Powerful. Emotional. Inspirational.
Coach Brian Riley’s talk with the Halo team was not just a motivational speech. It was a powerful lesson in leadership and teamwork, delivered with a level of emotion that left a permanent mark on us all. Through the stories of his life growing up at West Point and the 24 years he was the assistant and head men’s hockey coach, Coach Riley made the journeys of two of his former players, Thomas Kennedy and Derek Hines, into an unforgettable narrative.
He didn't just stand at the front of the room and tell us what he thinks it means to be a leader. He showed us the courage and selflessness of those who truly put their team before themselves. He didn't just speak in jargon about teamwork. Coach Riley shared the stories of two men who were so committed to their mission and the group of soldiers around them that they paid the ultimate price. He drove home the message that culture trumps talent when trying to achieve truly aspirational goals. The “Power of One", showing your team that you care for them as people first, is an approach Coach learned from his father, and that I took away and will do my best to adopt.
The personal connection Coach Riley had to these stories made the lessons resonate far beyond a typical corporate seminar. The stories of “TK” and “Hinesy” were a powerful reminder of what true commitment looks like. It was an experience that will shift our perspective on our own culture, teamwork, and responsibility to one another. A pin could have been heard to drop in that room, with absolute attention paid to each word Coach spoke.
Coach Riley's speech was an inspiring call to action to remember the spirit of Thomas Kennedy and Derek Hines and exemplify their leadership, teamwork, and selfless qualities in everything we do. It was a privilege to hear, and a message we will never forget.
Our team was completely unaware as to who was speaking with them that day and everyone, including me, was blown away. Regardless of the business you are in or the opportunities you have ahead of you, I think everyone from sports teams, to companies to charities would benefit from his wisdom and that the world is a better place with the meaningful lessons delivered by Coach.
—Matt Radgowski
CEO, Halo Investing
I hope you don’t mind me reaching out, but I couldn’t let another day pass without personally thanking you for taking the time to speak with our team.
Your words had such a profound impact—not just in the moment, but in the way they’ve stayed with us. On Monday, we had a team meeting to reflect on our trip, and I asked each player to write and share something that resonated with them. I can’t tell you how moving it was to hear every single player speak about you—your message, your presence, and the way you made them think differently about life, leadership, and perspective.
In a world where young people are constantly bombarded with noise, your authenticity and wisdom cut through. You made them feel seen, challenged them to reflect, and inspired them to lead with heart. That’s a rare and special gift—and we’re so grateful you chose to share it with us.
Congratulations on your retirement and a truly remarkable career. I hope you can feel the ripple effect of your work—you've left an incredible legacy, and our team is now part of that story.
— Katie Schumacher-Cawley
Head Coach, Penn State Volleyball
During an executive leadership offsite at West Point we invited Coach Riley to share leadership perspectives with our team which he agreed to.
From the moment he arrived his calm disposition connected with our entire team. Though the team was thinking this may be a motivational sports themed speech by way of my hockey background though they then heard without any notes or AV Coach Riley deliver a 45-minute session, not only about leadership, but also about character, family, and loss. As we sat on the campus of the greatest leadership academy in the world, we all heard the impactful stories about 1st Lt. Derek Hines and MAJ Thomas Kennedy, former Army hockey players who gave the ultimate sacrifice, it’s impact on coach Riley, the current hockey program along with their legacy - which Coach Riley is forever committed to honor his former players.
The Schimenti leadership team could not have been more moved and motivated by Coach Riley, and we look forward to having him participate in future sessions.
—Matthew Schimenti
President of Schimenti Construction Company
Motivating and inspiring are the greatest forms of leadership, and Brian Riley has a unique ability to capture this in a team setting like no one else. He spoke with our team this season, and in the most incredible way, Brian was able to share life lessons about being an exceptional teammate, the power of one, and building a team that learns to play together—for each other. It was the most uplifting 30 minutes of our season, and his words left a lasting impact on all of us.
—Eric Lang
C. Lloyd Bauer ’55 Endowed Men’s Varsity Ice Hockey Coach, RPI