Men in Black. The Massapequa, New York native was drafted by FC Dallas with the 59th pick in the third round of the 2017 MLS SuperDraft, later joining Sporting Kansas City II on February 24, 2017, where he would make his professional debut in the season opener. Barnathan would play 25 games with the club from 2017-2018, helping the squad reach the 2017 USL Championship title match. The defender joined Canadian side Ottawa Fury FC for the 2019 USL Championship season, playing a career-high 28 games and recording two assists.
The 26-year-old most recently played for the Pittsburgh Riverhounds for the 2020 USL Championship season, appearing in eight matches at the center back position, finishing the season with three clearances, two blocks and five interceptions.
"The club's vision and style of play are what really excites me about joining FC Tucson," said Dakota Barnathan. "Winning a championship for this club and city is something I hope I can help achieve. I'm looking forward to getting started here in Tucson to continue to build on the culture and win a trophy."
Barnathan played all four years of NCAA Division I soccer for Virginia Commonwealth University, featuring as the squad's team captain. From 2013-2016, Barnathan played in 56 matches throughout his VCU collegiate career, showcasing versatility by playing in the midfield and backline. To finish off his career with VCU Barnathan started all 21 games of the senior season, recording three goals and tallying four assists.
Dakota Barnathan
Country: USA
Born: November 9, 1994 (26)
Position: Defender
Height: 6 ft 2
Weight: 174 lbs
Previous Club: Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC
United Soccer League One Stories from March 8, 2021
- FC Tucson Midfielder Gerard Lavergne Named to Dominican CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying Roster - FC Tucson
- FC Tucson Sign USL Championship Veteran Defender Dakota BarnathanÃâà- FC Tucson
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