PITTSBURGH (December 7, 2018) – Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC has re-signed midfielder Thomas Vancaeyezeele to a one-year contract with a club option for the 2020 season, pending USL and USSF approval.

As a rookie, Vancaeyezeele led the Hounds with 32 starts and 2,909 minutes during the 2018 season. He showcased his versatility and played numerous different positions, including attacking midfield, holding midfield, center back and outside back.

“Thomas had a great first year with the club,” head coach Bob Lilley said. “He got out of the gate quickly, showing the maturity needed to compete successfully at this level. His consistency and adaptability throughout the course of the season were just as impressive.”

Totaling two goals and one assist in his first campaign in Black and Gold, the University of Charleston (WV) product also was a force on the defensive side of the ball, as he recorded a team-high 219 duels won and 78 interceptions.

Prior to signing this deal, Vancaeyezeele previously had an option picked up by the club on Nov. 13. The Hounds’ roster currently sits at 11 players under contract for the 2019 campaign.

Roster breakdown for 2019 season

Forwards (1): Neco Brett

Midfielders (5): Mouhamed Dabo, Kenardo Forbes, Noah Franke, Kevin Kerr, Thomas Vancaeyezeele

Defenders (4): Tobi Adewole, Jordan Dover, Joe Greenspan, Ryan James

Goalkeepers (1): Kyle Morton