A Global Mix Arrives in Richmond
VCU's men's soccer program unveiled a ten‑player signing class that includes a blend of undergraduate transfers and freshmen, each bringing a distinct background and skill set.
The incoming cohort represents seven nations — the United States, The Bahamas, South Africa, Ireland, Norway, Costa Rica, and Jamaica — underscoring the program's expanding global footprint.
Three of the newcomers hail from Virginia, including goalkeeper Nathan Pratt of Blacksburg, who capped his high school career with a State Championship, and forward Nathan Forst from Manassas, a former ECNL Mid‑Atlantic Conference Player of the Year.
International signees add further intrigue: Jordan Cheetham from The Bahamas, already earning caps for the senior national team, and Bya Ndimubandi, a Cape Town‑born midfielder who sharpened his game at Montverde Academy, as well as David Leavey, an Irish midfielder with a year at Penn State.
Costa Rica’s Esteban Vasquez Venegas joins after stints with the U‑15 national side, while Jamaican forward Kimarly Scott, a Manning Cup champion, brings domestic success to the fold. Additional talent includes Norway’s Jonas Hassel Pettersen, who previously featured for Sarpsborg 08 FF’s second team, and Caleb Pak, a Texas‑born midfielder who spent a postgraduate year in Valencia, Spain.
Rounding out the class, Ricky Oliva, a Woodbridge defender, gained experience with the El Salvador U‑17 national team, completing a roster that blends local grit with overseas pedigree.
The coaching staff praised the diversity, noting that the mix of domestic and international experience will enrich training environments and broaden tactical perspectives. The staff believes the new players can contribute immediately, especially in depth and development roles.