In Episode 47 of Coaches at Crown Brew Getting Coffee, presented by the Swinford Media Group and sponsored by Adrenaline Fundraising, Marion Plumbing, and Swinford Wedding Videography, host Kerry Martin sits down with one of Southern Illinois’ most experienced and respected educators—Rich Williams. A Sparta native with decades of service in coaching and school leadership, Williams has held just about every title in the playbook: head coach, assistant coach, athletic director, college staffer, bass fishing coach, and president of the Southern Illinois Coaches Association—a role he’s held for the past 17 years, making him the longest-serving president in the association’s history. Williams’ journey spans small towns and big impact. He’s coached football and basketball at schools across the region, helped rebuild struggling programs, and launched a football co-op that gave dozens of students the chance to compete for the first time. Known for his steady leadership and student-first approach, he’s spent his career building programs where culture, character, and connection come first. In this episode, Williams reflects on growing up across from the Sparta school bus lot, coaching in places where wins didn’t come easy, and why he’s always believed that effort, integrity, and relationships matter more than the scoreboard. He shares hard-earned lessons from the sideline, the locker room, and the AD’s office—along with stories of community spirit, career pivots, and staying grounded in purpose through every challenge. Whether leading teams or mentoring the next generation of coaches, Rich Williams has devoted his life to making a difference—and his reflections on loyalty, legacy, and love for the game are not to be missed.