Written by Will Ridgard
He came to Richmond as a nobody, but now, he’s definitely a somebody!
More than two years on after joining the Kickers, Hugh Roberts has become one of the most renown defenders in the USL.
Consistent performances in 2016, where he played in every minute of every USL game, have seen the centre-back named in the USL All-League first team of the 2016 season.
Roberts also received the Richmond Kickers Player’s Choice MVP award in what was an eye-catching year for the George Mason University graduate.
“I am so honored to receive the award and to be in the All-League team,” said the 24-year-old.
“I was a nobody at tryouts two years ago (in January 2014), so for my fellow players to recognize my performances and give me this award, I think, is the highest appraisal you can get.
“It’s an incredible feeling, and I’m happy with the recognition, people have been watching and the hard work seems to be paying off!”
It’s been a long, and sometimes difficult road for Roberts to get to this point in his career, but he is fully appreciative of what playing regularly for the Kickers has given him.
“I seem to be progressing every year,” said the defender, who signed for the Kickers after impressing at the club’s Open Tryouts in 2014 – a trial he attended after finding opportunities limited elsewhere.
“I didn’t play much in my rookie year (2014), and there were a lot of players from D.C. United last season (2015) so it was hard to get a run in the side, but this was my first season where I’ve played consistently and have played every minute of every game – which a crazy thing to say!
“I take a lot of pride from keeping shutouts and we had the third best defensive record (in the USL Eastern Conference) this season, which I’m delighted with.”
Richmond conceded just 26 goals in 30 USL games in 2016, with Roberts at the heart of the defense alongside William Yomby, while Alex Lee and Braeden Troyer played at full-back.
“It was pretty much us four for the whole season and we have just got to know each others’ games so well,” added Roberts, whose was ‘gutted’ after losing 2-0 to Louisville City in the First Round of the Eastern Conference play-offs.
“I’m loving playing for Richmond and cannot wait to see what next season brings.
“2016 was pretty successful. We didn’t end how we wanted to but it’s always good to qualify for the play-offs.
“Our mid-season unbeaten run (of 10 games) was enjoyable. Winning games and the feeling that it brings is always fun, and the victory over Swansea (of the English Premier League) was one of the best experiences of my life.
“We were on a good streak going into the game – and I think the win kicked us on further and gave us a lot of belief.”
Belief seems to be the key word for a humble and honest player destined for big things.
