Judson University Athletics has announced the hiring of longtime Basketball Coach Matt Richter as the Head Women’s Basketball Coach and Associate Athletic Director.
“Coach Matt stood out amongst a very competitive candidate pool because of his holistic approach to the head coaching position,” said Athletic Director Rick Williams. “In addition to the extensive basketball, recruitment, and administrative knowledge that it takes to be a successful Head Coach, Matt also boasts tremendous leadership abilities and an overt desire to have great relationships with God as well as his players. His time to step into a Head Coaching role is now and we are happy he chose Judson University to fulfill his calling.”
Richter most recently served as the Assistant Coach and recruiting coordinator at Presentation College in Aberdeen, SD. Under Richter’s guidance, the Saints developed several talents including Nek Newell scoring a career-high 31 points in February. In addition, the Saint’s Emma Ogitchida was named both an NAIA Scholar-Athlete and an NSAA Champion of Character.
From 2019-2021, Richter severed as the assistant coach at Arizona Christian University, where in his second year, the Firestorm improved their win total despite playing a COVID-shortened season and finished seven games over .500. Richter had a seven-year stretch serving as the Head Coach of the Valley Lutheran High School (AZ) boys basketball program.
“I’m honored to join the Judson athletics family,” said Richter. “After spending time getting to know the players and coaches here, I knew that this was the place for me. I believe in the vision that Rick has for the Judson athletic department and I’m grateful and excited for the opportunity to see what God has planned for this place.”
Richter graduated from Valparaiso University in 2012 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and completed his master’s degree in leadership from Grand Canyon University. He and his wife, Amber, have three dogs – Leah, Piper, and Zoey – and will be living in the Elgin area.
