RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Kickers are pleased to announce the return of Zaca Moran after the midfielder’s contract option was picked up for the 2022 season.
“Zaca was a steady force for us this past season and we are looking to him to lead more and more this season with his experience,” Chief Sporting Officer and Head Coach Darren Sawatzky said. “His adjustment to the American game came quickly, and his presence will be paramount to what we are looking to accomplish in 2022. Having a vocal player with his bite and a year under his belt allows us to build on the work we have done as we chase titles in Richmond.”
La máquina (the machine) enjoyed a fruitful first season in Richmond as he started all 26 matches he appeared in, amassing 2,317 minutes played – fourth most of any outfield player.
“I’m grateful to have the opportunity of being part of this club again,” Moran said. “Grateful of the staff and each person in the club who do their best on game days so that we have all the tools to do our best on the field. I’m convinced that it’s going to be a great year.
“I’m really happy to return to the Richmond Kickers family for another year. I’m excited to start the preseason, set goals and work to achieve them.”
Moran provided a metronomic consistency to the Kickers’ engine room as he thrived in a holding role. The former River Plate man led the team with an 80 percent passing accuracy while almost 78 percent of his passes went forward to transition the team from defense to attack. He would add three assists to his tally which finished tied for second on the team.
USL League One awarded Moran weekly honors during Weeks 3 and 27 with Moran’s performances in Week 27 proving vital in the club making its first playoff appearance since 2016.
The week began with Moran clamping down on Forward Madison in a midweek 1-0 win for the Kickers against a fellow playoff hopeful. He would lead the Kickers in passes in the opponent’s half, tackles, and blocks while winning 100 percent of his aerial duels. Then, four days later on the weekend, Moran would deliver one of the goals of the year – and the league’s October goal of the month – from outside of the box to spark a comeback and propel the Reds to a 2-1 win on the road against North Texas SC.
Looking ahead to a second season playing in the United States and for the Richmond Kickers, Moran is motivated to help push the club to new heights in its historic 30th consecutive season.
“The previous year we ended the season with an empty feeling because we couldn’t play in the USL League One Final,” Moran said. “I believe this year we must work harder and train ourselves mentally to be able to achieve this objective as a team. And personally, I will keep on working so I can help the team on and off the field.
“Last year I had great feelings playing at City Stadium. The support from the fans has been incredible and we must play for them in each game. They deserve it!”
2022 marks our historic 30th consecutive season! The USL League One schedule is live and fans can begin to plot their nights at City Stadium! Reserve your spot today at https://www.richmondkickers.com/seasontickets where you can purchase full-season general admission or premium seating options!
Stay up to date with all of the Kickers news at www.richmondkickers.com and on social media on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube!
TRANSACTION: Richmond Kickers pick up Zaca Moran’s contract option for the 2022 USL League One season on January 6, 2022.
