Rich Duncan is in his 4th season as the Rhodes Head Football coach, bringing a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success.
Duncan joined Rhodes College in 2021 with the mission to rebuild the program. His impact was immediate, as he led the team to a 3-7 record in his first season, followed by a 5-5 record in 2022 and a 6-4 record in 2023. Under his guidance, Rhodes achieved significant accolades, including five Second Team All-SAA players and five honorable mentions in 2023, as well as notable individual awards such as the 2022 SAA Defensive Lineman of the Year, two First Team All-SAA selections, four Second Team All-SAA picks, and multiple SAA Players of the Week.
After a notable seven-year stint as the head coach at Aurora University from 2005 to 2011, where he led the Spartans to the NCAA Division III national playoffs in 2008, Duncan has demonstrated his ability to build and lead successful football programs.
Following his tenure at Aurora, Duncan spent a decade at Berry College, where he significantly impacted the program as the offensive coordinator. During his time with the Vikings, he played a crucial role in guiding the team to the five consecutive SAA championships, three NCAA playoff appearances, including advancing to the second-round twice. Berry achieved its highest ranking in program history at No. 7 in the American Football Coaches Association Poll in 2019, and Duncan's offensive strategies helped secure the Vikings a No. 9 ranking in 2018 and No. 18 in 2017. Over eight seasons, Berry compiled a record of 52-26, with an impressive 43-6 record over the last five seasons. Duncan's leadership also saw players achieve All-Conference honors and top SAA statistical leader boards, including Mason Kinsey, who holds numerous SAA records including Career Receiving Yards (3,343 yards) and Receiving Touchdowns (50).
Duncan's coaching career began at Manchester College in 1991, where he served as the offensive line coach and assistant baseball coach. He later held positions at the University of Massachusetts-Lowell, Capital University, and the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, where he was the offensive coordinator and offensive line coach, setting multiple offensive records and mentoring numerous All-Conference players.
At Aurora, Duncan posted a 38-33 record and was named the Northern Athletics Conference Coach of the Year in 2008 after guiding the Spartans to a 9-2 overall record and an undefeated conference mark. His tenure saw 80 All-Conference players, 15 All-Region selections, and five All-Americans, along with four Academic All-Region honorees.
Duncan earned his bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Bethany College and a master’s degree from Loras College. He is the proud father of two children, Molly and Jake (R’ 24). With his extensive experience and a history of building successful football programs, Coach Rich Duncan is poised to continue making a significant impact at Rhodes College.
