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