Coach Rich Brown has spent decades inspiring athletes and shaping the future of track and cross country in Thurston County. A 1991 graduate of Tumwater High School, Rich excelled in Track, Cross Country, Wrestling, Swimming, and Select/Premier Soccer. His athletic and academic pursuits led him to Montana State University (MSU), where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Sports Medicine/Athletic Training and Health/Physical Education (K-12), competing as a four-year letterman in Track and Cross Country and post collegiately, qualifying for the 2000 US Men’s Olympic Marathon Trials.

Rich’s expertise in injury prevention and treatment made him an asset not only in athletics but also in education, where he taught at Baboquivari High School in Arizona and later in Ashmead College’s Fitness Trainer Program in Washington State. After completing additional specialization in sports and injury treatment, while attending Ashmead College of Massage, Rich began his career as a clinical and sports massage therapist by opening his own massage practice in 2001.

Rich’s coaching career began as a Volunteer Assistant Cross County Coach at MSU in 1996 and quickly expanded. He served as Head Track Coach at Bush Middle School, Head Cross Country and Track Coach at Baboquivari High School, and for more than two decades, as a key sprint and distance coach at Tumwater High School, through the 2024 season.

Certified as a USATF Level 1 and Level 2 (Youth Specialization), Rich’s influence extends beyond school teams. As a founding member of Club Oly Road Runners, he helped build a thriving local running community. His coaching philosophy blends technical expertise with heartfelt mentorship, empowering hundreds of youths and adult athletes to find success not only on the course and track but also in life. Coach Brown’s legacy is defined by his passion, innovation, and deep commitment to nurturing the next generation of runners.