RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Kickers announced on Thursday the return of goalkeeper Austin Causey for the 2022 USL League One season. Causey returns for his second professional season with the Reds following a successful apprenticeship under USL League One Goalkeeper of the Year and Kickers’ goalkeeping coach Akira Fitzgerald during the 2021 season.

“Austin was an amazing pro beyond his years in 2021,” said Chief Sporting Officer and Head Coach Darren Sawatzky. "He showed up every day, worked his tail off, and performed very well in a very competitive environment. His growth was evident both on and off the field this past year. I have full confidence that Austin will fight his way into games in 2022.”

Causey signed his first professional contract at the age of 19 with the club in April 2021 after impressing the technical staff during a trial period in the preseason. The rookie went on to make the Kickers’ gameday roster in 23 matches including the team’s USL League One Quarterfinal match at FC Tucson.

“I’m very excited to get back to City Stadium for another year with the Kickers,” said Causey. “It’s a milestone year with the club celebrating its 30th consecutive season, and I hope to build on what we did this past season.

“Personally, I’m looking to build on the work done with Akira [Fitzgerald] last year and implement the positive advice and guidance he’s given as an experienced pro.”

A natural shotstopper who thrives on frustrating opposing strikers, Causey joined the Kickers following a successful run in the New England Revolution Academy from 2016-19. The goalkeeper featured for both the U17 and U19 teams and registered 20 appearances during his time with the U19 team.

Before his time in New England, Causey began his academy career with Richmond United during the 2015-16 season while making 16 appearances across the U14 and U16 teams.

Causey made history signing his first contract with the Kickers making him the first second-generation Kickers’ pro player. Austin follows in the footsteps of his father Jeff Causey who was the goalkeeper for the Kickers during the 1995 season when the Reds collected its historic double by winning the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup and the USISL Championship. The elder Causey went on to start for D.C. United in the inaugural season of Major League Soccer before finishing his career at New England Revolution, where he made 64 appearances.

Knowing his father’s experience in Richmond and his own time as a Richmond academy player, Causey was excited to begin his professional career in the River City. He now enters the 2022 season motivated to make his own name.

“I love the culture and atmosphere that the Red Army and Richmond community bring to City Stadium, and I’m pushing for my chance to hear them roar when I take the field. Can’t wait to start it all up again!”