Richard Koonce was elevated to Assistant Athletics Director for Sports Performance after serving as Fayetteville State University's strength and conditioning coach since 2021. In his expanded leadership role, Koonce oversees the development and implementation of comprehensive sports performance programs designed to enhance student-athlete strength, speed, conditioning, injury prevention, and overall athletic development across the Broncos' athletic programs.
Since arriving at Fayetteville State, Koonce has been instrumental in establishing a culture of accountability, discipline, and competitive excellence within the Broncos' athletic performance program. His commitment to maximizing student-athlete potential has helped create an environment that emphasizes both physical development and personal growth, preparing athletes to succeed in competition and beyond.
Prior to beginning his collegiate coaching career, Koonce enjoyed a professional football career after signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers as a linebacker in 2007. Following his tenure with the Steelers, he continued his playing career internationally in NFL Europe, competing with the Rhein Fire and gaining valuable experience at the professional level.
A native of Jacksonville, North Carolina, Koonce attended East Carolina University, where he was a four-year letterwinner on the Pirate football team from 2002-06. A standout defensive lineman, he helped establish a reputation for toughness and consistency while earning his bachelor's degree in logistics with a minor in business.
Koonce is also a proud graduate of Southwest Onslow High School, where he was a member of the school's 2000 state championship football team that secured a memorable 14-13 victory over Newton-Conover High School.
Known for his passion for athlete development and servant leadership, Koonce continues to make a lasting impact on Fayetteville State Athletics through his dedication to building stronger, faster, and more resilient student-athletes while fostering a championship mindset throughout the department.
Koonce resides in Stedman, North Carolina, with his wife, Danielle, and their three children, Richard III, Jimmy, and Sarah.
