Richardson began her footballing journey locally at Lewes, playing in their Foundation Squad for a season before rising through the ranks at the Dripping Pan to feature in their Development team.
Following her time with the Rooks, Richardson then moved to Saltdean United ahead of the 2020/21 campaign, gaining further local experience.
Relocating to the North East for educational purposes, the flexible full-back played plenty of football during her studies as a member of Northumbria University’s squad for three years, while also making 35 appearances for Gateshead Women, scoring 30 goals.
The rapid runner then moved to Ponteland United Women before returning to Sussex as a post-graduate to sign for the Rebels.
During her seven months at Woodside Road, Richardson featured heavily to help Worthing FC Women finish 5th in the National Division One South West and reach the third round proper of the Women’s FA Cup.
Her hiatus from the club saw her spend a full season at Chester-Le-Street Town Ladies. Appearing in almost every National League Division One North fixture to aid the Cestrians’ successful bid to beat the drop.
“I have plenty of fond memories here.” – Jess Richardson
Now back in her home county once again, Richardson has spent the majority of the 2026/27 pre-season training with the club, and now officially rejoins.
Speaking to Worthing FC Women about her ambitions for the season ahead, Richardson said: “I’m excited to be back to try and help Worthing get back into step four, as I have plenty of fond memories here.”
The returnee made her non-competitive second debut for the Rebels in our pre-season friendly against AFC Portchester, followed by an appearance against Fleet Town, but is yet to feature in league action.
Richardson will be available to play in our home fixture against Millwall Lionesses this Sunday.
Welcome home, Jess!
Originally published by Worthing FC ↗