Volunteer Spotlight: Coach Richard Chin: A Lifelong Love for Soccer

Wednesday, April 2, 2025

Coastal FC wouldn’t be the same without its amazing volunteers. One of them is Richard Chin, head coach of the 2007 Royal boys team in the U14-U18 Rep/Divisional program. Richard has been involved in soccer since he was a kid, and his love for the game has only grown over the years.

A Love for Soccer from the Start

Richard grew up in Burnaby, playing soccer like so many kids do. His family were huge Vancouver Whitecaps fans and had season tickets when the team played at Empire Stadium. He stepped away from the game for a while as an adult, only playing the occasional pickup match. But when his kids started playing, he found himself drawn back in—this time as a coach.

The Coastal FC Journey

Richard’s coaching journey began in 2011 with his daughter’s team at Semiahmoo Soccer. A year later, when Semiahmoo and Peace Arch Boys Soccer merged to form Coastal FC, he also started coaching his son’s team. From there, his role grew, and he soon found himself coaching both teams nearly six days a week. Even after his own kids had stopped playing, he stayed on to coach the 2007 boys' team, helping them develop from U6 to U18.

Unforgettable Moments on the Field

Over the years, Richard has built strong friendships with players and their families. Some of his favourite memories come from leading his team to the Provincials—not once, but twice! In their final season together, he hopes to guide them there one last time.

Why Volunteer?

Richard first started coaching to be involved in his kids' soccer experience. Even though he had never coached, he learned as he went—just like the players. What keeps him coming back is simple: he loves seeing young athletes grow and improve. “The connections you make with the players, families, and other coaches are incredible,” Richard says. “It really feels like a community.”

Life Outside of Soccer

When he’s not coaching, Richard enjoys playing golf—though he jokes that he needs lessons. He also plays pickup soccer with other Coastal FC coaches to stay in the game. As a fan, he supports both the Vancouver Whitecaps and Tottenham Hotspur. “Don’t hold that against me.” he laughs.

Thinking About Volunteering?

Richard’s story proves that volunteering isn’t just about soccer—it’s about building friendships and being part of something bigger. What is his advice for anyone considering it? “Give it a try. You’ll learn, you’ll grow, and you’ll be part of a great community.”

Thank you, Richard, for everything you do for Coastal FC.