A Coach Who Refuses to Retire
Rick Trickett, at 78, stands as one of the few college football coaches still active beyond the typical retirement age, continuing to shape the offensive line for West Virginia.
His career is marked by a blend of military discipline and relentless physical preparation; he still performs over a hundred stomach crunches each day and recently added a Triumph motorcycle to his routine.
When he talks with players, he weaves in stories from his time as a 19‑year‑old enlistee in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, using those experiences to build a bond that transcends generations.
Rich Rodriguez, who brought Trickett to the program, cites the coach’s proven winning mentality and his ability to instill pride and perfectionism in the line as key reasons for the hire.
On the first week of practice, the Mountaineers took to the Steve Antoline Family Practice Field for outdoor drills before moving indoors as rain rolled in, a routine that reflects Trickett’s adaptability and hands‑on approach.
Players describe his booming voice, commanding presence and a passion that some compare to a cartoon character, yet his focus remains on perfecting technique and fostering teamwork.