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Richard Koonce is a former NFL linebacker, collegiate Strength & Conditioning Coach, and keynote speaker who installs championship mentality in organizations, athletes, and high performers worldwide.

Coach Richard Koonce is a motivational speaker, collegiate Strength & Conditioning Coach, and former NFL linebacker. He signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2007, played professionally for the Rhein Fire in NFL Europe, and was a 4-year letterman and team captain at East Carolina University. Today, Coach Koonce delivers keynotes, builds elite teams, and runs the Koonce Inner Circle — a monthly membership where he personally coaches a community of high performers.

Richard Koonce has competed and led at every level of sport and performance for 25+ years. From state championship MVP at Southwest Onslow High School, to a 4-year Division I letterman and team captain at East Carolina University, to signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers and playing professionally for the Rhein Fire in NFL Europe — Coach Koonce was built in the fire. Off the field, he is a career firefighter, husband, father of three, and an active competitor in USA Weightlifting at the national level. Today, he serves as a collegiate Strength & Conditioning Coach and as one of the most in-demand voices on mental toughness, championship culture, and performance under pressure. Coach is the creator of the C.H.O.I.C.E. framework, founder of the Koonce Inner Circle, and travels nationally to deliver keynotes for corporate, athletic, military, and faith-based audiences.