Sacred Heart Academy mourns the passing of Coach Rick Heim, a cherished teacher, coach, mentor, and a vital member of our community for 34 years. His presence, leadership, and compassion touched the lives of countless students, faculty, and staff throughout his remarkable career.
A proud graduate of Trinity High School, Coach Heim began his career as a cross country and track coach before transitioning into teaching. Under his guidance, Sacred Heart Academy's cross country teams celebrated incredible success, securing seven state championships, three runner-up titles, eleven regional titles, and seven individual state championships, along with a track and field state championship.
His tireless dedication to developing his athletes was evident, as he often encouraged them with the mantra, "Don't be a wish I had, be a glad I did." He lived this philosophy daily, dedicating his life to uplifting others.
Coach Heim's accolades extend beyond state titles; he earned numerous Coach of the Year and Hall of Fame honors, including the prestigious National Girl’s Cross Country Coach of the Year Award in 2014. Earlier this year, he was inducted into The Louisville Catholic Sports Hall of Fame and was honored with the Courage in Faith Award for his unwavering commitment to athletics and his bravery during his battle with pancreatic cancer.
Many of Coach Heim's SHA family and cross country athletes were present at the Hall of Fame Awards, where he received standing ovations before and after his heartfelt acceptance speech. He spoke passionately about the “Four Ds” – desire, dedication, determination, and discipline – as essential traits for successful runners and motivating factors throughout his cancer treatment. He expressed gratitude to his father, daughter Alex Ann, and family for instilling the positivity that became his hallmark.
His students fondly remember Coach Heim for his kindness and the way he made everyone feel special with personalized nicknames. As one former student beautifully stated, “What a gift it is that so many young women from SHA can look back and smile, just because of something as simple and fun as a nickname. That was his way – making the little things meaningful.”
Another former student added, “He always just wanted his students to be happy and was so encouraging. He celebrated our wins and encouraged us during losses, and made sure we felt noticed and inspired. He felt like hard work is the key to happiness, and cheered for the first girl who crossed the finish line and the very last girl too – exactly how high school sports should be.”
Coach Heim was severely injured in a car accident in 1986 but was able to emerge from a months-long coma and recover from a traumatic brain injury. His courage and faith inspired all who knew him.
Coach Heim left an indelible legacy on the Ursuline Campus, and his absence will be deeply felt.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.
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September 15, 2025