Starting Fresh: The James Richardson Story

By: Megan Watson and Soul Koen

After recovering from a football induced concussion, James Richardson ‘20, Redwood’s starting running back, dives back into the game even stronger than before. Leading the team in rushing yards, with over 500 yards total, Richardson has brought 9 touchdowns home with a total of 129 carries in the past eight games.

In the previous game against the Hanford Bullpups, Richardson broke through entire defensive lines to aid Redwood in gaining more ground. The fierce player advances well above the national average in rushing yards, yards per game, and rushing touchdowns. Richardson is relentless on the field proving that he is an unstoppable force.

Beginning his career in the seventh grade, Richardson advanced rapidly even though he was not as experienced as his other teammates. James quickly fell in love with football because of its physicality and aggressiveness. When Richardson began football he states he “gained a family, that was the only thing I did at the time, so I felt like I always had my brothers on the field.”

On-campus, the 5 ‘5 running machine is known as a “powerhouse” due to his amazing ability to breakthrough an entire defensive line without hesitation. When asked how did it feel to be acknowledged in such a powerful way, Richardson simply shrugged and said, “I’m always improving on the field, and I want to continue to do so,” displaying his dedication and overall devotion to his team.

Coach Sharton also believes that Richardson is “an experienced running back” and is probably, “one of the best running backs we have on the team.” Although he has been out for a few weeks due to a concussion, Sharton is excited to have Richardson back as leader of the running backs. Despite many opponents undermining him for his size, Sharton says “he’s very powerful, and one of the strongest on the team,” his aggressiveness is also accompanied by a positive attitude on and off the field as he works to motivate his teammates to succeed.

Unlike many other players, James has something else motivating him to succeed. A few months ago, Richardson became a father to a son named Leghend. This may seem as though this would slow anyone down, let alone a high school student, however, Richardson continues to defy all odds in hope of providing a better life for his child. Richardson describes his childhood as a blessing, someone who pushes him every day to be the best man and football player he can be.

Off and on the field, James Richardson proves to be a highly motivated individual that will stop at nothing to succeed.