SALINA, Kan. — Sacred Heart Jr./Sr. High School has named Tate Richards as the next head coach of the Sacred Heart girls basketball program.

Richards is no stranger to the Sacred Heart community. A Sacred Heart graduate, he currently teaches physical education to seventh, eighth and ninth grade students. He has also spent the past two seasons as an assistant coach with the girls basketball program.

In addition to his work with girls basketball, Richards has contributed to Sacred Heart athletics through coaching roles in boys basketball and football. He has also remained active in youth athletics throughout the Salina area.

The announcement comes as the Knights build on one of the most successful seasons in program history. Sacred Heart captured the 2025-26 KSHSAA Class 2A State Championship and returns a talented core of student-athletes for the upcoming season.

“We are excited for Coach Richards to lead our girls basketball program,” Sacred Heart Athletic Director Kegan Knight said. “Tate understands what makes Sacred Heart special. He is invested in our students, our school and our mission. Through his work in the classroom and his involvement in multiple athletic programs, he has built strong relationships throughout our school community. We look forward to seeing him continue the tradition of excellence that has become a hallmark of Sacred Heart girls basketball.”

Richards’ commitment to Sacred Heart extends beyond the gym. He and his wife, Hillary, also a Sacred Heart graduate, are raising their three children within the Salina Catholic Schools family. Their children currently attend St. Mary’s Grade School and Love N Learn Early Education Center.

Before joining Sacred Heart, Richards served the Salina community for eight years as a firefighter, paramedic and emergency medical professional. His background in public service helped shape the leadership, teamwork and servant-hearted approach he brings to coaching and education.

“I am looking forward to building on the foundation of the girls basketball program, fostering teamwork, discipline and school pride while continuing to strengthen the connection between the team and the broader Sacred Heart community,” Richards said. “I am blessed and excited for the opportunity to lead the Lady Knights. Let’s Go Knights!”

As Richards steps into the head coaching role, he said he is focused on helping student-athletes grow not only as basketball players, but also as young women of faith, character and leadership.