Richmond FC, Richmond's largest soccer club established in Richmond in 1955, just announced the winners of its annual scholarship for graduating U18 players.
Joel Hempel, Tom MacIntyre, Will Rasmussen, Ryan Sadra, and Ben Williams have each been awarded with $1,000 to be used toward post-secondary education.
“It was not an easy process to pick our winners this year,” says Frederick Weil, co-head of Richmond FC’s scholarship committee.
“We had quite a few people who applied and everybody was deserving.”
Consistency, dedication, teamwork, and leadership on and off the field are the main criteria for the award. While skill level is taken into consideration, the scholarships are not automatically given to the best players.
“There is by no means an expectation that the person is a standout player or a star. If you look at the kids chosen to receive the scholarships, they represent different teams and different levels. We look for players that are good people all-around, on and off the field,” Weil says.
Richmond FC’s scholarship program for graduating players was created to provide a way to thank players for their years of involvement with the club, and a way to keep them connected for years to come. It also reflects the soccer club’s commitment to positive involvement in its community, including leading events such as large food drives.
“We want what the kids learn in soccer to carry forward into their lives,” Weil says.
“Its not just about playing games on the field, it’s also about what you learn on and off it as well, and what you take back to the community. Yes, the club is about playing soccer, but it’s also about being involved and connected to your community. The scholarship is a reflection of that.”
RFC is committed in providing an inclusive, encouraging and positive experience to all players in Richmond. And the programming reflects that.
"We are incredibly pleased with our registration numbers for the upcoming season, it will be a terrific year!"
To learn more about Richmond FC, visit the club online at richmondfc.ca.
