From Late Bloomer to Champion Maker
Two-Time NCAA All-American | Director of Track & Field at Cerritos College | Author | Podcast Host
The Journey
From Struggle to Significance
“Champions aren’t born—they’re forged through adversity, guided by mentors, and fueled by unwavering determination. This is my story.”
The Foundation
Born in Florida, raised in Downey, California, by a single mother who taught me that circumstances don’t define destiny—choices do. School was a struggle. Direction was elusive. But beneath the uncertainty, resilience was being built brick by brick.
It wasn’t until high school that sports became my language—football, basketball, and eventually track and field, though I approached it casually, unaware of the dormant potential within me.
The Awakening
At Cerritos College, I enrolled with football dreams. Then Coach Doug Wells saw something I couldn’t see in myself. He introduced me to the decathlon and challenged me to commit fully to track and field.
That moment changed everything.
- Multiple championships
- School records shattered
- Two-time State Champion
The Ascent
At California State University, Long Beach, under the legendary Coach Dave Rodda, I reached heights I never imagined:
Athletic Achievements:
- 2x NCAA All-American
- Multiple-Time Conference Champion
- Gold Medalist - North American, Central American & Caribbean Championships
Paying It Forward
Today, I serve as Director and Head Coach of Track & Field and Cross-Country at Cerritos College—the same institution where my transformation began. I teach kinesiology and exercise science, conduct sport science research, and mentor athletes, many from backgrounds like my own.
What started as a late introduction to sports has evolved into a lifelong calling: to coach, to teach, to inspire, and to help others realize their potential—no matter where they start.
Book
Coaching in the 21st Century
Explore practical tools for building championship mindsets, managing high-stakes responsibilities, and inspiring athletes to transcend limitations—available now for purchase to unlock your uncommon potential.
Services
How Can I Serve You?
From the field to the boardroom, from the classroom to the keynote stage, expertise built on experience, delivered with passion.
Personal Coaching
1-on-1 mentorship for athletes and professionals seeking breakthrough performance and life transformation.
Workshops & Seminars
Interactive learning experiences for coaching staffs, athletic departments, and organizations.
Recruiting Consultation
Guidance for athletes to navigate the recruiting process, build standout profiles, & connect with right college programs.
Speaking Engagements
Inspire audiences with stories of overcoming adversity, building championship mindsets, and peak performance strategies.
Sponsorships & Partnerships
Collaborate with brands aligned with empowering athletes and expanding sports education access.
Consulting
Expert guidance for athletic program development, curriculum design, and organizational leadership.
Podcast
Becoming Uncommon with Coach Rich
Real Conversations About Sports, Success, and the Human Spirit
Join me weekly on YouTube as I sit down with champions, coaches, educators, and change-makers to explore:
- The untold stories behind athletic success.
- Mental toughness and peak performance.
- Leadership lessons from the field.
- Breaking barriers in sports and education.
- The science and soul of human potential.
