STAFF BIO:

Perry Richards serves as the Red Director of Coaching for U13-U19 Boys at Richmond United, bringing a diverse and well-rounded background in coaching, education, and player development. He joined the Richmond Kickers Youth as a coach in 2017 and transitioned to a full-time role in 2019, continuing to make a strong impact across the club’s older age groups.

Perry’s coaching experience spans a variety of respected organizations, including Virginia Rush, Chesapeake United, Virginia Beach City FC, the New York Red Bulls youth system, and Virginia ODP. This broad experience has shaped his approach to developing players in competitive environments while maintaining a focus on long-term growth.

He holds a USSF C License and serves as a USSF Grassroots Coaching Educator, playing an active role in developing coaches in addition to players. Perry’s commitment to education is further reflected in his academic background—he attended Bridgewater College before earning a degree in Psychology with a minor in Sports Management from Old Dominion University, and later completed a Master’s degree in Coaching Education and Athlete Development from Xavier University.

As a former collegiate player at Bridgewater College, Perry brings firsthand playing experience into his coaching philosophy. Originally from Virginia Beach, Virginia, he remains passionate about the game and player development at all levels.

Outside of soccer, Perry enjoys building Legos, cooking, reading, and spending time at the beach. A supporter of Chelsea FC, he considers David Beckham his favorite player of all time and counts winning ECNL RL Nationals in California as a favorite soccer memory. A fun fact—he was named after American fashion designer Perry Ellis.