KW United FC midfielder Munir Saleh has become an integral piece of the puzzle for KW United FC’s success this season. The 5’10” local product has made a name for himself over his last two years with the club, finding success both on and off the field.

Starting in house league programs when he was only seven years old, Saleh said that he first got into the game by watching his father play. It wasn’t until he was a teenager that he decided to become competitive.

“As I was growing up, I loved to play, When I got to 16 [years old], I thought I could make a push,” he said. “Then [when I was] 17 - I was like, “I’m going to go, go as far as I can with it.”’

It’s already paying off for him with the club. Currently, Saleh has two assists this season over nine games. On a personal level, Saleh brings good organization skills, the ability to move the ball defensively, and does his best to simplify plays and break up opponents’ plays.

Saleh sees a ton of potential and depth in KW United FC’s bench, one of the many reasons why the club is enjoying so much success this season. Saleh said that there are a lot of factors that contribute to their success, and he believes the team can go far this year.

“We have a lot of healthy players and a lot of potential,” he said. “We have the right attitude. I think we can go far this year.” 

His time on the field doesn’t end when the Premier Development League team’s season is over. During the school year, Saleh also plays on the University of Connecticut football team as a midfielder. While at university, Saleh said that it’s very different than the other places he played at, especially at the competitive level. Saleh said that there is a difference between playing in the PDL league and playing on the NCAA circuit.

“I think when you’re playing at college, every game, no matter what, if you’re playing the worst team, if you’re playing the best team, it’s always competitive, it’s always hard,” he said. “Whereas here, at times it’s a high level but I think sometimes it dies down.”

Coming into this season, Saleh reflected back on the support of his friends and family to keep him going in playing competitive football.

“I don’t think I would have any motivation, but because of my parents who have done so much for me, and all of my family,” he said.