The Colchester United match programme for the clash with Wigan on 12th February 1999, provided details of two young U's who had signed four year School of Excellence contracts that would keep them at Colchester until 2002. Both Springett and John White played for the Colchester Under-13s.

Richard started playing football as an Under 8 with Tempest FC and trained with Norwich City. The following season, he joined Colchester. He also played for the Gilberd School and for the Colchester & North East Essex District side.

Richard is now with Heybridge Swifts' Under-18 side