Richmond, VA – (Tuesday, February 26, 2008) – The Richmond Kickers are pleased to welcome back defender Kelvin Jones to secure the Kickers back line for the 2008 season. Specific terms of the contract were not disclosed.
“We are delighted that Kelvin will return for another year with the Kickers,” comments Leigh Cowlishaw, Richmond Kickers Head Coach. “Over the last two seasons he has proven to be an integral part of our defense. He leads by example and commands the respect of the entire team. This is an important signing as we take another step toward building a team that will compete for USL and Open Cup titles.”
A native of Fredericksburg, Virginia, Jones has anchored the central defense for two seasons, leading the team to consecutive regular season titles (2006, 2007). A proven defensive authority, Jones started 19 of 19 games played and contributed to nine shutouts during the 2007 campaign. He notched his first goal in a Kickers uniform during Richmond’s 2-2 draw in Wilmington in July. Discovered at the Kickers 2006 combine, Jones joined the team prior to the 2006 campaign, making an immediate impact with the defensive unit. Starting 22 of 22 games played, Jones led the defense to nine shutouts on the season as well as the 2006 USL2 regular season and 2006 USL2 Championship titles. A stalwart in the back line, Jones was invited to train with DC United (MLS) following the conclusion of the Kickers 2006 season.
Prior to his tenure with the Kickers, Jones began his professional career with the Charleston Battery of USL First Division. Battling injury, he made 12 appearances over two seasons (2004, 2005).
An offensive threat in the penalty area, Jones tallied two goals and an assist during his senior season at Wake Forest University. In 61 appearances over four seasons with the Deacons, Jones registered four goals and five assists for 13 points overall. Named the 2000 Virginia High School Player of the Year, Jones was a member of the Region I ODP and adidas ESP Teams with his international experience extending to the U-20 and U-17 National Team Pools.
Professional Statistics
#5 Kelvin Jones Defender Ht: 5’11” Wt: 168 Hometown: Fredericksburg, VA
Professional Statistics (Includes US Open Cup and Playoffs)
Club Year GP GS Min G A Pts
Charleston Battery 2004 11 7 687 0 0 0
Charleston Battery 2005 1 1 42 0 0 0
Richmond Kickers 2006 22 22 1878 0 1 1
Richmond Kickers 2007 25 25 2232 1 1 1
Totals 59 55 4189 1 2 2
