Philadelphia Union is proud to announce the promotion of Ryan Richter to Director of Philadelphia Union Pre-Academy, the innovative full-time program for the U8-U11 age groups, effective immediately.

Coach Richter joined the Union Youth staff early in 2018 as the Head of the U11 Pre-Academy age group and as a U-12 Academy Coach and quickly impressed with his coaching acumen and acuity. Coach Richter will continue to support Head Coach Kleberson with the U12 Academy team.

“Coach Richter displays a unique and impressive depth of knowledge and love of the game,” Academy Director Tommy Wilson commented. “From the minute I first met him, then just a young player, he expressed a predilection for coaching and a keen interest in the sport. He retired young from his playing career to explore this passion, and has a great future ahead of him with the Club."

Coach Richter, currently pursuing his USSF B license, recently retired from professional soccer following a prolific career that began with Philadelphia Union. Richter grew up locally in Southampton, where he was twice named Philadelphia Player of the Year. He was awarded Student-Athlete of the Year and Player of the Year in the Atlantic 10 Conference while at La Salle, and a First-Team Scholar All-American.

Following his graduation, Richter was selected 5th in the 2011 MLS Supplemental Draft by Philadelphia Union. Richter went on win two Championships with Charleston Battery (USL, 2012) and New York Cosmos (NASL, 2016), and captained Bethlehem Steel in their inaugural season.

“I am excited and humbled by the appointment to the Union Pre-Academy position. I have a strong passion for youth development and will work hard every day to create an environment that is both fun and safe. We must generate a passion for the sport and a technical foundation for our players, not only to ensure success for Philadelphia Union, but also for the future of youth soccer in the Philadelphia area. I’m fortunate to have mentors like Richie Graham, Jim Curtin, Iain Munro, and Tommy Wilson amongst the many other fantastic people throughout this organization. I can’t wait to get started."

Philadelphia Union Pre-Academy’s second season kicks off on August 13th. For more information about Philadelphia Union’s first step on the “Pathway to the Pros,” please visit philadelphiaunionyouth.com.