FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
1/10/03

CONTACT:
B.J. Schneck
Assistant Director of Public Relations
Greenville College
(618) 664-6621

Longtime High School and College Coach Rich Stewart Rejoins Greenville College Football Program

Hillsboro Resident Takes Over as Defensive Coordinator

GREENVILLE, Ill. - Former Hillsboro, Ill., High School head football coach Rich Stewart has been named defensive coordinator at Greenville College, reuniting him with a program and institution for which he served from 1987 to 1993.

Stewart's hiring comes just seven weeks after he led Hillsboro High School to the Illinois Class 4A semifinals where they dropped a 27-24 contest to eventual state runner-up Mt. Carmel, ending the season with an 11-1 record.

"We are very excited that Rich Stewart has joined our Greenville College football staff," said head coach Scotty Kessler. "He has had great success on the football field through his coaching ventures these last many years, and he brings tremendous experience to our football program."

Over the last nine seasons at Hillsboro High School, Stewart guided the Hiltoppers to an overall record of 62-32. Two of his teams had undefeated regular seasons, and six squads advanced to the Illinois state playoffs. Five teams were conference champions.

"Coach Stewart is a gifted individual who uniquely inspires student-athletes toward excellence," Kessler added. "I am struck by the passion and loyalty that he has generated in the individuals whom he has previously served in both the high school and college ranks."

His recent tenure at Hillsboro was his second tour of duty at the school. He was an assistant coach at Hillsboro from 1974 to 1986, serving as offensive line coach, defensive coordinator, and strength coach.

In 1987, he joined Greenville College for their first year of football, serving as defensive line coach and assisting with special teams and strength and conditioning before returning to Hillsboro for the 1994 campaign.

The Greenville College teams that he assisted ranked in the top ten in the nation in rushing defense, passing defense, and scoring defense. The squad advanced to the NAIA Division II national playoffs in 1990, and three teams finished as one of the top 20 teams in the nation.

Stewart holds a bachelor of science degree in physical education from Southeast Missouri State University.

While in college, Stewart played center and linebacker on the institution's football team, garnering MIAA all-conference accolades at center for three seasons. He was a four-year letter winner, captaining the 1973 team and picking up honors in 1973 as the most valuable lineman and Goddard Award recipient.

Stewart resides in Hillsboro with his wife Margie. The couple has two adult children, Jason and Jennifer

Last updated: January 17, 2003