RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Kickers today announced the re-signing of English midfielder Chandler O'Dwyer, pending league and federation approval.

O'Dwyer continues his career with the Kickers after previously signing his first professional contract with the club ahead of the 2022 USL League One Players' Shield-winning season. The Lingfield, England native's contract option was then exercised ahead of the 2023 season, and he showed marked improvements in his sophomore season.

The 24-year-old made 24 appearances during the 2023 season while earning 10 starts and amassing 1,008 minutes played, and he was counted upon down the final stretch of the season, starting seven of the club's last eight matches while playing 80 minutes or more in six.

He became a threat in front of goal after notching his first goal with the club – a header – in an international friendly against Guatemalan giants Comunicaciones FC. He was especially dangerous on set pieces and went on to score his first-ever league goals in the final third of the 2023 season. Both from corners, his first was a backheel finish at the near post, and his second was a headed finish, also at the near post.

O'Dwyer earned his first appearance on USL League One's weekly honors in the final week of the 2023 season with an appearance on the Team of the Week Bench following a full 90 minutes played with a goal scored, 71% of his duels won and an 86% passing accuracy.

"Darren's view for the club moving forward is something I want to be a driving force of, whilst bringing silverware to the city of Richmond and this amazing club. It was an easy decision for me," O'Dwyer said. "This is my second contract with the club, and in the past two years, I’ve been able to grow a lot as a player and individual. The club as well as the fans will get the most evolved and best version of me, and that is something I’m extremely excited about. The city is amazing to live in, so it’s very desirable to stay."

"As we move toward the 2024 season, we have to swallow the adversity of 2023 but also celebrate the bright spots in a tough season," Richmond Head Coach and Chief Sporting Officer Darren Sawatzky said. "Chandler grew this past year and his competitive bite resonated through the final third of the season.

"When we had year-end meetings with players, Chandler looked me in the eye and said we needed to sign him because he will help rectify 2023 and show our fans what our club is really about. There was responsibility in his tone and his negotiating was simple and to the point. He is a quality midfielder with passing range, aerial duel ability, and a drive to compete for this club in Richmond. We are ready to watch him continue his ascension and we know he will leave his soul on the field every game day."