RICHMOND, Va. — The Richmond Kickers have signed defensive midfielder Ali Sasankhah, the club announced Friday. Sasankhah adds a technically sound and hard-working presence to the club’s midfield unit ahead of the upcoming season.

Sasankhah joins Richmond following a four-year collegiate career at Sacramento State, where he developed into a consistent contributor for the Hornets while earning Big West Conference All-Academic Team honors in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

“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. “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.”

During his senior season in 2024, Sasankhah appeared in 15 matches with 11 starts, becoming a regular in Sacramento State’s midfield rotation down the stretch. He recorded one goal and two assists on the season, including a penalty finish in the regular season finale against UC Davis. Known for his composure on the ball and on-field endurance, Sasankhah played the full 90 minutes in multiple matches and started each of the Hornets’ final eight contests of the year.

The 6-foot-2 Persian-American saw steady growth throughout his collegiate career. As a junior in 2023, he started 14 matches and consistently featured in Sacramento State’s midfield, logging several full-match performances. The year prior, he played a major role in the Hornets’ lineup, starting 17 of 18 appearances in 2022, scoring his first collegiate goal in a road victory at Saint Mary’s while totaling 1,476 minutes on the pitch.

Sasankhah made his collegiate debut in 2021, appearing in nine matches as a freshman while earning four starts and recording multiple 90-minute performances early in his career.

“It means a lot to have officially signed my first professional contract with a well known club like the Kickers,” Sasankhah said  “I’ve heard amazing things about the team, fans and the atmosphere. I’m more than excited to be part of the Kickers family and play under Darren.”

Before arriving at Sacramento State, Sasankhah starred at Foothill High School in California, where he was named Pioneer Valley League MVP and team MVP, helping lead the Mustangs to a league title. At the club level, he competed for Placer United in Rocklin, California.

In addition to his collegiate experience, Sasankhah spent time competing in USL League Two with Des Moines Menace, gaining valuable experience in a competitive environment.

RICHMOND, Va. (March 2, 2026) – The ECNL is excited to announce an expansion of the ECNL Playoff structure, with the inaugural ECNL Conference League Playoffs set to kick off in the 2026-27 season in a collaboration with the new unified national competition consolidating the team-based competitions of US Club Soccer and US Youth Soccer.

The ECNL Conference League Playoffs in summer 2027 will combine qualifying teams from the ECNL Regional League and the new competition that combines US Club Soccer’s National Premier Leagues and US Youth Soccer’s National League. The combined new competition will be the top team-based competition in the country, integrated into US Club Soccer’s youth soccer competitive pathway.

“The new ECNL Conference League Playoffs, and the new competition pathway with US Club Soccer and USYS, will recognize and reward top performing teams at all levels of the pyramid, in a logical and transparent pathway,” said ECNL President Christian Lavers. “This collaboration will provide needed clarity and connection in the youth game, and we look forward to the first four ECNL Conference League playoff events in 2027.”

The 2026-27 ECNL Conference League Playoffs will feature four regional playoff events, culminating in the ECNL Conference League Finals in the summer of 2027. The 2026-27 ECNL Conference League Playoffs will take place in Dallas, TX, Davis, CA, Greensboro, NC, and St. Louis, MO with the location of ECNL Conference Finals to be announced at a later date. The ECNL Conference League Playoffs will expand to six venues in the 2027-2028 season to include more locations and teams, and to further reduce travel.

This new postseason structure continues the collaborative work between US Club Soccer, US Youth Soccer, and the ECNL, providing a capstone competition to the competitive pathway announced in December.

The release of US Club Soccer’s competition pathway also coincided with U.S. Soccer’s recently announced Pathways Strategy, an initiative committed to making the game easier to navigate, more accessible and more supportive. To that effect, US Club Soccer welcomes other organizations in the youth soccer ecosystem to collaborate in this vision, and has had positive discussions with many other member organizations.

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About US Club Soccer

A National Association member of the U.S. Soccer Federation, US Club Soccer fosters the growth and development of soccer clubs in order to create the best possible environment for players of all ages.

Anchored by Players First and its pillars of Club Development, Coaching Development, Player Development, Referee Development, Parent Engagement & Education and Player Health & Safety, US Club Soccer offers registration, league- and cup-based competition platforms, player identification and a variety of other programming, resources and services. US Club Soccer is sponsored by Nike, DICK’S Sporting Goods and Gatorade.

About the ECNL

The ECNL is the nation’s leading youth soccer development platform for America’s top soccer players. The ECNL mission to provide the best youth sports experience in the world drives constant innovations in competitions and experiences for players, parents, families, coaches, referees, and partners. The ECNL has questioned convention and challenged the status quo of youth sport since 2009, pushing boundaries and striving for unmatched excellence. Together with its clubs and club leaders, the ECNL creates unforgettable memories and supports the development of youth players into college stars, professionals, world champions, and leaders.

Roots in Northern California: Placer United (U10–U14)

Rylan Hashimoto’s soccer foundation was built through Placer United Soccer Club, where he competed from U10 through U14. In those crucial early years, he developed the technical skills, vision, and tenacious work ethic that eventually caught the attention of national-level scouts.

In 2024, his standout performance at the ECNL Regional Showcase earned him a spot at Real Salt Lake’s MLS NEXT Academy—a transformative moment in his youth soccer journey.

A High School Life Unlike Any Other: RSL Academy Residency

Upon relocating to Utah, Rylan joined Real Salt Lake’s unique Residency Academy, blending elite training with a full high school education—all on one integrated campus. This immersive environment has been instrumental in his growth, nurturing not only his athletic talents but also personal maturity through disciplined time management and academic commitment.

Dominating the National Spotlight in 2025

Rylan’s rise continued with spectacular showings on the national stage:

• Generation adidas Cup: A dominant U16 performance culminated in a 4–0 victory over LA Galaxy, where Rylan scored twice in the final and totaled five goals, earning Tournament MVP honors. (mlssoccer, rsl)
• MLS NEXT Cup: RSL clinched a rare double, with Rylan’s contributions helping vault the team to the title, and he secured a slot in the MLS NEXT Cup Best XI. (rsl)
• MLS NEXT All-Star Game: Selected for the West squad, Rylan lifted his impact in the showcase by winning possession in the attacking third and setting up momentum-shifting plays—including a critical 70th-minute dribble that led to an equalizer. (OurSports Central)

Called Up to the U.S. U-17 National Team

As a testament to his rapid development and national recognition, Rylan was recently called up to the U.S. U‑17 National Team—an important milestone signaling his emergence at the highest level of youth soccer.

While the official RSL announcement didn’t include him among qualifiers call‑ups in early February (rsl), social reports from youth soccer circles confirm that “Rylan Hashimoto’s play with RSL warranted a call up” to the U17 setup (X (formerly Twitter)). This marks a significant endorsement of his potential on the international stage.

Playing Style & Future Outlook

Rylan thrives as both a midfielder and attacker—known for attacking creativity, relentless pressing, inventive runs, and positional versatility. These attributes, paired with his competitive maturity and structured high school life within the residency, shape him as a top-tier emerging prospect.

His path—from Placer United and the ECNL Showcase spotlight to academy honors and national team call-up—crystallizes the modern U.S. development route: grassroots excellence, crucial showcase opportunities, and residency-based progression.

Summary Table

Ryan Hollingshead’s Major League Soccer career reached a remarkable milestone this season as the veteran defender celebrated his 300th MLS appearance — a testament to both his longevity and unwavering commitment to the sport.

A product of Placer United Soccer Club in Northern California, Ryan honed his skills locally before making a name for himself at UCLA, where he was an All-American standout. In 2013, he was selected by FC Dallas in the MLS SuperDraft, but unlike most, Ryan delayed the start of his professional career. Instead, he chose to honor a personal promise — helping his brother Scott build Harvest Bible Chapel, a new church in Sacramento. Guided by faith and family, this decision reflected the depth of his character.

In 2017, his journey took another dramatic turn. While aiding a stranded motorist during icy conditions, Ryan was struck by a car, suffering three broken vertebrae in his neck. His future in soccer seemed uncertain. But in true Hollingshead fashion, he defied the odds. After months in a neck brace and intense rehab, he returned to the field just four months later and went on to appear in 18 games that same season. His courage earned him the MLS WORKS Humanitarian of the Year award for his selflessness.

After nearly a decade with FC Dallas, Ryan was traded to LAFC in February 2022, where he quickly became a key piece of the backline. His consistent performances and leadership helped fuel LAFC’s success in league play and beyond.

Most recently, Hollingshead and LAFC faced Chelsea FC in a highly anticipated Club World Cup match. Despite a challenging 2–0 loss, Ryan was a standout performer, pushing forward relentlessly and coming close to scoring with a stunning 30-yard strike. The result may not have gone their way, but Hollingshead’s class and competitiveness on the global stage once again highlighted the career of a player who has overcome every obstacle placed in his path.

From building churches to building defenses, Ryan Hollingshead’s story is one of grit, grace, and gratitude — and he’s far from done writing it.

We’re thrilled to announce that the Mexican National Team has scouted Placer United’s Kairi Payan during a recent futsal tournament. She is invited to the El Camino – Regional Talent ID Camp for outdoor play!

In a letter received from Diego Slobotzky, Head of Mexican National Teams Competitions, he wrote, “Kairi’s game vision, soccer IQ, offensive drive, and precise passing caught the eye of national scouts—earning her this exciting opportunity through El Camino, the Mexican Federation’s premier talent identification program in the U.S.

The scouts were clear: while no game is without mistakes, Kairi’s performance stood out, and they’re eager to continue evaluating her between June 13-18 in Sacramento.” This opportunity is a big step in Kairi’s soccer journey—and just the beginning of what we hope will be a bright future!

The Payan family credits Placer United Soccer Club as a cornerstone of Kairi’s development. “The support, guidance, and high-level training she’s received have helped shape her into the player—and person—she is today,” said Kairi’s father, Oscar Payan.

“We’re proud of Kairi and inspired by her commitment, humility, and work ethic,” said Ron Benjamin, Placer United Director of Girls Coaching. “She knows there’s still a long road ahead—but she’s ready to chase her dream and represent with pride.”

Let’s go, Kairi!

Placer United congratulates twenty-one girls and twenty-eight boys who received honors from their respective high schools. Here are the players who received 1st Team All-League Honors for the 2023-2024 season:

Sierra Foothill League (SFL)

Del Oro High School – Kiana Faucette, Beckham Pointer (League MVP), Ayden Scammacca, Izzy Scott, Brooklyn Tanon, James Tibbetts, Logan Webster

Folsom High School – Hunter Wexler

Granite Bay High School – Connor Johnson, Molly Newlin, Camryn Savig

Oakridge High School – Drew Hatch, Samantha Liaty, Olivia Marsh, Savannah Miller

Rocklin High School – Gia Costanzo,  Carter Haynes, Jovan Petrovich, Shannon Proubski, Jovan Radovich

Whitney High School – Pierce LaVine, Everett Shanklin, Nick Sprinsteel, Gabby Starr, Jake Tyberg

Capital Athletic League (CAL)

Vista Del Lago High School – Aiden Galvan (League Defensive MVP), Taylor Grover

Capital Valley Conference (CVC)

Roseville High School – Ty Branigan, James Crawford (HS Offensive Player of the Year), Kaiden Pedone, Peyton Rocholz

Woodcreek High School – Ty Branigan, Vince Noble (League MVP)

Central California Athletic League (CCAL)

Thomas Downey High School (Modesto) – Caroline Souza

Delta League

Elk Grove High School – Jack Gerber (All Sportsmanship Award, Scholar Athlete Award)

Jesuit High School – Renner Smiley

Foothill Valley League (FVL)

Placer High School – Ella Atherton-Turner

West Park High School – Olivia Sisto, Cade Vickers

Golden Empire League (GEL)

Casa Roble High School – Mia Alvarez-Tostado (League Defensive Player of the Year)

Pioneer Valley League (PVL)

Center High School – Daniel Sanchez

Golden Sierra High School – Carter Brust (League Offensive MVP, HS Team MVP)

Lindhurst High School – Jared Oseguera (Golden Glove Award, Scholar Athlete Award)

Twelve Bridges High School – Kelsey Kurland (League Co-MVP Award), Chloe Van Winkle, Josie Young

Wheatland High School – Julissa Lopez, Nolan Mierzwa (Scholar Athlete Award, HS Defensive MVP), Hiroshi Yang (League MVP)

It was a complicated process to track and compile this list. If we missed anyone named a 1st team all-conference player for the 2023-2024 season, please let us know, and we will add you.

Congrats to all of our fantastic student-athletes on a great high school soccer season!

Placer United is pleased to announce two new staff positions for the U8-U12 programs (7v7 and 9v9). Join us in welcoming Martin Johnson and Bryan “BJ ” Glass as technical directors who will be valuable assets in assisting our coaches and players in reaching their technical potential and prepare them for 11v11 soccer. The goals for these positions are to help make our younger players technical wizards with the ball and gain an understanding of smaller-sided tactical decisions within the game. Additionally, the technical directors will support coaches in the younger-age teams and ensure they are armed with everything they need to succeed.

Martin Johnson, Technical Director – Boys U8-U12

Since joining the Club in 2020, Martin has quickly demonstrated his ability to create fun and dynamic sessions to maximize our younger players’ development. 

“Martin’s calm demeanor and attention to the technical details we value so highly at the Club make him the perfect candidate to oversee both coaches and players in the discovery phase and into the skill-acquisition phase of our player development model,” said Kevin Unsworth, Boys Director of Coaching.

Bryan “BJ” Glass, Technical Director – Girls U8-U12

After a 10-year youth playing career with Placer United, Coach BJ returned to the Club in 2012 as a staff coach and has been in this role for 11 years. Throughout his coaching career, Coach BJ has worked with our club teams at all levels and coaches at the high school and junior college levels.

“Coach BJ has proven that he is passionate about the game, continuing to advance his coaching education and his dedication to the development of our Placer United players,” said Ron Benjamin, Girls Director of Coaching.

Placer United focuses on the quality and dedication of our coaching staff. This is a well-deserved promotion for Coach Martin and Coach BJ as they look to better themselves as a coach/director and mentor to others.

Placer United is well-represented amongst the various high school leagues in the greater Sacramento region. Placer United boasts twenty-seven girls who earned 1st Team All-League honors for the 2022-2023 season:  

Bella Vista – Ayla Hardenburgh

Casa Roble – Lauren Romumowicz

Colfax – Chey Ackerman

Del Oro – Kiana Faucette, Izzy Scott

Oakmont – Hannah Andreasen

Oakridge – Samantha Liaty, Savanah Miller

Placer – Meghan Bennion

Ponderosa – Brooklyn Hayes

Rocklin – Shannon Porubski, Haley Simmons, Caitlin Winter

Rosemont – Andrea Hernandez

Roseville – Gwen Forman, Hailee Jones

Thomas Downey (Modesto) – Caroline Souza

Turlock – Jenna Dean

Twelve Bridges – Kelsey Bartlett, Kelsey Kurland, Stella-Grace Tamayo, Chloe Van Winkle, Josie Young

Vista Del Lago – Makena Gradek, Taylor Grover

Whitney – Gabby Starr

Woodcreek – Lexi Schroeder

It was a complicated process to track and compile this list. If we missed anyone named a 1st team all-conference female player for the 2022-2023 season, please let us know, and we will add you.

Congrats to all on a great high school soccer season!

The 2022 Division 1 Women’s College Cup Soccer Championships begin on Friday, and Placer United boasts four alumna who will be competing in the event. In the first round, ’03 Kellie Pagador and the #3 seed Stanford Cardinals will take on the San Jose State Spartans. ’03 Kalia Uehara of Jackson State University will face #1 seed Alabama. ’99 Mackenzie George and the #6 seed Tennessee Volunteers face off against Xavier. Lastly, ’00 Abena Aidoo and Vanderbilt take on the #5 seed Clemson Tigers.

Official Bracket

We are very proud of you ladies, and wish you the best of luck!

Go Placer!

Coach Janis, an alumna of Vanderbilt University, catches up with Placer United alumna and Vanderbilt senior, Abena Aidoo after the Vanderbilt game today!