RICHMOND, Va. – (Friday, January 17, 2020) – The Richmond Kickers have added defender Ian Antley for the 2020 season, pending USL League One and USSF approval.
“Adding grit and competitive nature to our group was a goal in the 2019 offseason,” commented Darren Sawatzky, Kickers Sporting Director and Head Coach. “Ian is a player that has played for me in the past and his willingness to battle and bring competition day in and day out will benefit our club. We see him playing across the back line and contributing to the culture we want to foster with the Kickers.”
A four-year standout at Mercer University, Antley made 56 appearances for the Bears, scoring three goals and adding eight assists. He was one of three Mercer athletes to pick up NSCAA All-South Region honors twice in a career. During his senior season, Antley was co-captain for the team, leading them the 2016 Southern Conference tournament championship. His twin brother Conner is a familiar foe for the Kickers, playing the 2019 season with South Georgia Tormenta FC, before joining the Indy Eleven in the USL Championship.
“First and foremost I’d like to thank Coach Darren, along with the Richmond Kickers organization, for allowing me this opportunity,” said Antley. “I am grateful to be given the chance to succeed at what I love, and I look forward to working with my new teammates. I’d like to thank my coaches and teammates throughout my playing career. I wouldn’t be in this situation if it wasn’t for you all pushing me to be the best player and teammate I can be. I look forward to my arrival in Richmond and getting to work towards our goal of winning a championship.”
“To the River City Red Army along with the entire Richmond community, thank you,” Antley continued. “Your continuous support of the Richmond Kickers is why we are one of the oldest continuously run professional soccer clubs in the United States. I look forward to meeting you all along our journey towards success!”
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2020 Richmond Kickers Roster
Goalkeepers (1): Akira Fitzgerald
Defenders (7): Wahab Ackwei, Ian Antley, Devante Dubose, Ivan Magalhães, Conor Shanosky, Scott Thomsen, Kyle Venter
Midfielders (8): Amass Amankona, Greg Boehme, Matt Bolduc, David Diosa, Victor Falck, Ryley Kraft, Mutaya Mwape, Luke Pavone
Forwards (2): Stanley Alves, Charles Boateng
