Jata Finds A Home In Wilmington

It's official, Richard Jata has signed with the Wilmington Hammerheads for the upcoming 2011 USL PRO season. After finishing off his last semester at Campbell University, where he used his free time as a volunteer assistant coach, Richard decided to move to Wilmington and try out for the Hammerheads. I guess it's true what they say, God does work in mysterious ways. With soccer as hard a sport to get into at the pro level, Jata kept the drive and persevered to accomplish something a lot of doubters out there thought he'd never do. After being drafted by the Chicago Fire and getting released just days before the 2009 MLS season began, Jata traveled all over the country and even into Europe on his quest to sign his first professional contract. Well, the time has come, now we just have to wait and see what's left in the tank. I think Richard(25) still has what it takes to make a significant impact in the pro circuit. I mean, if the Wilmington Hammerheads signed him, he's got to be doing something right...right?

The signing came nearly one week after his initial tryout, where roughly 30 players competed for a shot at making the team. I guess volunteering with the men's soccer team at CU was a smart idea because ultimately it gave him the opportunity to stay fit, both mentally and physically. There are still quite a few roster spots left to be filled, so stayed tuned. The best is yet to come!

Richard Jata - 2009 MLS Draft Speech (at 3:54 mark)



For more info about the signing and Richard Jata's bio please visit the official USL website or the Wilmington Hammerheads website via the links provided. Campbell University also posted an article regarding the signing on their official site. The first game of the season is at home on 4/16.

Moving In The Right Direction...

After a couple years of "chasing the dream" Richard finally returned to Campbell to finish his degree. With soccer still on his mind, he decided to take up a volunteer assisting coach position with his former team. Jata was able to help his former teammates and the incoming freshman in many different areas. He was also able to practice and travel with the squad, leaving him fresh for future opportunities down the road.

Jata still has many things he'd like to achieve and something tells me you haven't heard the last of his name at the next level. Whether it be playing or coaching, my brother still has a strong passion for soccer and the desire to keep it apart of his life. From a dominating youth career that included time at IMG Academy and numerous ODP teams, to Player of the Year honors and being named a NSCAA All American, it would be a shame to lose a player from the sport who is as knowledgeable and battle-tested as Richard.

I have a hunch that some new information will be available shortly, so check back soon. I've posted a short clip below from the past that I shot while visiting our parents in Florida.