Richmond Soccer Prodigy Heads to Spain for Next Chapter of His Remarkable Journey

One of Virginia’s brightest soccer stars is taking his talents to the international stage. Fourteen-year-old Terry Richard of Richmond, who has been on the radar of European scouts for several years, is headed to Spain to train with Patacona CF, a prominent football club based in the Valencian community of Alboraya.

The move marks a major milestone in Richard’s young career, positioning him among an elite group of American youth athletes pursuing professional development opportunities overseas. Patacona CF, renowned for developing young talent and competing at a high level within the Spanish football pyramid, has served as a launchpad for many players into top-tier Spanish and European football.

“I’m beyond excited and grateful for this opportunity,” said Richard. “Playing in Spain has always been a goal of mine—not just for the quality of football, but for the culture and passion the country has for the game. I’m ready to give everything I’ve got and prove myself in one of the most competitive football environments in the world.”

Richard’s journey began in 2014 on the fields of Virginia Beach, where his passion for the game quickly set him apart. From local recreational leagues to travel programs like Western Branch Soccer Club (Chesapeake) and Golden Ball Soccer Academy (Hampton Roads), he consistently played within and above his age group, earning recognition for his skill, vision, and leadership. From 2021-2024, he starred for Richmond United, where he further elevated his game against some of the region’s best competition.

In addition to his regular club play, Richard was frequently invited to guest play with top teams from across the East Coast, showcasing his talent at some of the nation’s most prestigious youth tournaments and showcases. His standout performances on these national stages helped to solidify his reputation as one of the most promising young soccer talents in his age group.

In January of this year, TheFutbol.office—a Spanish sports management and consultancy firm that helps LaLiga clubs with international expansion and connects young talent with pro opportunities—took notice of Richard’s potential. That recognition led to three months of training with Global Football Total, a renowned international football scouting and development organization, and Real Sporting, a professional club in the Spanish coastal town of Gijón. Over the course of that three months, Richard’s performance and adaptability to the European style of play resulted in an invitation to train with Patacona CF, a reserve youth team affiliated with Levante UD.

Levante UD currently plays in LaLiga, Spain’s top professional football league alongside iconic clubs like Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Richard is expected to return to Spain later this month to continue his journey.

"Terry is an extraordinary talent whose dedication and work ethic set him apart from his peers," said Pablo Molina, who has worked closely with Richard since the age of six. "From the very beginning, it was clear that Terry was no ordinary player. His relentless drive to improve, both on and off the field, is matched by a level of focus and intensity rarely seen at any age. Any club or professional organization would be fortunate to have a player—and person—of his caliber. I have no doubt he’ll rise to the challenge and make a real impact in Spain."

Terry’s parents, Brandon and Taniki Richard, said, “Moving to Spain is a huge decision, but one we fully support because it means Terry’s chasing his dream. As he prepares to embark on this incredible journey, we couldn’t be prouder. Watching him stay so focused and committed to his passion fills our hearts with both hope and excitement for what’s to come. We know this is just the beginning of an amazing adventure, and we’ll be cheering him on every step of the way.”