History

Celebrating 75 Years of Soccer Excellence

The story of Richmond United is one of collaboration, growth, and a shared commitment to player development, community, and opportunity. Officially launching in 2025, the new Richmond United is the proud product of three influential organizations coming together: Richmond Strikers, Richmond Kickers Youth, and the original Richmond United ECNL programs. Collectively, these organizations have shaped the landscape of youth soccer in Central Virginia and beyond for over 75 years.

The Richmond Strikers Legacy (Founded 1975)

Richmond Strikers was founded in 1975 as the Three Chopt Soccer Association, changing its name in 1986 to the Richmond Strikers Soccer Club. A defining moment came in 2006, when the Strikers merged with Virginia Capital Area Soccer League (VA CASL)—a club formed from the Richmond Capitals, AC Alliance, Atlee Arsenal, and Chickahominy Chiefs—establishing the Strikers as one of the most comprehensive clubs in Virginia.

In 2016 there was more quality growth with Chesterfield United joining the Strikers to become Chesterfield Strikers and then ultimately Richmond Strikers South. Over the years, the club also assisted with the further development of other youth sports in the Richmond area – girls lacrosse (2015-2020), field hockey (2015-2018), rugby (2017-2025), and cricket (2018-2025). 

The Jefferson Cup Series founded in 1983, has grown into one of the nation’s largest and best youth soccer tournaments, attracting teams and college coaches from across the U.S. each March. The 2025 Jefferson Cup Series hosted 1930 youth soccer teams with an economic impact of 43 million dollars. 

The Strikers also led the development of some of the region’s top playing facilities, including Striker Park, Capital Park, and the expansive West Creek Soccer Complex. In 2022, a major partnership with Virginia Credit Union led to the renaming of the 11-field Striker Park complex to Virginia Credit Union Fields at Striker Park.

The Richmond Kickers Youth Legacy (Founded 2000)

Established in 2000, Richmond Kickers Youth Soccer Club became one of the region’s largest and most inclusive soccer organizations, serving over 6,000 players annually. With a commitment to providing opportunities for all skill levels, the Kickers built a player pathway that connected grassroots youth soccer to the professional ranks. Their experienced coaching staff, unified developmental philosophy, and community-focused mission have left a lasting impact on soccer in Central Virginia.

The Kickers also own premier sports facilities in Chesterfield County including 7-field Ukrop Park (opened in 2009) as well as the 5- field Hensley Park Soccer Complex. 

The Birth of the Original Richmond United (2014)

In 2014, a landmark collaboration between the Richmond Strikers and Richmond Kickers created Richmond United, an elite player development platform combining the top talent and coaching from both clubs. Initially formed to unify U.S. Soccer Development Academy programs on the boys side and ECNL programs for girls, Richmond United quickly became a leader in elite youth soccer, respected on both the regional and national stage.

The Girls ECNL program has remained a consistent presence since inception, while the Boys DA program transitioned into the ECNL Boys Mid-Atlantic Conference following the dissolution of the U.S. Soccer DA in 2020.

The New Richmond United (2025 and Beyond)

As Richmond United celebrates 75 years of soccer excellence in 2025, the club now enters a bold new era. By unifying the full strength, tradition, and leadership of Richmond Strikers, Richmond Kickers Youth, and the Richmond United elite programs, the new Richmond United is a singular force in youth soccer—one that honors the past while building the future.

With thousands of players, world-class tournaments, elite competition, and a commitment to access, inclusion, and excellence, Richmond United is poised to lead the next generation of players and families across Central Virginia and beyond.