Dick Rippee is in his fifth season as the head boys basketball coach at Bentonville High School. Coach Rippee is well respected as a leader of student athletes and a great teacher of the game. We recently had the opportunity to find out more about Coach Rippee‘s career and life outside the game of basketball.
Where were you born and raised?
I was born in Springfield, MO in 1967 and lived there for 48 years before moving to Bentonville in 2017.
When did you know you wanted to be a basketball coach?
I was a college student at Missouri State and was able to be an assistant coach through a Coaching Practicum class and loved teaching and coaching basketball.
What was your first job as a coach?
I was the 9th grade boys basketball coach at Nixa High School when still a senior in college.
How long have you been coaching HS basketball?
This is my 33rd year of coaching basketball (26 years in public schools and 7 years as a college assistant coach at Evangel Univ). This is my 16th year as a head coach in high school.
How does it feel to be able to coach alongside your son on a daily basis?
The last 4 seasons coaching with my son, Ryan, have been my absolute favorite years as a coach. His development as a coach has been quick. Our players trust him and respect his knowledge for the game, as do I. I will say it is much easier coaching with him than coaching him. LOL.
What is your favorite thing about living in NWA?
Family and Bentonville High School. My wife and our children all live in NWA. My wife and I love spending time with our kids! BHS has quickly become very special to our entire family.
What are the expectations for your team in the upcoming season?
I expect our players to play to the very best of their abilities every day. We have a difficult schedule this season but feel like we can compete with everyone on it. We expect our players to improve and play with a great amount of joy and togetherness.
What is the biggest change you have seen in high school basketball in the years you’ve been coaching?
Shot clock. It has changed the pace of the game. Our players love it, and so do our coaches.
What are your interests outside the game of basketball?
I enjoy watching other sports. I don’t watch as much basketball as I do football and baseball. Although I have enjoyed lately watching certain teams in the NBA. I enjoy traveling with my wife and spending time with her and our children.
Is there a coach or person who inspired you to become a coach?
My parents were both teachers and I believe they instilled in me the heart for helping others. I would say that every coach I ever had the privilege of playing for helped me develop an interest in coaching and helping others.