Rick Comley
Rick Comley
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Rick Comley is a well-known American basketball coach, best recognized for his tenure as the head men's basketball coach at Michigan State University.
Birth and Death Dates
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Born on February 27, 1955, in Saginaw, Michigan. There is no record of Rick Comley's passing date.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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American, Basketball Coach
Early Life and Background
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Comley grew up in a sports-loving family in Saginaw, where he developed a passion for basketball at an early age. He attended Arthur Hill High School, where his father, Bob Comley, was the school's athletic director. This exposure helped Rick cultivate his interest in coaching and leadership.
Major Accomplishments
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Comley has spent over 40 years in college basketball as a coach or administrator.
His most notable position was as head men's basketball coach at Michigan State University (MSU) from 1989 to 2011, where he achieved an all-time record of 513-394 wins.
Under his leadership, the Spartans made five NCAA Tournament appearances and won two Big Ten Conference championships.
Comley was also a member of the MSU athletics staff as assistant athletic director for external affairs from 2002 to 2011.
Notable Works or Actions
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Comley's dedication to basketball led him to work under several prominent coaches, including Jud Heathcote and Tom Izzo. He also played an essential role in shaping the future of MSU athletics through his administrative position.
Impact and Legacy
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Rick Comley's influence on college basketball extends beyond his coaching record. As a respected figure in the athletic community, he has mentored numerous young coaches and administrators who now hold prominent positions across various institutions.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Comley is widely remembered for his dedication to developing players both on and off the court. His emphasis on teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship has left a lasting impact on the world of college basketball. Many young coaches and aspiring athletes look up to him as an example of leadership and commitment.
This comprehensive biography highlights Rick Comley's achievements in basketball coaching and administration, demonstrating why he remains a notable figure in the athletic community.
Quotes by Rick Comley
Rick Comley's insights on:
I really like the way we fought back after that first goal. There was no panic whatsoever and I just think they had a feeling the puck was going to go in.
I just have so much respect for our seniors and our kids and the battle and spirit that they had. It would have been so easy for that game to turn into like a 9-2 game.
I know (Michigan) State hasn't scored a goal in three straight NCAA games. But this group ? they do what they need to do.
If there hadn't been an injury, they probably would have played every game together. I like the way they work off each other.
I'm not sure it was a cheap shot. It was marginal hitting from behind, and you can tell by the philosophy that he (the referee) had that he wasn't calling very much.
I never thought he played out of panic or fear or worry because he always knew he could go faster (and) catch somebody. He had such great vision and good skills. He'd pass it over a stick, under a stick ? he just could do anything the situation called for.
I'm proudest of the fact that this team doesn't quit. To come back when you're down two in the third period when they're playing that well, that's tough to do.
I knew going in that they were going to put it at the net with wrist shots and tips. That's what they do so very well.
I'm not critical. I think that's a very good referee and an excellent crew, but I think there is a major difference in philosophy on what's called. That's a league philosophy.