HARTFORD, Conn. – Hartford Athletic announced on Tuesday it had re-signed Jeciel Cedeño for the 2023 USL Championship season, pending league and federation approval.

“I’m very excited to be back for the 2023 season,” said Cedeño. “I want to thank God, Coach Ramos, and the rest of the organization for giving me this opportunity. I’ve loved being part of Hartford the past two seasons and I can’t wait to be back playing in front of Fortress Hartford next year.”

Cedeño returns for his third season with the club, with current teammates Danny Barrera and Conor McGlynn the only players to have played more seasons in a Hartford Athletic uniform. He made the 2021 squad after being invited to Hartford's preseason and signed with the club after scoring three goals in limited minutes in the preseason. In his first two years with the club, the Ecuadorian forward has totaled 598 minutes across 26 appearances. Cedeño saw an uptick in playing time in the final stretch of the 2022 season. He made his first start of the season in a 3-1 victory against the LA Galaxy II on September 6th, and made four more appearances after Head Coach Tab Ramos took over for the season’s final six matches.

“I’m pleased to have Jeciel back for 2023,” said Ramos. “He is an incredibly hard worker and pushes himself and his teammates in training. He's a skillful player on the ball, and has potential to make an impact for us in the attacking third. I’m excited to see him develop further in 2023.”

“Jeciel is a talented young player,” said Hartford Technical Director Ray Reid. “He’s quick on the ball, has a strong left foot, and has a great passion for the game. He can be an important piece for this club in 2023.”