Richmond, VA – (Monday, February 25, 2008) – The Richmond Kickers look to strengthen the back line with the recent signing of defender Anthony Catalano.  Specific details of the contracts were not disclosed.  

“Anthony attended our 2006 Player Combine and we were impressed with his defensive attributes,” comments Leigh Cowlishaw, Richmond Kickers Head Coach.  “Since then he has gained valuable experience with the Battery and we are confident we have acquired a strong, physical defender who will continue to get better and better.”

A native of Lynchburg, Virginia, Catalano spent the previous two seasons with the Charleston Battery of the USL First Division before signing on with the Kickers defensive unit following the 2008 player combine.  The 6’2” defender started 26 of 29 games played for 2,384 minutes with the Battery and tallied one goal.  Additionally, his last-minute, game-winning goal boosted Charleston to the Third Round of last year’s Lamar Hunt US Open Cup over the PDL side El Paso Patriots.     

A versatile defender, Catalano became the first Elon men’s soccer player to sign a professional contract upon the conclusion of his collegiate career in 2005.  Making 74 appearances with the Phoenix over his career, starting 66 matches, he notched two goals and three assists for seven points.  A 2005 All-SoCon Tournament Team selection, Catalano garnered 2005 Team MVP honors.  Additionally he spent the 2004 season with the Williamsburg Legacy of the USL Premier Development League.  His senior year of high school, Catalano was named Player of the Year, while earning all-region and all-state honors.        

Professional Statistics
#12  Anthony Catalano  Defender   Ht: 6’2”       Wt: 185         Hometown: Lynchburg, VA
Professional Statistics

Club	Year	Games Played	Games Started	Minutes	Goals	Assists	Points
Charleston Battery	2006	16	16	1410	0	0	0
Charleston Battery	2007	10	13	974	1	0	2
Totals		26	29	2384	1	0	2