Richmond Kickers News Release -- www.richmondkickers.com
Monday, May 16, 2011
RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Kickers are pleased to announce that defender Henry Kalungi has been called up for Uganda National Team duty for an African Cup of Nations 2012 qualifier match against Guinea Bissau on June 4, 2011 at Mandela National Stadium in Uganda.
“We are pleased that Henry’s consistent performances for the Kickers have been recognized,” said Leigh Cowlishaw, Richmond Kickers Head Coach and Director of Soccer. “Henry is a model professional who has contributed greatly to the team’s success over the last two seasons. It is a dream of players around the world to represent their country and we congratulate Henry on achieving this wonderful honor.”
“I’m very privileged to be called to play for my country,” added Kalungi. “We play football but it’s always special when you get a call like this. I have to pay back by doing what is expected of me on the pitch.”
Originally from Kampala, Uganda, Kalungi represented his country as a member of the U-20 National Team. He came to the United States to play for Winthrop University, earning honors as All-Big South in 2006, as well as team MVP, Big South All-Tournament Team and NSCAA/adidas All-South Atlantic Region Team.
In 2009, Kalungi joined the Kickers and earned USL Second Division Player of the Week Honors on two occasions. The 2010 campaign was no different for the Ugandan international, earning another USL-2 Player of the Week nod for his defensive efforts. An advocate for youth player development in Richmond as well, Kalungi acts as a coach for the Richmond Kickers Youth Soccer Club Advanced Development Program (ADP).
Uganda tops Group J with seven points, with Kenya in second place with four points and Guinea Bissau and Angola tied with three apiece. Last time out, Uganda defeated Guinea Bissau, 1-0, on March 26, 2011.