RICHMOND, Va. – (Friday, January 18, 2019) – The Richmond Kickers are pleased to announce the signing of Virginia Commonwealth University defender Eli Lockaby for the 2019 season, pending USSF and USL League One approval. 

“Eli is a player that I’ve been very interested in for quite some time and got to watch a lot of him in his senior season at VCU,” commented David Bulow, Kickers Head Coach. "He has the potential to be one of the best young players in all of USL League One and I can’t wait to start working with him.”

Lockaby is coming off a four-year career at VCU, starting in 62 games and appearing in 73 matches for the Rams, including leading the team the regular season title his senior season. During his time at VCU, Lockaby scored on two occasions and assisted in 12 goals. He was named to the Atlantic 10 All-Academic team in both his junior and senior seasons. Throughout his collegiate career, Lockaby spent time with the Orlando City U23s and the Des Moines Menace in USL League Two.  

“I am truly thrilled to begin my professional career with the Kickers,” said Lockaby. “I would like to thank my family, friends and teammates for their continuous support and encouragement over the years. I would also like to thank Coach Giffard and VCU soccer for allowing me the opportunity to continue playing the beautiful game while earning my degree. Richmond has been my home the past four years and I couldn’t be more excited to be a part of the Richmond Kickers organization. I hope the Red Army is ready because it’s going to be an incredible year in RVA and I can’t wait to get right to work!”

Growing up in Orlando, Florida, Lockaby played in the Orlando City SC youth system and played through the OCSC Academy U18 Team. Prior to joining VCU, he was a Regional Finalist and named to the 2013 All-Central Florida First Team. 

“It’s awesome to get a quality player like Eli from VCU, an excellent NCAA Division I program and a University that is an important partner on several levels,” commented Matt Spear, Kickers President. “I am familiar with Eli as a very successful and talented full back on the Rams’ A-10 regular season champion squad.”

The Kickers roster is now at seven members for the 2019 season with the addition of Lockaby, including Amass Amankona, Matt Bolduc, Dennis Chin, Josh Hughes, 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.