SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Ali Sasankhah, a four-year letter winner for the Sacramento State men's soccer team from 2021-24, has signed a professional contract with the Richmond Kickers of the USL League One the club announced on March 6.

"During the roster build, we made it a point to look for competitors willing to do what it takes in different scenarios to get something out of each competition," said Chief Sporting Officer and Head Coach Darren Sawatzky in the club's announcement. "Ali brings a tough defensive presence and he is very sharp on the ball. He has good passing range and is willing to mix it up when needed. As he gets up to speed, the City Stadium faithful will enjoy his brand of soccer." 

The Sacramento, Calif., native who prepped at Foothill HS was a three-time Big West Conference All-Academic Team selection who appeared in 55 career matches during his four-year collegiate career, starting 46 of them. The defensive midfielder finished with two goals and two assists as a Hornet.

He steadily worked he way into being a regular in the Hornets' starting 11, appearing in eight matches (four starts) as a freshman before starting all but five of his 47 matches over the next three seasons. He found the back of the net for the first time as a sophomore in a win over Saint Mary's, then added a goal and two assists as a senior, scoring against UC Davis and adding helpers against conference rivals CSUN and UC Irvine.

Following his collegiate years, Sasankhah spent time competing in USL League Two with the Des Moines Menace.

Sasankhah and the his new RIchmond teammates officially kicked-off the season on March 7 with a 1-1 draw against AV Alta FC. For more information visit https://www.richmondkickers.com/.