HARTFORD, Conn. – Hartford Athletic announced on Wednesday it had signed goalkeeper John Berner for the remainder of the 2025 USL Championship season. The transaction is pending league and federation approval.

Berner has made 50 appearances in the USL Championship regular season over his career, while also competing for the Colorado Rapids after being selected by the club in the 2014 Major League Soccer SuperDraft.

“We’re pleased to bring John Berner to the team.” said Hartford Head Coach and General Manager Brendan Burke. “He’s a proven professional with solid experience, and his presence will add real depth to our goalkeeping unit. John will help raise the standard in training and provide valuable competition within the squad.”

A St. Louis, Mo. native, Berner most recently suited up for FC Tulsa on a 25-day contract earlier in the 2025 season. The 34-year-old made the majority of his appearances in the USL Championship for the Charlotte Independence, where he played 38 regular season games in the 2015 and 2016 seasons.

Prior to his professional career, Berner began his journey at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where he made 34 appearances for the Cougars and earned back-to-back Missouri Valley Conference Goalkeeper of the Year honors in 2012 and 2013, along with First Team All‑MVC recognition in 2012.