Richardson began his career at Swan Districts in 1978 at an age of 19, he was regarded as a highly skilled fast placed roving forward or mid fielder.
Richardson played as a rover in the 1982 Grand Final and was among the team's best players.
He remained at Essendon for the remainder of the 1986 season playing 15 games and kicking 14 goals.
Richardson then joined the inaugural Brisbane Bears Team in the 1987 season[6] he played some of his best football at the club and held down many positions.
He left at the end of the 1990 season after playing 81 games and kicking 43 goals to return to Swan Districts.