The New York Empire and Pittsburgh Thunderbirds have agreed to a trade sending Tristan Yarter back to the Thunderbirds for cash considerations.
Yarter, now in his third UFA season, started his career as an 18 year old with the New York Empire. He played in 8 games that season, none bigger than the 2019 Championship game where he helped the Empire close out the game late with one of the most memorable throws in league history.
In 2020, Yarter left the Empire to attend the University of Pittsburgh where he has been one of the top collegiate players in the country. Yarter's second season in the UFA was with the Pittsburgh Thunderbirds in 2021 when he played in 10 games. Empire Head Coach Anthony Nunez reached out to Yarter months before the college season had ended when he saw a shorthanded road roster for the 6/15 Philadelphia Phoenix game.
The Empire were able to negotiate terms for the 2024 season and Yarter ended up also playing in their 6/8 road game against the DC Breeze. Yarter contributed meaningful defensive points in both games, often taking the strongest player on the opposing offense, leading to an Empire win at Philadelphia essentially clinching a playoff spot.
"It's been great to watch Tristan grow since he left the Empire; he's been a standout player at the collegiate level since he entered the division and he has represented the United States on the U24 National Team, winning a gold medal. We were fortunate to sign Tristan when we did and appreciate his contributions to our 2024 season. We wish him the best as he heads to the Thunderbirds to close out the year." - Empire GM Matthew Stevens
In the midst of their own playoff battle and upon seeing Yarter back in the UFA, General Manager of the Thunderbirds Andrew Gardner got on the phone with Stevens to discuss the potential of bringing Yarter back to Pittsburgh. Terms were agreed upon and submitted to the commissioner late last night before the 1AM roster deadline.
"We're very excited to bring Yarter back into the Black and Gold," said Gardner. He got better every game he played for us back in 2021, and we are excited to have him help make that push we need to make the Central Playoffs."
Yarter will be active and ready to play against the Carolina Flyers in Pittsburgh at Highmark Stadium on Saturday, June 29th at 6PM.