For Tyler Rickard, the Wright City School Board’s decision on April 21 fulfilled a long-term goal.

That’s because Rickard, the head football coach at the school for the last five seasons, was named the next director of activities and athletics for the high school on that day.

Rickard will begin the position on July 1 and will succeed Justin Rodgers, who held the position for one year.

“Being a head football coach and athletic director has always been my career aspiration,” Rickard said. “I’m very grateful God has allowed me to be able to achieve both of those goals here at Wright City. This is a special place, and I'm excited to continue serving our students and community in this new role.”

Over the course of his five seasons, the football Wildcats were 24-28. During that span, the Wildcats posted a 1-8 record in the coach’s first season.

This past season, however, Wright City went 7-4 and defeated Principia in the first round of the district playoffs before falling to Borgia.

Before taking over the program, Rickard was an assistant coach for two seasons and served as the head girls' track coach for two years.

Rickard said he’s excited to oversee the school’s athletics programs.

“Over the last seven years, I’ve seen what makes Wright City such a special place,” he said. “I look forward to our work together as we strive to grow and strengthen all of our programs.”

Wright City Superintendent Dr. Amy Salvo said that the coach’s connection to the district, and not just on the football field, has made a lasting impact and she’s excited to see what he’ll do in guiding the program.

"Coach Rickard is a dedicated educator and coach who consistently invests in our students, both in the classroom and in competition,” Salvo said. “We’re excited to welcome him as our next Activities and Athletic Director and look forward to the lasting impact he will make as he leads and strengthens programs across our district."

The search for Rickard’s successor to guide the football program will begin immediately.