Coach Rick

Rick’s journey reflects a lifelong commitment to athletic excellence, leadership, and the development of young athletes.

Rick’s passion, drive, and discipline began at a young age. In grade school, he earned the Presidential Physical Fitness Award four times, and in high school, he represented his school at the Illinois State Track and Field meet. A multi-sport athlete throughout his youth, Rick earned varsity letters in two high school sports and continues to believe strongly in the value of playing multiple sports. That early athletic foundation also led him to coaching: at age 17, he became the head coach of a youth basketball team.

Rick carried that same commitment to excellence into college. He graduated at the top of his class, earned recognition as a two-time Academic All-Conference soccer player, and served as captain of his soccer team for two years. His dedication in the classroom, on the field, and as a leader culminated in receiving the Dick Durrant Award, presented to the conference’s top male student-athlete. Rick was also a member of the Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society and the Collegiate Entrepreneurs’ Organization. In recognition of his achievements and leadership, he was selected to deliver the commencement speech at his college graduation.

Rick is a multiple time “Coach of the Year” honoree, including recognition as the 2017 Illinois State Competitive Coach of the Year. He holds an “A” License through the United States Soccer Federation and a Premier Diploma through United Soccer Coaches. His leadership extends to serving as a coach for Illinois’ Olympic Development Program (ODP), a licensed coaching educator for U.S. Soccer, and a coaching mentor for the Illinois Youth Soccer Association. Rick is also a Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Sports Nutrition Coach, and Certified Behavioral Change Specialist through the National Academy of Sports Medicine. In addition, he is SafeSport certified, CDC HEADS UP youth sports trained, and CPR/AED certified.

Rick served as President for the local area soccer club, was a board member for his area’s youth sports organizations, was the race director for a 600 runner 10K/5K race and the Local Organizing chairman for the United Soccer coaches Convention (which is the largest coaches conference in the World).

Rick’s recent accomplishments include: Competing in the Canadian Death Race Ultra (August 2026) and winning 1st place as the “Top Male” runner in the Masters division at the Terra Sans 8-hour trail run (August 2025). Rick has also completed the Hennepin 100-mile ultramarathon (October 2023), the Historic JFK 50 miler (November 2022) and the Door County Fall 50 miler (October 2024). He has completed dozens of marathons and Ultra marathons throughout the last 20 years as well as achieving the Spartan Race trifectas twice. Rick’s drive to constantly LEARN and be the BEST in all that he does, keeps him as a Top coach and athlete!