The SUNY Poly Athletics community is mourning the loss of longtime assistant baseball coach and head bowling coach Robert "Bobby" Richie, who passed away on April 1, 2026, at the age of 68.
 
A fixture of the Wildcat family for nearly four decades, Richie dedicated 37 years to SUNY Poly through his work in the Facilities Department, while also leaving an unforgettable mark on the athletics department. He joined the baseball program in 2001 and served as an assistant coach for over two decades, helping shape generations of student-athletes before stepping away from coaching in 2022. In addition to his work on the diamond, Richie also was the head coach of the Wildcat bowling program until 2013.
 
Richie's impact extended far beyond wins and losses. Known as a mentor, father figure, and fiercely loyal coach, he had a unique ability to connect with his players. He could hold his athletes accountable when needed, but just as easily be a trusted friend and an unwavering voice of support. Those who played for him would describe him as fun-loving, baseball-obsessed, kind, and intensely competitive. He was a coach who truly cared about the people around him.
 
On the baseball field, Richie was part of one of the most significant moments in program history, serving as an assistant coach for the 2010 Wildcat baseball team that captured the program's lone conference championship to date. He also spent eight seasons as the head coach of Lee Post Legion 1794.
 
Among those who knew him best, it was often the little things that stood out most. His legendary pregame lineup readings became a tradition within the program. His bench demeanor and the way that he connected with the players, coaches, and officials reflected his personality, humor, and the deep bond he shared with his teams.
 
Head Coach Kevin Edick, who brought Richie onto his staff in 2001, reflected on both the professional and personal loss:
 
"Wildcat nation has a very heavy heart with the loss of longtime assistant baseball coach Bobby Richie. He not only was a mentor and a great coach to those who learned  under his tutelage, he was an awesome person and friend. His quick wit and humor kept us loose when we needed it, and his love and compassion helped us through the tough times. He will be missed by so many. His love shaped us and his memory will guide us. Thank you, Bobby, for being by my side all those years and for a friendship that was truly something I will cherish forever."
 
 
"While I did not have the privilege of knowing Robert personally, it is clear from the stories told and the impact that he had on our staff and student-athletes that he represents everything that makes Division III and Wildcat Athletics special" said SUNY Poly Athletics Director John Czarnecki. "Coaches and staff who pour their time, energy, and care into our programs are the backbone of Wildcat Athletics. Robert Richie was one of those special people through-and-through. His legacy will certainly continue to be felt throughout the SUNY Poly Athletics Department."
 
 
Assistant Athletic Director David Golembiowski said, "I am deeply saddened by the passing of Coach Bob Richie. I was fortunate to play for Coach Richie as a student-athlete and later to work alongside him as a coach with the SUNY Poly Baseball program. He was a true Wildcat whose dedication, mentorship, and friendship left a lasting impact on generations of student-athletes and colleagues alike. Coach Richie cared deeply about his players, the program, and the SUNY Poly community, and his legacy will be felt for years to come. I will forever cherish the friendship we shared."
 
The SUNY Poly baseball team will be wearing "Bobby" stickers on their batting helmets for the remainder of the season in honor of the great coach and mentor who helped to build up the program.
 
Robert and his wife Rhonda of 37 years built a wonderful life together with their three children, Shannon, Robert, and Danielle (Brad). He was a loving father, and a proud grandfather to his two grandchildren Robert and Alex.
 
Family and friends are invited to call at Nunn and Harper Funeral Home, Inc., 418 N. George St., Rome, NY, on Monday, April 6 from 5–7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, April 7 at 11:00 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Church in Rome, with interment to follow at St. John's Cemetery.
 
Bobby will be deeply missed by the Wildcat community but never forgotten.