O’Dwyer returns to Richmond on a second contract after initially signing his first pro contract in 2022
RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Kickers are pleased to announce the re-signing of English midfielder Chandler O’Dwyer, pending league and federation approval.
O’Dwyer continues his career with the Kickers after previously signing his first professional contract with the club ahead of the 2022 Players’ Shield-winning season. The Lingfield, England native’s contract option was then exercised ahead of the 2023 season, and he showed marked improvements in his sophomore season.
The 24-year-old made 24 appearances during the 2023 season while earning 10 starts and amassing 1,008 minutes played, and he was counted upon down the final stretch of the season, starting seven of the club’s last eight matches while playing 80 minutes or more in six.
A jack-of-all-trades player with a 6-foot-2 frame capable of playing across the spine of the formation, O’Dwyer proved to be a gladiator last season as he won nearly 56 percent of his total duels and 51 percent of his aerial duels.
He became a threat in front of goal after notching his first goal with the club – a header – in an international friendly against Guatemalan giants Comunicaciones FC. He was especially dangerous on set pieces and went on to score his first-ever league goals in the final third of the 2023 season. Both from corners, his first was a backheel finish at the near post, and his second was a headed finish, also at the near post.
O’Dwyer earned his first appearance on USL League One’s weekly honors in the final week of the 2023 season with an appearance on the Team of the Week Bench following a full 90 minutes played with a goal scored, 71 percent of his duels won, and an 86 percent passing accuracy.
Chandler O’Dwyer said:
“Darren’s view for the club moving forward is something I want to be a driving force of, whilst bringing silverware to the city of Richmond and this amazing club. It was an easy decision for me. This is my second contract with the club, and in the past two years, I’ve been able to grow a lot as a player and individual. The club as well as the fans will get the most evolved and best version of me, and that is something I’m extremely excited about. The city is amazing to live in, so it’s very desirable to stay.
“My goals individually this year is to be a staple in the team, relied on week in, week out. Bring more goals to the team, whilst also providing the defensive work rate and structure we need. As a team, the goal has to be to grow as much as possible early in the season so we’re ready to bring home silverware in the late stages of the season when it matters.
“To the fans, your support is unlike any other in this league. We value you enormously, it’s a privilege to play at City Stadium with a packed-out crowd. Get ready!”
Darren Sawatzky, Richmond Kickers’ Head Coach and Chief Sporting Officer said:
“As we move toward the 2024 season, we have to swallow the adversity of 2023 but also celebrate the bright spots in a tough season. Chandler grew this past year and his competitive bite resonated through the final third of the season. When we had year-end meetings with players, Chandler looked me in the eye and said we needed to sign him because he will help rectify 2023 and show our fans what our club is really about. There was responsibility in his tone and his negotiating was simple and to the point. He is a quality midfielder with passing range, aerial duel ability, and a drive to compete for this club in Richmond. We are ready to watch him continue his ascension and we know he will leave his soul on the field every game day.”
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TRANSACTION: Chandler O’Dwyer re-signs with the Richmond Kickers on Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024.
