Young footballer relishes USA stint

USA stint a welcome confidence boost for young footballer.

Ky Richardson enjoyed his stint playing football in the US. Picture: Bev Lacey

FOOTBALL: Ky Richardson has a new lease on his footballing life.

A three month stint in the US playing for Temecula Valley Hawks Soccer Club has energised and focused the young footballer.

The Harristown State High School student, who returned last week, said he had learnt a lot from the challenging experience.

"It was pretty tough but I loved it,” Richardson said.

"Sometimes I played up to four games in a week which I'm not used to, but I adjusted.

"It's definitely helped me as a player. I learned a lot and I have a lot more confidence in myself now.”

Playing at a level and style similar to what he has already experienced, Richardson said it was the skills he learnt off the field that would benefit him the most.

"Some weeks we played a lot of games so recovery was really important,” he said.

"We had to look after our own recovery so I was really focused on doing the right things.

"Looking after my legs and making sure I got plenty of rest.

"Playing and living over there has given me a lot of confidence, I'm really happy with how I played and what I did.”

Back at home, Richardson said he was now looking forward to his next season with the South West Queensland Thunder.

"I'm a lot fitter now and I'm ready for the next NPL season,” he said.

"I've been playing a lot of football and I haven't had a break - that will give me a headstart.

"For now I think I'll just focus on next season and think about what my options are after that.”

Originally published as Young footballer relishes USA stint