Originally from the Richmond region, Oliver is ready to return to the pitch for the River City.
RICHMOND, Va. — Richmond Ivy Soccer Club is pleased to announce that University of Lynchburg midfielder Morgan Oliver will join the team for its inaugural season pending league and federation approval.
“When I received the news of being on the team I was so excited to have the opportunity to play with some amazing soccer players but I was also excited to compete for the fans of Richmond,” Oliver said. “It’s so incredible to get the opportunity to keep inspiring the younger generation of females in the sport and show them what Richmond is all about.”
The Powhatan native and Richmond Kickers Youth Club alumna arrived on Lynchburg’s campus and made a name for herself. Oliver played in all 19 matches of the 2023 season as a freshman and started in five of them. Her first start came in late September against Mary Washington where the Hornets won 2-1. Oliver’s second start contributed to a win in the Hornets’ very next game as well, winning 2-1 over Bridgewater.
“Morgan has a lot of positive attributes that will mesh really well within our team,” Ivy Sporting Director Madeline McCracken said. “Her athleticism and work rate help her to cover a lot of ground on both sides of the ball, and she has a great attitude and energy that make her a real competitor. We are so excited to welcome Morgan to the Richmond Ivy family!”
Oliver scored twice on the season, both of them game-winners. Her first goal as a Hornet came against Randolph College on October 18. Oliver scored first for the Hornets on their way to a 4-0 rout of the Wildcats. On October 21, Oliver started the match against Shenandoah University. With the score tied 1-1 going into the second half, Oliver found the back of the net in the 47th minute and helped Lynchburg secure the win.
“Morgan is the type of player that gives it her all every time she steps over the white line,” Head Coach Kimmy Cummings said. “Morgan will battle it out for us in the midfield, on both sides of the ball, and will be instrumental in the overall depth of our midfield. Morgan is the type of player you want as a teammate, she is consistent, has a high work rate, brings a positive attitude, and is extremely coachable. Knowing her youth career was played in Richmond, makes me even more excited to welcome one of our own into the Ivy!”
A native of the Richmond area, Oliver grew up playing for the Kickers Youth Club through 2022 and said she can’t wait to be back playing in the River City in front of her community.
“To the fans, I would say I’m so excited to feel your support in every game,” Oliver said. “It means a lot to play in front of people who have continuous support for this team and I know we’re going to have a great season and compete hard every day.”
