Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC was founded on March 11, 1998, by Belle Vernon, Pennsylvania native Paul Heasley. The team’s emergence ended the sport’s 12-year hiatus in the city at the professional level after the Pittsburgh Spirit of the Major Indoor Soccer League folded in 1986.

Heasley’s inspiration for the team formed when his son, Lucas, began seriously playing soccer in the late 1990s. As there were no local role models for Lucas to look up to, Heasley’s aim was to create a club embodying the character of Pittsburgh and western Pennsylvania that could fuel the ambitions of youngsters in the region and give them a pathway to become professional soccer players.

This vision was realized during the 1999 USL draft when Peters Township native Justin Evans was selected as the Riverhounds’ first player. The team compiled a 16-12 record in its inaugural regular season, playing its home matches at Bethel Park High School.

In 2004, Heasley sold the Riverhounds. The team subsequently underwent a number of venue and ownership changes before landing at Highmark Stadium for the 2013 season.

Current owner Tuffy Shallenberger took control of the Riverhounds and Highmark Stadium in 2013.

The Riverhounds also operate a thriving youth academy with locations in Pittsburgh and Connellsville.

Sports

Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC

Jeff Garner

Willie Hunt

Samantha Dutch

Michael Briggs

Mallory Neil

Karina Graziani

Julia Wasielewski

Julia Concolino

John Menefee

Alexander Guie

Riley Butler

Nicole Rudy

Kara Haslett

Ryan R. Shaffer

The Event and Game Day Operations team at Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC ensures the smooth and efficient execution of home matches and special events. This team coordinates game day logistics, manages stadium operations, supports fan engagement activities, oversees the press box functions, and facilitates merchandise sales to enhance the overall experience for attendees at Highmark Stadium.

Event and Game Day Operations

Marketing and Community Outreach

Soccer Team

Event and Game Day Operations

About

Team members

Other teams at Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC

Marketing and Community Outreach

Soccer Team