Patrick Richardson Takes the Helm as Head Coach for NCC Swimming & Diving Team

NAPERVILLE — Senior athletic director at North Central College, Jim Miller ’86, has declared the appointment of Patrick Richardson as the head coach for the men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams.

“We are thrilled to have Coach Richardson join North Central,” remarked Miller. “He brings significant Division III coaching expertise and has fostered strong relationships in the local area over the last few years.”

“Being part of this program has always been a long-standing ambition of mine, and I appreciate the chance to do so,” Richardson stated. “Assisting exceptional and gifted student-athletes in achieving their athletic and academic aspirations drives me to rise at 4 a.m.”

Richardson has held multiple coaching and aquatics director positions throughout the Chicagoland region, most recently serving as the aquatics director at the Wheaton Sport Center. Before that, he was the director of aquatics at the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago in Naperville.

From 2015 to 2019, Richardson directed the Hollins University (Va.) swimming squad, a Division III team in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference. Throughout his time there, he led the women’s team to nine school records and established an academic oversight program that earned a Scholar All-America team honor from the College Swim Coaches Association of America. He also acted as the advisor for the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and organized community service initiatives for student-athletes.

Prior to his time at Hollins, Richardson was the assistant swim coach at William Jewell College (Mo.), a Division II program, during the 2014-2015 season.

“Coaching revolves around equipping the team and its athletes with the insight, encouragement, and chances to thrive. I underscore the student element of student-athlete since there is always more to discover about the sport, whether as an athlete or a coach. Instructing on technical components ensures we swim more intelligently and effectively. My goal is to cultivate a team of athletes who uplift each other and commit to excellence both in and out of the water. This involves being prepared to compete, supporting teammates, and excelling academically,” Richardson remarked.

Richardson competed at the collegiate level at Oakland University (Mich.), a Division I program, where he served as team captain. He also took on the role of SAAC president and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in communication.

“I am eager to create a robust team culture and set new records for North Central. We have the opportunity to build an outstanding program that can significantly influence campus life. We are privileged to be part of an athletic department dedicated to competing at the highest levels,” Richardson expressed. “I look forward to seeing my athletes on the podium and am excited for the impact we will have within the Cardinal community. Additionally, I am delighted for my daughter to grow up alongside the pool deck and amongst inspiring peers.”

The Cardinals will be back in action on Saturday, Jan. 25, when North Central hosts Augustana College, Millikin University, and Wheaton College for a meet at Naperville Central High School.

“I want to express my gratitude to Shawn Kornoelje for the chance to walk on at Oakland, which paved the way for a fulfilling career,” Richardson stated. “Moreover, thank you to Dani Raymond and Maya Schattgen from Hollins University for helping me become a better coach. The biggest thanks goes to Louie Richardson for inspiring me daily!”