The '03 native of Amarillo, TX is in his second season with the 87's, and over course of 68 career games in the Eastern Hockey League (EHL), Richards has tallied 23 total points to his credit on seven goals and 17 assists.

"Keaton has been tremendous for us, he is a very good winger who possess the skills needed to do many different thingst," said 87's head coach and general manager Adam Houli. “He is hard along the wall and can win one-on-one battles everywhere. He is going to be an exciting college player to watch and I am so happy he trusted our program from the start. I am very happy for him and cant wait to see what the next 4 bring his way!"

Richards is one of five EHL players that have chosen the Hawks for next season, as he will team up with Conor Kelly of the New Hampshire Avalanche, Brendan Manning of the Vermont Lumberjacks,Connor Peet from the Boston Jr. Terriers, and Nick Theodos from the New England Wolves when he arrives on campus.

"I am beyond thrilled to attend St. A's for the next four years," said Richards. "I am looking forward to being a student-athlete and I could not thank my family and coaches enough for supporting me throughout the journey. Also, huge thanks to the 87's for a special pair of seasons in New Jersey."

Richards and the 87's enter the final weekend of the regular season locked into a tight battle with Team Maryland and the Philadelphia Little Flyers. Each of the three programs can finish as high as 2nd place in the South Division standings, or as low as 4th place.

Learn more about the 87's on the team's official website, and check out the full 2023-24 NCAA commitment list.