Bethlehem Steel FC signs Ryan Richter

Bethlehem Steel FC added another piece to their back line by adding former Philadelphia Union first round draft pick and La Salle University product Ryan Richter. The Southampton, Pennsylvania native was picked by the Union fifth overall in the 2011 MLS Supplemental Draft and made his Union debut against Everton in a friendly. He didn't make any league appearances for the first team, instead getting playing time with both the Harrisburg City Islanders and the Union Reserves team. It's noteworthy that during his time with the Union Reserves, Richter was coached by Brendan Burke, who now coaches BSFC.

Floating between the Harrisburg City Islanders and the reserves team didn't bode well for Richter, as his option was declined in 2012 and he was released. Richter then signed with the USL's Charleston Battery and immediately made an impact for his new club, leading them to a league title that year. Richter's performance was enough to have him signed by Toronto FC in 2013, where he made a few appearances before being loaned to the Ottawa Fury. Richter helped lead Ottawa to a NASL Fall Championship, making 30 appearances with the Canadian side this season. Richter was signed by Ottawa last year before being signed by Bethlehem Steel in another case of a Union reunion of sorts. For those keeping count at home, that is now three players who have won the USL title prior to signing for BSFC