RICHMOND, Va. – (Thursday, August 6, 2020) – The Richmond Kickers are pleased to announce the signing of defender Hassan Pinto, pending USL League One and USSF approval. He will be available for selection this Saturday against Forward Madison FC.
“Hassan has had a good trial period with us here in Richmond,” said Kickers Sporting Director and Head Coach, Darren Sawatzky. “He is a smart player with great physical attributes. The ability to sign a young defender with potential is huge as we build our team for the future. He is training well and growing quickly so hopefully we see him getting influential minutes sooner than expected.”
Pinto signs his first pro contract coming off a season at Duke University, starting in 17 of his 18 matches played and scoring in his first match with the Blue Devils. He was a pivotal part of the team’s eight shutouts in 2019. Prior to making the move to Duke, the Durham, N.C. native spent four years at Elon University. After redshirting his freshman season, Pinto played in 48 matches for the Phoenix, starting in all but one match. During his career at Elon, he helped lead the school to 22 shutouts, while adding two assists in his senior season.
“I’m so excited for the opportunity to sign my first professional contract with the Richmond Kickers,” commented Pinto. “I can’t wait to get started!”
The Kickers are back in action this Saturday night for the Home Opener, presented by Woodfin as Forward Madison FC comes to town for a 6:30 p.m. kickoff at City Stadium. This match will kick off the slate of matches to air on WTVR CBS 6.3, as well as streaming on ESPN+. A limited number of tickets are still available at www.richmondkickers.com/Tickets.
