RICHMOND, VA – (Friday, June 16, 2017) – The Richmond Kickers are pleased to announce the addition of forward Franck Tayou for the 2017 season. The US Futsal National Team and Major Arena Soccer League standout will be eligible for selection for Saturday’s match against the Tampa Bay Rowdies at City Stadium.
Tayou brings extensive professional indoor soccer experience to Richmond, most recently finishing the 2016-17 season as Major Arena Soccer League (MASL) top scorer with a career best 57 goals. Leading the Soles de Sonora to back-to-back MASL championship appearances, the two-time league MVP produced a league-best 72 points in 20 games. He also earned two caps with the U.S. Futsal National Team in 2016, playing a two-legged tie against Canada in CONCACAF Futsal Championship qualifying.
The 6’2” forward signed with San Antonio FC midseason in 2016 and made an immediate impact, tying the team leader with five goals in 17 appearances. He previously spent time with other professional indoor teams including the Las Vegas Legends and the Tulsa Revolution, while also playing for outdoor PDL sides Real Maryland and the Las Vegas Mobsters.
Originally from Cameroon, Tayou relocated to Las Vegas as a child and briefly attended West Virginia University. He led West Virginia in goals in 2010 and posted nine during his collegiate career en route to consecutive NCAA tournament appearances.
The Richmond Kickers return to City Stadium this Saturday, June 17 to host the Tampa Bay Rowdies and BBQ & Bluegrass Fest. The party starts at 5:30pm with live bluegrass music by the Cary Street Ramblers and a BBQ and craft beer special on sale now for $22 at www.richmondkickers.com.
