Richard T. Roche is a highly accomplished and results-oriented leader with a distinguished career spanning 37 years in athletics and education. As a visionary Athletic Director, coach, and executive, Richard has consistently delivered transformative outcomes by fostering a culture of excellence, integrity, and holistic growth. His expertise in strategic planning, budget management, fundraising, and leadership development has positioned him as a trusted and influential figure in his field.
Richard’s professional journey has been defined by his ability to build high-performing athletic programs, enhance operational efficiency, and develop future leaders. Most recently, as Director of Athletics at Notre Dame High School in Lawrenceville, NJ, he managed an annual budget exceeding $1 million while overseeing the construction of state-of-the-art athletic facilities and implementing programmatic improvements that aligned with institutional goals. In this role, he championed student-athlete success by emphasizing academic achievement and sportsmanship, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and resolving complex challenges with a collaborative approach. During his tenure, he also revitalized the Boys Varsity Basketball Program, instilling a new culture of teamwork and guiding the team to success both on and off the court.
Before his leadership at Notre Dame High School, Richard served as District Athletic Director for Lindenhurst Public Schools in New York. Managing an extensive department of 95 teams and 128 coaches, he oversaw a $1.5 million budget, coordinated transportation and scheduling, and maintained regulatory compliance across all programs. His innovative approach to operational management and dedication to fostering community relationships solidified his reputation as a trusted leader.
Richard’s coaching career is equally distinguished. As Head Basketball Coach at Hobart College, he led the team to historic milestones, including the program’s first NCAA Tournament appearance, first regular-season championship, and first 20-win season. Under his leadership, the team also earned multiple conference titles and postseason victories. He mentored numerous award-winning student-athletes, including two finalists for the prestigious Josten’s Trophy, five regional All-Americans, and three Liberty League Players of the Year. His commitment to player development extended beyond the court, ensuring that his athletes thrived academically and personally.
Richard’s influence extends beyond the teams he has coached and the programs he has directed. He has played a vital role in advancing athletics through his involvement in professional associations, including serving as President of the Colonial Valley Athletic Conference (CVC) and the Mercer County Tournament Association (MCTA). His contributions to the athletic community have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the Colonial Valley Conference Coach of the Year, Liberty League Coach of the Year, and National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) Eastern District Coach of the Year awards.
A graduate of Hobart College with a Bachelor of Arts in History and a minor in Political Science, Richard furthered his education with a Master of Arts in Education from Villanova University. His academic foundation complements his professional expertise, enabling him to approach challenges with a blend of analytical rigor and practical insight.
Richard is also a dedicated community advocate, participating in charitable initiatives such as Coaches vs. Cancer, Relay for Life, and fundraising efforts for Hurricane Katrina victims. His passion for serving others extends to mentoring aspiring leaders and athletes, ensuring that his impact is felt across generations.
Driven by a mission to empower individuals and organizations, Richard T. Roche continues to bring strategic vision, operational excellence, and a commitment to integrity to every role he undertakes. Whether leading athletic programs, guiding student-athletes, or advising organizations, Richard remains steadfast in his dedication to fostering success and building stronger communities.
Character
Richard T. Roche exemplifies integrity, resilience, and a commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and sportsmanship.
Knowledge
With 37 years of experience, he brings unparalleled expertise in athletic leadership, program development, and regulatory compliance.
Strategic
Richard is a visionary leader adept at developing and executing innovative strategies to drive organizational success and operational efficiency.
Communication
A skilled communicator, he effectively collaborates with stakeholders, resolves conflicts, and inspires teams to achieve their full potential.
