PAWTUCKET, R.I. – Rhode Island FC announced on Friday it had signed defender Clay Holstad for the upcoming 2024 USL Championship season. The transaction is pending federation and league approval.

A native of Birmingham, Ala. Holstad joins RIFC after spending last season with Columbus Crew 2 of MLS NEXT Pro. Holstad signed his first professional contract with Columbus in March 2023 after being selected by the Crew in the Second Round (43rd overall) of the 2023 MLS SuperDraft. Prior to his professional career, Holstad played collegiate soccer at the University of Kentucky.

“We are thrilled to bring Clay to Rhode Island,” said RIFC Head Coach Khano Smith. “Clay brings athleticism and speed to our defensive core. His versatility and ability to play multiple positions makes him a valuable asset to what we are building.”

Holstad appeared in 26 matches, starting in 19 throughout the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro season. The defender recorded one goal and one assist in 1,761 minutes of action while helping Columbus advance to MLS NEXT Pro Cup last October.

Analysis

Clay Holstad put together a solid first professional campaign with Columbus Crew 2, recording 32 interceptions and 169 recoveries while posting a tackle success rate of 67.6 percent and duel success rate of 54 percent while starting every game of the club’s run to the MLS NEXT Pro Cup in the postseason.

Arriving in Rhode Island, he could have a chance to step into the starting lineup for the expansion side but is more likely to be a depth piece that can plug gaps in different areas of the field. Previously a central midfielder at the University of Kentucky – where the 24-year-old was voted to the United Soccer Coaches Division I Men’s All-Southeast Region Second Team in his final season – Holstad should be a useful part of Head Coach Khano Smith’s squad this season.