HARTFORD, Conn. – Hartford Athletic announced on Thursday the club had signed defender Robin Lapert for the remainder of the 2022 USL Championship season, pending league and federation approval. Lapert will be available for selection in Hartford’s upcoming contest against the LA Galaxy II on Monday night at Dignity Health Sports Park.

Lapert transferred to UConn in 2018 after winning a Division II National Championship with the University of Charleston (W.V) the season prior, where he contributed five goals and an assist his freshman year. The defender turned in a strong career as a Husky under current Athletic Technical Director Ray Reid, earning American Athletic All-Conference Second Team honors in 2018 and 2019. He was instrumental to UConn’s five shutout victories in his sophomore year and started every match across two seasons. His senior season was cut short after two games due to injury.

“Robin was an integral player in his time at UConn,” said Reid. “He will help push our current defenders in training and will compete for time on the pitch. Having coached him for three years, I know that his character is top-notch on and off the field.”

A native of Le Havre, France, Lapert played for the Le Havre AC U19 academy team before moving to the United States. The Le Havre AC Academy is one of the most prestigious in all of France, producing players such Paul Pogba, Riyad Mahrez, Dimitri Payet, Lassana Diarra, Édouard Mendy.

“I couldn’t be more excited to sign with Hartford Athletic,” said Lapert. “I have a strong relationship with Coach Reid from my time at UConn and being in the area over the years, I’ve seen the club and organization grow into something really special. I can’t wait to play in front of Hartford’s passionate fans.”