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USL Hartford Athletic

Hartford Athletic Defender Tulu Returns for 2023

December 8, 2022 - United Soccer League Championship (USL)
Hartford Athletic News Release


Hartford Athletic announced today that defender Tulu will return for the 2023 season, pending league and federation approval.

"It feels great to be back for a third season in Hartford," Tulu said. "One of the best things about this club is the incredible support shown by the fans every week. I've been fortunate to make such great connections over my two years here and I'm so happy I'll get to continue that for another year. I look forward to building on the momentum we established with Coach Ramos at the end of last season and getting our squad back to the playoffs!"

Tulu is returning for his third season with the club, following two quality campaigns in 2021 and 2022. The Togolese defenseman has made 52 appearances for the Green and Blue across two seasons, and has played just under 4,000 minutes for the club (3,939).

After starting 27 games in 2021, Tulu saw limited minutes and started just four matches through the first 16 of 2022. He made his fifth start on July 6th at Detroit City FC and made the most of it, recording 10 clearances and blocking three shots. He went on to start all but two of Hartford's 17 remaining games, all a part of a monster second half of the season for the 25 year old. Tulu would finish the season second on the team in blocked shots (27), third on the team in clearances (88), and scored two goals. He made a heroic goal line block to help Hartford hang on to three points at FC Tulsa on August 24th, a victory that kicked off a five-game undefeated streak for Hartford. At season's end, Tulu was voted Hartford's Most Improved Player in this year's Fan's Choice Awards.

"Tulu is a tremendous defender who was a core part of the back line last year," said Tab Ramos. "He is a physical player who is willing to sacrifice his body and block shots. He's disciplined in his positioning and communication on the field and brings great intensity to training sessions and games. We're very excited to see him compete for us in 2023."

"Tulu is a tough defender," said Technical Director Ray Reid. "Despite not getting the playing time he wanted, Tulu worked hard and ended up being a key piece in our back line. He's aggressive, strong in the air, and works hard defensively. We're happy to have him back protecting our side of the field next year."

Hartford Athletic 2023 roster so far:

Forwards: Antoine Hoppenot, Prince Saydee, Kyle Edwards, Jeciel Cedeño

Midfielders: Danny Barrera, Conor McGlynn, Andre Lewis

Defenders: Robin Lapert, Tulu

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