January 17, 2023 – United Soccer League One (USL1) – Richmond Kickers News Release
RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Kickers are pleased to announce midfielder Zaca Moran has signed a new multi-year contract with the club, pending league and federation approval.
“Zaca has been an important component to our midfield for the past two seasons,” Kickers’ Chief Sporting Officer and Head Coach, Darren Sawatzky said. “He is a passionate, hard competitor who adds decisive passing to our attack. His presence in the locker room and within the community enhances our culture each year. We will look to build on our brand of football and Zaca is a huge piece of the game evolution here.”
Moran returns for a third season and more in the River City following a successful first two years under Coach Sawatzky and Head Assistant Coach, Mika Elovaara. Brimming with physical and mental talent honed in the famous River Plate academy in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Moran has enjoyed the role as the fulcrum in the Kickers’ midfield.
Capable of delivering both on-a-dime long passes and bruising tackles, Moran’s effect on the game isn’t always measured in flashy highlights, but he has proven so far to be one of the most unsung talents in USL League One.
“It means a lot to me [to stay in Richmond] because this club gave me the best opportunities to grow,” Moran said. “I’m grateful that Richmond continues to trust in me and my job on the field.
“This season I will try to continue improving as a player, and I will give my best on the field to be able to achieve our goals as a team.”
Since arriving in Richmond, Moran has started all of his 56 league appearances while amassing 4,845 minutes played. In that time as a constant presence in the center of the park, he dished out three assists and 56 chances created while improving upon his 63.7 percent passing accuracy in the opponent’s half in 2021 to 73.8 percent in 2022 which ranked second amongst all Kickers’ outfield players.
Out of possession, Moran has won a combined 70 percent of his tackles while finishing second on the team both seasons with 39 and 38 interceptions, respectively.
While his role on the team doesn’t always necessitate goal scoring, Moran’s two goals for the Kickers (one in each season) across all competitions manage to be some of the club’s most memorable over that time.
In October 2021, Moran scored an equalizing 35-yard laser at North Texas SC that sparked the Kickers’ 2-1 comeback and was named the October 2021 USL League…