Rich Giesen

Linebacker (1979-80)

One-of-five boys Richard Giesen was born and raised in Anthony, Kansas.  A 1979 graduate of Chaparral High School, he participated in football and track.

In football, he was All-League two years and 1st team All-State running back and linebacker his senior year. During his senior year, Rich was selected to the Wichita Eagle Top 11 All-State team, and played in the Kansas Shrine Bowl. He was selected as a team captain for the All-Star game. Rich was also a four-year varsity letterman in track and a three-year letterman in basketball. He was voted the outstanding athlete of his high school class. In track he held the national AAU record in the 440, 220 and shot put in the 10-11 year-old division.

Rich was recruited to Coffeyville Community College by Dick Foster. He played linebacker for the Ravens and lead the team in tackles his sophomore year. He helped lead the Ravens to an undefeated season in 1980 as a team captain. He also participated in track for the Ravens, throwing the shot put.

Rich went on to play for former Raven coach Charlie Richards at Baker University. He was 2nd team All-HAAC Defensive End. His Wildcat team finished the regular season undefeated and lost to National Champion Pacific Lutheran in 1983.

After graduation Rich returned to Chaparral High School to coach with his former high school coach John Elmore. He was an assistant coach from 1984-1989 in football and wrestling and also served as strength coach.

In 1989, Coach Dick Foster hired him as a defensive line coach.  Rich worked for former teammate Skip Foster as an assistant coach and defensive coordinator from 1989-2000, and he also served as the strength coach. He helped the Ravens advance to the 1990 National Championship.

Rich left CCC to become the head coach of the Field Kindley High School Golden Tornado football and track teams in 2000. In his second year the football team advanced to the playoffs and won the first playoff game in school history. They have continued success making the playoffs in three of the last five years, and posting a 4-3 playoff record. They have two District Championships, three Bi-District Championships, and one Regional Championship.

As the girls and boys Head Track Coach, Rich has guided the boys team to two Regional Championships, two Regional runner-ups, and third in the State in 2000.

Rich married Joni Caresio in 1995, and they have three children.