GREENVILLE, S.C. – Greenville Triumph SC introduced defender Tyler Polak as its first signing in club history on Friday, with the experienced veteran set to lead the club into its inaugural 2019 USL League One season as he reunites with Triumph Head Coach and Sporting Director John Harkes. The signing is pending league and federation approval.

“Tyler brings experience and leadership to our club on and off the field,” said Harkes, who described Polak as “a very talented attacking left fullback possessing the ability to defend and pass through pressure.” He said the 26-year-old demonstrates high technical ability and times his runs well in the final third.

“Tyler has great character and loves to compete,” Harkes added. “I am happy to work with him again with the Triumph.”

Polak attended Creighton University before being drafted 22nd overall by the New England Revolution at the 2012 MLS SuperDraft. After 13 appearances with the Rochester Rhinos in the USL Championship in 2013, he joined Minnesota United FC and made three appearances in the 2014-15 season. Polak signed with Harkes and FC Cincinnati ahead of its first season in 2016 and logged 2,682 minutes during the team’s inaugural campaign in the Championship.

“I’m excited to get to Greenville and start working with Coach Harkes and my teammates, all of whom will be focused on creating something special in this inaugural season of the new league,” Polak said. “I am thrilled for the opportunity and can’t wait to meet the community and make our supporters proud.”

Polak also spent two stints with Championship side Saint Louis FC, including last year when he helped the side reach the USL Cup Playoffs for the first time as he made seven appearances after joining the club midway through the regular season.

“This is a historic moment for our club,” said Chris Lewis, president of the Triumph. “Tyler is just the first of a group of extraordinarily talented players to be introduced in the coming weeks who will bring to life our organization’s dream of fielding a pro soccer team for the fans and supporters in our community.”

The Triumph’s inaugural home game is set for April 6 at Legacy Early College when it plays host to Lansing Ignite FC at 7 p.m. ET.