PITTSBURGH – The Pittsburgh Riverhounds have signed defender Rich Balchan to a one-year deal pending league and federation approval.

Invited on trial this past February, including playing against the University of Akron and University of Charleston (W.Va) during the preseason, Balchan officially joins the club after last competing for Ottawa Fury FC in 2016. 

“Rich is an experienced right back that can also play center back,” said Riverhounds Head Coach Dave Brandt. “We were a little thin in the back with only eight guys on the roster covering those spots, but heavy up front, so I think Rich is a really good addition for us as an experienced, solid, versatile defender.”

A native of Ann Arbor, Mich., Balchan was originally drafted by the Riverhounds’ current MLS partner Columbus Crew SC in the first round (14th overall) of the 2011 MLS SuperDraft. With Crew SC, Balchan registered 19 in his two seasons with the club, scored one goal, before signing with Real Salt Lake in 2013.

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Following two seasons in Utah, Balchan signed with the Tampa Bay Rowdies in 2015, where he made 15 appearances. He joined Ottawa Fury FC this past season, battling injury to make three total appearances with the club.

Internationally, Balchan competed for the United States U20 National Team in 2008, notably making appearances against reserve squads from Manchester United and Bolton Wanderers.

At the collegiate level, Balchan played at Indiana University from 2007-10, making 80 appearances and receiving multiple All-Big Ten honors. He also had stints with the Fort Wayne Fever and Chicago Fire Premier of the Premier Development League.