The southwestern Ontario sports community is mourning the passing of a longtime coach and educator.
Rick Muldoon, who guided St. Clair College's men's basketball team to ten playoff appearances in his 13 years on the sideline, died Sunday at the age of 69, according to a statement from St. Clair College Athletic Coordinator Ted Beale.
"The quintessential players' coach was a great motivator that shared his varied sports background allowing his teams to compete at a high level," said Beale. "Muldoon will be missed by a wide cross-section of sports enthusiasts across the community in addition to the St. Clair campus."
In addition to serving on the college's physical education faculty for years, Muldoon coached the Saints from the 1996-97 to the 2008-09 seasons. He was second to Al Hoffman for the most games coached in school history, with 382 exhibition, league, and playoff contests. His total regular-season record in OCAA play was 106-66.
He guided the team to two OCAA West Region titles in 2002 and 2004, though his 2005-06 team went all the way to a bronze medal at the Provincial Championships. Muldoon was also named the West Region's Coach of the Year.
Funeral arrangements for Muldoon were not immediately disclosed. Beale said former players and colleagues have contacted the athletic office about creating a scholarship fund in Muldoon's memory.
