RICHMOND, VA - (Friday, September 18, 2009) – Richmond Kickers President Tom Depcrynski announced his retirement today after 12 years with the Kickers organization. His last day will be September 30, 2009.
“In my 12 years with the Kickers, it has been a blessing to have worked with such a positive and professional staff,” states Depcrynski. “I am confident that the staff I am leaving behind will continue to grow one of the most prestigious soccer clubs in the country. Even though I am moving on, I will be a lifelong fan and supporter of the Richmond Kickers. I know there are many great things in the future for this organization.”
With Depcrynski at the helm, the Kickers have become a model for soccer in the United States with a fully integrated club featuring programs for all ages from the youth level to the professional ranks. Having served on the USL First Division Executive Committee for six years, Depcrynski was re-elected to the USL Second Division Executive Committee prior to the 2009 season, which serves as an advisory board on league development, policy and competitive issues. Under his guidance, the Kickers claimed three USL Organization of the Year awards (2000, 2006, 2007) as well as the USL First Division Progress Award in 1998 and the USL 10+ Club Award in 2002 en route to five Championship appearances and two USL Second Division titles (2006, 2009).
“Tom Depcrynski has been one of the leading executives in the USL professional division for over the past decade, serving on the Executive Committees of both USL-1 and USL-2,” comments Tim Holt, USL President. “Through his vision and leadership, he has played a major role in the Richmond Kickers transformation from a single men’s professional soccer team to one of North America’s most progressive and vertically-integrated soccer clubs for all ages and both genders. He leaves behind a very experienced team of seasoned soccer and business professionals that will continue to move the organization forward in the years ahead. Tom’s contributions to USL have been numerous and we wish him success in his retirement from the Kickers.”
“On behalf of all the players and staff I would like to thank Tom for his commitment and dedication to the Kickers during the past 12 years,” adds Leigh Cowlishaw, Richmond Kickers Head Coach and Vice President of Soccer Programs. “His knowledge and leadership have been important factors in the success of the organization over this time. We wish him well in retirement and best wishes for all his future endeavors.”
An independent business owner of 20 years, Depcrynski brought a solid knowledge of business principles and the Richmond market to the Kickers organization in June 1997, becoming Vice President and General Manager in August of that year. He has served as President of the club since 1998.
