Kodiak Creative

Richards Drops Interim Tag, Moves into Director of Wrestling Role Full-Time

Has been with the program since its reinstatement in 2023

7/1/2025 2:30:00 PM

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. - After serving as the leader of the Illinois Wesleyan University wrestling programs under the interim for the 2024-25 season, Adam Richards has been promoted to the position full time IWU Director of Athletics Mike Wagner announced Tuesday, July 1.

"The decision was easy," Wagner added. "After seeing Adam lead our programs over the past year, it became clear that he was the right choice to build and lead Titan wrestling for years to come. He is an accomplished coach that is passionate about the student-athlete experience. He shares a strong commitment to excellence on the mats, in the classroom, and in the community. I am excited to see our programs evolve under his leadership."

"I am incredibly honored and excited to accept the position as Director of Wrestling at Illinois Wesleyan University," Richards shared. "I want to thank President Zenger and Athletic Director Mike Wagner for their trust and support in giving me this opportunity."

"It is a privilege to work for a university that invests so deeply in its student-athletes - providing outstanding resources, support, and opportunities to ensure an exceptional collegiate experience," Richards added. "IWU's commitment to excellence, both academically and athletically, sets a powerful foundation, and I am eager to build a wrestling program that reflects that same championship mindset.I look forward to developing a culture built on hard work, integrity, and unity—one that competes at the highest level and represents Illinois Wesleyan with pride."

In two years on staff and one at the helm of the programs, Richards coached the program's first-ever All-College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin women's wrestler in Sifa Feruzi in 2025. In IWU's first season back on the mats, Richards was instrumental in mentoring Bobby Conroy to All-CCIW status on the men's side. Under the leadership of Richards, IWU won its first conference dual since its reinstatement during the 2024-25 campaign as the Titans toppled Concordia Wisconsin, 43-12, Jan. 25.

Prior to Illinois Wesleyan, Richards coached at Bloomington High School from 1998-2013, before taking a coaching position at Normal Community West High School from 2014-2023.

Richards was named the WHOI Class AA Coach of the Year in 2006, 2012, and 2018. His coaching resume includes 19 conference titles, 12 regional titles, and 419 career dual meet victories. Richards' teams have advanced to the Team State Finals three times with a third-place podium finish in 2012. Additionally, he has coached 21 IHSA Individual state place winners, seven high school All-Americans and three high school national champions.

A 1996 graduate of Bloomington High School, Richards earned his bachelor's degree in special education from Illinois State University in 2008.

Richards currently resides in Hudson, Ill. with his wife Brooke, and two sons Aaden and Jayce.

Print Friendly Version