Bolanos Named USL League One September Player of the Month
October 12, 2022 – United Soccer League One (USL1) – Richmond Kickers News Release
TAMPA, Fla. – USL League One announced on Wednesday that Richmond Kickers’ forward Jonathan Bolanos was named the league’s September Player of the Month. Bolanos’s player of the month-worthy performances is presented by Legends Soccer Co.
Bolanos earns his first-ever Player of the Month recognition from USL League One after previously earning a nomination in July 2022. September saw Bolanos help lead the forward line as the Kickers amassed a 2-0-2 record on its way to tightening its grip on its first first-place finish in the league.
In a season full of signature performances, the third-year pro exploded against South Georgia Tormenta FC on September 7th at City Stadium. Trailing by a goal heading into the second half, Bolanos teed up Emiliano Terzaghi’s equalizer in the 55th minute before banging in the game-winner himself in the 72nd minute. Bolanos would put the exclamation mark on the night with a stoppage-time dagger that saw him dribble between two defenders and around the keeper before casually dinking it into the back of the net.
“Being named player of the month is the biggest personal accolade of my professional career,” Bolanos said. “I would like to thank the fans that voted, my teammates, and the coaching staff. To be nominated by the league is always an honor.
“To be singled out in such a manner is clearly a privilege and to be playing at a high level to close out the season is something you dream about.”
On September 24, Bolanos made history at City Stadium. Bolanos combined with Ethan Bryant on a one-two at midfield in the 36th minute against Central Valley Fuego FC. As Bolanos raced the ball up the left wing, Bryant ran parallel toward the top of the penalty area. Bolanos played a low-driven pass to Bryant who ripped a shot from outside of the box and into the top right corner of the net. It marked Bolanos’ 11th assist of the season which broke the record set in 2019.
“We are proud of the work Jono has put in over this past year,” Chief Sporting Officer and Head Coach Darren Sawatzky said. “He has spent countless hours after training and in the video room working to add more end product in games. That work has come to fruition in 2022 and we are all happy for him.
“To be recognized as player of the month is a great reward for the work he has put in and we look forward to watching him continue his production through the 2022 playoffs.”
Bolanos’ performances in September and throughout the season played a crucial role in the Kickers’ earning its first regular-season title since the 2013 season on October 8. The team is currently riding an eight-match unbeaten streak – its longest since joining USL League One in 2019.
In total, Bolanos has 17 total goal contributions in only 20 appearances so far this season.
“To clinch first place with this team is something special,” Bolanos said. “Our goal has been to show resilience on the road and to win at home. We emphasize ball possession which has allowed me to play through others facilitating more opportunities for everyone.
“Winning is a culture and consistency is a standard we set for each other. Our season and team goals are not yet complete and we realize our job is not yet done. There is still much to play for as the playoffs approach and we want to take home a trophy that represents these attributes.”
The Kickers are set to host second-place Greenville Triumph SC during Fan Appreciation Night, presented by CapTech, on Oct. 15. Kickoff is set for 6:30 p.m. Tickets are available at richmondkickers.com/tickets.
The Kickers will then enjoy a bye week before hosting a USL League One semifinal match on October 29. The exact time for the semifinal match will be announced at a later date. Playoff tickets are currently available for purchase for season-ticket and Kickers+ members. Tickets will be made widely available for purchase following the end of the regular-season finale.
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