RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Kickers today announced the signing of 2022 USL League One Champion and veteran goalkeeper Pablo Jara to a multi-year deal, pending league and federation approval.

Jara joins the Kickers following a storied career with fellow USL League One side South Georgia Tormenta FC where he amassed 109 appearances and 9,657 minutes played which rank 10th and seventh, respectively, in League One regular season history. Jara's 109 appearances, 9,657 minutes played and 286 saves rank second in league history for goalkeepers, trailing only Kickers legend Akira Fitzgerald.

"Coach Darren was very active and honest with the initial intentions to have me be a part of the Kickers; I love the belief he has in me," Jara said. "Being a part of an organization that has been around for over 31 years adds a massive value to the table. The belief in me from Coach Darren is the most valuable asset I can ask for. The most exciting part of being with this team is to share goals with quality players and individuals. I'm lucky enough to know multiple Kickers players personal level, and I can’t wait to wear the colors with them."

"We have watched Pablo perform for the past five seasons in League One and he has performed in ways that allowed his teams to chase trophies," Richmond Head Coach and Chief Sporting Officer Darren Sawatzky said. "Along with his pedigree as a top goalkeeper, his leadership ability and locker room presence were gems we could not pass up when we looked at who we wanted to add this year and for the future."

The 'keeper from Santiago, Chile first joined Tormenta FC in 2018 when the club competed in the USL League Two and went undefeated in the regular season and took home the Deep South Division title. He then signed his first professional contract with the Ibises when they joined USL League One ahead of the inaugural 2019 season. 

In 2022, Jara helped lead Tormenta FC to its only League One title as came on in the final 10 minutes of the 2022 USL League One Final to help the Ibises secure the 2-1 victory over Chattanooga Red Wolves SC. Jara concludes his time in Statesboro as the club's all-time leader in appearances, minutes played and matches won.

Since signing professionally, Jara has made 286 saves which ranks second all-time in league history and has earned 26 clean sheets which ranks fourth all-time.

Jara reunites with former Tormenta FC player Nil Vinyals who also played pre-professionally for Tormenta FC in 2018 before signing a professional deal with the club the following season.

"My message to the Richmond Kickers supporters is that I'm extremely grateful for the opportunity to join your club and your city," Jara added. "I will do my very best to make a difference in the community in a positive manner, I'll work hard to achieve our championship goals, and I'll always do my best to make you proud."