UNIONDALE, N.Y. – (Friday, February 25, 2022) –

The Long Island Rough Riders are pleased to announce the re-signing of Bjarne Thiesen for the 2022 USL 2 season.

“Bjarne is coming off the back of an incredible Fall season in which he was named a Division I All-American at WVU,” said Head Coach Tom Bowen. “He could probably have had his pick of any team in the country to play for this summer so the fact that he has chosen to return and play for us again is huge boost to the squad.”

Originally from Stolk Germany, Thiesen made his debut at WVU this past year as a redshirt freshman. He quickly earned his spot in the back line, playing in all 21 games for a total of 1,980 minutes played. Thiesen and the Mountaineers finished the season with nine shutouts and marked as number 8 in the United Soccer Coaches final poll.

Thiesen was named to the All-North Region First Team by the United Soccer Coaches and earned spot #26 in Top Drawer Soccer Men Division I Top 100 players. Additionally, he was named on the United Soccer Coaches All-America Third Team, making him the 12^th All-American in West Virginia’s history.

“I’m convinced he’s a future pro and would be shocked if people are not monitoring him very closely,” said Bowen. “I’m really excited to have him back.”

After joining the Rough Riders late into the season, Theisn made up for lost time earning a starting position and totalling 510 minutes in seven games along with two goals.

The Rough Riders are thrilled to welcome back Thisen as the USL 2 men’s team prepares for a competitive season. You can get tickets and game day packages for their May 22 home opener and following home games here.