RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Kickers today announced their first new roster addition ahead of their 33rd season, signing 24-year-old Haitian midfielder Rivendi Melvin Pierre-Louis to his first professional contract, pending league and federation approval.

The Haitian attacker joins the Kickers after playing for NPSL side FC Motown in 2024. Pierre-Louis also trained with the Kickers through the latter part of the 2024 season.

With FC Motown, Pierre-Louis helped the Morristown, N.J.-based side to a Keystone East Conference title and a 2024 NPSL National Championship appearance. Pierre-Louis contributed several goals for FC Motown, including a brace in the second half of their regular season finale to help the side qualify for the 2024 U.S. Open Cup. Prior to joining Motown, Pierre-Louis played for Lansdowne Yonkers FC, helping the EPSL side qualify for the 2022 U.S. Open Cup.

"Dreams don’t work unless you do," Pierre-Louis said. "I've been chasing this dream since I was 6, and now I'm proud to say it's come true by joining the Richmond Kickers. Let's work together, push each other and make this season unforgettable. The journey has just begun!

"Never underestimate a man who refuses to give up on what he loves. That man is me. I will bring that dedication to this club, and with the fans by our side, there's nothing that can stop us from achieving something truly special."

"Melvin trained with us in 2024 and did very well," Richmond's Head Coach and Chief Sporting Officer Darren Sawatzky said. "He is a dynamic winger with the ability to score goals and get behind defenses. His presence in the locker room is confident and calming. He was looking for an opportunity to showcase his ability and we are excited for everyone to see him play at City Stadium in 2025."