National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk Athletics has promoted Rich Thompson to permanent
Athletic Director this week. Thompson has served as NPC’s Interim Athletic Director
since September.
Thompson has served as NPC’s head baseball coach since 2020 and will continue to serve
in that role. A native of Australia, Thompson is a former Major League Baseball relief
pitcher for the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, Oakland Athletics and Toronto Blue
Jays. Thompson also achieved a silver medal in the Athens Olympics as a member of
the Australian Olympic baseball team. In the community, Thompson serves as a Majestic
Park board member and owns The Practice Field—which provides private coaching lessons
and athletic development for athletes of various age groups.
“I’m excited to continue our great programs here at National Park College,” Thompson
said. “We will be continuing our aspirations to be the best junior college athletics
program in the state. We have a great, qualified staff in place to continue to offer
our students the best experience in pursuing their athletic aspirations at this level
and the next. I’d like to thank my family for being supportive in my professional
endeavors and the time that taking on this role entails.”
“Since his appointment to the interim role, Rich has done a fantastic job leading
the athletics programs,” said Dr. Jerry Thomas, vice president for student affairs
and enrollment management. “I have received a lot of positive feedback from faculty,
staff and the community, which made this an easy decision. He works collaboratively
with the campus and community, communicates effectively, has extensive and proven
athletics experience and is genuinely interested in improving student success and
the student athletes’ experience. I am confident that Rich’s leadership ability, forward-thinking
vision and passion for student success will take NPC’s athletics programs to new heights.”
For more information on schedules, rosters and more, visit Nighthawk Athletics online. Fans can also follow the Nighthawks all season on social media.
Facebook: Nighthawk Athletics
Twitter: @NPC_Nighthawks
Instagram: nighthawkathletics
Snapchat: npnighthawks
