Hall of Fame
Dr. Rick Wright has been intentional about investing in the lives of young men and women for many years. Coaching soccer has been his ministry since he arrived at Manhattan Christian College (MCC). Through that ministry, Rick has led student-athletes to Christ, to be baptized, and to reconciliation with others. The men’s soccer team has experienced much success under Rick’s leadership, but his priority is making an impact in the lives of students for Christ.
In 1976, Rick graduated from MCC and returned in 1989 as the Vice President of Student-Life, a role in which he still serves. He served as an assistant soccer coach for three seasons before taking the reins of the program in 1992. From 1997 to 2016, his teams won 19 consecutive NCCAA Regional Championships. In 2005, Rick led the program to its first NCCAA Division II Men’s Soccer National Championship, followed by two more titles in 2007 and 2008.
Rick has a gift for building others up to perform to their highest level and knows how to surround himself with well-skilled individuals. In addition to 20 NCCAA National Championship appearances during his tenure, his teams have had 22 Scholar-Athletes and 78 All-Americans. Rick has been named Regional Coach of the Year countless times and is a four-time NCCAA National Coach of the Year. He has also served the NCCAA as both a regional and a national sport chair.
Not only does Rick know what it takes to win on the field, he also understands what it takes to be in a relationship with Jesus. He unashamedly stresses the importance of a relationship with Jesus to those he encounters. Rick preaches weekly at a local church, while also providing pastoral care and special services when needed. He also has a desire to help younger coaches develop into effective leaders, and mentors several within the NCCAA.
MCC Athletics Director Jordan Strom said, “I met Dr. Wright in 2006 when I came as a student to Manhattan Christian College. I never played for him, but I was impressed with his ability to lead a team while not letting his character falter. I have personally witnessed his servant’s heart and willingness to lead his kids closer to Christ on multiple occasions.”
“Rick has conducted himself and his teams with a high degree of moral character and Christian integrity,” said Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Gregory Delort. “He expects his players and all who represent the athletic department to be leaders in the area of integrity.”
Kevin Ingram, MCC President, stated, “Every year I hear from alumni who have said that Rick Wright played a very important role in helping them be where they are today. They specifically refer to his encouragement, his challenge, his support, his grace, his tough love, and his ability to be involved in their lives personally.”
The NCCAA is honored to induct Dr. Rick Wright into the Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2021.