Ssejjemba was a two-year captain and two-time All-American soccer star for VI. He graduated in 2004 and went on to play for professional teams in Richmond, Va., Washington, D.C., and most recently, was an offensive threat for the United Soccer League's Charlotte (N.C.) Eagles.
"We are thrilled that Robert and his family will be returning to the Tri-Cities," said Chris Holt, director of athletics for the college. "Robert was a model student-athlete. Combining his knowledge and experience with his dream to coach at the collegiate level creates a win-win situation for him and Virginia Intermont."
A native of Kampala, Uganda, Ssejjemba played four seasons for the Cobras, leading teams to the national tournament in 2003, and the Appalachian Athletic Conference championship and regional championship in 2000 and 2003. He remains VI's all-time leader in goals (75) and points (186.) He was a Dean's List student all four years and earned a bachelor's in business administration.
Ssejjemba is married to the former Katie Quick, also of Virginia Intermont's class of 2004, and they have two children.
VI's soccer will return to intercollegiate competition next fall and the college will also hire a coach to lead the women's program. Both were among athletics discontinued in spring 2007 due to financial hardship.
"With high student demand in our area to play soccer, we are pleased that we have made significant progress in fund raising and can add these sports back to our programs," said Michael J. Puglisi, president of Virginia Intermont. Other additions are also under study.
