Riverhounds Development Academy adds Rich Hackenburg to staff

PITTSBURGH (Via Pittsburgh Riverhounds Academy) – The Pittsburgh Riverhounds Development Academy (RDA) has hired Rich Hackenberg to the staff for its 2019-20 season.

Hackenberg, a native of Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania, has more than 25 years of coaching experience in the area and was the former club co-president for SCS United. He also was the architect of the merger between PA Crew Academy and Stars United in 2016.

Hackenberg will begin his duties with the club effective immediately.

“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Rich into the Riverhounds family,” Academy Director Scott Gibson said. “We have worked very hard over the last few months to get to this point and have him start full time. He brings a wealth of experience and energy, and is exactly the type of trainer and coach who is suited to the philosophy of the Academy.”

Hackenberg and the RDA have been active behind the scenes in building a new program, which is planned to be announced on April 1. This program will be a major piece in the overall framework of development for the Academy. In addition, Hackenberg will also be the head coach of two RDA-level teams and an integral part of the Summer Camp programs offered by Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC.

“I am looking forward to being part of this organization,” Hackenberg said. “This has been years in the making, and I can’t wait to get started. I feel like the RDA and the Riverhounds have the best platform for a full pathway, from the youngest players in the Training Academy and community partnerships, through the RDA, to the professional side. I am looking forward to contributing to the team and helping the RDA continue to move the game forward.”

Over the coming weeks, the RDA plans to announce information on upcoming RDA team tryouts for the 2019-20 season.