SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP, Ohio -- Former St. Xavier assistant football coach John Richardson died Wednesday, according to the school.
“He is one of our guys,” St. X coach Steve Specht said Thursday afternoon. “He was one of the guys who was larger than life. He was a good-hearted person.”
Richardson was an offensive line coach for the 2005 Division I state championship team -- the first state football title in St. Xavier history. The former offensive lineman also helped coach the junior varsity team too.
A 1997 St. Xavier graduate, Richardson also served as a counselor and assistant track and field coach and assistant swimming coach until he left the school in 2014.
Richardson, a Bond Hill native, played college football at Boston College.
Funeral arrangements have not been announced. The cause of death was not confirmed by the school.
"We are praying for his family and the eternal rest of his soul," St. Xavier spokesperson Becky Schulte said this morning.
Some former St. X football players expressed condolences on social media.
Former St. Xavier defensive end Greg Scruggs, a two-time Super Bowl champion, expressed sympathy on Twitter.
"Caring when others wouldn't, a mentor, counselor, educator, and friend," Scruggs said. "He touched so many by just showing he cared -- RIP John Richardson."
Under Armour All-American offensive lineman Matt Bockhorst, a Clemson signee, said Richardson was his first offensive line coach.
"You inspired me in numerous ways reaching far beyond the field," tweeted Bockhorst. "You will be greatly missed by many. Rest easy J Rich."
