FC Richmond is proud to announce Lester “Coach Les” Dewee as our new Director of Recreational Programs. With a lifelong commitment to the game and a deep alignment with our club’s “Beyond the Game” values, Coach Les brings a player-first mindset and a passion for community-building to this important leadership role.

Originally from Silver Spring, Maryland, Les began playing soccer at the age of six and quickly developed into a standout youth player. He competed with elite teams such as D.C. United and the academies of Bordeaux and Marseille (Ligue 1, France), earning four Maryland State Cups and two Regional Championships along the way. His youth career peaked with a U16 Ligue 1 national title while playing for the Marseille Academy. At the senior level, he played professionally in Sweden and earned trials with top clubs across Europe, including Lille, PSG, Crystal Palace, and Newcastle United. Les also proudly represented the United States at the U-14, U-15, U-17, and U-20 levels.

Before moving to Richmond, Les spent four years as the Head Academy Coach at Bethesda Soccer Club. After a brief hiatus while working as a software engineer, his passion for the game led him to FC Richmond, where he has made an immediate impact—serving as a U10 travel coach for Navy and Sky Magic Elite and most recently as Director of the Futures Program.

Coach Les approaches the game from a unique “player-first” and “people-first” perspective, valuing the holistic development of every child both on and off the field. A firm believer in the power of resilience, dedication, and education, Les is currently completing his psychology degree at VCU with the goal of becoming a sports psychologist. He also holds a USSF National “D” License and is actively pursuing his “C” License this year.

“Les is a valued part of our coaching staff, and his passion for player development and community building makes him the perfect fit for this role. I’m excited to see the energy and leadership he’ll bring to our recreational programs.” — Trip Dunville, Director of Coaching

Off the field, Les is an avid reader and runner, and he is passionate about mentorship and service, having previously volunteered with Big Brothers Big Sisters. 

"I am super excited about this opportunity and really grateful for what Darien McClurg has done for the Rec program over the last few years and look forward to adding to it and working with the team to continue building a more comprehensive landscape for youth soccer in the Richmond area.” - Les Dewee

Please join us in welcoming Coach Les to his new role!