ST. LOUIS, Mo. – Former University of West Florida men's soccer student-athlete Richard Dixon will compete for his native country Jamaica on the Men's National Team. Dixon will spend the summer competing in the Copa America 2015 tournament in Chile, as well as the Gold Cup in the United States and Canada.
 
"Obviously it's every player's dream to represent their country and I'm blessed to be given this opportunity," said Dixon. "I'm still trying to warm up to it because it hasn't hit me yet that I will be playing on such a big stage. It's a true honor and I'm hoping to do my best to represent my country well."
 
The defender is one of 23 players selected to the roster and will compete for the squad for the first time in his career. Jamaica will first compete in the Copa America 2015 held in Chile from June 11 through July 4 before traveling to North America to take part in the Gold Cup from July 7 to July 26.
 
He is currently competing for the Saint Louis FC in the United Soccer League (USL) and will rejoin the squad after the completion of the Gold Cup. The club is currently 3-2-1 after the first month of competition and is tied for fourth with 10 points in the Eastern Conference.
 
"UWF was a big part in my development and has given me the platform to be where I am at today," continued Dixon. "Coach Elliott is still a huge mentor to me and gave me the best advice and confidence to go out there and prove myself."
 
Dixon solidified the West Florida defense from 2008 to 2012 and was twice named the Gulf South Conference Player of the Year (2009, 2012). He is also the only player in UWF's history to be named a four-time NSCAA All-South Region team member.
 
"I think everybody associated with the program at West Florida is proud of him and are excited," said UWF men's soccer head coach Bill Elliott. "Richard is a hard worker and he has definitely earned this. We'll be watching and are very excited to see him compete."
 
Dixon will continue playing for Saint Louis before beginning training with the national team on June 4 in Chile.
 
For information on all UWF athletics, visit www.GoArgos.com.