RICHMOND, Va. – (Monday, January 21, 2019) – The Richmond Kickers are pleased to announce the signing of midfielder Mutaya Mwape for the 2019 season, pending USSF and USL League One approval.

“Mutaya showed great desire from our first conversation to be a part of the new Richmond Kickers Pro organization,” said David Bulow, Kickers Head Coach. “He is very explosive and dynamic with USL Championship experience and will be an important player for the Richmond Kickers in 2019.”

Mwape signed his first professional contract with the Charlotte Independence in 2018, following a successful trial with the club. The Lusaka, Zambia native went on to make 14 appearances for the Independence, tallying two assists and netting his first professional goal in a draw against the Charleston Battery on June 16.

“It is an honor to have been granted this opportunity to represent this amazing club and be a part of this community,” commented Mwape. “I can’t wait to get started and make the Red Army, Richmond Kickers fans and city proud.”

Playing two years at Lindsey Wilson College, Mwape scored 25 goals and added 19 assists. During his collegiate career, he played in six matches for the Ocean City Nor’easters in 2016 as they made a run to the USL League Two Semifinals. One year later, Mwape made 11 appearances for the Charlotte Eagles as the team marched towards the club’s first USL League Two title. He started his U.S. academic and soccer path through the Berkshire School in Sheffield, Massachusetts.

“I saw Mutaya play well for the Charlotte Independence last season versus Cincinnati and Santos from Mexico,” added Matt Spear, Kickers President. “He’s technical, quick, creative and dynamic. He can break down opponents from wide areas, including cutting inside from the right side to his dominant left foot. And he fits Coach Bulow’s preference to beat teams on the ground and with combination play."

The 2019 Richmond Kickers roster now sits at eight players with the addition of Mwape, including Amass Amankona, Matt Bolduc, Dennis Chin, Josh Hughes, Eli Lockaby, Scott Thomsen, and Braeden Troyer.

Don’t miss a moment of the inaugural 2019 USL League One season at City Stadium! Place your deposit now for 2019 Richmond Kickers Season Tickets and receive perks throughout the season including VIP Express Lane at the Craft Beer trucks and merchandise discounts. More details on 2019 Season Tickets can be found at RichmondKickers.com.