COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC announced on Thursday it had signed midfielder Yosuke Hanya to a multi-year contract through the 2027 USL Championship season. The transaction is pending league and federation approval.

Over the last two seasons, Hanya has been a key contributor for the Switchbacks while on loan from Colorado Rapids 2 of MLS NEXT Pro, appearing in 73 matches and recording six goals and 10 assists.

Hanya originally joined Rapids 2 in 2022 and quickly became a standout performer. Across 50 matches, he recorded 17 goals and 13 assists over 4,165 minutes of action, and earned a place on the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro Best XI. His performance also led to two First Team appearances for the Colorado Rapids.

“Yosuke coming back is a very important attacking threat that can cause a lot of problems for defenders throughout the league. His game IQ and work rate are also pieces that go under the radar, particularly on the defensive actions he provides,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Alan McCann. “He is coming back with a point to prove, which is very exciting for us, as it makes him more dangerous every time he reaches new levels in his development.”

Prior to joining the professional ranks, Hanya competed collegiately at Tokyo Gakugei University in 2017 before he transitioned to the University of Massachusetts, where he played 46 matches, scoring twice and registering 17 assists.

Throughout his time at UMass, he compiled an impressive list of honors, including Atlantic 10 All-Rookie Team recognition, United Soccer Coaches First-Team All-Region, First-Team All-Atlantic 10, and United Soccer Coaches Scholar All-Region. In his graduate season, he added Atlantic 10 Second-Team and United Soccer Coaches All-Region Third-Team accolades.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue with this team for another two years,” said Hanya. “I’ll give everything I have to create more unforgettable moments with our fans and this club.”