Ironically enough, Richardson found out about football through hockey. He was at a hockey tournament in Gatineau when he saw a recruitment booth for minor football, he was able to convince his parents to sign him up and the rest was history. Richardson even recalled why the minor football representatives were attracted to get him registered.

“The guy standing there(at the booth) thought I was 3 years older just judging by my size.” said Richardson

Richardson climbed his way up the ladder of competitive football starting off on the Ligue de football mineur de l’Outaouais, a recreational league in Gatineau, then moved into a more competitive setting by playing for the Gatineau Vikings in the fall as well as playing in a league in Montreal.

In 2017 he made the jump from Gatineau to Ottawa to play at an even higher level in Ottawa with the Ottawa Sooners. During Richardson’s time with the Sooners, he often travelled to games and practices as his league was spread out all over Ontario.

“It was tough. In Ottawa we had four practices a week that went on for about two hours a night and then some nights we had hour-long film sessions as well. So driving an hour there, going to practices and then driving back starts to wear on the body a little. Away games in Toronto didn’t help either,” he said.

Richardson really credits his family for giving that support needed to pursue the path he is on now when it comes to football. His parents Kirk and Sara Richardson have been instrumental in the process of helping him organize his schedule, commuting, etc.

“I kind of consider my mom to be my manager,” Richardson said with a smile on his face.

Although having to play away from home was difficult, his family was able to make things work as his grandparents would also get involved in helping out with driving.

“Having practice Monday through Thursday, film night on Sunday or Monday and a game on Saturday. When I think back to those days, you wonder how we ever managed?” she said.

Sara also had a lot of pride in how her son managed the offensive line and found a lot of importance to stick by him throughout his football career.

“We love coming to a game, and watching him in his happy place. He is who and where he is today from the coaches, staff and teammates he has met along the way. We couldn’t be more proud of him.”

“He has been recognized for his great leadership skills, his sportsmanship and he has passion and heart for the sport” she added.

With a schedule in the process of being set for John Abbott College, the thought of finally being able to suit up has Richardson in a whirlwind of emotions.

“I’m super excited but I’m also a lot more nervous than I thought I’d be… It’s been two years now since I’ve last played a football game” he said.

Rilen’s training camp is already underway as on Sunday, August 8th, he had his first training session with the club. Dates aren’t set for games yet however, the Islanders do have a list of opponents set for the 2021-2022 season.

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