February 14, 2023 – United Soccer League One (USL1) – Richmond Kickers News Release
RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Kickers are pleased to announce forward Ethan Vanacore-Decker has re-signed ahead of the 2023 USL League One season, pending league and federation approval.
“Ethan is an exciting, dynamic attacking player with clever ideas when it comes to breaking down the opposition,” Richmond Kickers’ Chief Sporting Officer and Head Coach, Darren Sawatzky said. “He was truly a game changer at the midway point of the season last year. His demeanor and daily banter helps galvanize the culture here. He is making great progress in his rehabilitation, and we welcome his return to the pitch when that time comes.”
Vanacore-Decker prepares for his first full season in Richmond after joining the team as a midseason acquisition on July 18, 2022, from fellow USL League One club, Northern Colorado Hailstorm FC. The 28-year-old arrived in Richmond with a wealth of experience across the USL divisions and a USL League One Championship to his name when he was a member of Union Omaha in 2021.
An injury in the fall saw Vanacore-Decker miss the final four matches of the 2022 season. However, the Manahawkin, N.J. native’s impact from the moment he put on the Kickers’ shirt was immense as he helped play an important role in the Kickers earning the 2022 USL Players’ Shield for winning the regular-season title.
“Becoming a Kicker midseason was awesome,” Vanacore-Decker said. “Everyone welcomed me with open arms and made me feel like I was there from the start of the year. I’m looking forward to getting healthy and helping the team with goals and assists. It took me a little bit to get used to the style of play, but, as I played more games, I felt like I was coming into my own.
“As a team, I think we are very strong. We have great returning players and added some great new guys. We set a standard last year and I believe we’ll meet that again this year and bring home the trophy to Richmond.”
When he joined the Kickers, Vanacore-Decker had the opportunity to continue his playing relationships with several Roos including Nathan Aune who he played with at Union Omaha in 2020 and Dakota Barnathan who he played with at Swope Park Rangers – now Sporting KC II – in 2018. In 2023, Vanacore-Decker also reunites with Kharlton Belmar who was also a member of the 2018 Swope Park Rangers roster.
Vanacore-Decker got into a groove quickly with the Roos, making only his second road start for…